A cultural icon the world over, the Empire State Building has been featured in countless movies, television shows, and works of art.

Every year, we welcome a who’s who of celebrities, royalty, and dignitaries to our observation deck to soak up the view of New York City.

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Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper

Date of Visit: February 2024

Chance the Rapper visited ESB for a lighting ceremony to celebrate the premiere of Season 25 of The Voice! Chance gave his remarks before flipping the famous switch that turned the ESB lights to red. Chance then got a tour of the 86th and 102nd Floor Observatories. 

Fun Facts

  1. Chance is friends with Beyoncé ("Auntie Yoncé") and Jay Z ("Unc").
  2. Chance's third mixtape Coloring Book was first released on iTunes streaming. After two weeks, he made it free to stream just like his other two mixtapes.
  3. One of Chance's first breaks was as the opening act for Childish Gambino.
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Countess Luann de Lesseps

Countess Luann de Lesseps

Countess Luann de Lesseps

Luann de Lesseps

Date of Visit: February 2024

ESB hosted Countess Luann de Lesseps for an exclusive photo opportunity and media interview. She was pictured at the Grand Staircase, exhibits, 86th and 102nd floor observatories.

Fun Facts

  1. Lesseps is a licensed practical nurse.
  2. Lesseps has made cameo appearances in shows like “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and films like “Marci X.”
  3. Lesseps has released her own memoir titled: “Class with the Countess: How to Live with Elegance and Flair” in 2009.          
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Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin

Date of Visit: February 2024

To honor the National Wear Red Campaign, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Damar Hamlin visited the Empire State Building. The day began with remarks from the CEO of AHA and Damar Hamlin. They switched the famous switch and lit the building in red.

Fun Facts

  1. He likes to play chess and developed his instincts while playing chess.
  2. In his team, Damar was often named “a fashion boy”.
  3. He considers his teammate Tre’Davious White the funniest man in the world.
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Renee Rapp

Renee Rapp

Renee Rapp

Reneé Rapp

Date of Visit: January 2024

American singer, songwriter, and actress Reneé Rapp visited ESB alongside cast members Tina Fey, Christopher Briney, and Angourie Rice of “Mean Girls” (2024) to celebrate their premiere and partnership with Girls Inc. They flipped the famous switch to turn the Empire State Building lights pink. 

Fun Facts

  1. In 2018, Rapp received a Jimmy Award for Best Performance by an Actress. This award goes out to extraordinary high school theater talent and is known to launch the careers of many successful actors.
  2. After the premiere of “Mean Girls” (2024), Rapp has implied that she will begin to focus more on her singing career. 
  3. Rapp’s first major television role was on Leighton Murray in Max's teen comedy-drama series The Sex Lives of College Girls.
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Tina Fey

Tina Fey

Tina Fey

Tina Fey

Date of Visit: January 2024

American actress, comedian, writer, and producer Tina Fey visited ESB alongside the cast of “Mean Girls” (2024) to attend the lighting ceremony celebrating the premiere of “Mean Girls” (2024) and their partnership with Girls Inc. Fey gave remarks and presented $25,000 to Girls Inc. 

 

Read more about Tina Fey's Visit!

Fun Facts

  1. Fey was the first woman to be named head writer of Saturday Night Live after joining two years prior. She was the head writer for six seasons.
  2. Fey earned the Mark Twain prize in 2010 at the age of 40, making her the youngest prize winner. 
  3. In honor of her late father, Fey and her brother founded a memorial scholarship at Temple University for those studying journalism.
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Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey

Date of Visit: December 2023

To celebrate the premiere for “The Color Purple”, Oprah Winfrey and cast members Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Danielle Brooks and Blitz Bazawule visited ESB. They flipped the famous switch, making ESB light purple in celebration of the premiere. They were also guided on an exclusive tour at the “World’s Most Famous Building”. 

Fun Facts

  1. In 1971, Winfrey won the Miss Black Tennessee beauty pageant at age 17.
  2. Winfrey has been nominated for two Academy Awards.
  3. In 2013, Winfrey was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by previous president Barack Obama.
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Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon

Jimmy Fallon

Date of Visit: December 2023

The iconic television host Jimmy Fallon joined ESB’s annual Holiday Music-to-Light Spectacular, which was set to his holiday song “Wrap Me Up”. Fallon flipped the famous switch to kick off the annual light show. He then headed to the 80th floor for an exclusive event with his biggest supporters. 

“The fact that I’m doing something with the Empire State Building means so much to me,” Fallon said. “It’s iconic. I’m kind of freaking out. This is a big moment for me.”

Fun Facts

  1. Fallon played Neo in Sex and the Matrix, a comedic two-in-one parody of Sex and the City and The Matrix.
  2. Fallon co-hosted the 2001 MTV Movie Awards with Kirsten Dunst on June 7, 2001.
  3. In 2002, he made the publication’s “50 Most Beautiful People” list. He has also been on its “50 Most Eligible Bachelors” list.
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Jared Leto is the first person to climb the Empire State Building

Jared Leto is the first person to climb the Empire State Building

Jared Leto is the first person to climb the Empire State Building

Jared Leto

Date of Visit: November 2023

Oscar-winning actor and Thirty Seconds to Mars frontman Jared Leto climbed the iconic Empire State Building to celebrate the launch of the band’s monumental Seasons 2024 World Tour—the band’s first headline tour in five years. 

 

“The building is a testament of all the things that can be done in the world if we put our minds to it,” said Leto, “which is largely the inspiration behind our most recent album, ‘It’s The End Of The World But It’s A Beautiful Day.’” 

 

Leto completed the climb of the Empire State Building – which was recently named the #1 attraction in the U.S. in Tripadvisor's 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best for the second consecutive year – followed by a special performance at the top.  

Fun Facts

  1. Jared Leto loves hiking, climbing, snowboarding, and painting. 
  2. Leto is renowned for his method acting approach, often immersing himself deeply into his characters to deliver authentic performances.
  3. He starred in the 2000 film "American Psycho". 
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Nacho Figueras at ESB

Nacho Figueras at ESB

Nacho Figueras at ESB

Naho Figueras

Date of Visit: 2023

World renowned polo player, Ignacio “Nacho” Figueras visited the Empire State Building to celebrate the 2023 Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic. Nacho flipped the ceremonially switch to light to the building in Veuve Clicquot yellow.

