Image Source: YouTube/The Kelly Clarkson Show
Big celebrity endorsements are nothing new—think George Clooney with Nespresso or Jennifer Aniston for Aveeno—but some of the most interesting brand deals come from actors flying just under the radar. These partnerships often surprise fans because the actors aren’t household names, yet they’re quietly cashing in on major endorsement opportunities. From indie film stars to streaming show favorites, these deals prove you don’t need blockbuster fame to attract big brands. In fact, smaller stars often resonate more with audiences thanks to their authenticity and niche followings. Here are five lesser-known actors with brand deals you’d never guess existed.
1. Noah Centineo – Calvin Klein & More
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In 2019, Centineo starred in Calvin Klein’s “I Speak My Truth in #MyCalvins” campaign (alongside Billie Eilish, Shawn Mendes, and others), modeling underwear and speaking about authenticity. He also appeared in Calvin Klein Jeans and underwear campaigns, including photo and video content highlighting self-expression and vulnerability. Beyond that, he was featured in a Taco Bell “Eat Like You” ad that showed him skydiving and using the Taco Bell app.
Not to mention, Centineo co-founded Favored Nations, a nonprofit/“lifestyle brand” hybrid, which creates apparel and campaigns whose proceeds support charitable causes. Through Favored Nations, he has worked with brands like Tony’s Chocolonely (a fair-trade chocolate brand) in socially oriented activations, such as combining chocolate distribution with voter registration efforts.
2. Kiernan Shipka – Fendi
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Kiernan Shipka starred in a Fendi “#BaguetteFriendsForever” campaign, channeling Audrey Hepburn’s Roman Holiday in a short film centered around Fendi’s iconic Baguette bags. In 2023, Shipka was announced as the face of Nina Le Parfum by Nina Ricci, with designer Harris Reed selecting her for the campaign. Shipka’s style has also aligned with luxury fashion beyond formal campaigns; for example, she has been featured wearing Chanel in interviews and fashion editorials, suggesting a stylistic affinity, if not an official ambassador role.
3. Manny Jacinto – Psycho Bunny
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Manny Jacinto has engaged in commercial collaborations beyond acting, stepping into brand campaigns and endorsements. For example, in October 2022, he partnered with men’s lifestyle brand Psycho Bunny for the launch of their “OUTLINE” collection, serving as the face of that campaign. According to his booking agency’s profile, he is open to a variety of brand work—such as campaign collaborations, endorsements, social media activations, commercials, and voiceover projects.
4. Sophia Lillis – Chanel
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In June 2023, Sophia Lillis began a visible collaboration with Chanel, marked by her attendance at the brand’s “Through Her Lens” luncheon during the Tribeca Festival in New York. For the event, she was styled in head-to-toe Chanel, embracing the house’s aesthetic while aligning herself with its broader commitment to cultural patronage and promoting women’s voices in the arts. Though her partnership appears focused on brand endorsement and event appearances rather than a full capsule line or creative directorship, her association with Chanel positions her at the intersection of fashion, culture, and media. More recently, she shared an Instagram post seemingly partnering with Prada (see above). So, there’s no shortage of brand deals awaiting her.
5. Colman Domingo – Omega Watches
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Colman Domingo, the critically acclaimed but still underrated star of Fear the Walking Dead and Euphoria, joined Omega for a campaign. Around six weeks ago, the watch brand shared, “Welcoming Colman Domingo to our watchmaking home in Bienne. The award-winning actor, producer and director spent time discovering the precision behind our celebrated timepieces.” GQ has also featured a story about Domingo’s $160,000 Omega Speedmaster watch.
When Subtle Fame Meets Smart Marketing
These brand deals prove that influence isn’t just about follower counts—it’s about connection. Lesser-known actors often feel more approachable, more believable, and more human than A-list celebrities who seem out of reach. Brands are increasingly choosing talent who represent their values rather than just their fame. As social media and streaming blur the lines between celebrity and creator, expect more partnerships that surprise you—in the best way possible. Sometimes, the most effective endorsement isn’t shouted from a billboard; it’s whispered by someone you trust.
Which of these actor-brand pairings surprised you most? Would you rather see relatable stars or megacelebs in ads? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. She frequently writes for a handful of blogs and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn’t typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, son, husband, and dog. During her free time, you’re likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.
