Have you ever dreamed of interviewing your favorite celebrity?
It’s an exciting prospect, but coming up with the right questions can be tricky.
You want to ask something engaging and unique that will give you a glimpse into their real personality.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore:
- Why asking the right questions matters
- 10 fun and creative questions to ask celebrities
- Tips for conducting a great celebrity interview
- How to make your questions stand out
So if you’re ready to learn the secrets of unforgettable celebrity interviews, let’s jump right in!
Fun Questions to Ask Celebrities
1. “If you could trade lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why?”
This question is a great way to kick off an interview on a fun, imaginative note. It invites the celebrity to think outside the box and reveal something about their interests and aspirations.
You could phrase it like this, “I’m curious, if you had the chance to walk in someone else’s shoes for 24 hours, who would you choose and what would you hope to learn from that experience?”
Their answer could range from wanting to experience the life of a historical figure they admire, to craving the chance to see the world through the eyes of someone with a completely different life from their own. It might reveal a hidden passion, a dream career they wish they pursued, or a personal hero who inspires them.
If they choose someone famous, you can dive deeper by asking what intrigues them about that person’s life. If they pick someone unexpected, like their mailman, probe into why living an “ordinary” life appeals to them. You might uncover that they crave anonymity and simplicity despite the glamorous life they lead.
Whatever their reply, this question is sure to lead to a fascinating discussion and shed new light on how they view themselves and the world around them. It’s a chance to move past typical questions about their latest project and tap into the “real person” underneath the celebrity persona.
2. “What’s the most ridiculous rumor you’ve ever heard about yourself?”
Celebrities are often subjected to wild speculation and crazy gossip. Asking about the most outlandish rumor they’ve encountered is a lighthearted way to acknowledge the absurdities of fame.
Try phrasing it playfully, like, “I’m sure you’ve heard some real doozies over the years – what’s the most off-the-wall rumor that’s ever been spread about you?”
They may laugh about a tabloid story that linked them romantically to an unlikely fellow star. Or reveal an utterly left-field rumor like that they’re secretly an alien from outer space. The more absurd, the better!
The key is to keep the tone funny, not mean-spirited. You’re not looking to embarrass them, but to let them poke a little fun at the craziness that comes with life in the spotlight.
Most importantly, listen closely to how they respond. Do they seem exasperated by the constant scrutiny and misinformation that surrounds them? Are they able to easily shrug it off? Their reaction speaks volumes about how they cope with the pressures of celebrity.
If they open up about how difficult it is to have their privacy constantly invaded, you can pivot to a more serious discussion about the challenges of fame. But if they just chuckle and make a self-deprecating joke, follow their lead and keep things light.
The goal is to momentarily break through that invisible barrier between interviewer and celebrity by sharing a laugh at the expense of the rumor mill. It positions you as someone who understands that so much of what’s said about them is out of their control – and shows you’re not there to add to the noise.
3. “What’s one thing you’re totally obsessed with right now?”
This is a chance to discover a celebrity’s current passion, whether it’s a new hobby, an addictive TV show, or the latest health fad they’re evangelizing to all their friends. And who doesn’t love geeking out over a shared obsession?
Depending on your rapport, you might ask casually, “So, what’s got you hooked these days?” Or take a more enthusiastic approach: “I have to know – what’s the one thing you can’t stop thinking about right now? Spill!”
A generic answer like “my work” could be a conversation killer. But if they confess to a recently discovered passion for raising alpacas or a zeal for baking artisanal bread, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Dig into what sparked their interest and what they find so fulfilling about it. Their eyes may light up as they describe the joy of an unusual new skill or the thrill of discovering a talented new musician. That unguarded excitement is priceless.
On a deeper level, the things we choose to spend our time on speak to our values and priorities. A celebrity’s latest obsession offers a peek behind the curtain at what drives them, whether it’s cultivating creativity, seeking thrills, or making the world a better place.
