40+ Celebrities Who Had Athletic Careers Before They Became Famous

Published on 03/29/2023
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Elsa Hosk – Basketball

Elsa Hosk pursued both her basketball and modeling aspirations. She started modeling in high school and then joined the Swedish women’s basketball league while also modeling on the side after graduation. After two years, she decided to pursue modeling full-time and came to New York. Despite her departure from the court, Hosk told Fashionista that her intensive basketball training prepared her for the physical demands of the modeling industry. Formerly, Hosk worked for famous fashion houses such as Dior, Guess, and Dolce & Gabbana. She was a Victoria’s Secret Angel for eight years, appearing in the annual Victoria’s Secret fashion show.

Elsa Hosk – Basketball

Elsa Hosk – Basketball

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Joel McHale – Football

Joel McHale established a career as an actor, comedian, producer, screenwriter, and host. Nonetheless, most people are unaware of his football career throughout his college years. He was first recruited to row for the University of Washington, but instead chose to play football. He had little chance of playing professionally, but a career in television became his destiny. McHale is best known as the host of “The Soup” as well as his roles in “Spider-Man 2” and “Ted.” He professes to be a fan of the Seattle Seahawks football team, but he doesn’t go into detail about his interest in the sport.

Joel McHale – Football

Joel McHale – Football

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