Being a famous Crystal Palace supporter doesn’t mean they’re involved in the Holmesdale Fanatics. As with most clubs, some of the celebrity links are pretty tenuous.
Of course, there are legitimate celebrity supporters out there in the Crystal Palace universe. They might not be the nation’s most glamourous club, but they are loyally supported in their corner of London.
We’ve tried to cut through the rumours to identify the legitimate famous Crystal Palace fans:
James Buckley
From spoof managerial applications to hosting a podcast featuring Palace legends, James Buckley is a high-profile Eagle.
His fandom has waned in recent years, however, and he declared he was no longer following Premier League football. The former Inbetweener has turned his attention to other sports and working on his podcast with his wife.
Simon Bird
Buckley’s accomplice on the Inbetweeners, Simon Bird is also a lifelong Crystal Palace fan. Bird is even a qualified referee and used to oversee junior matches.
He’s showcased his footballing skills in celebrity football events in the past.
Naga Munchetty
Naga Munchetty grew up in South London and is a passionate Palace fan. Munchetty was even brought to tears when the Eagles lifted the FA Cup.
The BBC newsreader is fast approaching national treasure status.
Jo Brand
A feature on our screens for three decades, Jo Brand has never hidden her support of Palace. Before the FA Cup final, she was asked to give a message to the team.
Brand wrote, “The atmosphere at Selhurst Park, the fans and the determination of the team are a powerful combination. I know the Eagles can do it, and I’m so proud to be asked to add a message of support.”
Mark Butcher
A stylish left-handed batter turned insightful cricket pundit, Mark Butcher became a Palace fan after being taught by Steve Kember.
Reflecting on his favourite Palace heroes, Butcher said, “I remember watching Vince Hilaire and Jim Cannon during the 80s. I would get down to Selhurst on a relatively regular basis to see sides in the 90s. But my favourites? You’d go a long way to beat Wright and Bright. Geoff Thomas, too, I always liked central midfield players.”
Eddie Izzard
A fan since 1969, Eddie Izzard has committed much of his life to charities associated with Crystal Palace. Location doesn’t matter – Izzard makes the time for Palace.
Timothy Spall
After growing up as a Chelsea fan, Timothy Spall made the unusual decision to switch allegiances due to his dad’s influence. Spall has never regretted the decision to become an Eagle.
Kellie Shirley
Former Eastender Kellie Shirley is a Crystal Palace fan. Shirley appeared as a Soccerette on Soccer AM in the 2000s.
Bill Nighy
Bill Nighy is a patron of Crystal Palace Children's Charity (CPCC) and has done voice over work for the club. Nighy has often been seen on the terraces over the years.
Neil Morrissey
A devotee of Palace and real ale, Neil Morrissey has been regularly involved with the club’s beer festival. Morrissey might have been born in the Potteries, but he’s long been an Eagle.
