Famous People from Missouri: Celebrities and Icons from the Show-Me State

Missouri, also known as the Show-Me State, has long been a birthplace or home to some of America’s most recognizable and influential personalities.

From literature and music to sports and politics, Missouri’s cultural contributions run deep and wide.

Below is a list of famous people from Missouri whose achievements have resonated not just across the U.S., but around the world.

1. Mark Twain – Author & Humorist

Born in: Florida, Missouri
Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, is one of America’s most legendary authors. His novels The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn are classics of American literature, deeply rooted in Missouri life and the Mississippi River.

2. Eminem – Rapper & Producer

Born in: St. Joseph, Missouri
Though he rose to fame in Detroit, Eminem (born Marshall Mathers) was born in Missouri. He is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for hits like “Lose Yourself,” “Stan,” and “The Real Slim Shady.” His influence on hip-hop and popular music is unmatched.

3. Jayson Tatum – NBA Star

Born in: St. Louis, Missouri
Tatum is one of the brightest young talents in the NBA, playing as a key figure for the Boston Celtics. Known for his scoring ability and poise under pressure, Tatum has become a fan favorite and a rising basketball legend.

4. Jon Hamm – Actor

Born in: St. Louis, Missouri
Best known for his iconic role as Don Draper in the television drama Mad Men, Jon Hamm is an Emmy-winning actor who has also appeared in films like Baby Driver, The Town, and Top Gun: Maverick.

5. Sheryl Crow – Singer & Songwriter

Born in: Kennett, Missouri
This Grammy-winning artist is known for hits like “All I Wanna Do,” “If It Makes You Happy,” and “Soak Up the Sun.” Sheryl Crow’s blend of rock, country, and pop helped define the sound of the 1990s and early 2000s.

6. Harry S. Truman – 33rd U.S. President

Born in: Lamar, Missouri
Truman became president after the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt and led the country through the final stages of World War II and the beginning of the Cold War. He is remembered for making tough decisions like dropping the atomic bomb and implementing the Marshall Plan.

7. Brad Pitt – Actor & Producer

Born in: Shawnee, Oklahoma (Raised in Springfield, Missouri)
Though born in Oklahoma, Brad Pitt was raised in Missouri and considers Springfield home. He has starred in countless blockbuster films and won multiple awards, including an Oscar for Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

Final Thoughts

From legendary authors and presidents to music icons and Hollywood A-listers, Missouri has produced an impressive list of notable figures who’ve shaped American culture and history.

The Show-Me State continues to show the world its talent, creativity, and leadership through these individuals and more.

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