Gloria Gaynor Once Confused Mark Wahlberg with His Brother Donnie

Gloria Gaynor recently shared her unforgettable experience meeting Mark Wahlberg — initially mistaking him for his brother Donnie Wahlberg.

“The most starstruck I’ve ever been was when I met Mark Wahlberg,” mentioned Gaynor, 81, in an exclusive contribution to her “25 Things You Don’t Know About Me” segment featured in the current issue of Us Weekly, available on newsstands now. “He was so friendly and engaging, especially after it dawned on him that I had confused him with his brother Donnie.”

The iconic performer — whose biopic Robin Roberts Presents I Will Survive: The Gloria Gaynor Story is set to air on Lifetime Saturday, February 8, at 8 p.m. ET — has crossed paths with numerous film stars throughout her illustrious career.

“Gerard Butler is the most notable name in my contact list,” she divulged to Us.

To discover more entertaining anecdotes from Gaynor, including her most significant career highlight, keep reading:

1. My favorite way to uplift my spirits is by listening to Gospel music, which reminds me of God’s goodness and grace.

2. When I grab fast food, my go-to meal is two chicken thighs, French fries, coleslaw, and a biscuit from Popeyes.

3. I’m thrilled for people to see my biopic because it showcases that I’m far from a one-hit wonder and have released 20 albums.

4. My all-time favorite song that I’ve recorded is “I Will Survive” because it resonates deeply with my fans.

5. David [Nelson] from The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet was my childhood crush.

6. I find CrossFit to be my preferred workout, focusing on varied muscle strengthening routines.

7. My all-time favorite book is More Than a Carpenter.

8. To unwind after a hectic day, I delve into the Bible. My favorite verses are Proverbs 3:5-6.

9. Three artists who inspired me growing up were Nancy Wilson, Nat King Cole, and Frank Sinatra.

10. The pinnacle of my career was when “I Will Survive” was inducted into the National Recording Registry at the Library of Congress in 2016.

11. My first job was as a sales auditor at Bamberger’s Department Store.

12. My favorite film is The Long Kiss Goodnight.

13. I collect teapots that aren’t actually teapots; one of my favorites resembles Santa Claus.

14. The app I utilize most is Scrabble, and my highest recorded score is 420.

15. I have a hidden talent for sewing. In the past, I’ve crafted all my stage outfits, with one of my favorites being a fuchsia, sequined gown made from crepe-backed satin.

16. Myrtle Beach is my top destination for vacations. When there, I enjoy dining at Aquino’s Japanese Steakhouse.

17. “Willow Weep for Me” evokes the fondest memories; my mom once asked me to sing it, surprising me by showing she knew I could sing.

18. My ideal weekend involves ordering takeout and binge-watching my go-to series. Currently, I’m hooked on The Equalizer.

19. My most starstruck moment was meeting Mark Wahlberg. He was warm and friendly, especially after he realized I had confused him with his brother Donnie Wahlberg.

20. My first vehicle was a Chevrolet Monza. One of my cherished memories is driving to my inspection and explaining to my husband that my car lacks a stereo or fancy speakers—just a reliable ride to get me where I need to go!

21. Gerard Butler remains the most prominent name in my contacts.

22. For comfort food, I love fried chicken wings, cornbread, and Brussels sprouts.

23. Kissing is my top choice for Valentine’s Day activities.

24. Math was my favorite subject in school, and I could have considered a teaching career as an alternative.

25. A dream yet to be fulfilled on my bucket list is witnessing the northern lights.