Mississippi, with its rich cultural heritage and tumultuous history, has been the cradle for a diverse array of individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the arts, politics, sports, and science. Here is a list of famous people from Mississippi, showcasing their extraordinary achievements and impact in different areas of life.

Famous People from Mississippi

B.B. King (1925 – 2015) Nationality: American Known For: Musician, “The King of the Blues” Born in Itta Bena, King was a legendary blues guitarist and singer-songwriter known for his expressive singing and guitar playing.	Elvis Presley (1935 – 1977) Nationality: American Known For: Musician and Actor, “King of Rock and Roll” The “King of Rock and Roll” was born in Tupelo and is celebrated worldwide for his immense contribution to music and culture.	Oprah Winfrey (1954 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Media Executive and Philanthropist Born in Kosciusko, Winfrey overcame poverty and adversity to become one of the most influential and wealthiest women in the world.
William Faulkner (1897 – 1962) Nationality: American Known For: Author, Nobel Prize Laureate A Nobel Prize laureate from New Albany, Faulkner is known for his complex narratives and innovative writing style.	Medgar Evers (1925 – 1963) Nationality: American Known For: Civil Rights Activist Born in Decatur, Evers was a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement, working tirelessly to end segregation and racial injustice.	Jim Henson (1936 – 1990) Nationality: American Known For: Puppeteer and Filmmaker, Creator of The Muppets The creator of The Muppets was born in Greenville, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment.
Eudora Welty (1909 – 2001) Nationality: American Known For: Author Born in Jackson, Welty is known for her insightful and poignant short stories and novels about the American South.	Morgan Freeman (1937 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Actor, Narrator An acclaimed actor known for his deep voice and versatile roles, Freeman has received numerous awards for his performances. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, but raised in Mississippi, Freeman’s career spans over five decades.	James Earl Jones (1931 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Actor Though born in Arkabutla, Jones grew to international fame for his distinctive voice and commanding performances.
Leontyne Price (1927 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Soprano, Opera Singer Born in Laurel, Price is renowned for her leading roles in opera houses around the world, breaking barriers for African Americans in opera.	Tennessee Williams (1911 – 1983) Nationality: American Known For: Playwright Although born in Columbus, Williams is best known for his plays “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”	Brett Favre (1969 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Professional Football Player The NFL quarterback from Gulfport is celebrated for his long and successful career, particularly with the Green Bay Packers.
Richard Wright (1908 – 1960) Nationality: American Known For: Author Born in Roxie, Wright’s works like “Native Son” and “Black Boy” address racial themes and have had a profound impact on American literature.	Faith Hill (1967 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music Singer The pop and country music star from Ridgeland has enjoyed a successful career with numerous hits and several Grammy Awards.	Conway Twitty (1933 – 1993) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music Singer Born Harold Lloyd Jenkins in Friars Point, Twitty was a country music legend known for his smooth voice and numerous hit songs, crossing over from rock and roll to country music.