The streets of New York are about to turn into a glittering mix of grit, glory, and star power as Hollywood meets the marathon. The 2025 TCS New York City Marathon isn’t just a race — it’s a celebration of determination and endurance, where actors, musicians, and other celebrities push beyond their limits for causes close to their hearts. From Broadway to the big screen, familiar faces will lace up for 26.2 miles of passion. But among these stars, who will shine the brightest this year at the NYC Marathon?

A look at the celebrities running in the upcoming NYC Marathon

This year’s marathon will feature a dazzling lineup of familiar faces, each with their own reason for taking on the grueling 26.2 miles. Anthony Ramos is among the stars running the 2025 NYC Marathon. Ramos took up the challenge for a simple reason — as he put it, “I don’t remember the last time I pushed myself this hard.” Beyond the excitement, the cause-driven side of these participants adds emotional depth to every step they take.

Fans can also spot Oliver Phelps, the actor who played George Weasley in the Harry Potter films, running in support of The Matt Hamilton Foundation, which helps young people injured in sports. Broadway actor Jordan Litz will run to raise funds for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, joined by Merle Dandridge. Meanwhile, Summer House star Carl Radke will make his marathon debut, running for the Release Recovery Foundation to help people access treatment for mental health and substance abuse.

Greek-American Olympian Alexi Pappas will take on her third NYC Marathon on November 2. Joining her is Claire Holt, who has already completed two New York City Marathons with impressive times. American Olympic marathoner Des Linden will also be in the mix, running through all five boroughs. Fans can look out for rapper and Drink Champs host N.O.R.E., as well as Ben Gibbard and Dave Depper from Death Cab for Cutie, who will also take on the 26.2-mile challenge.

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But has any celebrity secured a podium finish at the TCS New York City Marathon in the past? Let’s find out! 

How many times has a celebrity won the New York City marathon?

Celebrities run for causes, not for the cash. While countless celebrities have run the NYC Marathon, very few have ever crossed the finish line as winners. The elite field makes victory nearly impossible for casual or celebrity participants. Still, that hasn’t stopped famous names from earning admiration for their performances. Actor Edward Norton, model Christy Turlington, and former NFL star Tiki Barber all drew praise for their determined finishes.

In 2021, Willie Geist completed the marathon in 3:58:23. A year later, Claire Holt finished in 4:03:12 — and in 2024, she improved her time to an impressive 3:42:43. Proof that in marathon running, endurance and heart often matter more than medals.

Back in 2008, Ryan Reynolds finished the race in just three hours and 50 minutes — inspired by none other than Michael J. Fox, who was running the same marathon. The actor shared, “When I saw Michael J. Fox on Fifth Avenue, I gained about 15 pounds in goose bumps. It kind of pushed me through the last six miles or so.”

Other celebrity finishers include Katie Holmes, Baywatch star Pamela Anderson, Kevin Hart, and Randall Park — all of whom crossed the finish line with determination and pride.

No celebrity has ever officially “won” the New York City Marathon, but many have won over fans with their perseverance and purpose. As the 2025 batch of stars prepares to hit the streets, one thing is certain — their stories, sweat, and spirit will shine as brightly as the city itself. And this year, one unexpected name might just surprise everyone.