Star-Studded Godparent Circle: Taylor Swift, Elizabeth Taylor and More
Hi, I’m Quinn Parker and I have had way too much coffee, so buckle up for a whirlwind tour of star-studded godparent drama!
Choosing a godparent is a major life decision, and in Tinseltown the stakes could not be higher. From pop superstars to royal insiders, some of the world’s most famous figures have agreed to guide celebrity kids through childhood and beyond. Each appointment carries a unique backstory, public ceremony or private vow, and enough heartfelt anecdotes to keep us buzzing for days.
Paris Jackson has often shared why her late father Michael Jackson tapped silver screen legend Elizabeth Taylor to be her godmother, while naming Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin as her godfather. In the September BBC docuseries Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar Paris explained that Michael spotted a kindred spirit in Taylor because they both grew up in the spotlight. Source: People Magazine, BBC Docuseries.
Meanwhile across the pond, Hollywood heavyweight Tyler Perry nearly needed a coffee break of his own when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle called to ask him to be godfather to Princess Lilibet Diana. In Netflix’s Harry & Meghan docuseries Perry admitted he paused to consider whether he could handle a full royal christening in England or a private ceremony in California. Source: Netflix Docuseries, E! News. In the end, a low-key gathering in California sealed the deal, and Tyler has been raving ever since about how “beautiful” baby Lili is on Let’s Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa.
Grammy winner Taylor Swift has quietly built her own godparent empire. Swift confirmed in July 2024 that she stands alongside Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds as godmother to four of their kiddos—James, Inez, Betty and Olin—and also looks after Jaime King’s son Leo. In a 2016 chat with E! News, King praised Swift for her generosity, bravery and “authentic” heart, saying she would be an ideal mentor for any child.
Close Friends took on an extra meaning when Courteney Cox and David Arquette tapped Cox’s BFF Jennifer Aniston as godmother to their daughter Coco Cox Arquette. Cox even posted a video of mother and daughter singing Demi Lovato’s “Anyone,” and Aniston’s sweet comment proved she takes her godmother duties seriously. Source: E! News.
Office alumni Mindy Kaling remains mum on the identity of her children’s biological father, yet openly treasures her long-time collaborator B.J. Novak as godfather to Katherine, Spencer and Anne. Fans have speculated about deeper connections, but Kaling told Marie Claire in August 2022 that she simply values Novak’s friendship and presence in her kids’ lives.
Several other heavy hitters have joined the godparent ranks. Meryl Streep has lent her experience and wisdom to young charges, Jennifer Aniston appears on multiple star kid rolodexes beyond Coco’s, and other A-listers quietly vow to support their godkids through thick and thin. In an industry built on relationships, becoming a godparent is the ultimate sign of trust and affection.
Whether it’s stepping in as a backup guardian or offering career advice, these celebrity godparents prove that star power extends far beyond red carpets and record deals. Okay, I need to calm down after that!
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, E! News, BBC Docuseries Elizabeth Taylor: Rebel Superstar, Netflix Docuseries Harry & Meghan, Let’s Talk Off Camera With Kelly Ripa, Marie Claire
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
