AUSTIN, Texas — Stars, they're just like us! Video shared on social media shows actor James Marsden channeling his inner rock star earlier this week at Ego's, a popular karaoke bar on South Congress Avenue. In the video, posted by TikTok user @sirensrlaughing, the star belts out Billy Joel's "Piano Man" in a duet with a friend. During the performance, Marsden drops down to one knee, wields the mic stand, and plays an invisible piano.
Marsden is known mostly for his performances in romantic films like "The Notebook" and for playing Cyclops in the early 2000s "X-Men" movies. But he has shown his musical chops in films a time or two. Notably, he played Corny Collins in the 2007 "Hairspray" remake, and a well-loved scene in "27 Dresses" sees Marsden and co-star Katherine Heigl up on a bar singing impromptu karaoke to – ironically – "Bennie and the Jets" by fellow piano man Elton John.
The TikTok poster who shared the video of Marsden jamming out at Ego's said it wasn't his only song of the night. Later on, Marsden and his friend reportedly performed the Academy Award-winning ballad "Shallow" from 2018's "A Star is Born." Marsden is an Austin resident. The actor told "Live with Kelly and Ryan" in late 2020 that he had moved to the city, and KVUE's media partners at the Austin American-Statesman reported the actor bought a home in the Commons Ford area in 2022.
"I love it [Austin], it's great. I mean, it's still got that 'small town' feel to it, but it's definitely booming at the moment," Marsden told Kelly Ripa and Ryan Seacrest.
On March 26, 2025, actor James Marsden was spotted singing karaoke at Ego's, a karaoke bar on South Congress Avenue in Austin, Texas. Marsden performed Billy Joel's "Piano Man" in a duet with a friend. The performance was lively, with Marsden dropping to one knee, wielding the mic stand, and playing an invisible piano.
At 51 years old, Marsden is no stranger to the spotlight, having starred in popular films such as "27 Dresses" (2008) and "The Notebook" (2004). His karaoke performance quickly gained traction on social media, with comments flooding in from fans wishing they could have caught a glimpse of the star in action. One user wrote, "Omg I wish he did Bennie & the Jets like in 27 Dresses," while another referenced his role in "Hairspray" (2007) with, "Corny Collins is singing again!!"
The TikTok post showcasing Marsden's karaoke night has garnered significant attention, currently sitting at 4,593 likes, 159 saves, and 1,078 shares. The excitement didn't stop at "Piano Man," as Marsden and his friend also performed "Shallow," a song made famous by Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga in the 2018 film.
Marsden's move to Austin in late 2020 has turned him into a local celebrity. He bought a home in the Commons Ford area in 2022, and since then, he has embraced the vibrant culture and community that the city offers. He expressed his affection for Austin during an appearance on "Live with Kelly and Ryan," stating, "I love it [Austin], it's great. I mean, it's still got that 'small town' feel to it, but it's definitely booming at the moment."
This recent karaoke outing is just one of the many ways Marsden has connected with fans in his new hometown. His ability to entertain and engage with the public has endeared him to many, as seen in the enthusiastic responses to his karaoke performances.
With the rise of social media, moments like these are easily shared and celebrated, bringing fans closer to their favorite stars. Marsden's karaoke night is a perfect example of how a casual night out can turn into a viral sensation, showcasing the actor's fun-loving personality and musical talent.
As the video continues to circulate online, fans are left hoping for more impromptu performances from Marsden, who seems to be enjoying his life in Austin to the fullest. Whether he's hitting the high notes of Billy Joel or channeling his inner rock star with a rendition of "Shallow," Marsden proves that he is more than just a talented actor; he’s also a performer who loves to entertain.
As the city of Austin continues to grow and thrive, it’s clear that Marsden has found a place where he feels at home. His connection to the local community, coupled with his star power, makes him a beloved figure in the area. Fans can only hope that this is just the beginning of many more musical nights to come.