Fun Facts

  1. Since 2005, Figueras has been the official face of Ralph Lauren’s Black Label.
  2. Figueras is one of the top players in the world holding a 6-goal handicap.
  3. Figueras began playing polo at age 9 and made his profession debut at 17.
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Buddy Holly the dog at the Empire State Building

Buddy Holly the dog at the Empire State Building

Buddy Holly the dog at the Empire State Building

Buddy Holly

Date of Visit: May 2023

Buddy Holly visited the World’s Most Famous Building after being named Best in Show at the 147th Westminster Kennel Club dog show. Buddy and Janice Hayes, Buddy’s co-owner and handler visited 86th and 102nd floor Observatories.

Fun Facts

  1. Buddy Holly is the first petit basset griffon Vendéen to take the top prize in the history of the competition.
  2. Buddy Holly was named Best in Show amongst 2,500 dogs entered in the competition.
  3. The six-year-old hound is now retired from competition
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Billy Nye at ESB

Billy Nye at ESB

Billy Nye at ESB

Bill Nye

Date of Visit: May 2023

Science television presenter, Bill Nye visited the Empire State Building to tour the Observatory Experience. Best known for his children’s program Bill Nye the Science Guy, Bill Nye conducted thrilling science experiments on the 86th floor Observatory.

 

Fun Facts

  1. Nye is CEO of The Planetary Society, a nonprofit organization involved in the engineering projects, research, and advocacy for space exploration and astronomy.
  2. Nye has written two bestselling books on science: Undeniable: Evolution and the Science of Creation and Unstoppable: Harnessing Science to Change the World.
  3. Bill Nye the Science Guy has been nominated for 23 Emmy Awards, winning 19.
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Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan

Michael Strahan

Date of Visit: April 2023

Television personality and former professional football player, Michael Strahan visited the Empire State Building for a ceremonial lighting. Strahan flipped the switched to light the building in red, white, and blue for the kickoff of the United States Football League’s 2nd season.

Fun Facts

  1. Strahan was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014.
  2. Strahan is a two-time Daytime Emmy winner for his time co-hosting Live! With Kelly and Michael.
  3. In his final season, Michael Strahan helped the Giants win Super Bowl XLII.
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Adrienne Bailon-Houghton

Adrienne Bailon-Houghton

Adrienne Bailon-Houghton

Adrienne Bailon-Houghton

Date of Visit: April 2023

Actress, singer, and television personality Adrienne Bailon-Houghton visited the Empire State Building to ceremonially light the building in honor of National Infertility Awareness Week. After the ceremony, Bailon toured the Observatory Experience taking in the breathtaking views of NYC.

Fun Facts

  1. Adrienne Bailon-Houghton is a former member of girl groups 3LW and The Cheetah Girls.
  2. From 2013 to 2022, Bailon was co-host of the daytime talk show, The Real.
  3. In 2013, Bailon became the first Latina host of a daytime talk show in the U.S.
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TWICE

TWICE

TWICE

TWICE

Date of Visit: March 2023

K-pop group, TWICE visited the Empire State Building to light the world-famous tower lights in their signature colors, apricot and magenta. The lighting in partnership with Republic Records and Musicians On Call celebrated the healing power of music as well as the release of TWICE’s Ready to Be EP.

Fun Facts

  1. The nine-person group includes Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, Tzuyu.
  2. Twice is the first female Korean act to simultaneously top both Billboard'World Albums and World Digital Song Sale charts.
  3. The group's domestic and international success has led to Forbes magazine to include them in their "30 Under 30" list in 2020.
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Mayor Eric Adams

Mayor Eric Adams

Mayor Eric Adams

Mayor Eric Adams

Date of Visit: March 2023

Mayor Eric Adams visited the “World’s Most Famous Building” to kick off the “We Love NYC” campaign to reinvigorate the city post-pandemic. Mayor Adams flipped the ceremonial switch to light the Empire State Building in red.

Fun Facts

  1. Mayor Eric Adams currently serves as the 110th mayor of New York City.
  2. In November 2013 Adams was elected Brooklyn Borough President, the first African American to hold the position.
  3. Mayor Adams is a native New Yorker, born and raised in Brooklyn.
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Joe Torre

Joe Torre

Joe Torre

Joe Torre

Date of Visit: March 2023

American professional baseball executive, Joe Torre visited the Empire State Building to celebrate Team USA’s trip to the World Baseball Classic. The baseball Hall of Famer visited the iconic building to flip the ceremonial switch and turn the world-famous tower lights red, white, and blue.

Fun Facts

  1. Joe Torre is a nine-time MLB all-star and recipient of one Most Valuable Player award, batting title, and RBI crown.
  2. Torre established an MLB record as a manager, guiding his club to 12 consecutive postseason appearances.
  3. Joe Torre has served as the special assistant to the Commissioner of Baseball since 2020.
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Daisy Jones & The Six Cast

Daisy Jones & The Six Cast

Daisy Jones & The Six Cast

Daisy Jones & The Six Cast

Date of Visit: February 2023

The cast of Prime Video television series, Daisy Jones & The Six visited the Empire State Building for a tour of the Observatory Experience. The cast includes Riley Keough, Sam Claflin, Camila Morrone, Will Harrison, Suki Waterhouse, Josh Whitehouse, Sebastian Chacon, and Nibiyah Be.

Fun Facts

  1. Daisy Jones & The Six is based on the 2019 novel of the same name by Taylor Jenkins Reid.
  2. The 70’s rock band story is inspired by Fleetwood Mac’s history and performances.
  3. A full-length album, Aurora, with music from the series was released by Atlantic Records on March 1, 2023.
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P!nk

P!nk

P!nk

P!nk

Date of Visit: February 2023

Grammy award winning, singer-songwriter P!nk visited the Empire State Building to celebrate the release of her album, Trustfall. P!nk visited for a ceremonial lighting, interview, and performance on the 8pth floor. That evening, the world-famous tower lights created a music-to-light show to “Never Gonna Not Dance Again”, a single off the album.

Fun Facts

  1. P!nk has sold over 135 million records worldwide, making her one of the world’s bestselling music artist.
  2. In 2013, Billboard named P!nk the Woman of the Year.
  3. P!nk is an outspoken activist for animal rights, often working with organizations such as PETA and World Animal Protection.
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Backstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys

Date of Visit: December 2022

The Backstreet Boys visited the Empire State Building to flip the witch in a lighting ceremony and participated in a private Q&A with fans on the building’s 80th floor with iHeart Radio. The Empire State Building’s annual holiday music-to-light spectacular was set to music from the Backstreet Boy’s new Christmas album, “A Very Backstreet Christmas”.

