list of celebrities converted to islam
Many high-profile celebrities across sports, music, and Hollywood have publicly embraced Islam throughout their lives. Notable figures include:
Sports Legends
Muhammad Ali: Perhaps the most famous convert, the legendary boxer changed his name from
Cassius Clay after joining the Nation of Islam in 1964 and later transitioned to Sunni Islam.
Mike Tyson: The former heavyweight champion converted to Islam in 1992 while serving time in prison and has since spoken about how the faith saved his life.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor Jr., the NBA all-time great converted in 1968, citing a search for self-discipline and integrity.
Sonny Bill Williams: The New Zealand rugby star and heavyweight boxer converted in 2009 while playing in France, becoming the first Muslim to play for the All Blacks.
Music & Entertainment
Cat Stevens (Yusuf Islam): The British folk singer converted in 1977 at the height of his fame, later leaving the music industry for many years to focus on educational and philanthropic work.
Dave Chappelle: The acclaimed comedian converted in 1998, later describing his faith as a “beautiful religion” that provides moral and intellectual clarity.
Central Cee: In early 2026, the prominent UK rapper announced his conversion, reportedly taking the name Akhill.
Janet Jackson: The pop icon is believed to have converted around 2012 following her marriage to Wissam Al Mana.
Ice Cube: The rapper and actor converted in the early 1990s, identifying as a natural Muslim.
International & Historical Figures
A.R. Rahman: The Oscar-winning “Slumdog Millionaire” composer was born Hindu (A.S. Dileep Kumar) but converted to Islam in his 20s, later crediting Sufism for his spiritual peace.
Malcolm X: A central figure in the American civil rights movement, he famously converted to Islam in 1948 and underwent a major ideological shift after his Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.
Andrew Tate: The former kickboxer and controversial media personality announced his conversion in late 2022.
Categories: Conversion To Islam, Converts, Muslims