Tequila may be Hollywood's current darling (looking at you, Clooney and Jenner), but vodka remains the classic go-to for celebrities looking to make their mark in the spirits world. From smooth potato blends to eye-catching skull-shaped bottles, stars are proving they know a thing or two about creating a buzz. Here's a look at the notable celeb-backed vodka brands — and why they're still generating hype in an era dominated by tequila.

Dan Aykroyd's Crystal Head Vodka (Launched: 2008)
You know him as the comedic genius behind Ghostbusters, but Dan Aykroyd also has a spirited side hustle. Co-founded in 2008, Crystal Head Vodka is instantly recognizable for its skull-shaped bottle—a visually striking piece inspired by ancient legends. Aykroyd touts it as an additive-free vodka, produced using pure Newfoundland water. Once just a quirky newcomer, Crystal Head now commands significant shelf space in upscale bars and liquor stores, proving Aykroyd's passion for the craft goes beyond just a novelty container.
Channing Tatum's Born and Bred (Launched: 2017)
Launched in 2017, Born and Bred is a small-batch potato vodka born out of Channing Tatum's admiration for Idaho's laid-back charm. Distilled by the Grand Teton Distillery, this vodka aims for a smooth finish while embracing the rugged outdoorsy spirit of the region. Tatum has described the brand as a reflection of his own "no-frills, down-to-earth" personality—think campfires and cozy gatherings rather than red carpets and exclusive VIP clubs. That homey vibe has resonated with fans who want their cocktails to feel authentic yet approachable.
Kate Hudson's King St. Vodka (Launched: 2019)
Actress Kate Hudson jumped into the spirits scene with King St. Vodka in 2019. According to Hudson, the brand draws inspiration from her old home on King Street, where she spent countless nights entertaining friends and family. Marketed as a gluten-free spirit with a smooth taste, King St. is all about fostering that carefree, inclusive atmosphere Hudson associates with spontaneous get-togethers. With its airy branding and friendly tone, it's a stark contrast to the sometimes flashy or edgy vibes found in other celeb-backed beverages.
Pitbull's Voli Vodka (Partnership Began: Early 2010s)
Miami's own Armando Christian Pérez — better known as Pitbull — has been involved with Voli Vodka since the early 2010s. The brand touts lower-calorie formulas (though keep in mind, the difference is modest compared to standard vodkas) and positions itself as a slightly healthier option for those nightclub VIP sections Pitbull frequents. Ever the energetic showman, Pitbull has leveraged his concert tours and vibrant social media presence to promote Voli, pairing the brand with his party-ready image.
50 Cent's EFFEN Vodka (Major Partnership: 2014–2017)
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson might be more known these days for TV productions and headline-making feuds, but he also had a notable run as a partner in EFFEN Vodka. The brand, founded in the Netherlands, prides itself on a crisp, clean flavor profile. 50 Cent brought EFFEN into the spotlight around 2014, staging elaborate promotions and injecting his own bold persona into the marketing. While he parted ways in 2017, that period helped secure EFFEN's name recognition among rap fans and nightlife enthusiasts alike.
Vodka vs. Tequila: Which Spirit Reigns Supreme?
The sudden surge in celebrity tequila — brands like Casamigos, 818, and Teremana — has made it seem like vodka took a backseat. Yet vodka's longstanding status as a cocktail staple (think every classic Martini or Cosmopolitan) ensures it remains relevant — and profitable. Add a big celebrity name to the mix, and you've got a recipe for serious brand intrigue. From Dan Aykroyd's artistic approach to Channing Tatum's Idaho spin, each celeb vodka brand brings a unique flair to the bar cart, appealing to fans eager for a taste of the Hollywood lifestyle.
If you're craving a star-powered twist on your next cocktail, vodka is anything but old news. Whether you're drawn to a gimmick-free "homegrown" angle or eye-catching packaging that doubles as a collectible, celebrity-backed vodkas offer plenty of variety. So yes, tequila might be hogging the limelight these days, but for those who want to channel their inner A-list mixologist, there's a celeb vodka out there ready to shake up your next happy hour. Cheers!