Fun Facts

  1. The Backstreet Boys formed in 1993 and consists of Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, and Kevin Richardson.
  2. The Backstreet Boys have sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling boy band of all time.
  3. The group received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 22, 2013.
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Marc Anthony

Marc Anthony

Marc Anthony

Marc Anthony

Date of Visit: December 2022

American singer, songwriter, and actor visited the World’s Most Famous Building for a ceremonial lighting. The Empire State Building lit up in gold to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Maestro Cares Foundation, a nonprofit founded by Marc Anthony.

Fun Facts

  1. Marc Anthony is the top selling tropical salsa artist of all time.
  2. He has won three Grammy awards and six Latin Grammy Awards.
  3. The Maestro Cares Foundation was launched in January 2012, with entrepreneur Henry Cardenas.
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Emily in Paris Cast (Kevin Dias, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, Camile Razat, Ashley Park, Jean-Christophe Bouvet, William Abadie, and Lacien Laviscount)

Emily in Paris Cast (Kevin Dias, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, Camile Razat, Ashley Park, Jean-Christophe Bouvet, William Abadie, and Lacien Laviscount)

Emily in Paris Cast (Kevin Dias, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, Camile Razat, Ashley Park, Jean-Christophe Bouvet, William Abadie, and Lacien Laviscount)

Emily in Paris Cast

Date of Visit: December 2022

The cast of hit Netflix show, Emily in Paris, visited the Empire State Building for an official lighting ceremony in celebration of the premier of the third season. Visitors included actors and actresses Kevin Dias, Samuel Arnold, Bruno Gouery, Camile Razat, Ashley Park, Jean-Christophe Bouvet, William Abadie, and Lacien Laviscount. In addition, Shop the Scenes, a company that sells merchandise from movie and television series, was celebrating the new season by bringing the show’s items to life with exclusive products from the third season, in which funds benefited the Garden of Dreams Foundation.

Fun Facts

  1. Emily in Paris is an American romantic comedy television series set and filmed in Paris.
  2. The series has received two Golden Globe nominations and one Emmy nomination.
  3. The third season premiered on December 21st and the show has been renewed for a fourth season.
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Andrea Bocelli

Andrea Bocelli

Andrea Bocelli

Andrea Bocelli

Date of Visit: December 2022

Italian tenor and multi-instrumentalist, Andrea Bocelli visited the Empire State Building with his children, Matteo and Virginia. The building lit in celebration of the Andrea Bocelli Foundation and the “Voices Of” program.

Fun Facts

  1. Bocelli has recorded 15 solo studio albums of both pop and classical music.
  2. In 1998, Andrea Bocelli was named People magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People.
  3. Bocelli has sold 75 million records worldwide.
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Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys

Date of Visit: November 2022

15-time Grammy award winning artist and iconic New Yorker, Alicia Keys visited the Empire State Building to celebrate the opening of the Starbucks Reserve Empire State Building store. In celebration, Alicia Keys flipped the ceremonial switch to light the building in Starbucks green.

Fun Facts

  1. Alicia Keys was named by Billboard as the R&B/Hip-Hop Artist of the Decade (2000s).
  2. Keys co-founded and serves as the Global Ambassador of the nonprofit HIV/AIDS-fighting organization, Keep a Child Alive.
  3. Keys has sold over 90 million records worldwide, making her one of the world’s best selling music artists.
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Cheat Codes

Cheat Codes

Cheat Codes

Cheat Codes

Date of Visit: November 2022

The American electronic music DJ trio Cheat Codes visited the Empire State Building to film their new music video. The band was joined by Dixie D’Amelio who is also appearing in their new song. Trevor, Matt and Kevin make up the trio that formed in 2014. Since then, they have toured with The Chainsmokers and have collaborated with Demi Lovato, Fetty Wap and more.

Fun Facts

  1. Cheat Codes released their debut single titled “Visions” in 2015
  2. Their name was inspired by Kevin's brother who told him that he had found the "cheat code" to getting anything he wanted in life. 
  3. They are based in Los Angeles
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NYC Marathon Winners

NYC Marathon Winners

NYC Marathon Winners

NYC Marathon Winners

Date of Visit: November 2022

The winners of the 51st New York City Marathon were invited to the Empire State Building to celebrate. Evans Chebet, Sharon Lokedi, Marcel Hug and Susannah Scaroni are the winners of the Men and Women’s Running and Wheelchair Marathon, respectively. The race is 26.2 miles and goes through all five burrows of New York City.

Fun Facts

  1. Over 50,000 runners participated in the 2022 New York City Marathon
  2. Runners from 150+ countries participate in the marathon
  3. The 2022 NYC Marathon was the first full-capacity New York City Marathon since 2019
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Jujubee

Jujubee

Jujubee

Jujubee

Date of Visit: October 2022

American drag queen, reality television personality, and recording artist, Jujubee visted the Empire State Building to ceremonially light the world famous tower lights. Jujubee was celebrating Spirit Day, an annual LGBTQ+ awareness day celebrated every third Thursday of October.

Fun Facts

  1. Jujubee appeared on the second season of RuPaul's Drag Race when she was 25
  2. She is among the most followed queens from Drag Race, and as of October 2021, has accumulated over 1.1 million Instagram followers
  3. Jujubee is a former professional makeup artist for MAC cosmetics
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Lyle the Crocodile

Lyle the Crocodile

Lyle the Crocodile

Lyle the Crocodile

Date of Visit: October 2022

Lyle the Crocodile visited the Empire State Building during the premeier of his new film Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile. The New York CIty based movie is a feature film adaptation of both the children's story of the same name and its prequel The House on East 88th Street.

Fun Facts

  1. “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” currently holds a 70% approval rating among critics and a 94% approval rating among audiences at Rotten Tomatoes
  2. The movie features award-winning singer and songwriter Shawn Mendes as the lovable singing reptile
  3. Bringing the story of Lyle the Crocodile to life is the filmmaking duo of Will Speck and Josh Gordon
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Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy

Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy

Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy

Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy

Date of Visit: September 2022

Ballroom dancer and choreographer Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy visited the Empire State Building. Chmerkovskiy was first seen on So You Think You Can Dance when she finished ladies’ third runner-up on season 10. She continued her professional dancing career on Dancing with the Stars where she won her second season.

Fun Facts

  1. Jenna Johnson Chmerkovskiy has five siblings
  2. Guacamole is her favorite food
  3. She is married to a Dancing with the Stars co-star, Valentin Chmerkovskiy
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MAX

MAX

MAX

MAX

Date of Visit: September 2022

Multiplatinum Warner recording artist MAX visited the Empire State Building. Since the breakout success of his album Hell’s Kitchen Angel, MAX has more than 2.5 billion streams and has toured the world multiple times over. MAX’s new music continues to dive deeper into spreading a message of being true to who you are, wearing what you want to wear, loving who you want to love and creating safe space where everyone can feel accepted.

