Michigan is a state in the Great Lakes region of the upper Midwestern United States. Michigan isn’t just a great place to do business; it’s about a lifestyle that offers everything from urban excitement to the great outdoors. Michigan is known for the upbringing of many famous stars that you usually see in blockbuster movies and TV shows. Here is a list of some famous artists born in Michigan.
1. Stevie Wonder
| Stevie Wonder | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stevie Wonder |
| Born | May 13, 1950 (age 73) |
| Birthplace | Saginaw, Michigan, U.S. |
| Other Names | Little Stevie Wonder |
| Occupations | Singer-songwriter, musician, record producer |
| Years Active | 1961–present |
| Spouses | Syreeta Wright, Kai Millard, Tomeeka Bracy |
| Children | 9 |
| Genres | R&B, pop, soul, gospel, funk, jazz |
| Instruments | Vocals, keyboards, harmonica, drums |
| Labels | Tamla, Motown, So What the Fuss Records |
| Notable Achievements | Pioneer and influential artist across various genres |
| Sales and Awards | Over 100 million records sold worldwide |
Stevie Wonder is a typical figure of American popular music in the second half of the 20th century. Although he has been blind since childhood, his music shines all the time with Talking book, Innervisions, Fulfillingness first finale, Songs in the key of life, etc.
Wonder is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with sales of over 100 million records worldwide. He has won 25 Grammy Awards (the most by a solo artist) and one Academy Award (Best Original Song, for the 1984 film The Woman in Red). Wonder has been inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Songwriters Hall of Fame.
If you’re a fan of Stevie Wonder, you might be interested in checking out our list of best pop artists of the 1980s. Stevie Wonder certainly left his mark on the music world during this era, but you’ll also find some other iconic artists who were making waves in the industry at the time.
2. Madonna
| Madonna | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Madonna Louise Ciccone |
| Birthdate | August 16, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Bay City, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, actress |
| Genres | Pop, electronic, dance |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar |
| Years Active | 1979–present |
| Works | Albums, songs, singles, videos, concerts, films, books, fashion brands |
| Spouses | Sean Penn, Guy Ritchie |
| Partner | Carlos Leon |
| Children | 6, including Lourdes Leon |
| Relatives | Christopher Ciccone (brother) |
| Record Sales | Over 300 million records worldwide |
| Best-Selling Female Artist | All-time |
| Number-One Singles | Most by a woman in several countries |
| Highest-Grossing Female Touring Artist | Worldwide |
| Forbes’ Top-Earning Female Musician | Multiple times across four decades |
| Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee | 2008 |
| Greatest Woman in Music | VH1 |
| Greatest Music Video Artist Ever | MTV and Billboard |
| Greatest Artists and Songwriters of All Time | Rolling Stone |
Madonna, with other nicknames “Material Girl” (“Material Girl”) or “Madge,” is a famous American entertainment star. Besides her flourishing field and being best known for singing, she is also active in the entertainment-art industry as an actor-director, musician-music-dancer, writer, and fashion designer.
Madonna has spent more than four decades in the arts and has become one of the most influential figures in popular culture. Not only is the “pop queen” but the star born in 1958 is also a famous beauty icon for a while.
3. Taylor Lautner
| Taylor Lautner | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Taylor Daniel Lautner |
| Birthdate | February 11, 1992 (age 31) |
| Birthplace | Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Notable Role | Jacob Black in The Twilight Saga film series (2008–2012) |
| Education | Attended Valencia High School in Santa Clarita, California |
| Ethnicity | Dutch, French, German, with distant Native American ancestry (Odawa and Potawatomi, both Anishinaabe peoples) |
| Martial Arts | Black belt in karate by age 8, multiple junior world championships |
| Achievements | Ranked second on Glamour’s “The 50 Sexiest Men of 2010” list |
| Notable Works | The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl in 3-D (2005) |
Taylor Lautner is a familiar actor to the international audience. He is best known for playing shapeshifter Jacob Black in The Twilight Saga film series.
Taylor Lautner was born and raised in Michigan, USA. He was born into a family whose father is a pilot and whose mother is an employee in a software company. No family member followed the arts, but Taylor Lautner fell in love with acting very early. Although he is only 30 years old, he has had more than 20 years of an acting career. Currently, the actor has a strong foothold in the Hollywood film market.
4. Tom Selleck
| Tom Selleck | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tom Selleck |
| Birthdate | January 29, 1945 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | Los Angeles Valley College, University of Southern California (withdrew) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Breakout Role | Private Investigator Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I. |
| Emmy Award Wins | Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (1985) |
| Current TV Series | Blue Bloods (since 2010) |
| Films | Three Men and a Baby, Quigley Down Under, Mr. Baseball, Lassiter |
| Notable TV Roles | Dr. Richard Burke on Friends, Lance White on The Rockford Files |
| Organizations | National Rifle Association (NRA), Character Counts! co-founder |
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 m) |
| Avid Interests | Outdoorsman, marksman, firearms collector |
| Prop in Magnum, P.I. | Colt MKIV/Series 70 Government Model handgun |
| Famous Vehicle | Ferrari 308 GTS (known as the “Magnum” Ferrari) |
Tom Selleck was born in Detroit and resided in Southern California with his wife, actress Jillie Mack, and their daughter.
Tom Selleck’s versatility in both television and film has won the attention of audiences and critics worldwide. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Thomas Magnum in the ’80s CBS television hit, “Magnum P.I.,” which garnered him both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Drama Series, as well as five People’s Choice Awards, four Emmy nominations, and six Golden Globes nominations.
Known for his iconic mustache and work on hit TV show Magnum P.I., Tom Selleck is a Michigan-born celebrity. He’s just one example of the many successful actors to come from the state, joining the ranks of other Michigan natives like Jeff Daniels and Dax Shepard. If you’re interested in more celebrities from Michigan, check out our article on successful obese Americans, which features several accomplished stars from the Great Lakes State.
5. Bob Seger
| Bob Seger | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bob Seger |
| Birthdate | May 6, 1945 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Retired American singer, songwriter, musician |
| Genres | Rock |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, piano |
| Years Active | 1961–1996, 2000–2019 |
| Labels | Hideout, Cameo, Capitol, Palladium |
| Notable Hits | “Night Moves”, “Turn the Page”, “Against the Wind”, “Old Time Rock and Roll”, “Hollywood Nights”, and more |
| Recognition | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Songwriters Hall of Fame |
| Billboard Honor | Billboard’s Legend of Live honoree |
Seger was born at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan,[7] the son of Charlotte and Stewart Seger. At age five, he moved with his family to Ann Arbor.
With a career spanning six decades, Seger has sold more than 75 million records worldwide, making him one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time. Seger was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012. Seger was named Billboard’s 2015 Legend of Live honoree at the 12th annual Billboard Touring Conference & Awards, held November 18–19 at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York.
6. Queen Naija
| Queen Naija | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Queen Naija |
| Birth Name | Queen Naija Bulls |
| Birthdate | October 17, 1995 |
| Birthplace | Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Arab, Black, Italian, with possible Indian ancestry |
| Occupation | Singer, Media Personality |
| Genres | R&B |
| Years Active | 2014–present |
| Labels | Capitol Records |
| Spouses | Christopher Sails (m. 2014, div. 2018) |
| Partner | Clarence White (2018-present) |
| Children | 2 |
| American Idol | Contestant on Season 13 |
| Breakout Song | “Medicine” |
| Debut EP | “Queen Naija” |
| Debut Album | “Missunderstood” |
| Notable Singles | “Karma”, “Pack Lite”, “Lie to Me” |
| Notable Collaborations | Jacquees, Toosii, Mulatto, Russ, Lucky Daye, Kiana Ledé, J.I the Prince of N.Y, Ari Lennox |
| Tours | Butterfly Tour and other notable tours |
Queen Naija is a YouTuber, singer, and songwriter born on October 17, 1995, in Detroit, Michigan, U.S. Queen Naija Bulls debut in the music industry when she auditioned for the 13th season of the popular singing competition “American Idol” and made it to Hollywood Week. Unfortunately, she didn’t make it into the top 30.
Following her “American Idol” run, Bulls created her YouTube channel, Queen Naija, where she posted vlogs and videos of her singing or doing her makeup. She has also worked on covers and original songs with friends Armon and Trey. As of June 2020, their joint single ‘No Strings’ has reached 18 million views.
