Football fandom often sparks debates about loyalty, especially when fans choose clubs based on local roots rather than chasing success in the top tier. While many celebrities gravitate toward Premier League giants like Manchester United or Liverpool, a select group of A-listers proudly back teams in the English Football League (EFL). These stars demonstrate genuine passion by supporting lower league sides, attending matches, and even investing in their clubs.
Daniel Day-Lewis and Millwall
Oscar-winning actor Daniel Day-Lewis, a native of Greenwich in southeast London, has long been a dedicated supporter of Millwall. The three-time Best Actor recipient grew up attending games at The Den and continues to do so. Recently, he was spotted at the stadium watching Millwall’s 4-0 victory over Charlton in the Championship, joined by fellow actor Gary Oldman. Day-Lewis sported orange-tinted sunglasses and a black beanie, while Oldman opted for a simple flat cap as they enjoyed the match together.
Sean Bean and Sheffield United
Actor Sean Bean, known for roles in Game of Thrones, The Lord of the Rings, and GoldenEye, remains fiercely loyal to his hometown club, Sheffield United. Raised on a council estate in Sheffield, Bean earned a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in 1981 and has never lost touch with his roots—he even has a ‘100 per cent Blade’ tattoo. Fans recently saw him at St Mary’s Stadium supporting the Blades in their 1-0 loss to Southampton, where he shook hands with supporters before kickoff but appeared visibly frustrated as the game progressed.
Elton John and Watford
Music legend Sir Elton John holds a profound connection to Watford, serving as the club’s honorary life president. He has chaired the team twice—first from 1976 to 1990, then from 1997 to 2002—stepping away only due to touring demands. A stand at Vicarage Road bears his name, and he frequently attends Championship matches. Reflecting on his lifelong devotion last summer, John stated, ‘My passion for this club has never died, and I’m so proud of this club, ever since I was five years old when we played in blue, and there were two rickety old stands. What can I say? It’s in my heart and my soul; you can’t get rid of it. The supporters of this club have always been in my heart.’
Ed Sheeran and Ipswich Town
Grammy-winning singer Ed Sheeran is a lifelong fan of Ipswich Town, the Suffolk club he bonded with during his youth. The artist behind hits like ‘The A-Team’ and ‘Shape of You’ regularly visits Portman Road and has sponsored the team’s shirts for five years. In 2024, he acquired a minority stake as a passive investor. Sheeran’s commitment is symbolized by his reserved number 17 shirt each season, except during their Premier League stint.
Julie Walters and West Brom
Dame Julie Walters, celebrated for her performances in the Harry Potter films and Mamma Mia!, cheers for West Bromwich Albion. Growing up in nearby Smethwick, the award-winning actress often attends games at The Hawthorns, blending her love for the Baggies with her illustrious career.
Niall Horan and Derby County
Former One Direction member Niall Horan supports Derby County, despite his Irish upbringing and time spent in London and Los Angeles. In 2024, he attended a Championship match at Pride Park as the Rams faced Middlesbrough, bringing along his long-term girlfriend, Amelia Woolley, in an effort to share his enthusiasm for the club.
Craig David and Southampton
British musician Craig David, with 16 UK top-ten singles, developed his passion for Southampton while living on the Holyrood Estate near the city center from age one. In 2019, he joined Saints players for training drills ahead of a gig at St. Mary’s Stadium. David shared, ‘I’ve been a Saints fan all my life. To play a gig at St Mary’s Stadium to celebrate bringing my hometown the best connection in the UK is amazing. I have nothing but fantastic memories in Southampton, and I hope the night was unforgettable for everyone.’
Louis Tomlinson and Doncaster Rovers
One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson is a devoted fan of Doncaster Rovers, his boyhood club in League One. Born and raised in Doncaster, he attempted a takeover in 2014, spearheading a crowdfunding campaign for £6 million in investment. Though the effort raised only £600,000 and fell apart due to fraudulent investors, Tomlinson’s commitment endures.
Robbie Williams and Port Vale
Pop icon Robbie Williams, raised in Stoke-on-Trent, has unwavering support for Port Vale. Hits like ‘Angels’ and ‘Let Me Entertain You’ define his career, but his football allegiance shines through as the club’s honorary president, with a named suite at the stadium. In 2024, rumors of a potential takeover circulated but were dismissed. Williams once remarked, ‘My life is bizarre and wonderful and has taken many turns and twists, and to find myself from the Railway Paddock to be ‘El Presidente’ is pretty special.’
Stephen Fry and Norwich City
TV presenter Stephen Fry is a staunch Norwich City supporter, having served on the board from 2010 to 2016 under owner Delia Smith. He has leveraged his platform to promote the Canaries and was seen celebrating their 2015 Championship play-off final win over Middlesbrough at Wembley, wrapped in a yellow and green scarf.
Michaela Strachan and Oxford United
Wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan, known for UK nature programs and a brief music career in the late 1980s and early 1990s, backs Oxford United. She joined 30,000 fans at Wembley for the 2024 League One play-off final, where the U’s defeated Bolton Wanderers 2-0 to earn promotion to the Championship—their first in 25 years.
Bjorn Borg and Charlton Athletic
Tennis great Bjorn Borg, a five-time Wimbledon champion, supports Charlton Athletic due to family tradition. His father and grandfather were lifelong fans of the south London club. Borg explained in 2007, ‘My father and grandfather both supported them all their lives, so I didn’t really have a choice.’
