Hollywood isn’t just home to movie magic; many of its biggest stars are also die-hard fans of classic rock. From iconic bands to lesser-known legends, these celebrities have some surprising favorites that reveal a deeper connection to music.
The bands that captured these stars’ hearts often did so during their formative years. Whether influenced by family or personal discovery, their passion for these classic rock acts has stuck with them through the years.
While some stories are star-studded and unforgettable, others are surprisingly relatable. From heartfelt letters to rock legends to surprising personal transformations, these Hollywood stars show their love for the music that shaped them.
Margot Robbie – Beach Boys
When Margot Robbie was just five, she became obsessed with the Beach Boys. She even took a cassette tape of the band from her parents and played it nonstop. Her devotion to their music was so intense that she refused to listen to any other bands.
In fact, Robbie was so dedicated to the Beach Boys that she dismissed other iconic acts like The Beatles. She recalled watching a documentary that claimed the Beach Boys would’ve been even more famous if The Beatles hadn’t overshadowed them.
As Robbie grew older, her musical taste shifted. She went through a goth phase and embraced heavy metal, with Slipknot becoming one of her favorite bands—a passion she still carries today.
Brad Pitt – Radiohead
Brad Pitt has a deep admiration for many bands, but Radiohead stands out above the rest. His connection to the band dates back to the ‘90s, a time when their music captivated him. Pitt was so moved by their sound that he even tried to involve them in one of his film projects.
While working on Fight Club with co-star Edward Norton, Pitt played Radiohead’s music nonstop. He even went as far as writing a personal letter to Thom Yorke, asking the band to compose the film’s score. Though Yorke declined, it didn’t shake Pitt’s devotion to the band.
Pitt has often spoken about Radiohead’s significance, comparing them to literary giants like Kafka and Beckett. He believes the band’s impact on his generation is profound and unique.
Selena Gomez – Nirvana
Selena Gomez may be known for her pop career, but her love for rock music runs deep. The Only Murders in the Building star revealed to Jimmy Kimmel that she was “obsessed” with Kurt Cobain during her younger years.
Her admiration for the Nirvana frontman was so strong that she tried to emulate his iconic style. Gomez went as far as cutting and dyeing her hair to resemble Cobain, embracing the grunge look.
Despite her pop persona, Gomez’s rock influences are a major part of her musical journey. Cobain’s impact on her was undeniable, shaping her tastes in ways that have stuck with her throughout her career.
Paul Rudd – Rush
Paul Rudd’s role as a Rush superfan in I Love You, Man was a perfect fit. In real life, the actor has a deep love for the Canadian rock trio. His connection to the band goes beyond his on-screen persona.
When Rush drummer Neil Peart passed away in 2020, Rudd honored his memory with a heartfelt tribute. He praised Peart not only as an exceptional drummer but also as a remarkable person, saying, “He was a thunderbolt of a human being, and he’ll live forever.”
Rudd has maintained a close relationship with Rush’s bassist, Geddy Lee. In 2023, he even helped moderate speaking engagements during Lee’s book tour, showing his ongoing admiration for the band.
Emma Stone – Cat Stevens
Emma Stone’s love for Cat Stevens is deeply personal. She first encountered his music in her teens through the movie Harold & Maude, where she instantly connected with the soundtrack. “Where Do The Children Play” became a favorite of hers, resonating deeply at the time.
During a challenging period in her life, when her mother was battling breast cancer, Stone turned to Stevens’ music for comfort. She found “Where Do The Children Play” to be particularly soothing, despite its sad undertones. The song offered a sense of peace during an emotional time.
Stone has often credited Stevens’ music as being formative during her teenage years. The emotional impact of his songs continues to hold a special place in her heart.
Keanu Reeves – Joy Division
Keanu Reeves, known for playing a rock god in Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, is a true rock enthusiast in real life. He has cited a range of influential bands as his favorites, including Fugazi, the Ramones, and Elvis Costello. Among them, Joy Division stands out as a key influence on the actor.
Reeves’ deep admiration for Joy Division is evident in his music preferences. When asked about his favorite tracks, he singled out the band’s iconic song “Love Will Tear Us Apart” during a 2022 appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
The song holds a special place for Reeves, who has described it as one he’d listen to for the rest of his life. His connection to Joy Division reflects his broader love for post-punk and alternative music.
Johnny Depp – Rolling Stones
Johnny Depp’s admiration for Keith Richards and the Rolling Stones goes way back. As a young man, Depp often visited Richards’ home, where he befriended the guitarist’s son, Marlon. It took Richards two years to realize that the quiet visitor was none other than the star of Edward Scissorhands.
Over the years, Depp and Richards formed a close bond. The guitarist even appeared as Captain Jack Sparrow’s father in Pirates of the Caribbean. Their friendship is a testament to Depp’s deep respect for Richards.
Depp has two favorite Rolling Stones albums: Tattoo You and Sticky Fingers. He explained to Entertainment Weekly that while it’s hard to choose just two, these albums perfectly captured the energy of his wild nights in the city.
Mickey Rourke – Guns N’ Roses
Mickey Rourke has always been a fan of Guns N’ Roses, especially their iconic song “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” As a professional boxer, Rourke used the track to get pumped up before stepping into the ring. He later carried that connection with him onto the set of The Wrestler, where it helped fuel his performance.
On set, Rourke requested that “Sweet Child O’ Mine” be played instead of the music initially chosen for a scene. He even went as far as to personally call up Axl Rose, asking for his approval to use the song in the movie. Rose generously agreed, and the song became a key element in Rourke’s portrayal of a wrestler.
Rourke and Rose share a long-standing friendship, often seen together at concerts and sports events. Their bond over music has continued to thrive over the years.
John Cusack – The Clash
John Cusack’s admiration for The Clash goes beyond just listening to their music—he’s woven it into his roles. In Say Anything, his character, Lloyd Dobler, famously wears a Clash t-shirt during the iconic “In Your Eyes” boombox scene. The Clash’s influence continued in Cusack’s life, especially when he worked with the band’s frontman, Joe Strummer, on the film Grosse Point Blank.
Strummer contributed to the film’s score, and Cusack saw firsthand how the punk band’s ethos resonated with him. “It wasn’t just about rebelling; it was about using that anger and rebellion for something greater,” Cusack shared. This mindset had a lasting impact on him.
For Cusack, The Clash represented more than music—they were a guiding force. Their powerful message of rebellion and higher purpose continues to shape his creative journey, both on and off-screen.
Ryan Reynolds – Nickelback
Ryan Reynolds may be an unexpected advocate for Nickelback, but his love for the band is no secret. The Canadian actor has been vocal about his admiration for Chad Kroeger’s group, even defending them against critics. In a 2018 video, Reynolds, in his Deadpool character, humorously responded to Fred Savage mocking the band by highlighting their impressive achievements.
Reynolds has continued to show his support for Nickelback in various ways. He helped induct the band into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and praised them as “one of the greatest bands on earth” on social media. His loyalty to Nickelback is clear.
Despite the band’s polarizing reputation, Reynolds stands firm in his belief that Nickelback deserves recognition. His advocacy has helped bring more attention to their accomplishments and challenged the critics.