J.J. Watt
NFL superstar J.J. Watt is one of the most famous celebrities from Wisconsin. While Watt might not be a permanent Wisconsin resident anymore, but the state holds a special place in his heart. Watt, a native of Pewaukee, Wisconsin, played high school football there before going on to have a stellar career at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 2015, he purchased a sprawling 36-acre property with a four-bedroom, three-bathroom country-style log cabin in the village of Summit. He resided there until 2023 when he sold the property for $1.85 million.
Trixie Mattel
Drag queen extraordinaire Trixie Mattel isn't just a performer; she's also a proud Wisconsinite. While Trixie's primary residence might be elsewhere now, her connection to the state runs deep. She co-owns This Is It, a well-known LGBTQ+ bar in Milwaukee, a testament to her commitment to her Wisconsin roots.
William Dafoe
Academy Award-nominated actor William Dafoe may have risen to fame in Hollywood, but his story began in Appleton, Wisconsin. Dafoe grew up in Wisconsin and has spoken fondly about his time there. Even with his busy acting career, who knows, maybe you'll run into him strolling down the streets of Appleton someday!
Rachel Brosnahan
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel herself, Rachel Brosnahan, hails from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Born and raised in the city, Brosnahan has mentioned the influence her Midwestern upbringing has had on her work. While her career keeps her traveling often, Milwaukee will always be her hometown.
Mark Ruffalo
Another Marvel Cinematic Universe star with Wisconsin ties is Mark Ruffalo. The actor, known for his portrayal of Bruce Banner/The Hulk, was born in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Although Ruffalo's Hollywood career keeps him on the move, we can't help but wonder if he secretly enjoys a good cheese curd every now and then.
Oprah Winfrey
While media mogul Oprah Winfrey wasn't born in Wisconsin, the state played a significant role in her upbringing. Born in Mississippi, she moved to Milwaukee with her family at a young age. She often credits Milwaukee with shaping her work ethic and values. Even today, Oprah still visits Milwaukee frequently, either to attend special events or to spend Thanksgiving with loved ones.
Nick Viall
Reality TV star and former Bachelor Nick Viall may be known for his quest for love on national television, but his roots lie firmly in Wisconsin. Born and raised in Waukesha, Viall attended Waukesha North High School, where he excelled in track and field. He even holds the school record in the 3,200-meter relay! His athleticism continued at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he served as the track team captain. While Nick might travel extensively for work, Wisconsin undoubtedly shaped his work ethic and determination.
Dustin Diamond
Though no longer with us, actor Dustin Diamond, best known for his role as Screech Powers on Saved by Bell, had a connection to Wisconsin. Diamond resided in a four-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home in Port Washington until his passing in 2021. Whether he was seeking a quieter life or a connection to nature, Wisconsin offered him a place to call home.
Jane Wiedlin
Jane Wiedlin, the iconic guitarist and vocalist of the Go-Go's, isn't just a rockstar; she's also a Wisconsin resident! In 2008, Wiedlin purchased a house in the beautiful town of Maple Bluff. She even set up a sound studio in her basement, suggesting that Wisconsin might serve as a creative haven for the musician.
Paul Ryan
Wisconsin boasts a well-known political figure in former Speaker of the House Paul Ryan. Ryan resides in a grand Georgian Revival mansion in downtown Janesville. The impressive home, built in 1929, features over 5,700 square feet with six bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Whether hosting political gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, Ryan's Wisconsin residence serves as a backdrop to his political career.
Justin Vernon
For music fans, Wisconsin holds a special place as the home of Justin Vernon, the creative mind behind Bon Iver. Vernon doesn't shy away from a simple life. He chooses to reside in a modest house on the outskirts of Eau Claire. Some reports even mention him sleeping on a frameless bed in an unfurnished room. This minimalistic lifestyle might be just what fuels Vernon's creativity and allows him to craft the ethereal music Bon Iver is known for.
Tony Shalhoub
Tony Shalhoub, the Emmy-winning actor famous for his roles in Monk and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, might have built his career in Hollywood, but Wisconsin is where his story begins. Born in Green Bay, Shalhoub carries a piece of Wisconsin with him wherever he goes.