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.
The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel.
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:
5. Josh Kelly
The former Rio 2016 Olympic boxer is a big Sunderland fan. Photo: Christopher Lee
6. Jordan Pickford
Like Jordan Henderson, Jordan Pickford is a Sunderland fan having grown up in the area and come through the club's academy before moving on. Photo: Naomi Baker
7. Alyson Dixon
Sunderland-born Dixon competed for England at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and competed for Great Britain at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, finishing 28th in the women's marathon. Photo: Matt Roberts
8. Jordan Henderson
The Sunderland-born former Liverpool captain is a big Black Cats fan having risen through the club's academy. The England international was spotted in the crowd amongst Sunderland supporters as the Wearsiders lost the Capital One Cup final to Manchester City back in 2014. Photo: Laurence Griffiths