Aside from politicians, how many famous people from Florida can you name? You’d be surprised how many celebrities call our state home. I was even shocked putting this list of celebrities together. It proves that the Sunshine State is more than just gorgeous weather, beautiful beaches, and theme parks. We should be proud of Florida because these celebrities have accomplished a lot on the world stage. From punk rock musicians to pop stars to world-renowned actors, and more, this diverse group of people have one thing in common: they can all call Florida their home. Check out our list of famous celebrities from Florida, then let us know which ones surprised you. 

1. Ariana Grande

This 31-year-old from Boca Raton has skyrocketed to the top of the pop charts. Recently, one of her songs hit 1 billion streams on Spotify. How cool is that? We're proud to have this actress and pop starlet hail from our state.

2. Jason Derulo

When he was in his mid-20s, Jason Derulo dated Jordin Sparks, who won the sixth season of American Idol. Since then, this Miami-born music artist has been making platinum hits such as "Talk Dirty" and "Wiggle."

3. Sidney Poitier

The first Black person to win an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1964, Poitier was born in Miami. He is also a notable director, author, and diplomat. Fun Fact: He was “born prematurely in the United States while his parents were visiting from The Bahamas.” 

4. Debbie Harry

This singer and actress is most famous for her role as the lead singer of the early new wave and punk band Blondie. She was born in Miami, FL. 

5. Tom Petty

This Gainesville native singer, songwriter and producer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002. His biggest hit was “Free Fallin” and also had a song with Stevie Nicks - “Stop Draggin' My Heart Around.”

6. Rick Ross

This rapper from Carol City, FL, has been nominated for four Grammys. Prior to becoming a famous rapper, Ross worked as a correctional officer in Florida.

7. Wilmer Valderrama

Although this actor, singer, dancer and producer is best known for playing the "foreign kid" on That 70's Show, he was actually born in Miami, FL. I grew up watching that sitcom and thought Valderrama was pretty funny in that role.

8. Bob Ross

This television art instructor famous for painting "happy little trees" for more than a decade on public television was born in Daytona Beach and raised in Orlando.

9. Wesley Snipes

This actor most famous for his role in the Blade trilogy was born in Orlando, FL. He is an expert in martial arts and earned a fifth dan black belt in Shotokan Karate.

10. Pitbull

This rapper and record producer is proud of his Miami roots. His real name is Armando Christian Pérez but uses the aliases Mr. 305 and Mr. Worldwide and has helped to popularize reggaeton.

11. Roman Reigns

Born in Pensacola, Leati Joseph "Joe" Anoaʻi, aka Roman Reigns, is an extremely popular American professional wrestler and a former football player.

12. Flo Rida

Okay, so maybe this one was obvious, but this list wouldn't be complete without another rapper from Carol City - Flo Rida.

These are just a few of the many famous people from Florida. I'm curious to know who some of your favorites are and who surprised you the most. Perhaps just for fun, you can compile your own list of celebrities from Florida. 

I am glad that we have such talented folks representing our state. Just shows you that the Sunshine State is more than just a vacation destination.