Born and raised in Michigan, Queen Naija is a famous YouTube personality, singer and songwriter. Her musical career began after auditioning for American Idol in 2014. Later, she gained fame through her YouTube channel and now hits like “Butterflies” and “Karma” on Spotify. Discover more petite female celebrities from Michigan like Queen Naija here.
7. Kristen Bell
| Kristen Bell | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kristen Anne Bell |
| Birthdate | July 18, 1980 |
| Birthplace | Huntington Woods, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Education | Tisch School of the Arts at New York University |
| Broadway Debut | The Adventures of Tom Sawyer (as Becky Thatcher) |
| Major Breakthrough | Veronica Mars (TV series) |
| Notable Film Roles | Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Frozen (as Princess Anna) |
| Television Series | Veronica Mars, Gossip Girl (as the narrator), Heroes (as Elle Bishop) |
| Awards | Saturn Award for Best Actress on Television (Veronica Mars), Golden Globe nomination |
Kristen Anne Bell is an American actress. Bell attended the Tisch School of Drama in New York while appearing in Broadway productions such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Crucible. In 2004, Bell landed the title role in the TV show Veronica Mars, which ran until 2007.
She’s also known for her voiceover work on Gossip Girl and in the Frozen film franchise, where she played Anna. Her other notable roles include The Good Place, Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Bad Moms. Bell has been married to actor Dax Shepard since 2013, and they share two children.
8. Terry Crews
| Terry Crews | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Terry Alan Crews |
| Birthdate | July 30, 1968 |
| Birthplace | Flint, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, television host, former American football player |
| Years active | 1991–1997 (football), 1999–present (acting) |
| Spouse | Rebecca King (m. 1989) |
| Children | 5 |
| Notable TV Roles | Julius Rock in “Everybody Hates Chris” Terry Jeffords in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” |
| Notable Films | “Friday After Next”, “White Chicks”, “Idiocracy”, “Blended” |
| Notable TV Shows | “The Family Crews”, “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”, “America’s Got Talent” |
| Football Career | Los Angeles Rams, San Diego Chargers, Washington Redskins, Rhein Fire |
| Position | Defensive end / Linebacker |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 245 lb (111 kg) |
| High School | Flint Academy (Flint, Michigan) |
| College | Western Michigan University |
| NFL Draft | 1991 / Round: 11 / Pick: 281 |
| NFL Career Stats | Games played: 32 Tackles: 3 Assists: 1 |
| Advocacy Work | Women’s rights advocate, activist against sexism |
| Notable Books | “Manhood: How to Be a Better Man or Just Live with One” “Together: How Fame, Failure and Faith Transformed Our Lives” |
| Design Company | Amen & Amen |
| Religious Beliefs | Devout Christian |
| Favorite Book | “The Master Key System” by Charles F. Haanel |
Before entering the entertainment industry, Terry Crews was a professional American NFL football player. After falling in love with acting, he has appeared in a number of famous films, such as The Longest Yard and White Chicks. In particular, Terry was extremely successful as Corporal Terry Jeffords in the popular NBC sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Throughout a long time and with his efforts, Terry Crews has made the impossible possible, starting from a professional athlete to a Hollywood actor.
Did you know that Terry Crews, who was born in Flint, Michigan, was a former NFL player? Explore more about him and other handsome black actors by checking out our list of 50 Most Attractive Black Actors In The World.
9. Alice Cooper
| Alice Cooper | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alice Cooper |
| Born | February 4, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Rock Singer, Songwriter, Actor |
| Years Active | 1964–present |
| Spouse | Sheryl Goddard |
| Children | 3 |
| Origin | Phoenix, Arizona, U.S. |
| Genres | Hard Rock, Shock Rock, Glam Rock, Heavy Metal |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Labels | Straight, Warner Bros., Atlantic, MCA, Epic, Spitfire, Steamhammer, UMe |
| Member of | Hollywood Vampires |
| Formerly of | Alice Cooper |
| Musical Style | Known for: Shock Rock, incorporating horror films, vaudeville, and garage rock |
| Stage Show | Features: Pyrotechnics, guillotines, electric chairs, fake blood, reptiles, baby dolls, and dueling swords |
| Career Highlights | Sold over 50 million records, influential in shaping the sound and look of heavy metal |
| Multifaceted Career | Also known for: Film acting, golfing celebrity, restaurateur, radio disc jockey |
Alice Cooper was born Vincent Damon Furnier, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of a minister. He moved to Phoenix, Arizona, at a young age and still lives in the state today. He is best known for his work on a number of rock subgenres, including hard rock, heavy metal, glam rock, industrial rock, and many more.
Critics generally refer to his musical style as “Shock-Rock,” partly due to Cooper’s use of stage props like guillotines, swords, and electric chairs. Outside of music, Alice Cooper has been involved in many additional pursuits – most notably film and TV acting.
10. Kid Rock
| Kid Rock | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kid Rock |
| Birthdate | January 17, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Romeo, Michigan, U.S. |
| Other Names | Bobby Shazam |
| Genres | Country rock, rap rock, hip hop, rap metal |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, rapper |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, turntables |
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Labels | Top Dog, Broken Bow, Warner Bros., Lava, Atlantic, Jive |
| Spouse | Pamela Anderson (m. 2006; div. 2007) |
| Children | 1 |
| Relatives | Jill Ritchie (sister) |
| Background | American singer, songwriter, and rapper |
| Breakthrough Album | “Devil Without a Cause” |
| Musical Style | Hip hop, country, and rock fusion |
| Musical Proficiency | Self-taught musician who can play multiple instruments |
| Political Affiliation | Supporter of the U.S. Republican Party |
Kid Rock is well-known rapper for his genre-defying music, which incorporates elements of rock, hip-hop, and country in various combinations. According to our records, Kid Rock has recorded approximately 765 music tracks and released 12 albums since the beginning of his musical career in 1990.
In addition to being a multi-instrumentalist who can individually contribute to his songs in numerous ways, Kid Rock has complete control over the production process. Kid Rock is well-known for his provocative behavior and words, which are often in conflict with his political ideas.
11. Ted Nugent
| Ted Nugent | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Theodore Anthony Nugent |
| Birthdate | December 13, 1948 (age 74) |
| Birthplace | Redford, Michigan, U.S. |
| Also Known As | The Nuge, Motor City Madman, Uncle Ted |
| Genres | Hard rock |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, singer, songwriter, political activist |
| Instrument(s) | Guitar, vocals |
| Years Active | 1964–present |
| Formerly of | The Amboy Dukes, Damn Yankees, Damnocracy |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Shemane Nugent |
| Children | Rocco Winchester Nugent, Starr Arden Nugent, Chantal Nugent, Sasha Nugent, Toby Nugent |
| Awards | Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame, Hollywood Walk of Fame |
| Notable Songs | “Cat Scratch Fever”, “Stranglehold”, “Free-for-All” |
| Political Affiliation | Conservative, Republican Party |
| Controversies | Outspoken conservative views, advocacy of hunting and gun ownership rights |
| Philanthropy | Supporter of veterans’ causes and wildlife conservation organizations |
| Early Career | Gained fame as lead guitarist of The Amboy Dukes |
| Solo Career | Successful albums: Ted Nugent, Free-for-All, Cat Scratch Fever |
| Latest Album | “Detroit Muscle” released in 2022 |
| Guitar Style | Bluesy and frenzied guitar playing |
| Live Performances | Energetic and captivating live shows |
| Notable Bandmates | Derek St. Holmes, Charlie Huhn, Brian Howe, Meat Loaf |
| Personal Background | Born and raised in Michigan, military family upbringing |
| Selective Service | Draft deferments and 4-F classification |
| Contributions | Hosting radio and TV shows, involvement in hunting-related businesses |
| Accolades | Inducted into Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame |
Nugent, also known as the “Motor City Madman,” is famous not only for his hard rock discography showcasing his distinctive guitar playing but also for his outspoken political point of view, which includes a strong resistance to gun regulation.
Ted Nugent is a well-known musician and vocalist who is most known for his work with The Amboy Dukes as well as his solo work. Born on the 13th of December in 1948 in the city of Redford, Michigan. He spent the most of his childhood in Detroit, although he completed his high school education in Illinois.
