Twentieth Century Fox

21 celebrities who are Golden Retrievers in human form

Golden Retrievers have long been America’s favorite breed. Well, ever since the ‘90s, when movies like Homeward Bound and Air Bud highlighted them as loyal and dear members of the family that could potentially dunk a basketball. However, they’re more than that. They also encompass a whole personality that people wish to embody — that loyalty, charm, and charisma that makes everyone who sees them simply smile. So, when we say the following celebrities have Golden Retriever energy, that’s what we mean. These famous faces are true Golden Retrievers in human form.

1 of 21

Jimmy Fallon

Anthony Behar/Sipa USA

This late-night host’s giggles are as infectious as the common cold, except a lot more fun to deal with. Plus, the lighthearted nature of his show always makes it a warm and inviting place for viewers and guests.

2 of 21

John Legend

Anthony Behar/Sipa USA

If Golden Retrievers could make music, it’d sound like the heartfelt wonders that John Legend produces.

3 of 21

Drew Barrymore

Anthony Behar/Sipa USA

Drew Barrymore’s welcoming demeanor is what landed her here because, between her smile and her genuine excitement for the smallest of things, she’s a pure joy.

4 of 21

Tom Holland

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Sipa USA

This Spider-Man actor is like a year-old Golden pup who is the most irresistible of the pack. Yes, a little mischievous if you let him out of your sight but always adorable.

5 of 21

Paul Rudd

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

One cannot mention universally beloved animal breeds and not draw a comparison to one of the most beloved human beings in Hollywood. Seriously, point us toward someone who doesn’t think Paul Rudd is awesome. It’s impossible.

6 of 21

Keke Palmer

Anthony Behar/Sipa USA

Keke Palmer embodies a Golden’s grace and loyalty. Plus, she’s got a smile that could brighten anyone’s day.

7 of 21

Hugh Jackman

PICJER/imageSPACE/Sipa USA

An Australian Retriever, but a Golden all the same.

8 of 21

John Cena

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

This breed of dog is perfect for families with kids, and John Cena is just that. If being the world-record holder of the most Make-A-Wish wishes granted doesn’t scream "great with kids," what does?

9 of 21

Jennifer Coolidge

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

The way people perk up with they see a Golden Retriever out in the world? Yeah, Jennifer Coolidge garners that same excited reaction from people.

10 of 21

Jason Momoa

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Sipa USA)

Jason Momoa seems like the type that would accompany someone on an all-day hike and not complain. He’d just be happy to be there on the adventure with them.

11 of 21

John Krasinski

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Sipa USA

The comedic actor-turned-director extraordinaire has a lot of qualities in common with our breed of the hour, including being the perfect companion.

12 of 21

Ayo Edebiri

Matt Crossick/PA Images/Alamy Images/Sipa USA

With her comedic wit, Ayo Edebiri definitely has the smarts of a retriever that can’t be denied.

13 of 21

Tom Hanks

Billy Bennight/AdMedia/Sipa USA

If they were ever going to remake Homeward Bound, Tom Hanks would be the obvious choice for the Golden Retriever. He’s got that old spirit wisdom to him.

14 of 21

Kenan Thompson

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

Kenan Thompson got his start when the Golden Retriever renaissance happened in the ‘90s, and like those cinematic dogs, he’s been a warm presence in fans’ lives ever since.

15 of 21

Awkwafina

C Flanigan/imageSPACE/Sipa USA

She has the playful presence the breed is known for.

16 of 21

Jacob Elordi

Billy Bennight/AdMedia/Sipa USA

There’s something stoic and sweet about the Saltburn actor that makes us believe he’d wait for you at the window with those big, puppy-dog eyes.

17 of 21

Ryan Reynolds

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

Dogs are man’s best friend, and Ryan Reynolds is every man’s crush.

18 of 21

Taylor Swift

Sthanlee Mirador/SipaUSA

It's not just because she has golden hair. No. This is based on popularity because there ain’t no one more sought-after than Ms. Swift.

19 of 21

Al Roker

Ron Adar / SOPA Images/Sipa USA

Like a Golden Retriever, Al Roker will never not be there for you when you wake up.

20 of 21

Keanu Reeves

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

Golden Retrievers have no flaws, just like Keanu Reeves.

21 of 21

Kelly Clarkson

Sthanlee B. Mirador/Sipa USA

If Golden Retrievers could sing, we bet they’d out-sing every other breed — like Kelly Clarkson often does with her covers of other artists’ music.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
The most influential movies ever made
20 period pieces you should watch
Longtime ‘SportsCenter’ anchor announces he is leaving ESPN
Second chances: Notable bands and musicians who experienced a career resurgence
The 25 most entertaining horror movies
The 20 concert tours you can't miss in 2024
20 albums turning 50 in 2024
The 20 greatest heist movies
20 movies that should be adapted into musicals
Super Bowl LVIII halftime show takeaways
Brad Pitt shades Eagles while praising Philly superfan Bradley Cooper
The 20 best modern rom-coms
20 performances that thwarted audience expectations
Comedy gold: 20 funny films that won an Oscar
23 actors that need to have a renaissance
The best karaoke songs from the 2020s
20 great movies that didn’t get nominated at the 2024 Oscars
The 25 best movies about high-school sports
The 23 best films of 2023
The 50 best albums of 2023