Just don’t be surprised if you leave the interview dying to try hot yoga or learn the banjo – their enthusiasm can be infectious! And you may find you’ve forged a connection by celebrating a shared quirky interest. There’s nothing like bonding over a mutual preoccupation to cut through the awkwardness of an interview situation.
Of course, be prepared that their obsession may be something controversial or sensitive. If they’re obsessively researching a hot-button political issue or going all-in on an unconventional spiritual practice, tread carefully and keep an open mind. You don’t want to come across as judgmental of something that holds deep meaning for them.
4. “What was your first job and what did it teach you?”
Every star has to start somewhere. Asking about a celebrity’s first gig is a way to explore their roots and the experiences that shaped them long before they were famous.
Try an informal lead-in like, “Take me back to your pre-fame days. What was your very first job? Did you love it or loathe it?” Let them wax nostalgic about their stint as a summer camp counselor or their after-school shifts at the local car wash.
The details may be humble and relatable (scraping gum off tables as a restaurant busser) or offer early glimmers of their talent (landing the lead in every community theater production). Either way, you’re reminding your audience that this megastar was once just a regular person trying to make a buck.
But don’t stop at the surface description of their duties. Probe into what lessons they took away from punching that first clock. Did a tough boss teach them to develop a thick skin? Did a monotonous gig give them the drive to chase their true passion? Those early work experiences often plant the seeds for the success and resilience they need to make it big.
If they admit to being fired from that first job, jackpot! Ask what went down and what wisdom they’ve carried with them since. A healthy dose of failure can be incredibly formative.
Be prepared that your subject may not have a tidy answer about what they learned. Fame at a very young age or a privileged upbringing could mean they don’t have the typical first job story to share. In that case, pivot to asking about their first big break in the entertainment industry and what that experience taught them about hard work, rejection, and perseverance.
The goal is to end up with an anecdote that says something bigger about their guiding principles or approach to life. A crummy first job may have cemented their commitment to treating others with kindness. A dreary gig could have fueled their appetite for adventure. Revelations like these add rich context to the story of who they are today.
5. “What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?”
Over the course of a celebrity’s rise to fame, they’ve likely collected some nuggets of wisdom from influential figures in their lives. This question invites them to share a piece of advice that’s stuck with them.
You might prompt them with, “Who’s given you a piece of advice that’s become your north star?” or “What’s a mantra or motto that you come back to again and again?”
A beloved relative may have instilled a core value early on, like “Never take no for an answer.” Or an industry big shot may have shared a key insight that became their secret to success, like “Always be the most well-prepared person in the room.”
As they recount the story behind the advice, you’ll get a sense of their influences and defining moments. The struggles they were facing when they received those powerful words. The mentor figures who’ve shaped their path.
Equally interesting is the way they’ve applied that wisdom in their own lives and careers. Do they turn to it when they hit a rough patch? Is it something they try to impart to others?
If the advice they share feels overly familiar or clichéd, push them to unpack how they put it into practice. A platitude like “Never give up” becomes a lot more fascinating when illustrated with a story of how they powered through an early career failure to come out on top.
And if they credit a well-known figure with the advice, that can be a springboard to discuss their relationship. A few words of wisdom from a legendary director could launch a revealing conversation about what it was like to work with a hero.
The right piece of advice has the power to transform a perspective or even change the course of a life. By asking a celebrity to highlight a personally meaningful motto, you’re inviting them to reflect on the experiences and people who’ve made them who they are today. That introspection can yield an interview’s most thought-provoking, relatable, or even tear-jerking moments.
Just as their answer will likely inspire your audience, make sure to listen to the lesson being shared. An interview is a two-way street, and you never know when a celebrity’s words of wisdom might make an impact on your own life as well.
6. “Name one thing that always, without fail, makes you laugh.”
Laughter is one of life’s greatest joys and nothing makes people more relatable than a shared sense of humor. Asking a celebrity what cracks them up is a chance to show that their funny bone isn’t so different from anyone else’s.