In addition to being known for his rock music, Ted Nugent is also a vocal supporter of Donald Trump. As one of the celebrities who support Trump, Nugent has been an advocate for conservative values and gun rights. Explore the list of celebrities who support Donald Trump to see who else is on the list and why they’re backing the former president.
12. Michael Moore
| Michael Moore | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Francis Moore |
| Birthdate | April 23, 1954 |
| Birthplace | Davison, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Filmmaker, author, left-wing activist |
| Alma Mater | University of Michigan–Flint |
| Known For | Academy Award-winning documentaries |
| Notable Works | “Bowling for Columbine,” “Fahrenheit 9/11,” “Sicko” |
| Political Views | Criticizes globalization, large corporations, and policies |
| Awards | Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature |
| Early Life | Raised in Davison, Michigan |
| Books | “Dude, Where’s My Country?,” “Stupid White Men” |
| Notable Films | “Roger & Me,” “Fahrenheit 9/11,” “Bowling for Columbine” |
| Influence | Named one of Time’s 100 most influential people |
| Controversies | Criticized as a propagandist; films labeled as propaganda |
| Family Background | Traditional Catholic upbringing; Irish, Scottish, and English ancestry |
| Education | Attended St. John’s Elementary School and Davison High School |
| Activism | Advocates for healthcare reform, gun control, and social justice |
| Notable Achievements | Palme d’Or winner for “Fahrenheit 9/11”; highest-grossing documentary filmmaker |
Michael Francis Moore was born in Flint, Michigan, on April 23, 1954, and was raised in its Davison suburb. He is a filmmaker, author, and political activist, who was best known for a series of documentaries – often controversial – that addressed major political and social issues in the United States.
Moore’s works criticize topics such as globalization, large corporations, assault weapon ownership, Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Donald Trump, the Iraq War, the American healthcare system, and capitalism overall. In 2005, Time named Moore one of the world’s 100 most influential people.
13. Judy Greer
| Judy Greer | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Judy Greer |
| Occupation | American Actress |
| Education | Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from The Theatre School at DePaul University (1997) |
| Known for | Versatile character actress in a wide variety of films and TV shows |
| Major Films | Jawbreaker, What Women Want, 13 Going on 30, Elizabethtown, 27 Dresses, Love & Other Drugs, Adaptation, The Village, The Descendants, Jurassic World, Halloween (2018), Ant-Man, Ant-Man and the Wasp, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 |
| TV Shows | Archer, Married, The Big Bang Theory, Arrested Development, Two and a Half Men, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Kidding, Reboot |
| Directorial Debut | A Happening of Monumental Proportions (2017) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Spouse | Dean E. Johnsen (married in 2011) |
Judy Greer, best known for playing supporting roles in movies, is a solid performer who has won over audiences with her endearing presence in various movies. The actress first came to public attention after appearing in films like Love & Other Drugs, Jawbreaker, What Women Want, and 13 Going on 30.
She was able to experiment with numerous film genres thanks to her adaptability. Therefore, if one has been able to recognize her in comedic dramas like Grandma and Lemon, one would also notice her in blockbusters like the Planet of the Apes reboot series and Jurassic World.
Looking for some inspiration for red hair? Check out our article on the 50 Most Beautiful Redhead Actresses. Judy Greer, one of the famous actresses from Michigan, made it to the list with her stunning red locks.
14. David Spade
| David Spade | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Wayne Spade |
| Birthdate | July 22, 1964 |
| Birthplace | Birmingham, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | Scottsdale Community College Arizona State University, Tempe |
| Occupations | Stand-up comedian Actor Writer Producer Television host |
| Years Active | 1987–present |
| Partner | Jillian Grace (former) |
| Children | 1 |
| Relatives | Andy Spade (brother) Kate Spade (sister-in-law) Rachel Brosnahan (niece) |
| Comedy Career | Stand-up Television Film |
| Notable Works | Saturday Night Live Tommy Boy Just Shoot Me! Rules of Engagement The Emperor’s New Groove Hotel Transylvania series |
| Awards and Nominations | Primetime Emmy Award nominee Two Golden Globe nominations |
David Wayne Spade is an American actor, comedian, and television personality who first became famous in the 1990s as a cast member on Saturday Night Live, and from 1997 until 2003, starred as Dennis Finch on Just Shoot Me!.
Spade was born in Birmingham, Michigan, the son of Judith M, a writer and magazine editor, and Wayne M. Spade, a sales representative.
15. Courtney B. Vance
| Courtney B Vance | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Courtney Bernard Vance |
| Birthdate | March 12, 1960 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | Yale School of Drama |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Notable Achievements | Tony Award, Primetime Emmy Awards |
| Notable Works | “The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story,” “Lovecraft Country” |
| Filmography | “Hamburger Hill,” “The Hunt for Red October,” “The Preacher’s Wife,” “Isle of Dogs” |
| Television Appearances | “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” “The Closer,” “Revenge,” “Lovecraft Country” |
| Spouse | Angela Bassett (m. 1997) |
| Children | 2 |
| Charitable Involvement | Boys & Girls Clubs of America |
| Book | “Friends: A Love Story” (co-authored with Angela Bassett) |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Courtney Bernard Vance (born March 12, 1960) is an American actor. Vance started his career on the Broadway stage in the original productions of August Wilson’s Fences in 1985.
He is known for his roles in films such as Hamburger Hill (1987), The Hunt for Red October (1990), The Preacher’s Wife (1996), Cookie’s Fortune (1999), Terminator Genisys (2015), and Isle of Dogs (2018). Vance is also known for working on television on shows such as Law & Order: Criminal Intent, where he portrayed Assistant District Attorney Ron Carver.
Courtney B. Vance, born in Detroit, is one of the most talented African American actors in the industry. He is best known for his roles in movies like “The Hunt for Red October” and “Dangerous Minds”. If you want to learn more about other great African American film actors, check out our article on the 20 Best African American Film Actors.
16. Mary Lynn Rajskub
| Mary Lynn Rajskub | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mary Lynn Rajskub |
| Birthdate | June 22, 1971 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Actress, comedian |
| Years Active | 1995–present |
| Known For | Portraying Chloe O’Brian in the series 24 and Gail the Snail in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia |
| Education | San Francisco Art Institute (attended) |
| Musical Background | Played the clarinet in a school band and portrayed Frenchie in the musical Grease |
| Early Career | Performed at various open mics in San Francisco, worked as a waitress at Hard Rock Cafe and a ticket-taker at Beverly Center movie theater |
| Notable Roles | CTU systems analyst Chloe O’Brian in 24, Gail the Snail in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Heartfire in Arrested Development |
| Awards | Nominated for Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series |
| Comedy Special | Released a comedy special called “Mary Lynn Rajskub: Live from the Pandemic” |
| Recent Projects | Appeared in Amazon’s “The Tomorrow War” and Hulu’s “The Dropout” |
| Personal Life | Dated David Cross and Jon Brion, married Matthew Rolph (divorced in 2019), has one child |
| Additional Information | Rajskub is bisexual and has discussed her past relationships with women |
Mary Lynn Rajskub is an American actress, comedian, and singer best known as Kiefer Sutherland’s co-star on the popular television series 24h (2001). Besides her work in film and on television, Mary Lynn Rajskub has been performing locally in Hollywood with her Girls Guitar Club show. Outside of acting, she is fond of art and is known as a regular at numerous LA museums. Her own paintings have been displayed and sold at art auctions and exhibits.
Born June 22, 1971, in Detroit, Michigan, Rajskub comes from a family of Irish, Czech, and Polish ancestry.
17. David Alan Grier
| David Alan Grier | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Alan Grier |
| Birthdate | June 30, 1956 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (BA) Yale University (MFA) |
| Occupations | Actor, comedian |
| Years active | 1977–present |
| Notable Works | Dreamgirls, In Living Color, Boomerang, A Soldier’s Play |
| Broadway Nominations | Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical (1981, 2012) |
| Tony Award Win | Best Featured Actor in a Play for A Soldier’s Play (2020) |
| Recent Project | The Color Purple (upcoming musical remake) |
David Alan Grier was born in Detroit, Michigan, to Aretas Ruth (Dudley), a schoolteacher, and William Henry Grier, a psychiatrist, and writer. He trained in Shakespeare at Yale University, receiving an MFA from the Yale School of Drama.