Fun Facts

  1. MAX has been named “Young Pop God” by GQ
  2. He has performed on The Late Late Show with James Corden, LIVE with Kelly and Ryan, Good Morning America and TRL
  3. MAX was nominated for “Best New Pop Artist” at the iHeartRadio Music Awards
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Maite Perroni

Maite Perroni

Maite Perroni

Maite Perroni

Date of Visit: September 2022

Maite Perroni is a Mexican actress, singer, songwriter and producer. She visited the Empire State Building to light its world-famous tower lights in red, white, and green for Mexico’s Independence Day in partnership with the consul general of Mexico.

Fun Facts

  1. Perroni gained international fame in 2004 as a member of the Latin Grammy-nominated Latin pop group RBD.
  2. In 2016 she won the Premios TVyNovelas of Best Actress of the Year for her work in Antes muerta que Lichita.
  3. Perroni is a spokesperson for NYX cosmetics.
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Alessandra Ambrosio

Alessandra Ambrosio

Alessandra Ambrosio

Alexandra Ambrosio

Date of Visit: September 2022

Brazilian supermodel, Alessandra Ambrosio, visited the Empire State Building to light the world-famous tower lights for Brazilian Independence Day with the Brazilian Consulate.

Fun Facts

  1. Ambrosio serves as an ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society
  2. She was chosen as one of People's annual "100 Most Beautiful People in the World" in May 2007
  3. On 12 August 2012, she appeared in the 2012 Summer Olympics closing ceremony representing the Brazilian fashion tradition on the handover segment to Rio de Janeiro City
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LL Cool J

LL Cool J

LL Cool J

LL Cool J

Date of Visit: August 2022

Actor and two-time Grammy winner LL Cool J was invited to light the Empire State Building to celebrate the first ever Rock the Bells Festival. Rock The Bells Festival is a day-long celebration curated by LL COOL J in his hometown, Queens, NY featuring live performances from some of the most iconic MCs of all time. The festival brings classic Hip-Hop to life with Breaking, Graffiti, DJing, Performances and much more.

Fun Facts

  1. LL Cool J is short for Ladies Love Cool James
  2. He has written four books- two on fitness, one memoir and one children’s book
  3. Martial artist Bruce Lee inspired him to act
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Bianca Belair and Montez Ford

Bianca Belair and Montez Ford

Bianca Belair and Montez Ford

Bianca Belair and Montez Ford

Date of Visit: July 2022

WWE wrestlers Bianca Belair and Montez Ford were invited to ESB to celebrate the lighting of the building in honor of Monday Night Raw. The Empire State Building shinned its tower lights in orange, yellow, and teal to celebrate WWE’s return to New York City with a live episode of Monday Night Raw at Madison Square Garden. The reigning WWE Raw Women’s Champion and the formed Raw Tag Team Champion both competed in the events.

Fun Facts

 

  1. Bianca Belair and Montez Ford are married
  2. Belair holds the elimination record in the Women’s Royal Rumble Match
  3. Ford’s finisher is known as the “frog splash”
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Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu

Corbin Bleu

Date of Visit: July 2022

Actor, singer, dancer and producer Corbin Bleu made an appearance at the Empire State Building. Bleu is most well-known for his role as Chad in Disney Channel’s "High School Musical" trilogy. He has since returned to the iconic franchise during season 3 of "High School Musical The Musical:The Series." The Disney+ show premiered on July 23rd, 2022.

Fun Facts

  1. Corbin Bleu competed on Season 6 of “Dancing with the Stars”
  2. Bleu has been in multiple Broadway productions
  3. Corbin Bleu’s family name is Reivers
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Joshua Bassett

Joshua Bassett

Joshua Bassett

Joshua Bassett

Date of Visit: July 2022

American actor and singer, Joshua Bassett visited the building for a quick tour during his time in New York. The "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series" star got to take in the views of the 86th and 103rd floors on a beautiful July afternoon.

Fun Facts

  1. Joshua made Billboard's "21 under 21" ranking that honors young musicians under 21 years of age for their impact over the previous year
  2. Joshua won the Kid’s Choice Award for Favorite Male TV Star in 2022
  3. Bassett has great musical talent and can play piano, guitar, ukulele, bass, drums, and saxophone
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Trumpet

Trumpet

Trumpet

Trumpet

Date of Visit: June 2022

The Empire State Building shines its tower lights in purple and gold annually for the Westminster Dog Show. The day after his big victory, Trumpet and his handler visited the iconic landmark. Trumpet had the opportunity for many photos on the 86th and 102nd floor of the Empire State Building Observatory.

Fun Facts

  1. Trumpet, who is 4 years old, is owned by Chris and Bryan Flessner, Heather Buehner, and Tina Kocar
  2. Trumpet was the first ever bloodhound to win the Westminster Dog Show.
  3. The Westminster dog show is the second-oldest continuous sporting event in the U.S. after the Kentucky Derby
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Steve Carrell

Steve Carrell

Steve Carrell

Steve Carell

Date of Visit: June 2022

Actor Steve Carell celebrated the upcoming premiere of "Minions: Rise of Gru" at the Empire State Building. Carell is most known for his lead role as Michael Scott in "The Office." Steve Carell was joined by his minion co-stars during his visit to ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. Steve Carell loves to play hockey
  2. Carell won a total of 12 Golden Globe nominations for his portrayal of Michael Scott
  3. Steve Carell was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016
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Machine Gun Kelly

Machine Gun Kelly

Machine Gun Kelly

Machine Gun Kelly

Date of Visit: June 2022

In honor of his Hulu documentary "Life in Pink," Machine Gun Kelly lit the Empire State Building pink. ESB was lit as a symbol of strength, perseverance and hope in partnership with MGK. Following his visit to ESB, Machine Gun Kelly performed a sold-out show at Madison Square Garden.

Fun Facts

  1. Machine Gun Kelly has one daughter
  2. MGK got his first tattoo at 14-years-old
  3. Machine Gun Kelly’s real name is Colson Baker
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Rachel Brosnahan

Rachel Brosnahan

Rachel Brosnahan

Rachel Brosnahan

Date of Visit: May 2022

The American actress, known for her role of Miriam Maisel in "The Marvelous Mrs.Maisel," visited the building in 2022. She was invited to a lighting ceremony in honor of Covenant House, a charity in which she serves as a board member of. Covenant House lit the building blue for its 50th anniversary.