Depending on your banter, you might keep it simple: “Tell me, what’s your guaranteed giggle trigger?” or get a little sillier: “Confess – what’s the one thing that never fails to bust your gut?”
You may learn it’s something adorably innocuous like videos of babies tasting lemons. Or it could be a bit edgy, like dark humor that pushes boundaries. Their comic kryptonite might be as unique as their granny’s kooky dance moves or as universal as a flawlessly executed pun.
If they struggle to pin down one thing, invite them to rattle off a few. The more specific the answers, the better. A generic “silly cat video” is far less illuminating than an impassioned defense of Keyboard Cat as the pinnacle of physical comedy.
But don’t settle for a laundry list. Ask for the story behind an answer that intrigues you. Maybe a soft spot for slapstick stems from growing up with “The Three Stooges”-obsessed siblings. A love of witty wordplay could have been sparked by a zinger-slinging grandpa. In exploring the roots of their humor, you’ll tap into formative memories and relationships.
The answers may also hint at how they cope with the pressures of life in the spotlight. A dark or cynical sense of humor could point to someone who uses laughter as a release valve. A weakness for silent films might speak to a need for old-fashioned escapism.
And of course, it’s a golden opportunity for them to show off their comedic chops as they offer up the perfect example of their favorite funny. If you find yourself cracking up right along with the interviewee, you’ll know you’ve hit the right note!
Sharing a laugh is a surefire way to put your subject at ease and set a relaxed, playful tone. It’s hard to feel stiff or self-conscious when you’re both giggling like school kids. And for a celebrity who’s always “on,” a chance to indulge in a little silliness can feel like a rare treat.
Just remember, humor is subjective. If their idea of hilarity doesn’t quite line up with yours, resist the urge to force a laugh or make a judgment. Comedy comes in all flavors, and respecting their taste is key to keeping the connection genuine.
7. “If you could have dinner with any three people who have passed away, who would they be and why?”
Asking about a dream dinner party with deceased icons invites the interviewee to join you in a bit of fanciful time travel. It’s a chance for them to reveal their influences, their fascinations, and their idea of an ideal conversation.
Try a thoughtful opener like, “If you could build your perfect dinner guest list, bringing back any three people from the past, who would get an invite?” Follow up with “What do you imagine you’d talk about?”
Expect answers that range from the obvious (a legendary Hollywood luminary) to the offbeat (a distant ancestor with a dramatic life story). The reasoning behind their choices can be surprisingly revealing.
If they name a pioneering artist in their field, ask what they’d most want to know about carving an innovative path. Selecting a transformational world leader could prompt a discussion of what it takes to create social change against the odds. A seat for an undersung inventor might point to a passion for tinkering and problem-solving.
If the trio seems like a mismatched set, ask about the common thread between these dream companions. Do they all embody a rebellious spirit? Were they each masters of inspiring communication? Identifying that core connection offers a window into the celebrity’s values and aspirations.
Don’t shy away from selections that touch on sensitive topics like politics or religion. If they imagine breaking bread with a polarizing figure, explore what fascinates them about that person’s perspective or experience. An answer that raises eyebrows could kick off a thoughtful dialogue about separating art from artist or grappling with a complicated legacy.
And if one of the dinner guests happens to be a personal hero or role model, take the opportunity to go deep on that influence. What wisdom would they hope to gain from an intimate chat with this idol? How would it feel to express their gratitude for the impact they’ve had?
The magic of a question like this is that it frees people to dream big, envisioning a scenario where anything is possible. It’s a chance for the interviewees to cast themselves in a glittering fantasy of their own making – one where they’re rubbing elbows with the luminaries they most admire.
As an interviewer, your goal is to help bring that scene to life with vivid detail and emotion. Ask what they’d serve for dinner, where they imagine hosting,and how the conversation would flow. The more real you can make it feel, the more you’ll tap into the unguarded passions and aspirations underneath the celebrity veneer.
