While Los Angeles and New York are traditionally considered celebrity hotspots, St. Louis has quietly attracted its fair share of famous residents. Here are 15 notable celebrities who have chosen to call the Gateway City home.
15 Famous Celebrities That Live in St. Louis
Jon Hamm
Best known for his Emmy-winning role as Don Draper in the critically acclaimed TV series "Mad Men," Jon Hamm hails from St. Louis and continues to maintain strong ties to the city. The actor frequently returns to his hometown, participating in local events and supporting various charitable causes.
Hamm's presence adds a touch of Hollywood glamor to St. Louis, but he remains deeply connected to the community where he grew up.
Nelly
Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., better known as Nelly, is a Grammy-winning rapper and St. Louis native. Proud of his Midwestern roots, Nelly has often showcased his love for St. Louis in his music.
The rapper is actively involved in the community, supporting local charities and youth initiatives. Nelly's impact extends beyond the music industry, making him a beloved figure in the St. Louis area.
John Goodman
Veteran actor John Goodman, renowned for his roles in films like "The Big Lebowski" and his long-running sitcom "Roseanne," was born and raised in St. Louis. Despite achieving international fame, Goodman has maintained strong ties to his hometown.
He has been spotted at local sports events, and his St. Louis roots are evident in interviews where he fondly reminisces about growing up in the city.
Jenna Fischer
Best known for her portrayal of Pam Beesly on the hit TV series "The Office," Jenna Fischer is another St. Louis native who has achieved Hollywood success. Fischer has often spoken about her Midwestern upbringing and continues to be actively involved in charitable endeavors in the St. Louis area. Her genuine love for the city shines through in her public appearances and social media posts.
Sterling K. Brown
Emmy Award-winning actor Sterling K. Brown, known for his roles in "This Is Us" and "The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story," has strong ties to St. Louis. Born in the city, Brown often credits his Midwestern values for shaping his character.
Despite his Hollywood success, Brown remains connected to St. Louis and occasionally returns to participate in local events and engage with the community.
Joe Buck
Renowned sports announcer Joe Buck, famous for his work with FOX Sports, was born and raised in St. Louis. The son of legendary Cardinals broadcaster Jack Buck, Joe has continued the family legacy with his own impressive career.
Despite the demands of his profession, Buck maintains strong ties to St. Louis and is frequently spotted at local sporting events, particularly cheering on his beloved Cardinals.
Ellie Kemper
Actress and comedian Ellie Kemper, known for her roles in "The Office" and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," has roots firmly planted in St. Louis. Born and raised in the city, Kemper often speaks fondly of her Midwestern upbringing.
Her connection to St. Louis is evident in interviews, where she reflects on her childhood experiences and the impact they've had on her career in the entertainment industry.
Scott Bakula
Star of television series such as "Quantum Leap" and "NCIS: New Orleans," Scott Bakula is a respected actor with deep ties to St. Louis. Born in the city, Bakula has consistently acknowledged the role his hometown played in shaping his values and work ethic.
Over the years, he has returned to St. Louis for various events and has actively supported local charities.
Jackie Joyner-Kersee
Regarded as one of the greatest female athletes of all time, Olympic gold medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee proudly calls East St. Louis, Illinois, her home. While not directly within the city limits, Joyner-Kersee's impact on the St. Louis area is immeasurable.
The track and field star has been involved in numerous community initiatives, advocating for education and health programs in the region.
Bob Costas
Sportscaster Bob Costas, a native of Queens, New York, has made St. Louis his home for many years. Known for his decades-long career with NBC Sports, Costas has become an integral part of the St. Louis community.
He has been actively involved in local philanthropy and is a familiar face at events supporting various causes in the city he now proudly calls home.
Maya Angelou
The late Maya Angelou, a renowned poet, author, and civil rights activist, spent a significant portion of her life in St. Louis. Born in St. Louis in 1928, Angelou's formative years were shaped by the city's vibrant African American community.
Her time in St. Louis greatly influenced her literary work, and the city remained close to her heart throughout her illustrious career. Angelou's legacy lives on in the St. Louis community, where her impact is celebrated and remembered.
Tina Turner
Global music icon Tina Turner, originally from Nutbush, Tennessee, has called St. Louis home for several years. After finding fame and success as one of the world's best-selling music artists, Turner sought refuge in the tranquility of the Missouri countryside.
She and her late ex-husband, Ike Turner, lived in the St. Louis area, and Tina continues to maintain a connection to the city, enjoying a quieter life away from the spotlight.
Kevin Kline
Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Kline, known for his roles in films like "A Fish Called Wanda" and "Sophie's Choice," was born in St. Louis and attended the Saint Louis Priory School.
While his career has taken him to Hollywood and beyond, Kline often returns to his hometown. His enduring love for St. Louis is evident in his support for local arts organizations and his occasional involvement in regional theater productions.
Phyllis Smith
Actress Phyllis Smith, best known for her role as Phyllis Vance on "The Office," is another St. Louis native who has made her mark in the entertainment industry.
After a successful career as a casting associate and cheerleader for the St. Louis Cardinals, Smith transitioned to acting. Her St. Louis roots are an integral part of her identity, and she has occasionally returned to the city for events and engagements.
Jayson Tatum
Jayson Tatum, the emerging NBA star, brings St. Louis pride to the basketball court. Born and raised in Gateway City, Tatum's journey from Chaminade Prep to Duke University and the Boston Celtics showcases his impressive talents.
Despite his soaring success, Tatum stays connected to his roots, making him a notable addition to our list of celebrities calling St. Louis home.