7 Celebrities Who Built Franchise Empires

7 Celebs Who Dominate the Franchise Game: 

Hollywood is no stranger to stars branching out into the business world. While many celebrities opt for launching their own products, a select few have found success in an often overlooked, but highly lucrative realm: franchising. It’s not just about being the face of a brand anymore — it’s about owning the brand. From fitness centers to fast food chains, these savvy stars are making big bucks by investing in well-established franchises, proving they have business smarts to match their talent. 

But why franchising? For starters, it offers an excellent balance between risk and reward. Celebrities can lean on a trusted brand with a built-in audience and operational support while using their fame to amplify the business. It’s a win-win situation that allows them to diversify their income streams while staying in the public eye. And the results? Massive. Celebs like Shaquille O’Neal and Rick Ross are cashing in on their franchise empires, showing the world that there’s more to their success than just the glitz and glam of showbiz. 

Let’s dive into the stories of seven iconic celebrities who have found franchise fortune outside the limelight, and how they’re using their fame to turn these ventures into powerful money-making machines. 

Shaquille O’Neal: The Franchise Kingpin

Shaquille O’Neal isn’t just known for his towering presence on the basketball court — he’s also a giant in the world of franchising. O’Neal boasts a staggering portfolio that includes 155 Five Guys locations (accounting for 10% of the entire chain), 17 Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, several Krispy Kreme outlets, and even a movie theater in his hometown of Newark. But Shaq didn’t stop there — he also owns 40 24-Hour Fitness gyms and 150 car washes, proving his business acumen is just as dominant as his basketball skills. 

In 2018, Shaq leveled up even further by launching his own chicken sandwich brand, Big Chicken, in partnership with JRS Hospitality and Authentic Brands Group. By 2021, Shaq became a franchisor, offering entrepreneurs the chance to own a piece of Big Chicken themselves. O’Neal’s charm and massive fanbase only fuel his franchises’ success, making him one of the most prolific celebrity entrepreneurs in the game.

Mark Wahlberg: From Wahlburgers to Fitness Ventures

Actor Mark Wahlberg has a well-documented history of success both on and off the screen, but his foray into franchising may be one of his most impressive ventures. Along with his brothers Donnie and Paul, Mark co-founded the Wahlburgers franchise in 2011, a family-friendly burger joint inspired by their father’s love of BBQ. What started as a single location has now expanded into a growing chain across North America. The Wahlburgers brand became even more popular thanks to the reality show that follows the brothers as they manage the business. 

In addition to his burger empire, Wahlberg has recently made waves in the fitness industry. He’s invested in F45 Training, a high-intensity fitness franchise that operates in more than 45 countries. Wahlberg’s dual passion for food and fitness allows him to bring a personal touch to these franchises, making his ventures not only profitable but also highly relatable to his fans.

Venus Williams: A Jamba Juice Success Story

Tennis legend Venus Williams isn’t just a champion on the court; she’s also a successful multi-unit franchise owner. Williams has thrown her entrepreneurial weight behind Jamba (formerly Jamba Juice), a smoothie and juice brand known for its health-conscious offerings. Venus discovered Jamba during her journey toward healthier eating and was so impressed with the brand that she now operates several locations in Washington D.C. 

Though not strictly vegan, Venus has long been an advocate for plant-based eating, which aligns perfectly with Jamba’s menu. Her passion for wellness and fitness extends beyond her athletic career, with her Jamba franchises offering a perfect fit for her brand. Whether she’s promoting the health benefits of smoothies or encouraging fitness through her business ventures, Venus is a powerhouse on all fronts.

Rick Ross: Wingstop’s Ultimate Boss

Rapper Rick Ross has turned his love for food into a profitable business empire. As the owner of over 30 Wingstop franchises, Ross is known for expanding his portfolio in the fast-food space. In fact, the rapper even gifted one of his Wingstop franchises to his son on his 16th birthday, solidifying his family’s investment in the business. Wingstop’s signature lemon-pepper wings are a fan favorite, and Ross’s enthusiastic promotion of the brand only enhances its popularity. 

But Ross didn’t stop with Wingstop. In 2017, he added a Checkers and Rally’s location in his old neighborhood of Carol City, Florida, giving back to the community where he grew up. His down-to-earth marketing, coupled with his larger-than-life persona, makes him one of the most successful franchise owners in the fast-food industry.

Floyd Mayweather: From Boxing to Boxing Gyms

Unbeaten boxing champion Floyd Mayweather knows how to build an empire, both in and out of the ring. In 2018, he launched Mayweather Boxing + Fitness, a gym franchise that offers high-intensity group workouts inspired by Mayweather’s own training regimen. With locations popping up across the U.S., the franchise promises an inclusive, high-energy experience that helps participants train like a champion. 

Mayweather’s business model is designed to be scalable, offering franchisees the chance to operate their own fitness center while benefiting from his celebrity and credibility in the world of boxing. His larger-than-life persona and undefeated track record only add to the appeal, making his fitness franchise a knockout success.

Related: Celebrities Leading the Vegan Revolution with Their Brands

Pitbull: Expanding Cilantro Taco Grill

Mr. Worldwide, aka Pitbull, has taken his business ventures global, and his latest move into franchising is no exception. In collaboration with Fransmart (the company behind Five Guys and The Halal Guys), Pitbull has been working to expand Cilantro Taco Grill, a Chicago-based Mexican fast-casual restaurant. The franchise currently operates 15 locations, and with Pitbull’s star power behind it, that number is only expected to grow. 

Pitbull’s involvement is part of a broader effort to promote Latino-owned franchises, giving entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds a chance to succeed in the restaurant business. Known for his global appeal and undeniable energy, Pitbull’s collaboration with Cilantro Taco Grill is sure to heat up the franchising scene.

Megan Thee Stallion: Hot Girl Sauce Meets Popeyes

In 2021, Megan Thee Stallion teamed up with Popeyes to launch her own Hottie Sauce, a spicy condiment that quickly became a hit. The partnership didn’t stop at sauce — Megan also inked a deal to develop five Popeyes franchise units, expanding her influence in the fast-food industry. 

Megan’s fierce persona and love for bold flavors perfectly align with the Popeyes brand, making this a natural partnership. In addition to Hottie Sauce, Megan also launched a co-branded merchandise line, proving that she’s not just a rapper but a savvy businesswoman with a knack for franchise success. 

Celebs taking over franchising 

These seven celebrities have taken their talents far beyond their original careers, leveraging their fame and business savvy to dominate the franchise world. From fast food to fitness, they’ve carved out successful second acts in franchising, proving that stardom and entrepreneurship can go hand in hand. As more celebrities enter this booming industry, we can expect to see even more A-listers turning their passion projects into profitable empires.