12 Times Celebrities Made Guest Appearances on Sitcoms
Some of the biggest names in entertainment have surprised fans with unforgettable cameos on beloved sitcoms.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Sitcoms often rely on sharp writing and a familiar cast, but at times, a celebrity guest star steals the spotlight. From movie icons to music legends, these appearances add excitement and attract new viewers. Here are 12 times famous faces showed up on sitcoms, leaving audiences buzzing.
1. Brad Pitt on Friends
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Brad Pitt joined Friends in a memorable Thanksgiving episode, playing Will, a former classmate who despised Rachel. His appearance was especially fun since he was married to Jennifer Aniston at the time.
2. Britney Spears on How I Met Your Mother
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Pop superstar Britney Spears surprised fans when she played Abby, a quirky receptionist smitten with Ted. Her comedic timing won praise, showing a different side of her public persona.
3. George Clooney on The Golden Girls
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Before becoming a Hollywood A-lister, George Clooney appeared as a young detective on The Golden Girls. His charm and wit fit perfectly with the show’s style.
4. Michael Jackson on The Simpsons
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Although credited under a pseudonym, Michael Jackson voiced a character in a special episode of The Simpsons. He played Leon Kompowsky, a patient who believed he was the King of Pop.
5. Jennifer Lopez on Will & Grace
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Jennifer Lopez appeared as herself, performing at Karen’s wedding on Will & Grace. The mix of star power and comedy made her cameo unforgettable.
6. Shaquille O’Neal on Curb Your Enthusiasm
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NBA legend Shaq had a hilarious guest role where Larry David accidentally tripped him courtside. The mix-up led to awkward encounters and plenty of laughs.
7. Lady Gaga on The Simpsons
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Lady Gaga voiced herself in an over-the-top, music-filled Simpsons episode. She mentored Lisa and brought plenty of her signature flair to the role.
8. Leonardo DiCaprio on Growing Pains
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Before achieving superstardom, Leonardo DiCaprio had a recurring guest role on Growing Pains. He played a troubled teen taken in by the Seaver family.
9. Madonna on Will & Grace
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Madonna joined the cast for one episode, playing Karen’s quirky new roommate. The clash of personalities made for plenty of comedic moments.
10. Johnny Depp on The Vicar of Dibley
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Though better known for movies, Johnny Depp briefly appeared in the British sitcom The Vicar of Dibley. His role as a charming visitor sparked hilarious reactions from the main characters.
11. Oprah Winfrey on 30 Rock
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Oprah guest-starred in a memorable 30 Rock episode, playing herself seated next to Liz Lemon on a plane. Liz mistook her for a hallucination, leading to plenty of comedic confusion.
12. Mark Hamill on The Big Bang Theory
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The Star Wars legend appeared as himself, officiating Sheldon and Amy’s wedding. His presence delighted both fans of the show and sci-fi lovers.