And don’t be afraid to indulge in the fantasy yourself! Sharing your answer could spark a lively discussion and make the moment feel like a genuine meeting of minds – no time travel required.
8. “What would a perfect day look like to you, if you weren’t working?”
Every celebrity’s life is a whirlwind of work obligations and public appearances. Asking them to describe their ideal day off is an invitation to imagine a life where they’re not beholden to any of that. It’s a chance to learn what matters to them when all the noise falls away.
You might tee it up with, “If you had a whole day to yourself with no obligations, how would you spend it?” or “Picture your perfect day off-duty. What would that look like?”
Some might describe a day steeped in life’s simplest pleasures – sleeping in, a leisurely brunch, a long walk with the dog. For them, the luxury of unstructured time to laze and putter could be the ultimate indulgence.
Others may dream of action and adventure. Maybe it’s a dawn-to-dusk surfing marathon, a meandering road trip to parts unknown, or an all-day Netflix binge of a can’t-miss new show. Deep down, a celebrity’s “perfect” day gives you a peek at their idea of pure fun or total relaxation.
As they walk you through this hypothetical slice of life, listen between the lines for the things they truly value outside of work. If their fantasy is filled with freewheeling creative pursuits (a lock-in at a professional recording studio, an impromptu photo shoot in a gorgeous natural setting) you’ll know that artistic expression is their lifeblood.
But if they skip the professional trappings and focus on connecting with loved ones (a big family dinner, an old friend catch-up over beers), it’s clear that relationships sustain them more than anything else. Details that point to their priorities.
Of course, many of us tend to idealize our days off, dreaming bigger than we’d likely follow through on in real life. If a homebody describes an over-the-top itinerary of skydiving and rock climbing, there may be a wistful subtext there. Probe gently to see if they’re hinting at feeling hemmed in by their routine or craving an escape from their comfort zone.
Above all, root your follow-ups in genuine curiosity, not judgment. If their notion of bliss seems frivolous to you, resist the urge to dismiss it. This glimpse at their off-the-clock persona is a gift, not fodder for side-eye.
Instead, channel their enthusiasm and paint a vivid picture for the audience.
Ask about the soundtrack to this dream day, the little details that would make it special. By the time you’re done, listeners will wish they could tag along!
And don’t be shy about sharing your idea of the ultimate day off. Swapping those visions could be the start of a beautiful bond (“Next time you’re planning to binge ‘Lord of the Rings’ and eat your weight in pizza, I’m there!”). Underneath the glitz and glam, we’re all just daydreaming about reclaiming our time.
9. “What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?”
This question cuts to the heart of why we love celebrity interviews. There’s a thrill in uncovering a hidden truth about someone we think we know. It’s a chance to meet the real person behind the paparazzi photos and red-carpet sound bites.
Butter them up with a little flattery to start: “People know you as an incredible [actor/singer/artist], but I’m sure there are sides to you that might surprise us. Care to share one?” Or play up the curiosity factor: “I have a feeling you’ve got a secret or two up your sleeve. Can you let us in on something people would be shocked to discover about you?”
The surprise doesn’t have to be earth-shattering. It could be a nerdy childhood hobby, an unexpected phobia, or a hidden talent. Maybe the action hero has a passion for baking his grandmother’s famous snickerdoodles. Or the serious dramatic actress does a killer karaoke rendition of “Baby Got Back.”
But sometimes, you’ll hit a real jaw-dropper. An outwardly squeaky-clean teen idol confessing to a rebellious punk rock past. An infamously serious Method actor revealing a weakness for cheesy reality dating shows. Savor the exclusive, and lean into the juicy.
Just as fascinating as the revelation itself is their attitude toward sharing it. Do they take a conspiratorial delight in peeling back the curtain on their public persona? Is there a shyness or hesitancy to let people see a new side of them?