Fun Facts

  1. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2018 and two consecutive Golden Globe Awards for Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy in 2018 and 2019
  2. While still in high school, Brosnahan received her first movie role — that of Lisa in the Michael Bay-produced horror film "The Unborn" in 2009
  3. Brosnahan attended New York University and graduated from Tisch School of the Arts
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Stranger Things 4 Cast

Stranger Things 4 Cast

Stranger Things 4 Cast

Stranger Things 4 Cast

Date of Visit: May 2022

The cast of "Stranger Things" turned the Empire State Building Upside-Down to celebrate their Season 4 premiere. The observatory had a first-of-its-kind, dynamic light show that could be seen for blocks. “Stranger Things” cast members Noah Schnapp, Gaten Matarazzo, Cara Buono, and Priah Ferguson came to ESB for a full observatory experience.

Fun Facts

  1. Over 1,000 kids auditioned for the show
  2. "Stranger Things" season 4 breaks a Netflix viewership record set by Bridgerton season 2, with 287 million hours viewed in its opening weekend
  3. Parts of season four were filmed in New Mexico
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Sesame Street

Sesame Street

Sesame Street

Sesame Street

Date of Visit: February 2022

Elmo and Cookie Monster were invited to light the Empire State Building in red, yellow and blue to celebrate the return of "Sesame Street Live! Let’s Party!" The show ran from February 19 to February 27 at Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden. Elmo and Cookie Monster took the stage with their friends Abby Cadabby and Big Bird.

Fun Facts

  1. Elmo’s favorite food is wasabi
  2. Cookie Monster is a lefty
  3. Elmo’s birthday is on February 3rd
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Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran

Date of Visit: December 2021

Artist, Ed Sheeran, performed at the Empire State Building during the holiday music to light show. The exclusive iHeartRadio Holiday Pop Up Party was presented by State Farm. The event featured thousands of LED lights and a 5-song performance by Sheeran.

Fun Facts

  1. Globally, Spotify named him the 2nd most streamed artist of the decade
  2. Ed Sheeran’s “Divide” tour became the high grossing of all time in August 2019
  3. Ed performed at the 2012 London Olympics closing ceremony and covered Pink Floyd’s "Wish You Were Here"
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Blake Lively

Blake Lively

Blake Lively

Blake Lively

Date of Visit: November 2021

American actress, Blake Lively, visited the Empire State Building in attendance of the lighting ceremony celebrating the return of UK travelers to NYC. The event was hosted by British Airways, NYC & Company, and the British Consulate. Blake has called New York home for several years and was overjoyed to light the building in red, white, and blue.

Fun Facts

  1. Many know Lively from her character, Serena van der Woodsen in "Gossip Girl," a show about the lives of teenagers living in Manhattan’s Upper East Side
  2. In 2021, she made her directorial debut with a music video for Taylor Swift’s “I Bet You Think About Me”
  3. Blake and husband, Ryan Reynolds, are often noted for their activism as they work with several human rights organizations
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Nicole Scherzinger

Nicole Scherzinger

Nicole Scherzinger

Nicole Scherzinger

Date of Visit: November 2021

The Pussycat Dolls star Nicole Scherzingerposed on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. In addition to being the leader singer of The Pussycat Dolls, Scherzinger was also a judge on the music competition franchise X-Factor. She watched the sunset from the observatory of ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. Nicole Scherzinger won season 10 of "Dancing With the Stars"
  2. She was born in Honolulu, Hawaii
  3. Scherzinger majored in Musical Theater in college
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Charli D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Charli D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Charli D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Charli D'Amelio

Date of Visit: August 2021

Charlie D’Amelio was joined by her sister Dixie as well as her parents Marc and Heidi at the Empire State Building to promote their Hulu series “The D’Amelio Show.” Charli got her start by posting many viral videos on Tiktok. The D’Amelio Show premiered on Hulu on September 2, 2021, just a week after the family visited ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. In 2020, Charli collaborated on YouTube with "Stranger Things" star Noah Schnapp
  2. Charli D’Amelio was the first person to get to 100 million followers on Tiktok
  3. She previously lived in Norwalk, Connecticut
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Dixie D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Dixie D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Dixie D'Amelio visits the Empire State Building

Dixie D'Amelio

Date of Visit: August 2021

Dixie D’Amelio was joined by her sister Charli as well as their parents Marc and Heidi at the Empire State Building to promote their Hulu series “The D’Amelio Show”. Dixie got her start by posting many viral videos on Tiktok. The D’Amelio Show premiered on Hulu on September 2, 2021, just a week after the family visited ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. Dixie D’Amelio’s bagel of choice is a rainbow bagel
  2. D’Amelio’s dream collaboration is with Miley Cyrus
  3. She previously lived in Norwalk, Connecticut
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Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore

Date of Visit: September 2020

Actress and talk-show host Drew Barrymore celebrated the premier of her daytime talk show by lighting up the Empire State Building yellow. The Drew Barrymore Show premiered on September 14th2020,featuring appearances from Cameron Diaz, Lucy Liu and Adam Sandler. Barrymore said that her experience at ESB was a “memory to keep forever.”

Fun Facts

  1. Drew Barrymore became a CoverGirl Cosmetics’ model and spokeswoman in 2007
  2. Barrymore’s godfather is director Steven Spielberg
  3. Drew Barrymore is an Ambassador Against Hunger for the United Nations World Food Program
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Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford

Date of Visit: March 2020

Global icon and supermodel, Cindy Crawford visited the Empire State Building to join in the ceremonial lighting for International Women’s Day. The tower lights shined blue to honor the IWD and the nonprofit Delivering Good. In her post-modeling career, Crawford has become an advocate and philanthropist for women’s issues and childhood cancer.

Fun Facts

  1. Crawford has been the cover girl of more than 600 magazines around the world, including Vogue, W, People, ELLE, and Allure
  2. The supermodel co-authored a book about her life and career titled “Becoming”
  3. In 1995, in the prime of the supermodel phenomenon, Crawford was named the top-earning model in the U.S. by Forbes
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Behati Prinsloo visits the Empire State Building

Behati Prinsloo visits the Empire State Building

Behati Prinsloo visits the Empire State Building

Behati Prinsloo

Date of Visit: March 2020

Namibian model, Behati Prinsloo was invited to light up the Empire State Building in honor of World Wildlife Day, in partnership with United Nations. She flipped the switch to turn the tower lights blue and green with a gold mast. The 2020 UN World Wildlife Day shared a theme of “Sustaining all life on Earth”, as 2020 was known as the “biodiversity super year”.

