Stars on the Run: Celebrities Converge at the 2025 Boston Marathon

Stars Hit the Pavement: Celebrity Runners and Their Inspiring Stories at the 2025 Boston Marathon

Every year, the Boston Marathon attracts not only amateur runners but also a roster of celebrities eager to take on the challenge of the iconic 26.2-mile course. This year, the 2025 edition of the race saw participation from a variety of well-known figures, each bringing their unique flair and motivations to the event. While the massive crowd of 30,000 made it hard to spot familiar faces, the stories and experiences of these celebrities added an exciting layer to the marathon.

Among the notable participants was former "Bachelor" star Matt James, who made a return to the Boston Marathon after his prior run in 2022. Not only did he run the race, clocking in an unofficial time of 3:36:54, but he also took on the dual role of commentator for ESPN and WCVB. James shared his sentiment about the race, emphasizing the inspiration he drew from fellow runners and the emotional experience of transitioning onto Boylston Street, the marathon’s final stretch. His presence undoubtedly brought a broader audience to the event, as reality TV fans tuned in to watch his journey.

In the realm of sports, former Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara had been listed among the runners, but ultimately did not participate due to an injury. Meanwhile, Ambrose “Amby” Burfoot, a legendary figure from marathon history with an impressive past at the Boston Marathon, made his way back to the race. Burfoot, who won the race in 1968, ran this year with bib number 1968 to commemorate his victory, finishing with an unofficial time of 4:51:47. Burfoot's journey highlighted the tradition and legacy of the Boston Marathon, reminding everyone of its deep roots in both athletic and community spirit.

Another notable runner was Dave McGillivray, the infamous race course director who has overseen the event for years. This year marked McGillivray's 53rd Boston Marathon, and he finally participated as a runner himself, finishing with a time of 5:06:03. His dedication to running mirrors a commitment to the marathon's integrity, as he has been a vital part of the event's organization and spirit. Additionally, former world record holder Paula Radcliffe, who also participated, wore bib number 215, a nod to her legendary finishing time. She completed the race with an unofficial time of 2:53:44, earning her Abbott World Marathon Majors Six Star Medal, a significant achievement for marathon runners worldwide.

The Boston Marathon is especially meaningful for those who run with a cause, and this year was no exception. Olympian Brian Diemer, who entered the marathon for the first time, finished with a time of 3:56:45. He expressed his excitement and fulfillment for having trained for a marathon despite previously insisting he would never participate in one. Professional golfer Scott Stallings also made his marathon debut after a shoulder injury forced him off the golf course. Stallings's determination to train and compete showcased the resilience found among athletes, regardless of their primary sport. He described the experience of running in Boston, emphasizing the personal connections he had to the area, given his Worcester roots.

Among the local media personalities, WCVB reporter Emily Maher finished the marathon to support the Matt Brown Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping individuals affected by long-term illness or injury. The foundation has a deep personal connection for Maher, as it supports hockey player Matt Brown, who suffered a spinal injury in high school. Additionally, two NBC 10 Boston reporters, Matt Prichard and Malcolm Johnson, melded their passion for journalism with philanthropy by running for Boston Medical Center and Boston Children's Hospital, respectively. Their efforts underscore the Boston Marathon's role not just as a race, but as an opportunity for advocacy and community support.

The presence of musicians within the marathon also reflects the diversity of aspiring runners. Shane Sager, a member of Sting's touring band, dedicated his run to raising funds for pediatric cancer research through his family's foundation. Juggling a demanding tour schedule and marathon training, Sager’s perspective regarding life-changing challenges resonated with many. He recognized the importance of supporting children battling severe illnesses and saw the marathon as a platform to shed light on their struggles.

The Boston Marathon serves as a microcosm of the wider celebrity landscape, illustrating how diverse motivations—from athletic ambition to personal causes—intersect with the enthusiastic spirit of competition. As celebrities share their experiences, whether on the course or through commentary, they inspire countless others and engage a broad audience in the excitement of marathon culture. With each passing year, the marathon continues to solidify its status not only as a premier athletic event but also as a celebration of community and resilience, shining a spotlight on the human stories that unfold along its storied route.