From sporting icons and TV stars to chart-topping musicians and international celebrities, the Black Cats’ reach has extended far beyond the North East in recent years. Some names are proudly local, others more surprising – but all have shown their support for the red and white stripes in one way or another.
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Over the years, many celebrities have been spotted at the Stadium of Light, posted about the club on social media, or even worn Sunderland colours on stage or screen. Here, we take a look at 55 famous faces who have shown their support for Sunderland:
45. Pete Turner, Gabe Turner and Leo Pearlman
Fulwell73 founders Pete Turner, Gabe Turner and Leo Pearlman are all Sunderland fans and helped create the Sunderland Til I Die series on Netflix. Photo: Stuart C. Wilson
46. Chris Hughes
Chris Hughes – best known as a television presenter and former Love Island contestant – is a Sunderland fan. He has previously spoken publicly about his support for the club, attended matches at the Stadium of Light, and posted about Sunderland on his social media channels. Despite being from Gloucestershire, Hughes has often expressed his passion for the Black Cats. Photo: Kevin Gibson Photography/Kevin Gibson-Nicky Rogerson
47. JoJo Siwa
Singer and dancer JoJo Siwa has been spotted wearing Sunderland shirts in recent times owing to her relationship with Chris Hughes. | ITV Photo: ITV
48. Marco Gabbiadini
Marco Gabbiadini has a strong affinity with Sunderland after his goal-laden stint at the club. | Marco Gabbiadini - Image courtesy of Sunderland AFC's YouTube channel