You might be surprised at just how many celebrities are serious pinball collectors.
From rockstars and actors to tech moguls and athletes, pinball machines have found a place in some of the most iconic personal game rooms in the world. But beyond the star power, what really interests us is what they choose to collect—and why.
This guide explores the most famous celebrity collectors, the machines they love, and how you can use their picks to decide what to buy—whether you’re looking for your first or next pinball machine for sale.
🎯 Looking to build your own celebrity-style game room? Explore our inventory →
🕹️ Why Celebrities Love Pinball
It’s not just nostalgia—though that plays a part. Celebrities are drawn to pinball for the same reasons we are:
- It’s tactile and immersive
- It’s competitive and collectible
- It fits beautifully into custom home spaces
- It’s a conversation starter and status symbol
But the big difference? Celebrities often go all in, sourcing rare and high-end machines, or even commissioning custom tables.
🎸 Jack White (The White Stripes)
🎮 Favorite Machine: AC/DC Luci Premium (Stern)
Rock icon Jack White has spoken about his love of analog experiences—and pinball fits right in. His Nashville home reportedly includes several machines, but AC/DC Luci stands out.
Why It’s a Smart Pick:
- Killer soundtrack with real concert energy
- Challenging gameplay for experienced players
- Eye-catching “Luci” art package
Collector Tip: Rock-themed machines hold value exceptionally well, and this one’s considered a modern classic.
👓 Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, The Orville)
🎮 Favorite Machine: The Simpsons Pinball Party (Stern)
As the creator of Family Guy, it’s no surprise Seth MacFarlane appreciates clever writing and chaotic fun. His collection includes the rare and beloved Simpsons Pinball Party.
Why It’s Great:
- Deep ruleset (but easy for casual players to enjoy)
- Authentic Simpsons voiceovers and humor
- Packed with modes, multi-balls, and secret missions
Buyer Insight: Great for families and long-term players—it’s endlessly replayable.
🧪 Bill Nye (The Science Guy)
🎮 Favorite Machine: The Twilight Zone (Bally)
Science meets retro-cool in Bill Nye’s collection, which includes The Twilight Zone—a legendary game packed with tech, magnets, and complex rules.
Why It’s Genius:
- Widely ranked as one of the best pinball machines ever made
- Loaded with toys: gumball machine, powerball, magnets
- Great for tech lovers and serious players
Buyer Tip: This is a great pick for advanced players or collectors looking for depth and resale value.
🎤 Post Malone
🎮 Favorite Machine: Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast (Stern)
Post Malone has a flashy, high-energy collection—and Iron Maiden matches his on-stage persona. It’s fast, fierce, and loud.
Why It Rocks:
- Epic soundtrack (obviously)
- Fluid layout and combo-heavy gameplay
- Deep modes with hand-drawn art
Great for: Metal fans, high-skill players, and anyone wanting adrenaline-pumping gameplay.
🏎️ Jay Leno
🎮 Favorite Machine: Indiana Jones: The Pinball Adventure (Williams)
Known for his car collection, Jay Leno also has one of the most enviable personal arcades in Hollywood—and it includes Indiana Jones, a 90s grail machine.
What Makes It Special:
- Adventure-style gameplay that’s engaging for all ages
- Unique “Path of Adventure” mini playfield
- Immense collector demand and resale value
Perfect for: Themed home game rooms or anyone wanting a cinematic classic.
🎨 Custom Machines: The Ultimate Celebrity Flex
Some celebrities go beyond collecting—they custom-commission pinball machines.
Notable Examples:
- Elvira’s House of Horrors – Co-developed by horror hostess Cassandra Peterson
- Slash (Guns N’ Roses) – Helped design GNR Pinball by Jersey Jack
- Tim Schafer (Double Fine) – Owns custom-built machines inspired by his games
📦 Buying Like a Celebrity—On a Realistic Budget
You don’t need to be a millionaire to start collecting like one. Here’s how:
| Budget | Recommended Machine Type |
|---|---|
| Under $5,000 | Pre-owned classics, Home Editions |
| $6,000–$8,500 | New-in-box Stern Pro models |
| $9,000+ | Premium/LE editions, collectibles |
Shop Smart: At House of Pinball, every machine is:
- Fully tested & certified
- Backed by warranty
- Supported with lifetime tech help
- Eligible for financing
💬 Which Celebrity Has the Best Taste?
Let’s rank them based on taste, legacy, and fun factor:
| Celebrity | Machine | Taste Score (🎯 out of 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Jack White | AC/DC Luci | 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯 |
| Seth MacFarlane | Simpsons | 🎯🎯🎯🎯 |
| Bill Nye | Twilight Zone | 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯 |
| Post Malone | Iron Maiden | 🎯🎯🎯🎯 |
| Jay Leno | Indiana Jones | 🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯 |
Editor’s Pick: Bill Nye’s Twilight Zone for gameplay depth and history.
Most Fun for Families: Seth’s Simpsons Pinball Party
Coolest Visuals: Post Malone’s Iron Maiden
🤝 Why Buy from House of Pinball?
We’re trusted by collectors—from first-time buyers to high-end hobbyists—because we offer:
✔️ Transparent pricing
✔️ Curated collections (no junk machines)
✔️ In-house service team
✔️ Nationwide delivery
✔️ Flexible financing options
✔️ Expert advice (not sales pitches)
🧠 Final Thoughts: Learn from the Stars, Play Like One
Celebrities collect pinball machines for the same reasons we all do—nostalgia, competition, and pure fun. But now that you know what they play, you can make a better decision on what you should buy.
Whether you’re chasing that iconic sound, a screen-lit ramp show, or a collector’s item for your game room, House of Pinball is your trusted partner to get you started.
🎯 Ready to buy a pinball machine that even the stars would admire? Start here →