Some celebrity stories grab attention because of scandal, but others stick because they reveal character. Enter the world of celebrity tipping – where acts of kindness shine bright. In today's economy, where service jobs often mean tight budgets, these generous gestures stand out. They remind everyone that a little extra can go a long way, especially now that hospitality workers are pushing through rising costs and long hours.
Here are the stars who consistently open their wallets wide and why their habits keep making headlines.
Taylor Swift isn't just known for her chart-topping hits; she's also famed for her thoughtfulness towards service staff. Back in 2013, while on tour in Philadelphia, she left a $500 tip on an $800 bill at Ralph's Italian Restaurant and sweetened the deal with two concert tickets for the head chef. Fans love sharing stories about her generous spirit, like when she handed out $100 bills to stadium employees after a Kansas City Chiefs game in 2023.
“It's not just about the money; it's about making someone’s day a little brighter," says a fan about Swift’s generosity.
Swift's consistency in tipping is what makes her stand out. Servers often describe her as polite and engaging, always taking the time to chat about their day.
Donnie Wahlberg has turned tipping into a movement. Known for his role on Blue Bloods, he launched the "2020 Tip Challenge" by leaving $2,020 on a $75 bill at an IHOP in Illinois on New Year's Day 2020. Later that year, he repeated the gesture with another $2,020 tip on a $35 bill at a Massachusetts restaurant.
Wahlberg often shares on Instagram how these gestures honor his parents, who worked in the service industry. In 2017, he also left a $2,000 tip at a Waffle House in North Carolina, praising the staff for treating him like royalty. These acts inspire others, including his co-star Tom Selleck, who joined the challenge.
Harry Styles knows how to make a meal memorable. In early 2020, vacationing in the Caribbean with Adele and James Corden, he left a $2,020 tip on a $473 bill, complete with a handwritten "Happy New Year!" note. Styles' generosity extends beyond large gatherings. Servers describe him as humble and kind, often tipping well even on casual outings.
His actions gain traction online, with fans dissecting every detail. In a time where mental health in the service sector gets more attention, Styles' tips highlight the value of recognizing effort, fueling conversations about fair pay.
Chrissy Teigen’s tipping stories often go viral due to their sheer scale. In 2017, she left a $1,000 tip at an Outback Steakhouse in Ohio after dining with her family. The server, Mikayla Scott, shared how it made her night. Teigen's habit stems from her own experiences in the industry, and she frequently posts about supporting workers.
Her openness on social media draws in followers who appreciate her real talk. Another highlight came during a trip down under, where she again tipped big, changing the staff's evening.
Amy Schumer brings humor to her tipping, but her generosity is no joke. In 2016, while catching Hamilton in New York, she tipped $1,000 on a $77 bar tab. She told the bartenders she did it because she remembers the grind of service jobs from her early days. Schumer's pattern continues with other reports of hefty tips.
Her actions resonate in comedy circles, where she often jokes about wealth but backs it up with real support.
Johnny Depp's tipping tales feel like scenes from his movies. In 2009, at a Chicago steakhouse, he left a $4,000 tip on a $4,400 bill after a late-night dinner with friends. Servers recall him as engaging and appreciative, staying to chat long after the meal.
Depp's generosity often appears during film shoots, adding to talks about celebrity responsibility in current times.
David Beckham combines style with substance in his tipping. In 2008, after a charity game in California, he left a $1,000 tip on a $100 bill at a Los Angeles pub. More recently, in 2021, he and Victoria tipped generously at a Miami restaurant, impressing everyone with their politeness.
Beckham's family-oriented outings often include kind gestures. Fans spot these moments on social media, boosting his image as approachable.
Drew Barrymore keeps it simple yet impactful. Actress Ana Ortiz once shared how Barrymore tipped double the bill amount after being served twice. Barrymore's policy of matching the total shows her appreciation for effort.
Her tips align with her public persona as warm and relatable. Stories like these circulate in entertainment news, drawing positive reactions.
These celebrities show that tipping big isn't just about money; it's about acknowledging the people who make daily life smoother. Their stories highlight how generosity can ripple out, inspiring trends and discussions in tough economic times.
Next time you're out, think about adding a little extra. It might just make someone's day and start a chain of kindness.