18 Famous People Who Are Proud To Call Mississippi Home

It’s pretty much a known fact that a lot of great things come from Mississippi, so it should be no surprise that some of the world’s most well-known people came from here too. From musical legends to sports heroes, a lot of famous folks have the privilege of calling Mississippi home.

1. Sela Ward

The actress, author, and producer was born in Meridian and is best known for her role in the television series, "Sisters."

2. B.B. King

As if he needs any introduction, famous blues musician B.B. King was born in Itta Bena in 1925.

3. Tammy Wynette

Born Virginia Wynette Pugh, the "first lady of country music" started her journey in Tupelo.

4. Jerry Rice

Considered the "greatest wide receiver" in football history, Jerry Rice’s life began in Starkville.

5. Elvis Presley

He’s the King and even though it’s pretty well-known that he was born in Tupelo no list of famous Mississippians would be complete without him.

6. Jim Henson

The famous puppeteer responsible for Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the other lovable muppets was born in Greenville.

7. Charles and Medgar Evers

The two brothers, born in Decatur, were both extremely active in the Civil Rights Movement.

8. Oprah Winfrey

Probably the most famous talk show host of all time, Oprah Winfrey was born in Kosciusko.

9. Tennessee Williams

Known for classics like "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof," the Pulitzer-prize winning playwright was born in Columbus.

10. Conway Twitty

With several musical accolades under his belt, it’s no surprise that Conway Twitty is considered a legend. And this legend just happened to be born in Friars Point.

11. Leann Rimes

The well-known, and sometimes controversial, country and pop singer was born in the state’s capitol in 1982.

12. Walter Payton (aka Sweetness)

The running back, who played for the Chicago Bears for 13 seasons, calls Columbia his hometown.

13. Lacey Chabert

Best known for her roles in the 90’s drama "Party of Five" and, more recently, "Mean Girls," Lacy Chabert is from Purvis.

14. James Earl Jones

Born in Arkabutla, James Earl Jones is considered one of the greatest actors in American history.

15. Jamie Lynn Spears

The younger sister of pop star Britney Spears and a singer herself, Jamie Lynn Spears was born in McComb.

16. William Faulkner

Born in New Albany, the Nobel Prize-winning author is most well-known for his stories about the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, which is acutally based on Lafayette County.

17. Jimmy Buffet

The singer, songwriter, author, actor, and entrepreneur, born in Pascagoula, is probably most known for singing about a place where good times are sure to be had and the drinks are plentiful.

18. Faith Hill

One of the most successful county music artists of all time, Faith Hill was born in Ridgeland. It’s worth noting that a young Faith was actually inspired by another famous Mississippian - Elvis Presley.

With so many famous people coming from this great state, narrowing it down to just 18 is pretty difficult! On or off the list, who are you proud to call a fellow Mississippian?