Fun Facts

  1. Behati walked in nine consecutive Victoria’s Secret fashion shows from 2007-2015
  2. She is a supporter of organizations trying to protect black rhinoceros, a critically endangered species in her native country, Namibia
  3. Behati is married to Maroon 5 front man, Adam Levine
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Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey

Date of Visit: December 2019

Pop star Mariah Carey continued to celebrate her holiday jingle “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” Carey was invited to ESB to light up the building red and green for the 25th anniversary party of the song. The song reached the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart 25 years after release.

Fun Facts

  1. Mariah Carey studied cosmetology in Manhattan
  2. Carey has five octaves (G#2-G#7) and four notes of a soprano
  3. Mariah Carey’s debut record earned her two Grammy Awards
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Lin Manuel Miranda

Lin Manuel Miranda

Lin Manuel Miranda

Lin Manuel Miranda

Date of Visit: November 2019

The American actor, composer, playwright, and filmmaker was invited to the Empire State Building to light the tower lights blue in support of Small Business Saturday. Miranda’s first musical and movie, “In the Heights” revolves around several small businesses on a city block. Miranda lit the Empire State Building in partnership with American Express to promote shopping small.

Fun Facts

  1. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s best-known work is "Hamilton," an 11-time winning Tony award-winning hip-hop musical about Alexander Hamilton
  2. Miranda is a NYC native, being born and raised in Inwood, a Manhattan neighborhood
  3. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s name is inspired by the Vietnam War poem “Nana roja para mi hijo Lin Manuel” by José Manuel Torres Santiago
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Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner

Date of Visit: September 2019

American actress, Jennifer Garner visited the Empire State Building to celebrate the lighting of the Building for Save the Children USA. Jennifer flipped the ceremonial switch to light the tower lights red. Garner is an activist for early childhood education and board member for Save the Children USA.

Fun Facts

  1. She was nominated multiple times for both Emmys and Golden Globes for her performance as Sidney Bristow and won a 2002 Best Actress Golden Globe
  2. In 2017, she co-founded organic food company, Once Upon a Farm, with a mission to deliver sustainable, high-quality food to children
  3. She has been an ambassador for Save the Children since 2009
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Tom Holland

Tom Holland

Tom Holland

Tom Holland

Date of Visit: June 2019

Tom Holland was invited to light the Empire State Building in blue and red to honor The Brothers Trust and "Spider-Man: Far From Home." The actor also celebrated The Brother’s Trust, a charity that supports organizations that “struggle to be heard.” Holland was joined by his cast members to light up ESB while promoting the new Spider-Man film.

Fun Facts

  1. Tom Holland went to carpentry school before he began his professional acting career
  2. Holland has a Spider-Man tattoo on the bottom of his foot
  3. Guinness World Records awarded Holland with the “Youngest Actor to play a title role in MCU” after he starred in “Spider-Man Homecoming”
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BTS Members the Empire State Building

BTS Members the Empire State Building

BTS Members the Empire State Building

BTS

Date of Visit: 2019

South Korean pop group, BTS, took over the Empire State Building in partnership with iHeartMedia to shine the tower lights purple. The lights celebrated the band’s iHeartRadio live concert at iHeartRadio Theatre. The group visited just a day before to be a part of a ceremonial lighting at the NYC landmark.

Fun Facts

  1. BTS has a lot of meanings – the original one being “Bangtan Sonyeondan” which means “Bulletproof Boy Scouts” in Korean. The acronym now also stands for “Beyond the Scene.”
  2. BTS consisted of seven male members – Jin, Suga, J-Hppe, RM, V, Jungkook, and Jimin
  3. BTS landed a spot in Time Magazine’s 2018 list of 25 Most Influential People on the Internet
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Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld

Hailee Steinfeld

Date of Visit: December 2018

Actress and singer Hailee Steinfeld was invited to light up the Empire State Building in honor of Make-a-Wish Foundation and her new movie "Bumblebee." Hailee is best known for her roles as Juliet in “Romeo and Juliet” and Emily Junk in “Pitch Perfect 2.” Steinfeld was joined by co-star John Cena to spend a special day and evening with Make-A-Wish Foundation members and kids in a screening of the movie and ESB lighting ceremony.

Fun Facts

  1. Hailee Steinfeld was a cheerleader for six years
  2. Steinfeld began homeschooling in the middle of 6th grade
  3. Her favorite 80’s song is "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston
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John Cena

John Cena

John Cena

John Cena

Date of Visit: December 2018

Actor and WWE superstar John Cena was invited to light up the Empire State Building in honor of Make-a-Wish Foundation and his new movie "Bumblebee." Cena is known as one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time and took up acting later in his career. Cena was joined by co-star Hailee Steinfeld to spend a special day and evening with Make-A-Wish Foundation members and kids in a screening of the movie and ESB lighting ceremony.

Fun Facts

  1. John Cena’s father was also a professional wrestler
  2. Cena majored in exercise psychology
  3. He came out with his own rap album called “You Can’t See Me”, selling 143,000 copies in the first week
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Adriana Lima

Adriana Lima

Adriana Lima

Adriana Lima

Date of Visit: November 2018

Brazilian supermodel, most known for her work as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, visited the Empire State Building in 2018. She joined a ceremonial light of the building in celebration of the 2018 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show Holiday Special. The fashion event returned to New York City for its final show.

Fun Facts

  1. Lima was the longest-running model and named “most valuable Victoria’s Secret Angel” in 2017
  2. Adriana was the first Victoria’s Secret Angel to have her own wax figure at Madame Tussauds New York
  3. She became the Creative Director and Global Brand Partner of luxury personal training gym, Dogpound
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Venus Williams

Venus Williams

Venus Williams

Venus Williams

Date of Visit: November 2018

American tennis star, Venus Williams, visited the Empire State Building to participate in the annual ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in support of Small Business Saturday. The building lit blue to recognize the shopping holiday the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Fun Facts

  1. Venus became the first Black tennis player to be ranked number one in the Open era
  2. In 2011, Time names Venus as one of the “30 Legends of Women’s Tennis”
  3. A child prodigy, Williams made her professional debut at the age of 14 at the Bank of the West Classic
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Elizabeth Hurley visits Empire State Building

Elizabeth Hurley visits Empire State Building

Elizabeth Hurley visits Empire State Building

Elizabeth Hurley

Date of Visit: October 2018

English actress Elizabeth Hurley was invited to light the Empire State Building pink in honor of Estee Lauder’s 2018 Breast Cancer Campaign. Hurley’s best-known role was her part as Vanessa Kensington in “Austin Powers.” Hurley lit the building to back Estee Lauder’s Guinness World Records title to illuminate 40 global landmarks.

