Famous glasses

8 Celebrities and Characters with Iconic Glasses

In February 2025, Robbie Williams purchased a pair of comedian Eric Morecambe’s iconic glasses for £20,000 at auction. Here’s a list of other famous faces and characters whose eyewear also became an iconic part of their identities.

1. Harry Hill - the Eccentric Comedian

Another comedian who wears large, thick framed rectangular glasses like Eric Morecambe; the comedian Harry Hill. These frames play a key role in his larger-than-life persona, helping to make him instantly recognizable and memorable. Much like his eccentricity, the glasses reflect his unique identity.

2. Harry Potter – the Wizard Who Sees Clearly

Few glasses are as instantly recognisable as the round, metal frames worn by Harry Potter. These glasses, once held together by tape, are central to his look and character. They represent his humble, ordinary life in contrast to his extraordinary destiny.

Just like Harry’s glasses, Orbis is working tirelessly to provide clear vision for those in need – helping children and adults overcome the barriers caused by poor eyesight.

Harry Potter Glasses

3. Clark Kent (Superman) – the Disguise of a Lifetime

Superman's alter ego, Clark Kent, uses his glasses as one of the most clever disguises in comic book history. Subtle yet powerful, these simple glasses hide his true identity and make him appear like just another mild-mannered reporter.

But they also remind us of how essential proper eyewear can be in helping people see the world as it truly is.

Superman Glasses

4. Pete "Maverick" Mitchell (Top Gun) – Cool and Confident

Aviators are synonymous with Pete "Maverick" Mitchell in Top Gun. These sleek, reflective sunglasses became a symbol of 1980s cool, embodying his bold and rebellious personality.

For many, glasses help define a style and attitude. But for millions worldwide, they are a necessity. Together, we can help provide that essential vision.

Top Gun Sunglasses

5. Steve Jobs – a Visionary With Clarity

Steve Jobs was rarely seen without his signature round, thin-framed glasses. These simple yet powerful glasses became an integral part of his minimalist and visionary persona, emphasising his focus on innovation rather than appearance.

For many, clear vision is a cornerstone of success – just as it was for Jobs, whose insights changed the world.

6. Elton John – Bold, Bright, and Unapologetically Unique

Elton John’s eyewear is just as flamboyant and bold as his music. From glittering frames to oversized spectacles shaped like stars and animals, his glasses reflect his larger-than-life personality. They became a visual extension of his creativity.

For those who need them, glasses can be just as expressive, helping individuals to see and be seen in a brighter, clearer world.

Elton John Glasses

7. Audrey Hepburn – Effortless Elegance

Audrey Hepburn’s glasses were an essential part of her chic, timeless look. Whether she was wearing oversized cat-eye frames or large sunglasses in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, her eyewear complemented her elegance.

Glasses can be a symbol of style and sophistication, but they also provide a basic human need: the ability to see the world with clarity and grace.

Yet, for many people, glasses are not a luxury but a necessity – providing clarity and sophistication to navigate everyday life. Together, we can make vision a reality for all.

8. Tony Stark (Iron Man) – Tech-Savvy and Stylish

Tony Stark, or Iron Man, is rarely seen without his sleek, modern glasses, which complement his billionaire playboy persona. These glasses are a key part of his stylish, cutting-edge character.

For many, glasses are just as much a part of who they are – defining both appearance and perception. But for too many, the basic need for clear vision is still out of reach. It’s time to change that.

Iron Man Glasses

The Importance of Glasses for All

These iconic glasses remind us of how essential clear vision is as not everyone has the luxury of being able to afford eyecare. Unfortunately, millions of children and adults around the world still struggle with avoidable blindness, such as untreated refractive errors, such as myopia (short-sightedness) or hyperopia (long-sightedness).

Uncorrected refractive error is the leading cause of vision loss globally, affecting around 671 million people. In many low- and middle-income countries, the inability to afford simple eye care traps families in cycles of poverty, restricting access to education and employment opportunities.

How You Can Make a Difference

The good news is that the solution is simple - an eye screening, along with a pair of glasses, which can cost as little as £4. Yet, for those without access to affordable eye care, even this basic treatment can be out of reach.

Baral from Nepal smiling at the camera with glasses

Support Orbis to make a difference to children like Baral in Nepal.

Join Us in Changing Lives

At Orbis we are working to provide people across the world the glasses they need to live their lives and give the gift of sight to those in need. Together, with your help, we can ensure that no one has to go without the vision care they deserve.

Help us make a world where avoidable blindness is a thing of the past.

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