Most Savvy Celebrity Entrepreneurs

These celebs aren't just a name -- they're a brand.
Ashley Olsen and Mary Kate Olsen attend a book signing session for 'Influence' on Novenber 12, 2008 at Borders books store in Westwood, California
Ashley Olsen and Mary Kate Olsen attend a book signing session for 'Influence' on Novenber 12, 2008 at Borders books store in Westwood, California - Getty Images
Kate Napleton

Some celebrities come in and out of tabloids, and thus, in and out of the American consciousness. Others become, quite literally, household names. If it's not enough to just see a certain star in the movies, on the television and in magazines, some of the more savvy ones realize they can apply their name to a plethora of products for added celebrity value ... and watch the cash roll in. We take a look at the celebrities who use their famous names to the fullest extent.

Annie Wersching

Sean "Diddy" Combs
Sean "Diddy" Combs is as eponymous as they come; the rapper-turned-hip hop mogul is one of the most influential men in the business. As the owner of Bad Boy Entertainment Worldwide, he oversees Bad Boy Records, his critically acclaimed clothing lines Sean John and Sean by Sean Combs, a movie production company and two restaurants. Oh, and he produces and stars in multiple seasons of MTV's Making the Band. Seriously, does anyone in show business work harder than Diddy? My guess is that he's closer to his goal of being "the Black Sinatra" than ever.

Annie Wersching

Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen
These girls have been in showbiz since before they could speak. Audiences fell in love with the twins when they starred as Michelle Tanner in Full House as babies. When they were old enough to sing and dance (and speak), they starred in a popular series of children's videos and marketed their image for clothing, books and fragrances. At 18, the mini-moguls became executives of their company, Dualstar. Since then, MK and Ashley have published a book, attended college, and become fashion icons, as well as creators of high-end fashion lines The Row and Elizabeth and James. Next on their To-Do list: turning 24.

Annie Wersching

Jessica Simpson
Okay, maybe she hasn't had a best-selling single in a while, and her relationship drama gets more press than her movie roles, but Jessica Simpson is smarter than she seems -- she attaches her name to very successful brands. Her lifestyle brand, Jessica Simpson, sells accessories, shoes and women's and children's clothes, to the tune of millions of dollars. She also has a line of hair extensions and accessories with her famous hairdresser, Ken Paves.

Annie Wersching

Oprah
You probably don't even think of Oprah as a celebrity any more, just a media mogul/goddess, but it is plain to see the woman is a marketing genius, and a brand herself. Between O The Oprah Magazine and Oprah at Home magazine, her network show, her book club that makes each choice a bestseller, her XM radio network, and her recently announced Discovery network, OWN the Oprah Winfrey network, the woman is a few short steps from being able to take over the world. It's hard to be critical of this multi-billionaire because she does so much for charitable efforts, including her Angels network, which has raised $51 million for charity since 1998.

Annie Wersching

Jay-Z
Who owns hip-hop? Tricky question, but most people would point to the "Big Pimpin" Jay-Z, especially if you count the assets of his lovely wife, Beyonce, and no, we're not just talking about how she can shake it in a leotard. Jay retired from the game a few years ago (though he occasionally performs, like at this year's Glastonbury Festival). He had stayed active in hip-hop through his executive position at Def Jam Records, though he recently left to start his own label. He also owns part of the New York Nets, as well as the very successful clothing line Rocawear.


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