Grier began his professional career on Broadway as Jackie Robinson in “The First”, for which he earned a Tony nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical and won the Theatre World Award (1981). He appeared in Robert Altman’s Streamers (1983) as “Roger”, a role for which he won the Golden Lion for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival (1983). His television work is highlighted by a turn as a principal cast member on the Emmy Award-winning In Living Color (1990)
David Alan Grier is a well-known comedian from Michigan. He is among the funniest black comedians of all time, known for his hilarious jokes and performances. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Grier has since become a prominent actor and comedian, having appeared in numerous films and television programs, as well as on Broadway.
18. Elizabeth Berkley
| Elizabeth Berkley | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elizabeth Berkley |
| Birthdate | July 28, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Farmington Hills, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years Active | 1986–present |
| Spouse | Greg Lauren (m. 2003) |
| Children | 1 |
| Awards | NBR Award for Best Cast – The First Wives Club |
| Education | Cranbrook Kingswood School |
| Notable Works | Saved by the Bell |
Elizabeth Berkley was born in Farmington Hills, Michigan, to Jere, a gift basket business owner, and Fred Berkley, a lawyer.
She played Jessie Spano in the television series Saved by the Bell and Nomi Malone/Polly Ann Costello in the 1995 Paul Verhoeven film Showgirls. She voiced the title role of the anime film Armitage III: Poly-Matrix and had supporting roles in the films The First Wives Club and Roger Dodger. In theater, she received critical acclaim for her performance in Hurlyburly.
19. Garrett Clayton
| Garrett Clayton | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gary Michael “Garrett” Clayton |
| Birthdate | March 19, 1991 (age 32) |
| Birthplace | Dearborn, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Lebanese |
| Occupation | Actor, Singer |
| Education | Crestwood High School, Oakland University (Musical Theater) |
| Notable Works | Teen Beach Movie, King Cobra, Hairspray Live! |
| Career Highlights | – Portrayed Tanner in Disney’s Teen Beach Movie series |
| Relationship | Married to Blake Knight (since 2021) |
Actor Garrett Clayton has extensive experience in film, television, and on stage and is best known for co-starring in Disney’s “Teen Beach Movie” and its sequel “Teen Beach Movie 2” in 2013 and 2015.
Since then, he starred in “King Cobra” alongside James Franco, Christian Slater, and Alicia Silverstone. He performs alongside Emily Hampshire and Heather Matarazzo in the upcoming film“The Mattachine Family.”
Garrett Clayton, a Michigan native and an acclaimed actor, has gained recognition in various films and TV shows. To know more about other famous personalities from Michigan and their achievements, check out this article on Celebrities from Michigan.
20. Issac Ryan Brown
| Issac Ryan Brown | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Issac Ryan Brown |
| Birthdate | July 12, 2005 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Notable Work | Booker in Raven’s Home, Voice of Augustus “Gus” Porter in The Owl House |
| Education | Homeschooled |
| Onscreen Debut | Nickelodeon series Sam & Cat |
| TV Roles | Young Dre in Black-ish, Wade in Kim Possible adaptation |
| Voice-over Roles | Bingo in Puppy Dog Pals, Goby in Bubble Guppies, Haruna Kitumba in Miles from Tomorrowland, Stinky in The Stinky & Dirty Show |
| Recognition | Nominated for Outstanding Principal Performance in a Children’s Program at the Daytime Emmy Awards |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Issac Ryan Brown is an American child actor, voice actor, singer, and rapper, who is best known for playing Young Dre in the ABC TV show, Black-ish. He also portrayed Christophe Edmond in the ABC series, How to Get Away With Murder. Additionally, he voiced Goby in Bubble Guppies and played AJ Clemons in The Rookie.
For Disney, he voiced Haruna Kitumba in Miles from Tomorrowland and Bingo in Puppy Dog Pals. Since 2017, he has played the protagonist Booker in the Disney Channel show Raven’s Home.
21. Algee Smith
| Algee Smith | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Algee Smith |
| Birthdate | November 7, 1994 (age 28) |
| Birthplace | Saginaw, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Rapper |
| Years active | 2012–present |
| Notable Works | “The New Edition Story,” “Detroit,” “Euphoria,” “Judas and the Black Messiah” |
| Education | Home-schooled for high school |
| Residence | Atlanta, Georgia (early life), Los Angeles, California |
| Parents | Musician father, Fashion designer mother |
| Rise to Fame | Portrayed Ralph Tresvant in BET’s “The New Edition Story” |
| Music Career | Released first EP entitled “Listen” |
| Recent Film Roles | Portrayed Jake Winters in “Judas and the Black Messiah” |
Algee Smith is an American actor and singer who was born in Saginaw, Michigan. At the age of eight, he and his family moved from Michigan to Atlanta, where he started his acting career.
After appearances in projects such as Disney Channel’s Let It Shine and Earth to Echo, Smith landed his first major acting role playing real-life singer Ralph Tresvant in The New Edition Story. The same year, he garnered critical acclaim as Larry Reed in Kathryn Bigelow’s film Detroit.
22. Dave Coulier
| Dave Coulier | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dave Coulier |
| Birthdate | September 21, 1959 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | University of Michigan |
| Occupations | Actor, Stand-up Comedian, Impressionist, Television Host |
| Known For | Joey Gladstone on Full House, Voice roles in The Real Ghostbusters and Muppet Babies |
| Family Background | Raised in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, with 3 siblings |
| Ancestry | Paternal grandmother was a Jewish immigrant from Germany; mother’s side of the family from Bathurst, New Brunswick, Canada |
| Early Career | Started stand-up comedy in high school; performed alongside renowned comedians |
| Notable Associations | Became friends with Bob Saget in Detroit; briefly lived with Saget and his wife Sherri |
| Voice Work | Voiced characters in popular animated shows |
| Television Career | Best known for playing Joey Gladstone on Full House; appeared on other TV shows and hosted America’s Funniest People |
| Film and Music | Appeared in movies and released a solo album |
| Entrepreneurship | Founded a children’s entertainment company |
| Recent Projects | Reprised role as Joey Gladstone on Fuller House; continues to tour as a stand-up comedian |
| Personal Life | Married with a son |
| Other Interests | Private pilot and aviation enthusiast; supports aviation organizations |
| Popular Blog | Featured in “The Same Picture of Dave Coulier Every Day” blog |
David Alan Coulier was born in Detroit, Michigan, and was raised in nearby St. Clair Shores, Michigan. He played varsity hockey alongside John Blum at Notre Dame High School in Harper Woods, Michigan. His career as a comedian began when he impersonated his high school principal, an act that did not go over well.
He is well known for playing Joey Gladstone on the ABC sitcom Full House and for voicing Peter Venkman on The Real Ghostbusters, the cartoon adaptation of Ghostbusters, and the infant incarnations of Animal and Bunsen on Muppet Babies.
If you’re looking for inspiring celebrities who have overcome challenges, check out our article on cleft lip and palate celebrities. Dave Coulier, a Michigan native and actor best known for his work on Full House, was born with a cleft lip and palate. Despite facing obstacles, he has achieved success in his career and serves as a role model for others with similar conditions.
23. Matthew Lillard
| Matthew Lillard | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Lyn Lillard |
| Birthdate | January 24, 1970 |
| Birthplace | Lansing, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | Fullerton College, American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Occupations | Actor, Director |
| Years Active | 1990–present |
| Notable Films | Scream, Hackers, SLC Punk!, Thirteen Ghosts, Scooby-Doo, She’s All That, Without a Paddle, The Descendants |
| Notable TV Series | Twin Peaks: The Return, Good Girls, Bosch, Supernatural, The Bridge, House |
| Voice of Shaggy | Voiced Shaggy in Scooby-Doo since 2010, Mystery Incorporated, Be Cool Scooby-Doo!, Scooby-Doo and Guess Who? |
| Directorial Debut | Fat Kid Rules the World (2012) |
| Upcoming Film | Five Nights at Freddy’s (2023) |
| Dungeons & Dragons | Participated in a tournament at the Magic Castle, Played with the online series Dice, Camera, Action, Played with the Critical Role cast in a special one-shot |
| Personal Life | Married Heather Helm in 2000, Has three children, Resides in Los Angeles |
Matthew Lillard was born in Lansing, Michigan, on January 24, 1970, the son of Paula and Jeffrey Lillard, and grew up in Tustin, California.
