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Kentucky Derby: Celebrities attending the annual horse race over the years

The event is one of the most luxurious and historic events in the US.


Maria Loreto
Senior Writer
MAY 3, 2024 1:52 PM EDT

The Kentucky Derby is right around the corner. The historic and luxurious horse race, which takes place the first Sunday of May, has been hosted since the year 1875. Logically, it has hosted some of the world’s most impressive celebrities, from royalty to the Kardashians.

The event is hosted in Louisville, Kentucky, and can be watched on NBC and Peacock this Sunday, starting at 2:30pm ET. In the meantime, scroll down to have a look at some of the celebrities that have attended the sporting event over the years, and some of the fun and over the top looks they’ve worn for the historic occasion.

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey© GettyImages

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey

Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey attended the 2004 edition of the Kentucky Derby, with their appearance featured on the reality TV show program “Newlyweds”.

Queen Elizabeth II© GettyImages

Queen Elizabeth II

The Queen attended the Kentucky Derby in the year 2007. She wore a lime green dress suit and was accompanied by her husband, Prince Phillip.

Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian© GettyImages

Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian

Hats are a very important part of the Kentucky Derby, as you’ll soon see. According to stylists and experts of the era, in the 1800’s, hats were a very important piece of fashion for women, with them wearing them while going to church and attending various formal events.

Kris Jenner and Kim Kardashian attended the Derby in 2009.

Serena Williams© GettyImages

Serena Williams

Serena Williams attended the Derby in 2006. She opted for an all white look that she paired with a black hat and matching sunglasses.

Brooke Shields© GettyImages

Brooke Shields

Brooke Shields attended the Derby in 2005. She wore a white dress that she paired with a bright blue hat.

Zoe Saldana© GettyImages

Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana attended the Derby in 2007, wearing beige and blue.

Tom Brady© GettyImages

Tom Brady

Lastly, Tom Brady attended the Derby in the year 2011. He looked handsome with a suit, some black Ray-Ban sunglasses, and a fedora-like hat.