This sector includes living actors, actresses, models, chefs, business executives, and others. (Musicians, athletes, and artists are categorized under “Music,” “Sports,” and “Art,” respectively.) While many celebrity-based deals include endorsements and promotional tie-ins, we look exclusively at the product licensing generated by these individuals. However, sometimes merchandise rights are granted as part of a broader promotional deal. For example, a company for which a celebrity serves as a spokesperson may also sell memorabilia or branded products.
Click to view Retail Sales of Licensed Merchandise, Based on Celebrity Properties.
Representative properties—Actors and Entertainers: Mikhail Baryshnikov, Hayden Christensen, Zooey Deschanel, Kathie Lee Gifford, Eva Mendes, Ashley & Mary-Kate Olson, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sarah Jessica Parker, Jane Seymour, Jaclyn Smith, Elizabeth Taylor, Sofia Vergara, Reese Witherspoon.
Models: Elle MacPherson, Cindy Crawford, Daisy Fuentes, Kathy Ireland, Heidi Klum, Alessandra Ambrosio.
Chefs: Paula Deen, Emeril LaGasse, Rachael Ray, Wolfgang Puck, Jane Asher, Padma Lakshmi, Jamie Oliver, Martha Stewart.
Reality: Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, Teresa Giudice, Bethanny Frankel, the Kardashians, Paris Hilton.
Social media stars: Bethany Mota, Aimee Song, Cassie Ho, Michelle Phan, SMOSH, Sophia Grace and Rosie, Mr. Stampy, Grumpy Cat.
TV presenters and hosts: Giuliana Rancic, Melissa Rivers, Nick Cannon, Ryan Seacrest, Ellen DeGeneres, Randy Jackson, Tim Gunn.
Business/Other: Priscilla Presley, Donald Trump, Daymond John, Ivanka Trump.