The love for chess has captured the hearts of famous celebrities, adding an extra layer of glamour to the game with the longest history. Chess, a timeless pursuit, has seen more rule changes than any other game, and its allure is further enhanced by the intriguing stories that continue to unfold. If you own a chess set, you share a common bond with numerous beloved celebrities, including those in the UK. Here, we've curated a list of various personalities who have openly expressed their deep fascination with chess at various events.
Bill Gates
Who can forget the viral moment when Bill Gates faced off against Magnus Carlsen, the World Chess Champion? Despite Gates' defeat in a mere 80 seconds, the event became a media sensation at the beginning of the last year. Played on a simple wooden chess board, the game captivated millions of fans, showcasing the true thrill of moves in the game.
Jessica Simpson
In 2010, Jessica Simpson's love for chess came into the spotlight. Although news reports focused on her dating Billy Corgan, her enthusiasm for chess was a significant highlight. During that time, Jessica was reportedly engaging in weekly chess challenges with her then-partner. We're just as curious as you are about the style of chess sets the actor prefers—undoubtedly a classy choice.
Ben Affleck
If you've admired Ben Affleck for his diverse roles, know that chess has played a crucial role in honing his creative senses. The actor has been sharpening his mind and strategic skills on chess boards at the Bel Air Chess Club.
Albert Einstein
It appears that every great mind has savoured the luxury of a chess board at some point in their life. For Albert Einstein, this indulgence was a continuous affair. Friends with Dr. Emanuel Lasker, an important figure in chess history, Einstein is known for contributing to new check attack discoveries during his competitions with Lasker.
Madonna
The list wouldn't be complete without the queen of pop, Madonna, who currently owns a luxury chess set and shares her love for chess with millions of fans. Madonna took her passion to the next level by seeking training from the then World Champion Alan Norris. The beginning of her affair with chess may trace back to the time when she featured a wooden chess set in the video for "The Power of Goodbye," alongside other stars.
While there are more notable names like Will Smith, Ray Charles, and Shakespeare, you may not want to miss the chess surprises we have in store for you. Explore our state-of-the-art collection of chess boards now and add a touch of sophistication to your chess experience.