The actor is known for his roles in the 1996 horror film Scream and as Shaggy in the 2002 film Scooby-Doo. He has also appeared in What Love is, Area 57, Without a Paddle, and She’s All That. In 2011, he appeared in The Descendants, which was the film that gave Shailene Woodley her claim to fame.
24. Lizzo
| Lizzo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lizzo |
| Birthdate | April 27, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | University of Houston |
| Occupations | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Flutist, Actress |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Award, BET Award, Soul Train Music Awards |
| Musical Career | Origin: Houston, Texas, U.S. |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, Flute |
| Labels | Nice Life Recording Company, Atlantic Records |
| Formerly of | Lizzo & the Larva Ink, The Chalice, Grrrl Prty |
| Height | 5’10” (178 cm) |
| Nationality | American |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Albums | – “Lizzobangers” |
| Notable Songs | – “Truth Hurts” |
| Filmography | – “Hustlers” |
Lizzo is a talented rapper. She built her own mark thanks to the cheerful, fresh, and self-controlled music skillfully integrating social and political issues.
Talented, constantly expanding, and experimenting with different music genres, Lizzo reaped the sweet fruit after many years. Currently, she quickly becomes one of the most famous female rappers.
For those who are interested in learning about Lizzo’s condition, check out the Top 50 Celebrities with Lipedema Who Are Raising Awareness section. Lizzo is one of the most famous singers who is raising awareness of this condition, as she has been very open about her struggle with it. This condition causes swelling in the legs and arms, which can cause discomfort and pain.
25. Timothy Granaderos
| Timothy Granaderos | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Timothy Granaderos Jr. |
| Birthdate | September 9, 1986 |
| Birthplace | Ypsilanti, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Half-Filipino |
| Occupation | Actor, Model |
| Known For | Montgomery De La Cruz in “13 Reasons Why” |
| Education | Michigan State University (Advertising Major) |
| Acting Debut | Web series “Tagged” as Ash Franklin (2016) |
| Notable Series | “13 Reasons Why” (Seasons 1-2 recurring, Season 3 regular) |
| Represented by | One Management |
| Commercial Works | Various commercials and print ads |
| Clothing Company | Modeled for “hnly” clothing company |
Granaderos was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and raised in Portage, Michigan. He later moved to Los Angeles to pursue modeling and acting. Before launching his acting career, he dabbled in modeling and filmmaking. He worked as a production assistant on the short film Committed in 2010.
He rose to prominence for his role as Montgomery de la Cruz on the hit Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. He’s also landed roles in the Awesomeness TV narrative web series T@gged, and the drama We Are Your Friends.
26. Eric Allan Kramer
| Eric Allan Kramer | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eric Allan Kramer |
| Birthdate | March 26, 1962 |
| Birthplace | Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma Mater | University of Alberta (BFA) |
| Occupation(s) | Actor, fight choreographer |
| Notable Film Roles | Thor in “The Incredible Hulk Returns”, Little John in “Robin Hood: Men in Tights”, Bear in “American Wedding”, Boris in “True Romance” |
| Notable TV Roles | Scott Miller on AMC’s “Lodge 49”, Dave Rogers on “The Hughleys”, Bob Duncan on “Good Luck Charlie” (2010–2014) |
| Other TV Appearances | Two and a Half Men, Wizards of Waverly Place, Growing Pains, Cheers, Blossom, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Roseanne, Seinfeld, That ’70s Show, Monk, How I Met Your Mother, The King of Queens, Will and Grace |
| Video Game Appearance | Iron Mike Wilcox in “Days Gone” (2019) |
| Stage Work | Member of the Antaeus Classical Rep Company in Los Angeles, Ovatti Award nomination for role in “The Wood Demon” |
| Disney Channel Work | Bob Duncan on “Good Luck Charlie” |
Eric Allan Kramer had his debut acting role at age 25 in the 1987 film The Gunfighters and played Thor in the 1998 adaptation of The Incredible Hulk Returns. He is known for supporting film roles in the 2003 film American Wedding and appeared in an episode of Seinfeld titled “The Keys” as the Biker.
Began his role as Bob Duncan on Disney’s Good Luck Charlie in 2010, but one of his more widely known roles is his portrayal of Little John in Robin Hood: Men in Tights in 1993.
27. Ella Anderson
| Ella Anderson | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ella Aiko Anderson |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 2005 |
| Age | 18 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Known For | Piper Hart in “Henry Danger” |
| Acting Career | Started at the age of five |
| Music Career | YouTube channel: Ella Anderson |
Ella Anderson began her career in 2011 when she played Haley in the television film Last Man Standing and Jamie in the feature film Touchback. She made further appearances on Disney shows in 2013, being in Dog with a Blog as Darcy Stewart and Liv and Maddie as Jenny Keene. Anderson portrayed Piper Hart in the Nickelodeon television series Henry Danger from 2014-2020.
In recent years, Anderson has started a YouTube channel along with a music career, releasing her first three singles in 2020 and 2021.
Check out the list of beautiful teenage actresses for 2022 on Hood MWR. Ella Anderson, who was born in Michigan, has made a name for herself in Hollywood with her charming personality and acting chops. She has appeared in hit TV shows and movies such as “Henry Danger” and “The Glass Castle.”
28. Crystal Reed
| Crystal Reed | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Crystal Marie Reed |
| Birthdate | February 6, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years active | 2010–present |
| Partner | Darren McMullen (2013–2019) |
| Notable Roles | Allison Argent in Teen Wolf (2011–2014) |
| Film Appearances | Skyline (2010) |
| Education | Roseville High School |
| Notable Achievements | Reprised role as Allison Argent in Teen Wolf: The Movie (2023) |
| Personal Interests | Golf |
| Political Involvement | Campaigning for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 United States presidential election |
Crystal Reed is half Native American and half Polish descent. Growing up in Detroit, Michigan, she began studying the arts at a young age. Crystal Reed pursued dance and theater as a child and began working as an actor in local productions. She later attended Wayne State University, where she was admitted into the highly regarded BFA program for theater.
After leaving college Crystal began modeling and acting. Being “disillusioned” by the modeling industry, she was quickly cast in her breakout role on Teen Wolf, playing the now iconic Allison Argent.
29. Jude Demorest
| Jude Demorest | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jude Demorest |
| Birthdate | March 11, 1992 |
| Birthplace | Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, actress |
| Years Active | 2009–present |
| Known for | Roles in “Dallas” and “Star” |
| Religious Upbringing | Grew up in a very religious family with a musical influence |
| Career Start | Moved to Los Angeles at 16 to pursue acting |
| Record Label | Signed with Epic Records under L.A. Reid |
| Breakthrough Role | Starred in the girl-group series “Star” |
| Marriage and Family | Married music producer Ammo in 2016; has two sons |
Jude Demorest is an actress known for Bad Moms (2016), Axiom (2015), and History of Made-Up Things (2009). Gained fame for her role as Candace in the 2014 TV show Dallas.
She played the character Samantha in a 2014 episode of The Middle, Andrea’s role on a Jonas episode called “And… Action!”. She would later go on to appear in the series Star.
30. Page Kennedy
| Page Kennedy | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Page Kennedy |
| Birthdate | November 23, 1976 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Rapper |
Page Kennedy‘s road to Hollywood spans across the country, beginning in the Midwest, where his remarkable talent was discovered at Western Michigan University.
He is best known for playing quarterback Radon Randell on the TV comedy Blue Mountain State. He is also famous for his role as the drug dealer U-Turn on Showtime’s Weeds.
Page Kennedy is a Michigan-born actor, rapper and comedian known for his roles in several TV series including “Blue Mountain State,” “Weeds,” and “Desperate Housewives.” His versatile acting talent is what sets him apart from the rest. Know more about other famous actors from Ohio at Hood MWR’s Famous Celebrities From Ohio.