Fun Facts

  1. Elizabeth Hurley supports The Prince's Trust, End Hunger Network, ARK Children's Charity, and Elton John AIDS Foundation.
  2. Ms.Hurley won the ShoWest Supporting Actress of the Year for "Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery"
  3. Hurley got her fame and success on the internet when she wore her iconic black Versace dress held together with gold safety pins
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Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell

Date of Visit: September 2018

American actress, Kristen Bell visited the Empire State Building to join the ceremonial lighting of the building in support of the Women’s Peace & Humanitarian Fund (WPHF). Bell as the first global advocate for WPHF flipped the switch to light the tower lights blue and pink.

Fun Facts

  1. Kristen Bell’s voice has made its way to fame in a variety of outlets such as "Frozen," "Gossip Girl," and "Assassin’s Creed"
  2. Kristen and husband, Dax Shepard, founded baby care product line, Hello Bello, which creates environmentally friendly, plant-based products
  3. Kristen is an animal lover, having been vegetarian since the age of 11. She has an especially deep love for sloths
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Joey Chestnut

Joey Chestnut

Joey Chestnut

Joey Chestnut

Date of Visit: July 2018

The American icon and competitive eater, Joey Chestnut visited in 2018 as the Empire State Building hosted the official weigh-in ceremony for Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog-Eating Contest. Joey Chestnut was looking to hold onto his championship title as many thought Carmen Cincotti had the chance to beat him.

Fun Facts

  1. Joey holds more competitive eating records than any other athlete in history, by an extreme margin
  2. Joey claimed his first title at Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest in 2007 and went on to win the next 11 out of 12 years
  3. Joey also holds the world record in eating of 54 other foods
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Zendaya

Zendaya

Zendaya

Zendaya

Date of Visit: December 2017

 

The singer, dancer, actress and entrepreneur was invited to light the Empire State Building along with the other cast members of "The Greatest Showman" to promote the film. Zendaya got her start on Disney Channel’s "Shake It Up" and is now best known for her role as Rue in "Euphoria." Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron and the other stars of the movie participated in a ESB lighting ceremony for "The Greatest Showman."

Fun Facts

  1. Zendaya was a contestant on the sixteenth season of "Dancing with the Stars"
  2. Zendaya’s name means “to give thanks” in the Bantu language Shona
  3. She was featured in the Kidz Bop music video “Hot ‘N’ Cold”
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Efron

Efron

Efron

Zac Efron

Date of Visit: December 2017

Actor Zac Efronwas invited to light the Empire State Building along with the other cast members of "The Greatest Showman" to promote the film. Efron got his start on Disney Channel’s "High School Musical" and has continued his acting career in a variety of movies. Hugh Jackman, Zendaya and the other stars of the movie participated in a ESB lighting ceremony for "The Greatest Showman."

Fun Facts

  1. Zac Efron is a big fan of "Stranger Things"
  2. Efron is very passionate about cooking and food
  3. When in Hawaii, Efron rode a wild tiger shark
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Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani

Date of Visit: November 2017

Gwen Stefani kicked off ESB’s holiday music-to-light show with her song, “You Make It Feel Like Christmas.” The American actor, singer and songwriter got her start writing songs for the band No Doubt before becoming a solo artist. Stefani was joined by her now husband Blake Shelton to get New York City in the Christmas spirit.

Fun Facts

  1. Gwen Stefani’s favorite movie is “The Sound of Music”
  2. Stefani once worked as a makeup artist at a department store
  3. She supports Cure 4 The Kids Foundation
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Kylie Jenner

Kylie Jenner

Kylie Jenner

Kylie Jenner

Date of Visit: February 2017

The once couple, Kylie Jenner and Tyga visited the Empire State Building on Valentine’s Day as a celebration of their love. The romantic setting was illuminated by the red tower lights that shined during the night. The socialite, businesswoman, and media personality made her way to the VIP 103rd floor of the Empire State Building.

Fun Facts

  1. Kylie is the most followed woman on Instagram, with over 350 million followers
  2. In 2018, New York Post credited Kylie for being the most influential celebrity in the fashion industry
  3. Kylie is the youngest sibling in the Kardashian/Jenner family that rose to stardom through its reality television series
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Priyanka Chopra visits the Empire State Building

Priyanka Chopra visits the Empire State Building

Priyanka Chopra visits the Empire State Building

Priyanka Chopra

Date of Visit: November 2016

Indian actress Priyanka Chopra promoted her show Quantico during her visit to the Empire State Building. Chopra won Miss World in 2000 and was recently named one of Time’s most 100 influential people in the world.

Fun Facts

  1. Priyanka Chopra owns her own production company called Purple Pebble Productions
  2. She is a UNICEF India Ambassador
  3. Chopra has released three singles
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Final Five

Final Five

Final Five

Final Five

Date of Visit: August 2016

Gold medal winning “Final Five” visited the Empire State Building just days after their incredible win at the 2016 Rio Olympics. The group, made up of Simone Biles, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez, Aly Raisman, and Madison Kocian, took in the NYC views as part of their post-win New York tour.

Fun Facts

  1. The 2016 win was the third gold medal for the United States in the team event of artistic gymnastics
  2. The 2016 Olympics was the last Olympics where gymnastics teams would be made up of five members, earning the group the nickname of the “Final Five”
  3. Simone Biles also won 3 other gold medals in the individual all-around, vault, and floor exercises
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Julianne Hough

Julianne Hough

Julianne Hough

Julianne Hough

Date of Visit: July 2016

Dancer, actress and singer, Julianne Hough visited the Empire State Building to celebrate the season premiere of "Running Wild with Bear Grylls." Hough is well known for her start as a cast member on ABC’s "Dancing with the Stars" before becoming a permanent judge in 2014. Hough was joined with Bear Grylls during her visit to ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. Hough became the youngest dancer to win both Junior World Latin Champion and International Latin Youth Champion
  2. Her brother, Derek Hough, is also a professional dancer
  3. Julianne Hough served as a judge on "America’s Got Talent" in 2019
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Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth

Date of Visit: April 2015

Professional American golfer, Jordan Spieth visited the Empire State Building after winning the 2015 Master’s tournament. Spieth flipped the switch to light the tower lights in a golf course green and yellow to honor the tournament. Fresh off his win, Spieth sported the famous green coat on the Observation deck.

