Pop Culture and Buddhism: A List of Famous Celebrities Who Practice Buddhism

Even though less than 1% of Americans are formally affiliated with Buddhism, there are no shortages of reports on celebrities who practice the Eastern religious tradition. It seems that these days, more and more people are following the words of Buddha, with nearly three of every four Buddhists in the United States converting from a different faith. The religion’s influence continues to spread, especially among those walking down the red carpet. Here are some notable A-listers who can be linked to Buddhism:

Tiger Woods – Recent scandal involving Tiger Woods has prompted him to talk about his involvement (or lack thereof) with Buddhism, the religion that he’s practiced since childhood from the influence of his Thai mother. He has admitted that in recent years he lost touch with his faith, but vows to return to the teachings in order to straighten out his private life. Given his superstar status, he has even received personal advice from the Dalai Lama himself.

Maddox Jolie – While mama Angelina doesn’t consider herself a Buddhist, she does say that she wants the religion to be an important part of her adopted Cambodian son’s life. Maddox has spent a lot of time in temples with monks and is actively learning about the faith with his parents’ guidance.

Phil Jackson – Also known as the Zen Master, the winningest basketball coach in NBA history uses Buddhist methods and practices both on and off the court. He even encourages his players to practice Buddhist philosophy, which many believe has contributed to his great success leading teams to championships.

Russell Simmons – Russell Simmons, co-founder of hip-hop label Def Jam and creator of the Phat Farm clothing line, is one of the few known Buddhists in the hip hop world. He has been called the “Zen of Hip Hop,” and has even written books about how both yoga and Buddhism has influenced his ways of thinking and being.

Steven Seagal – The actor and martial artist has spent a significant amount of time outside of the United States, and along the way has adopted Tibetan Buddhist beliefs. His religious affiliation has helped him become guardian and bodyguard to the only child of the 10^th Panchen Lama of Tibet, an honor no other American has ever had.

Steve Jobs - The Apple CEO and icon Steve Jobs converted to Buddhism after a spiritual retreat to India in the 70’s. It is said that Jobs returned to the U.S. with a shaved head and traditional Indian clothing, and soon after went on to create the beginnings of Apple Computer.

Orlando Bloom – In 2004, Bloom became an official member of a Nichiren Buddhist association, and he has even had a hand in advocacy. The actor has helped spread the ideas of Buddhism to several former dating partners, most notably ex-girlfriend Kate Bosworth and current wife Miranda Kerr.

Goldie Hawn/Kate Hudson – Actresses Goldie Hawn and Kate Hudson have both embraced Buddhism despite their Jewish heritage. The mother and daughter duo actively promote the Eastern philosophy – Hawn through her foundation which teaches Buddhist techniques and Hudson with her boyfriends. Ex-beau Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees was said to be contemplating converting to Buddhism before they split.

Uma Thurman – Often listed as a celebrity Buddhist, Uma Thurman has admitted that religion has not played a big role in her life despite her father’s heavy involvement in the religion. Robert Thurman is one of the most influential American Buddhist authors and professors who gave his daughter a Tibetan name meaning “Great Middle Way.”

Richard Gere – Actor Richard Gere has been completely open about his personal relationship with the Dalai Lama, doing several interviews about his journey as a Buddhist and his work as a human rights advocate for Tibet. He has even introduced the religion to J-Lo, who took an interest in Buddhism after working with Gere on the film “Shall We Dance?”

Other famous celebrities who are affiliated with Buddhism include Keanu Reaves, Tina Turner, Courtney Love, and martial artists Jet Li, Jackie Chan, and Bruce Lee.

Jena Hayashi is a guest blogger for My Dog Ate My Blog and a writer on online degrees for Guide to Online Schools.

Tiger Woods Comeback- Not So Glorious?

Tiger Woods has been subjected to all kinds of scrutiny, speculation, and judgment by golf fans, as well as people that don’t even like the game of golf. With a five-month hiatus from the game, and less than stellar results in the three tournaments this year, he sits at 147th in the PGA standings.

Pulling out of the last tournament due to a neck inflammation has reaped all kinds of scrutiny. Speculation abounds with has he lost his game? Is he really hurt or is he just still emotionally not fit? Is the November accident to blame for all these problems?

Tiger says no. The injury isn’t related to the accident. The doctors have said with rest it will heal and he’ll be good to go again. Tiger himself wants to get back to the game, wants to put in the practice, and regain his status.

But, is he ready emotionally? After all the hubbaloo about his sexual addiction, apologies to his fans and sponsors, and the five-month stint away to spend more time with his family, is it enough?

Many of us don’t understand his addiction, and we aren’t completely convinced that his wife, Elin, can be so gracious as to stand by him. Then again, many women have stood by their philandering husbands for many reasons. But, it isn’t exactly like losing your car keys and having to go get a car key replacement, is it?

The biggest question is not about the past, but the future. Tiger has a ton of stuff to set right. He’s accepted responsibility for his actions, and that speaks of personal strength. He stepped back onto the course just months after a series of traumatic events. That speaks of determination. Fans and sponsors, and his wife, have stood by him despite all the public scrutiny and backlash. That speaks of support.

But, is it going to be enough? Addictions, in whatever form they come in, are lifetime temptations. He’s going to have to relearn many things about his life. Right now, everything is still fresh and sore, and he has many eyes watching him. But, when that goes away, is Tiger going to be able to keep his demons at bay? We hope so because he’s done so much for the game of golf, but time will be the true test.

Tiger Woods: Wife, Mom Were "Brutal" on Him as Women (Whores) Claimed Affairs

“I can’t believe I actually did that to the people I loved,” he says in his first one-on-one interview

Read the full story at USmagazine.com

As he stated, “he did it all himself” (yeah right)… I don’t care what those women do to him – he deserves everything they can throw his way (literally).  Tiger Woods is a POS who could care less about his wife or his family… otherwise, why would he have cheated on his wife so many times??  This is beyond an accident at this point…

Tiger Woods’ father, Earl, dies at age 74

Tiger Woods recently withdrew from several golfing events to spend more time with his ailing father, and one can only hope that he was able to enjoy that time before Earl died today, following his battle with cancer.

“I’m very saddened to share the news of my father’s passing at home early this morning,” Tiger Woods stated in a posting on his official website. “My dad was my best friend and greatest role model, and I will miss him deeply.”

“I’m overwhelmed when I think of all of the great things he accomplished in his life. He was an amazing dad, coach, mentor, soldier, husband and friend. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, and I’m honored to continue his legacy of sharing and caring. Thank you to all who are sending condolences to my family and our Foundation. We are truly blessed to have so many who care during this difficult time.” – FoxSports.com. Read more…