31. Tyler Oakley
| Tyler Oakley | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mathew Tyler Oakley |
| Birthdate | March 22, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Jackson, Michigan, U.S. |
| YouTube Channel | TylerOakley |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Subscribers | Over 683 million |
| Total Views | Over 682 million |
| Network | Studio71 |
| Creator Awards | 100,000 subscribers (2011) 1,000,000 subscribers (2013) |
| Occupation | YouTuber, Actor, Activist, Author, Twitch Streamer |
| Activism Focus | LGBT youth, LGBT rights, social issues (health care, education, etc.) |
| Notable Collaborations | “5AwesomeGays,” PopSugar, The Most Popular Girls in School, RuPaul’s Drag Race |
| Published Works | “Binge” (humorous personal essays) |
| TV Appearances | The Tyler Oakley Show, Escape the Night, The Amazing Race, RuPaul’s Drag Race |
| Philanthropy | Supporter of The Trevor Project |
Mathew Tyler Oakley, born in Jackson, Michigan, is an American YouTuber, actor, activist, and author. When in the sixth grade, Oakley moved to Okemos and became involved in choir and drama.
Much of Oakley’s activism has been dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth, LGBT rights, as well as social issues, including health care, education, and the prevention of suicide among LGBT youth. Oakley regularly posts material on various topics, including queer politics, pop culture, and humor.
32. Bazzi
| Bazzi | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bazzi |
| Birthdate | August 28, 1997 |
| Birthplace | Canton, Michigan, U.S. |
| Genres | Pop, R&B |
| Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter, record producer |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals, guitar, piano |
| Years Active | 2013–present |
| Labels | iamcosmic, Atlantic, ZZZ |
| Breakthrough Song | “Mine” |
| Debut Studio Album | Cosmic |
| Chart Performance | Peaked at number 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100 |
| Collaborations | Camila Cabello, Marshmello, EXO, NCT Dream, Lay Zhang |
| Latest Album | “Infinite Dreams” (Released in September 2022) |
| Latest Tour | “Infinite Dream Tour” (16 cities) |
| Residence | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Personal Struggles | Mental health, substance abuse |
| Former Relationship | Renee Herbert |
Born Andrew Bazzi to Lebanese-American parents in Canton, Michigan, he was a natural performer from a young age, imitating Elvis and Ricky Martin as a child and later playing oud and acoustic guitar.
R&B-influenced pop singer/songwriter Bazzi hit the mainstream after finding viral success with his breakthrough single “Mine.” The track did a slow climb up the charts, peaking just outside the Top Ten on the Hot 100, and appeared on his Top 40 hit debut, COSMIC. Bazzi’s sophomore full-length, 2019’s Soul Searching, cracked the Top 20 of the Billboard 200, buoyed by the viral hits “Paradise” and “I.F.L.Y.”
33. Diana Ross
| Diana Ross | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Diana Ross |
| Birthdate | March 26, 1944 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Singer, Actress |
| Years Active | 1959–present |
| Spouse(s) | Robert Ellis Silberstein (m. 1971; div. 1977) |
| Children | 5, including Rhonda, Tracee, and Evan |
| Relatives | Barbara Ross-Lee (sister) |
| Genres | R&B, Soul, Pop, Disco, Dance |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Labels | Lu Pine, Motown, RCA, EMI, Parlophone, Decca |
| Formerly of | The Supremes |
| Musical Artist | Musical Artist |
| Notable Achievements | – Lead singer of The Supremes, Motown’s most successful act |
Diana Ross was born on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, best known as the lead vocalist of the famous girl group Supremes. Beginning in the 1960s, the Supremes were Motown Records’ most popular performing group. Ross is considered one of the most successful artists of all time, with more than 50 chart-topping hits and 100 million records sold.
Ross has been embraced and loved by all for the past five decades since she became one of the four musical talents to shape the music of Motown Records with the perfect blend of soul and style. It can be affirmed that the reputation of Motown Records could not have had its glory days without the powerful voice of Ross.
As a proud native of Detroit, Diana Ross rose to fame as the lead vocalist of the Motown group The Supremes. Her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence have made her an icon in the music industry. For more on powerful female musicians, check out our list of greatest musical artists of the 90s.
34. Ryan Destiny
| Ryan Destiny | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ryan Destiny Irons |
| Birthdate | January 8, 1995 (age 28) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actress, Singer, Songwriter |
| Known For | Star (TV show), Grown-ish (TV show) |
| Education | West Bloomfield High School |
| Musical Groups | Former member of “New Limit” and “Love Dollhouse” |
| Record Labels | Universal Republic, All Def/Capitol Records |
| Solo Releases | EP planned in 2016, singles “The Same” (2018), “Do You” (2020) |
| Acting Career | Web series “The Wannabes Starring Savvy”, crime drama “Low Winter Sun” |
| Film Debut | Lead role in “A Girl Like Grace” (2015) |
| TV Roles | Star (as Alexandra), Grown-ish (as Jillian) |
| Upcoming Project | Cast as Claressa Shields in “Flint Strong” |
| Influences | Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, Prince, Aaliyah, Lauryn Hill, Brandy, India Arie, Beyoncé |
| Relationship Status | Previously dated actor Keith Powers |
Ryan Destiny is a professional American singer and actress. Ryan’s impressive performance has earned her an excellent reputation in the current competitive American entertainment industry.
The young and beautiful singer’s fate completely took a turn for good as she ventured into her acting career. She is popularly known for starring in the Fox musical teen drama “Star.”
35. Mike Posner
| Mike Posner | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mike Posner |
| Birth Name | Michael Robert Henrion Posner |
| Birthdate | February 12, 1988 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Genres | Pop rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Labels | J, RCA, Island, Arista, Monster Mountain |
| Notable Singles | “Cooler than Me”, “Please Don’t Go”, “I Took a Pill in Ibiza” |
| Collaboration | Mansionz (with blackbear) |
| Education | B.A. in Sociology from Duke University |
| Walk Across America | March 2019 – October 2019 |
| Recent Album | Operation: Wake Up (2020) |
| Notable Book | Tear Drops & Balloons (2017) |
| Political Endorsement | Bernie Sanders for President (2020) |
Mike Posner grew up in Detroit, Michigan. His mother, Roberta Henrion, was a pharmacist and his father, Jon Posner, was a defense attorney.
He is best known for his debut album, 31 Minutes to Takeoff, which featured hits like “Bow Chicka Wow Wow” and “Cooler Than Me.” He had a 2016 hit with a remix of his song “I Took a Pill in Ibiza.”
36. Diamond White
| Diamond White | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Diamond White |
| Birthdate | January 1, 1999 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Singer, Actress |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Musical Career | Genres: Pop, R&B |
| Voice Acting Roles | – Frankie Greene on “Transformers: Rescue Bots” |
| TV Appearances | – “The Haunted Hathaways” and “Sofia the First” (Cameo) |
| Film Appearances | – “Tyler Perry’s Boo! A Madea Halloween” and its sequel |
| Soap Opera Role | Paris Buckingham on “The Bold and the Beautiful” |
Diamond White was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. The R & B and pop musician is known for finishing fifth on the second season of the U.S. version of The X Factor. She provided her voice for the Nickelodeon animated series Pinky Malinky.
In November 2020, she began on the CBS soap opera The Bold and the Beautiful in the contract role of Paris Buckingham.
37. Dax Shepard
| Dax Shepard | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dax Shepard |
| Birthdate | January 2, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Milford Township, Michigan, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | Santa Monica College West Los Angeles College University of California, Los Angeles (BA) |
| Occupations | Actor, Comedian, Filmmaker, Podcaster |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Spouse | Kristen Bell (m. 2013) |
| Children | 2 |
| Podcast Host | Armchair Expert |
| Film Appearances | Without a Paddle Zathura: A Space Adventure Employee of the Month Idiocracy Let’s Go to Prison Hit and Run CHiPs |
| Television Appearances | Parenthood The Ranch Bless This Mess Punk’d |
| Business Venture | Co-founder of Hello Bello (diaper and baby product company) |
| Notable Fact | Graduated magna cum laude with a B.A. in anthropology from UCLA |
Dax Shepard is an American actor, comedian, filmmaker, and podcast host. He rose to fame in 2003 on the Ashton Kutcher-led prank show, Punk’d. He has starred on other shows such as Parenthood, Bless This Mess, and Netflix’s The Ranch.