Fun Facts

  1. Spieth was the second-youngest professional golfer to win a Masters game

  2. He runs the Jordan Spieth Charitable Fund, inspired by his younger sister, Ellie, who has special needs

  3. He was named as one of the "100 Most Influential People" in Time Magazine in 2016, noting that he "exemplifies everything that's great about sports"

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Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams

Date of Visit: March 2015

“Happy” singer Pharrell Williams visited the Empire State Building in support of The Yellow Ball. The rapper, singer and songwriter has written the music for many movie soundtracks, including "Hidden Figures," "Despicable Me" and "Despicable Me 2." ESB was lit yellow in honor of the Yellow Ball, which supports arts education.

Fun Facts

  1. Williams’s song “Happy” has sold over 10 million copies
  2. Pharrell Williams has four kids, and three of them are triplets
  3. His favorite food is ice cream
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Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman

Hugh Jackman

Date of Visit: January 2015

Hugh Jackman was invited to light the Empire State Building green and gold in honor of Australia Day. Jackman is well-known for his lead movie-musical roles in "Les Misérables" and "The Greatest Showman," as well as his portrayal of the title character in "Wolverine." Jackman looks over New York City from the 103rd floor of ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. Jackman plays the piano, guitar and violin
  2. Hugh Jackman won a tony for his role in "The Boy from Oz"
  3. When he was younger, he dreamed of being a journalist
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Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki

Steve Aoki

Date of Visit: October 2014

American DJ, record producer, and record executive, Steve Aoki visited the Empire State Building in 2014. Aoki was touring New York City to celebrate the release of his new album, "Neon Future I."

Fun Facts

  1. In 2012, Steve was designated the highest grossing electronic dance music artist in North America
  2. Steve is the founder of the Steve Aoki Charitable Fund, which raises money for global humanitarian relief efforts
  3. Steve has collaborated with several iconic artists such as Blink-182, BTS, Linkin Park, and Lil Jon
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Serena Williams

Serena Williams

Serena Williams

Serena Williams

Date of Visit: September 2014

The American tennis star, Serena Williams brought her 2014 United States Open Trophy to the 103rd floor of the Empire State Building. This was Serena’s 6th win in New York City and her 18th Grand Slam title.

Fun Facts

  1. The Serena Williams Fund has funded several schools throughout Jamaica, Kenya, and Uganda
  2. Following the 2009 US Open, Serena published an autobiography titled “On the Line”
  3. Serena is married to Reddit co-founder, Alexis Ohanian
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Taylor Swift atop the 103rd floor of the Empire State Building for her album launch

Taylor Swift atop the 103rd floor of the Empire State Building for her album launch

Taylor Swift atop the 103rd floor of the Empire State Building for her album launch

Taylor Swift

Date of Visit: August 2014

The 11-time Grammy artist visited the Empire State Building when the building put on a music-to-light show synchronized to Taylor Swift’s song “Welcome to New York” during the 1989 album release. Taylor enjoyed the views of the 103rd floor on her visit to the Empire State Building as part of the ceremonial lighting event.

Fun Facts

  1. Taylor can play several instruments such as guitar, piano, ukulele, banjo, and electric guitar
  2. Taylor was the youngest country music artist to write a #1 song, with “Our Song” going #1 when she was only 14 years old
  3. The American Music Association recently named Taylor the “Artist of the Decade”
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Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande

Date of Visit: November 2013

Actress and singer Ariana Grande visited the Empire State Building a day after winning the New Artist of the Year Award at the AMA’s. Before Ariana Grande was a pop star, she was a lead in the hit Nickelodeon show “Victorious.” Grande lit ESB in fall colors to officially kick-off Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Week.

Fun Facts

  1. Ariana Grande was in the Broadway show “13” when she was 13 years old
  2. Grande used to collect hockey pucks
  3. Ariana Grande’s first concert was Katy Perry
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The Rockettes

The Rockettes

The Rockettes

Rockettes

Date of Visit: November 2013

The Rockettes were invited to light the Empire State Building green and red to celebrate the opening of the 2013 Radio City Christmas Spectacular. The Rockettes were founded in 1936 in St. Louis and have been performing at Radio City Music Hall since 1932. Each year, the Rockettes kick off the holiday season by lighting up ESB.

Fun Facts

  1. The Rockettes first performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1957
  2. The Rockettes kick up to 650 times in one day, doing more than 160 kicks per show
  3. The height requirement to become a Rockette is between 5’6” and 5’10 ½ 
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Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic

Date of Visit: September 2011

The Serbian professional tennis player, Novak Djokovic visited the Empire State Building after winning the 2011 U.S. Open. The number one tennis player, at the time, and the US Open trophy made its way to the Observatory for a photo opp.

Fun Facts

  1. Djokovic has won 21 Grand Slam men’s single titles, including a record nine Australian Open titles
  2. The Novak Djokovic Foundation partnered with World Bank in 2015, the partnership led to the building of 50 school and support of more than 21,000 children
  3. Novak Djokovic is a part of the Big Three in tennis, comprised of tennis icons Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer
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Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian

Date of Visit: November 2010

Kim Kardashian is a global icon, businesswoman, and media personality. During the filming of “Kourtney and Kim Take New York”, the pair visited the Empire State Building. Her time in the Big Apple was filled with site-seeing at some of NYC’s most iconic locations.

Fun Facts

  1. Kim’s first Instagram picture was a picture of herself blowing a kiss on February 20, 2012
  2. Kim was awarded the Fashion Icon honor at the 2021 People’s Choice Awards
  3. Kim runs several businesses including KKW Beauty, KKW Fragrance, and SKIMS
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SpongeBob

SpongeBob

SpongeBob

SpongeBob

Date of Visit: April 2009

SpongeBob made an appearance at the Empire State Building in honor of Earth Day. The star of the Nickelodeon cartoon “SpongeBob SquarePants” made his television debut in 1999. SpongeBob was joined by Nick Cannon to power down for Earth Day.

Fun Facts

  1. SpongeBob is ambidextrous
  2. He cannot swim
  3. SpongeBob SquarePants is the best fry cook in Bikini Bottom
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Roger Federer

Roger Federer

Roger Federer

Roger Federer

Date of Visit: September 2008

World renown tennis star, Roger Federer visited the Empire State Building just days after his U.S. Open championship win. The Swiss professional tennis player and the trophy made its way with him to the 103rd VIP viewing deck.

Fun Facts

  1. Federer is a member of what is referred to as the Big Three, considered to be the greatest tennis athletes of all time. The other two members are Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic
  2. In 2018, Federer became the oldest #1 ranked tennis player at the age of 36
  3. In 2020, Federer topped Forbes's list of the world's highest paid athletes, with $106.3 million in total earnings from salary, winnings and endorsements
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