The Glamour of the Kentucky Derby
Whether it’s a row of celebrities sitting courtside in the NBA or silver screen stars watching prized stallions, celebrities love major sporting events. This year’s Kentucky Derby is no different. Stars swoop in from around the world to attend the Kentucky Derby each year. While fans knew that a multitude of huge names would flock to Louisville to enjoy the weekend’s festivities, the list has been revealed.
Fans still await which celebrity will deliver the famed “Riders Up” command at this year’s Kentucky Derby. This has been a tradition since 1875, when the event began, but the honor was given to a celebrity beginning in 2012 and has continued ever since. The honor has been bestowed upon gymnast Simone Biles, NFL QB Patrick Mahomes and celebrity chef Martha Stewart in the past.
For the Kentucky Oaks event, this honor will go to Camille Kostek, model and host of the TV show Wipeout. This command was previously given by gymnast and influencer Livvy Dunne and legendary paralympian Oksana Masters.
Who Will Be at the Kentucky Derby?
It’s expected that this year’s Derby will see north of 150,000 attendees. That’s more than twice the attendance of this year’s Super Bowl. But this is an event full of fanfare and celebration, featuring the rosy red carpet at Churchill Downs. And with that bright red sight, celebrities show up in droves.
The Kentucky Derby is such a popular and well-attended event among global stars that the length of the following list may appear to be similar to a CVS receipt. Here’s a list of who will be in attendance in Louisville.
- Patti LaBelle, singer
- The War and Treaty, singing duo
- Chaka Khan, singer
- Luis Fonsi, singer
- Dasha, singer
- Lance Bass, singer
- Joey Fatone, singer
- Howie Dorough, singer
- Tanya Tucker, singer
- Sergio Garcia, golfer
- Dana White, UFC CEO
- Odette Annable, actress
- Andrew Walker, actress
- Nate Smith, musician
- Doug E. Fresh, rapper
- T.I., rapper
- Billy Gilman, singer
- Larry Birkhead and Dannielynn Birkhead, family of Anna Nicole Smith
- Dalton Davis, singer
- Forrie J. Smith, actor
- Brian Quinn, comedian
- Phillip Phillips, singer
- Richie Sambora, singer
- John Elefante, singer
- Sugarhill Gang, hip-hop group
- Elliot Lurie, singer
- Orianthi, guitarist/singer
- Skip Martin, singer
- Lorrie Morgan, singer
- Johnny Edwards, singer
- Nappy Roots, rap group
- The Crashers, band
- Nat Myers, blues poet
- Jeff Brohm, Louisville head football coach
- Warren Moon, former NFL QB
- Zach Randolph, former NBA PF
- Harry Douglas, ESPN analyst
- Michael Eaves, “SportsCenter” anchor
- Bonnie-Jill Laflin, actress
- Aron Haddad, wrestler
- Jean Cruguet, former Triple Crown winner
- Michael Manganello, Kentucky Derby winner
- Sandy Hawley, jockey
- Kaoru Tsuchiya Hawley, jockey
- Anthony Ramos, singer/actor
- Gina Torres, actress
- Andrea Canning, journalist
- Griffin Johnson, influencer
- Melissa Joan Hart, actress
- Danica McKellar, actress
- Nora Roberts, author
- John Schneider, actor
- Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026
- Bob Guiney, TV personality
- Amanda Christine, actress
- Rob Angel, author
- Dr. Ajmal Zemmar, neurosurgeon
- Holly Lynnea, comedian
- Vince Emmett, producer
- The McFarlands, influencers
- Heather French Henry, former Miss America
- Ethan the Dog, compassion ambassador
A Celebration of Culture and Entertainment
The Kentucky Derby is not just about horse racing; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings together people from all walks of life. From the fashion to the music, every element of the event contributes to its unique charm. The Derby is known for its extravagant hats, which have become a symbol of the event. Fans and celebrities alike take great pride in their hat choices, often creating headlines with their bold styles.
In addition to the fashion, the Derby also features a lineup of musical acts and performers. The combination of live music, delicious food, and the excitement of the races creates an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
As the event approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be another memorable edition of the Kentucky Derby. With so many famous faces attending, it’s clear that this event continues to captivate the hearts of people around the world. Whether you’re a horse racing enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled day out, the Kentucky Derby offers something for everyone.