Shepard appeared on the big screen in Without a Paddle (2004), Employee of the Month (2006), Baby Mama (2008), Hit and Run (2012), CHiPs (2017), and When in Rome (2010), co-starring his wife, Kristen Bell. He also hosts the Armchair Expert podcast, the most downloaded new podcast on iTunes in 2018.
While Dax Shepard was born in Milford, he grew up in nearby Walled Lake. As a well-known actor in Hollywood, he has battled his fair share of depression. Check out our article on celebrities who battled depression and overcame it for more inspiration.
38. Sean Giambrone
| Sean Giambrone | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sean Giambrone |
| Birthdate | May 30, 1999 |
| Birthplace | St. Joseph, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Italian and German descent |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Known For | “The Goldbergs” (as Adam F. Goldberg) |
| Voice Acting Credits | “Solar Opposites” (as Yumyulack) |
| Career Highlights | Started acting at a young age, appearing in commercials for McDonald’s and Friendly’s Restaurants |
Sean Giambrone is an American actor, voice actor, and comedian, who is best known for his roles as Adam Goldberg in the ABC/Sony sitcom The Goldbergs, Jeff Randell in the Cartoon Network animated series Clarence from 2014 to 2018, and Ben Pincus in the DreamWorks/Netflix series Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous from 2020 to 2022.
He also voiced Travis in the 2017 Sony Pictures Animation film, The Emoji Movie, Benny Stein in the Nickelodeon animated series The Loud House, and Cotton in the 2019 Universal/Illumination film, The Secret Life of Pets 2.
39. J.K. Simmons
| J K Simmons | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | J.K. Simmons |
| Birthdate | January 9, 1955 |
| Birthplace | Grosse Pointe, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | University of Montana (BA) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1976–present |
| Notable Films | Whiplash, Spider-Man trilogy, La La Land, Juno, Up in the Air |
| Awards | Academy Award, British Academy Film Award, Screen Actors Guild Award, Golden Globe Award |
| Voice Acting Roles | Portal 2, The Legend of Korra, Gravity Falls, Zootopia, Klaus, Infinity Train |
| Additional Credits | Spider-Man: Far From Home, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Venom: Let There Be Carnage |
| Commercial Campaigns | Farmers Insurance, Yellow M&M (since 1996) |
J.K. Simmons was born on January 9, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan, U.S.). American character actor who had a wide-ranging and prolific career both before and after winning an Academy Award for his unnerving portrayal of the sadistic and perfectionist music instructor in Damien Chazelle’s drama Whiplash (2014).
He has appeared in over 200 films and television roles since his debut in 1986. He receives various accolades, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and a Golden Globe Award.
40. Steven Seagal
| Steven Seagal | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Frederic Seagal |
| Birthdate | April 10, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Lansing, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Screenwriter, Martial Artist |
| Years Active | 1982–present |
| Style | Aikido |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) |
| Spouses | Miyako Fujitani, Adrienne La Russa, Kelly LeBrock, Erdenetuya Batsukh |
| Children | 7, including Ayako Fujitani |
| Martial Arts Background | 7th-dan black belt in Aikido |
| Career Highlights | Starred in “Under Siege” and its sequel |
| Musical Career | Released two studio albums, “Songs from the Crystal Cave” and “Mojo Priest” |
| Environmental and Social Activism | Environmentalist, animal rights activist, supporter of the 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso |
| Citizenship | American, Serbian, Russian |
| Controversies | Accusations of sexual harassment or assault |
| Russian Connection | Granted Russian citizenship and appointed as Russia’s special envoy to the U.S. |
| Television Series | Starred in the reality show “Steven Seagal: Lawman” |
Steven Frederic Seagal is an American actor, screenwriter, and martial artist. He was born in Lansing, Michigan, on April 10, 1952, the son of a medical technician and a mathematics teacher.
Buddhist actor who became known for his martial art skills in Above the Law and hosted a reality show called Steven Seagal: Lawman. His long list of action films includes Pistol Whipped, Attack Force, Black Dawn, Today You Die and Machete.
If you’re a fan of Steven Seagal, you may be interested in our article about the top 50 best fighting movies of all time. Seagal is known for his martial arts skills and many of his movies feature intense fight scenes. This list includes some of the most impressive and memorable fighting movies that you won’t want to miss.
41. Selma Blair
| Selma Blair | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Selma Blair |
| Birthdate | June 23, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Southfield, Michigan, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | University of Michigan |
| Occupation(s) | Actress, author |
| Notable Films | Brown’s Requiem, Cruel Intentions, Legally Blonde, The Sweetest Thing, Hellboy, Hellboy II: The Golden Army |
| Notable TV Series | Zoe, Duncan, Jack and Jane, Kath & Kim, Anger Management, American Crime Story, Another Life |
| Achievements | Grammy nomination for Best Spoken Word Album for Children, Autobiography “Mean Baby: A Memoir of Growing Up” |
| Additional Information | Starred in the documentary “Introducing, Selma Blair” about her life with multiple sclerosis |
Selma Blair Beitner is an American actress. She’s known for her roles in the comedies Legally Blonde (2001) and The Sweetest Thing (2002), and achieved international fame with her portrayal of Liz Sherman in the big-budget fantasy films Hellboy (2004) and Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008).
She received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Spoken Word Album for Children for her narration of the 2011 documentary The Diary of Anne Frank.
42. Grant Show
| Grant Show | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Grant Alan Show |
| Birthdate | February 27, 1962 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | University of California, Los Angeles |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1984–present |
| Notable Roles | Jake Hanson on “Melrose Place” |
| Spouses | Pollyanna McIntosh, Katherine LaNasa |
| Children | 1 |
| Notable TV Appearances | Ryan’s Hope, Beverly Hills, 90210, Melrose Place, Devious Maids |
| Film Appearances | “The Possession” (2012), “Point Pleasant” (2005) |
Grant Alan Show is an American actor. Born in Detroit, Show’s family struck out on a quest for a better life, moving to Northern California when he was two years old. He graduated from UCLA and was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity.
He played the role of Jake Hanson on the drama Melrose Place alongside Amy Locane. He is also known for his role as Spence Westmore on the series Devious Maids.
43. Lily Tomlin
| Lily Tomlin | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lily Tomlin |
| Birth Name | Mary Jean Tomlin |
| Birthdate | September 1, 1939 (age 83) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up, television, film, theatre |
| Education | Wayne State University |
| Years Active | 1965–present |
| Genres | Observational comedy, improvisational comedy |
| Spouse | Jane Wagner (married in 2013) |
| Career Overview | American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer |
| Awards and Honors | Seven Emmy Awards, Grammy Award, Two Tony Awards, Kennedy Center Honor, SAG Award |
| Notable Performances | Breakout role on “Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In”, Tony Award for “The Search for Signs…” |
| Filmography | Notable films include “Nashville”, “All of Me”, “Big Business”, “Grandma”, and more |
| Collaborations | Collaborated with Jane Fonda in “9 to 5” and “Grace and Frankie” |
| Notable TV Roles | Portrayed Deborah Fiderer in “The West Wing” |
| Notable Albums | Grammy-winning album “This Is A Recording” |
| Broadway | Solo shows “Appearing Nitely” and “The Search for Signs…” |
Lily Tomlin is an American actress, comedian, writer, singer, and producer who grew up in Detroit and attended Wayne State University. Tomlin began her career as a stand-up comedian and performing off-Broadway during the 1960s.
Her breakout role was performing as a cast member on the variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In from 1969 until 1973. She won multiple awards, including a 1972 Grammy Award in the Best Comedy Album category for This Is A Recording and four Emmy Awards.
If you are a fan of Lily Tomlin, you might want to check out our list of the funniest female comedians for 2023. Lily Tomlin is one of the iconic comedians who has made a mark in the industry for her witty and hilarious performances. This list includes other talented comedians who will give you a good laugh and inspire you.