If they seem reluctant to dish, be gentle but persistent. Remind them this is a chance to show they’re a multifaceted human being, not just a one-dimensional image on a screen. A little strategic ego-stroking never hurts!
On the other hand, be prepared that their big reveal could come with a request to keep things on the down low. Maybe that buttoned-up British thespian isn’t ready for the world to know about his secret life as an amateur yodeler. Honor those boundaries, but see if you can get the scoop on why it feels so private. Respecting their limits can build trust.
Also, keep in mind that a celebrity’s idea of “surprising” could be wildly out of touch with the average person’s reality. An A-lister confessing that they (gasp) do their laundry or fly commercial might not drop any jaws in the real world. If possible, gently reframe things to find the relatable nugget underneath the privilege.
The goal here is to add dimension to the cartoon version of your subject that exists in the public imagination. By the end of your chat, listeners should feel like they’re in on a secret, seeing a hidden corner of this star’s world for the very first time. And hopefully, you’ll leave with a new understanding of who they are behind closed doors.
10. “If you could give your younger self a piece of advice, what would it be?”
This one packs a philosophical punch. By prompting your interviewee to reflect on their past through the lens of hard-won experience, you’re inviting them to distill their life lessons into a potent nugget of wisdom that matters to them.
Acknowledge the gravitas of the question while still keeping things conversational: “Okay, this might be a deep one, but I’m curious – if you could travel back in time and give the younger you a piece of advice, what would you say?” or “With everything you’ve learned over the years, what’s the one thing you wish you could go back and tell your younger self?”
Often the advice they’d give speaks to the struggles or doubts that have shaped them most profoundly. A pop star’s message to “Trust your instincts and don’t let anyone make you compromise your vision” hints at the battles they’ve likely fought for creative control.
If an actor stresses that they’d tell their young self, “Don’t be so hard on yourself. You’re doing the best you can,” you can bet they’ve wrestled with the perfectionism and brutal self-criticism that can come with life in the spotlight.
Messages to live life to the fullest, take big risks, and not waste energy worrying about what others think all point to a real person who’s learned some things the hard way. And advising a younger self to “Be patient – your time will come” or “Those hard times won’t last forever” suggests someone who’s had to navigate plenty of trials and frustrations on their way to the top.
Sometimes the lesson learned is highly specific to their journey: “When you book that first big national commercial, invest the money instead of buying a jet ski!” (That one could launch a whole conversation about the financial pitfalls of early success).
But just as often, it’s beautifully universal: “You are enough, just as you are.” “Never stop learning.” “No one else can define your worth.” These are the insights that turn an interview into a lightning bolt of inspiration.
Whatever nugget they share, take a beat to appreciate the beauty of this older, wiser person extending compassion and encouragement to their earlier self. And don’t be afraid to share your reaction, whether it’s a knowing smile or an actual lump in your throat. Giving their vulnerability right back to them is a way of saying “I see you.”
End the interview by thanking them for their openness and generosity. Let them know that you’re grateful for the chance to share this time and space, to peer into their inner world in a way few get to do.
The goal of this question – and really, of any thoughtful celebrity interview – is to reveal the humanity behind the hype. By the end, your audience should feel like they really know this person, not as an abstract concept, but as a layered, flawed, triumphant individual on a journey not so different from our own.
Conclusion
Interviewing a celebrity can be intimidating, but armed with the right questions, it’s a chance to create a moment of real connection.
The most engaging interviews happen when you approach your subject with genuine curiosity, respect, and a touch of humor.
When in doubt, root your questions in empathy and look for the universal human experiences – the struggles, the joys, the lessons learned – that unite us all.
And don’t be afraid to bring your authentic self to the conversation.
The more open and real you are, the more your interviewee will feel safe to let their guard down and reveal their true colors.
At the end of the day, a great interview leaves everyone feeling a little more understood, a little more inspired, and a little more connected to the messy, beautiful business of being human.
And that’s something worth celebrating, whether you’re an entertainment icon or a regular Joe.