Mark Twain Playing Pool
Famous People Who Play Pool
Famous People who Play Pool include Paul Newman and Taylor Swift, discover celebrities who love pool and how good they really are. Explore why pool tables remain a timeless home essential.
Why So Many Famous People Love Playing Pool
Whether it’s a classic pool hall or a beautifully designed home game room, pool is a game that bridges generations—inviting both fierce competition and quiet connection. It’s no wonder some of the world’s most iconic figures have been drawn to the table.
Some celebrities trained for roles, others played to unwind, and a few simply loved the design and feel of a quality pool table in their home. Here are just a few famous people who play pool, and how serious they were about it.
Paul Newman – From Actor to Actual Pool Shark
Newman’s performance in The Hustler (1961) and The Color of Money (1986) didn’t just look real—because it was. He trained extensively with professionals and became a skilled pool player in his own right, performing most of his shots on camera. He embodied the spirit of the game—sharp, focused, and endlessly cool.
Laurence Olivier – Sleuth, Style, and Strategy
In Sleuth (1972), Laurence Olivier’s character surrounds himself with games—and a stunning pool table that serves as a stage for psychological warfare. While there’s no record of Olivier playing off-screen, his performance gave new dramatic weight to the pool table itself, showing how it can symbolize strategy, elegance, and confrontation.
Jackie Gleason – The Real “Minnesota Fats”
When Gleason starred alongside Newman in The Hustler, he didn’t need a double. He was a real-life pool player who did all his own shots, and the confidence came through in every frame. Gleason wasn’t acting when he lined up a bank shot—he was playing to win.
Willie Mosconi – The Legend Behind the Legends
Mosconi held the world straight pool title 15 times and was the technical advisor on The Hustler. He once ran 526 balls in a row—a record that stands to this day. While not a traditional celebrity, Mosconi helped make pool a household word.
Taylor Swift – Casual and Confident
Swift has been spotted playing pool during tour downtime and in behind-the-scenes clips. She may not be chalking up for tournaments, but she’s brought a sense of laid-back joy and modern relevance to the game. For a new generation, pool is stylish again.
Drake – Luxury Lifestyle, Game Room Goals
Drake (Aubrey “Drake” Graham, the Grammy-winning Canadian rapper, singer, and actor) reportedly has a custom-designed pool table in his Toronto mansion. He’s often seen enjoying casual games with friends. For Drake, a pool table is part of the vibe—elevated, fun, and timeless.
Ed Sheeran & Post Malone – Pool Between Performances
Both artists have shared their love for pool in interviews and on social media. Ed Sheeran enjoys it backstage, and Post Malone has a luxe home setup in Utah. For musicians constantly on the road, pool offers a rare moment of grounded, offline relaxation.
Barack Obama – So Chill with a Cue
President Obama famously played a game of pool in Colorado with the state’s governor. It wasn’t about who won—it was about connection. Pool, even in politics, is a moment to unwind, to relate, and to just play.
Tom Cruise – Method Acting Meets Mastery
Cruise trained hard for The Color of Money, learning from legends like Mosconi. He performed many of his own shots in the film. Known for doing his own stunts, Cruise brought that same dedication to the table.
Why It Still Matters
Whether you’re a movie legend, a global pop star, or just someone who loves a good game at home, pool is more than recreation—it’s a ritual of connection, presence, and joy. It sharpens focus, brings people together, and adds timeless character to any space.
Create Your Own Legendary Game Room
You don’t need a stage or a spotlight to enjoy the game. At Skillful Home Recreation, we offer heirloom-quality pool tables that combine craftsmanship, playability, and style.
Whether you’re a serious player or just want to create a gathering space for family and friends, we can help you build a game room that feels unforgettable.
Explore our pool tables or visit our showroom to get started.
Note: This article is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Celebrity mentions do not imply endorsement.