44. Elizabeth Reaser
| Elizabeth Reaser | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elizabeth Ann Reaser |
| Birthdate | July 2, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Film, Television, and Stage Actress |
| Education | Juilliard School’s Drama Division (BFA) |
| Notable Works | Stay, The Family Stone, Sweet Land, The Twilight Saga, Young Adult, Ouija: Origin of Evil, Saved, Grey’s Anatomy, The Good Wife, True Detective, The Handmaid’s Tale, The Haunting of Hill House |
| Awards | Jury Award at the Newport Beach Film Festival (Sweet Land), Primetime Emmy Award nomination (Grey’s Anatomy) |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Karen Davidson (née Weidman) and John Reaser |
| Siblings | Two sisters |
| High School | Avondale High School |
| University | Juilliard School’s Drama Division |
| Role Preparation | Spent time in an emergency room observing medical staff (Saved) |
| Featured in | Interview magazine’s “14 To Be” emerging creative women |
| Twilight Saga Role | Esme Cullen in The Twilight Saga films |
| The Good Wife | Appeared in the legal drama series |
| The Handmaid’s Tale | Appeared in Season 3 of the TV series on Hulu |
Elizabeth Reaser wanted to be an actor from childhood. She began college at Oakland University in Rochester Hills, Michigan, but, after one year, yearned to leave the mid-west and expand her horizons. She applied to the Drama Division of The Juilliard School and was accepted. At Juilliard, she was awarded a Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in 1999.
The actress played a vampire in the Twilight Saga and was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award as Female Lead. She appeared in True Detective in 2014.
45. Elisabeth Harnois
| Elisabeth Harnois | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elisabeth Harnois |
| Birthdate | 1979/1980 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | American actress |
| Career Highlights | – Started acting at the age of five |
| Education | – Graduated from Wesleyan University with a degree in film studies |
| Notable Works | – Adventures in Wonderland |
| Awards | – Young Artist Award winner for Adventures in Wonderland (1992) |
Elisabeth Rose Harnois was born in Detroit on May 26, 1979, but she grew up in Los Angeles. She has been an American actress since the early age of three; she co-starred at the age of 5 years old in 2 different movies One Magic Christmas (1985) & Where Are the Children (1986).
Harnois did several TV commercials until Disney Productions chose her to portray the lead role of Alice in the “Adventures in Wonderland” series in 1991. Since then, she guest-starred in numerous TV shows, and in 1997 she co-starred in 2 TV movies, The Osiris Chronicles in 1998 and My Date with the President’s Daughter in 1998. Harnois drew on her almost 20 years of acting experience as a child star upon delivering her critically acclaimed portrayal of a mentally unstable Kate in Carl’s Colpaerts’s Façade (1999).
46. Jana Kramer
| Jana Kramer | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jana Rae Kramer |
| Birthdate | December 2, 1983 (age 39) |
| Birthplace | Rochester Hills, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupations | Singer, actress |
| Notable Role | Alex Dupre on One Tree Hill |
| Albums | Jana Kramer (2012), Thirty One (2015) |
| Charted Singles | “Why Ya Wanna”, “I Got the Boy” |
| Dancing with the Stars | Season 23 – Finished in 4th Place |
| Education | Rochester Adams High School |
| Languages | Fluent in English, some German |
| Television Appearances | All My Children, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, CSI: NY, and more |
| Film Appearances | Dead/Undead, Return of the Living Dead: Necropolis, Click, Prom Night, and more |
| Relationship Status | Engaged to Allen Russell |
| Children | Expecting first child with Allen Russell |
Jana Kramer is an actress and country music singer. She rose to fame in 2003, starring as Alex Dupré in One Tree Hill. After the show ended in 2012, Kramer launched her singing career.
In 2013, she was recognized by the Academy of Country Music as its New Female Vocalist of the Year. She’s also known for the single “Why Ya Wanna” and competed on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, finishing in fourth place.
If you’re a fan of female country music, make sure to check out Jana Kramer’s music. She is one of the top 50 female country singers that HoodMWR has recognized in their article, “Top 50 Female Country Singers: Honoring Women in Country Music.” With her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics, Jana Kramer has made a name for herself in the country music scene.
47. Rob Paulsen
| Rob Paulsen | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rob Paulsen |
| Birthdate | March 11, 1956 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | University of Michigan-Flint |
| Occupation(s) | Voice actor, voice director |
| Years active | 1978–present |
| Spouses | Carol Anne Schnarr (m. 1979; div. 1982) Parrish Todd (m. 1983) |
| Children | 1 |
| Emmy Awards | Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program |
| Annie Awards | Three Annie Awards for his role as Pinky in the Animaniacs franchise |
| Education | Attended University of Michigan-Flint before pursuing a career in show business |
| Career Highlights | Notable roles in animated television series and films |
| Animated Series | Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987-1995) – Voiced Raphael and various supporting characters |
| Films | Mighty Max and The Mask (1993) |
| Advertising | Featured in commercials for Honda, Buffalo Dick’s Radio Ranch, Lucky Stores, and Taco Bell |
| Video Games | Provided voices for various video game characters including Morte in Planescape: Torment |
| Current Projects | Voicing Yakko and Pinky in the 2020 Animaniacs revival on Hulu |
Robert Paulsen is an American voice actor known for his roles in numerous animated television series and films, including Raphael in the popular film Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Pinky on the show Pinky and the Brain. His role as Pinky won him a Daytime Emmy Award for male vocal performance.
In total, Paulsen has been the voice of over 250 different animated characters and performed in over 1000 commercials. He continues to play minor parts in dozens of cartoons, as well as supporting characters in multiple animated movies.
48. Daniel Henney
| Daniel Henney | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Philip Henney |
| Birthdate | November 28, 1979 |
| Birthplace | Carson City, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, model |
| Years Active | 2001–present |
| Known For | Matt Simmons in Criminal Minds, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Big Hero 6 |
| Notable Works | My Lovely Sam Soon, Seducing Mr. Perfect, My Father, Shanghai Calling, The Last Stand, One Night Surprise |
| Agents | Echo Global Group (South Korea), DNA Model Management (U.S.) |
| TV Shows | Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, Hawaii Five-0, Criminal Minds |
| Film Debut | X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) |
| The Wheel of Time | Lan Mandragoran (2021) |
Daniel Henney is a Korean American actor and model who has become a well-known name in both the United States and South Korea. He is best known for his roles in Hollywood films, American TV series and his appearances in Korean dramas.
Daniel Henney is widely known for his emergence in movies such as X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Seducing Mr. Perfect, My father, Shanghai Calling, Big Hero 6, and The Last Stand.
49. Jack Falahee
| Jack Falahee | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jack Falahee |
| Date of Birth | February 20, 1989 |
| Place of Birth | Ann Arbor, Michigan, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish and Italian |
| Occupation | Actor, Singer |
| Known For | Connor Walsh on “How to Get Away with Murder” |
| Education | BFA in Drama from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts |
| Notable Roles | Frank Stringfellow on “Mercy Street” |
| Music Project | Lead singer of Diplomacy |
| Philanthropy | Raised funds for pediatric cancer research program Involved in AKASA Community Outreach Project |
Jack Falahee is a native of Ann Arbor, Michigan; he later studied at New York University’s famous Tisch School of the Arts.
He is known for his role as Connor Walsh in the ABC series How to Get Away with Murder and as Frank Stringfellow on PBS’s Mercy Street. He has also appeared in episodes of Ironside, Twisted, and The Carrie Diaries.
50. Bruce Campbell
| Bruce Campbell | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bruce Lorne Campbell |
| Birthdate | June 22, 1958 |
| Birthplace | Royal Oak, Michigan, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, Filmmaker |
| Known For | Ash Williams in Evil Dead franchise |
| Collaborations | Sam Raimi, Ted Raimi, Josh Becker, Scott Spiegel |
| Notable Films | Evil Dead, Crimewave, Maniac Cop, Bubba Ho-Tep |
| Television Shows | The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr., Jack of All Trades, Burn Notice, Ash vs. Evil Dead |
| Directing Career | Man with the Screaming Brain, My Name Is Bruce |
| Autobiography | If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor |
Bruce Lorne Campbell (born June 22, 1958) is an American actor, producer, writer, and director. One of his best-known roles is portraying Ash Williams in Sam Raimi’s Evil Dead franchise, beginning with the 1978 short film Within the Woods.
He has starred in many low-budget cult films such as Crimewave, Maniac Cop, Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat, and Bubba Ho-Tep.