Indiana, renowned for its contribution to various spheres such as sports, music, and public service, has been the birthplace and home of numerous distinguished individuals. These people have not only made significant contributions to their respective fields but have also left an indelible mark on both national and global stages. Below is a list of famous people from Indiana, showcasing their extraordinary achievements and the impact they have had across different areas of life.

Famous People from Indiana

Michael Jackson (1958 – 2009) Nationality: American Known For: “King of Pop”, Music Born in Gary, Michael Jackson transformed the landscape of pop music with his remarkable talent and groundbreaking albums like “Thriller.”	Axl Rose (1962 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Music, Lead Vocalist of Guns N’ Roses As the lead vocalist of Guns N’ Roses, Axl Rose, born in Lafayette, became a defining figure in rock music.	David Letterman (1947 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Television Hosting Hailing from Indianapolis, Letterman is a television icon known for hosting late-night TV shows for over 30 years.
Cole Porter (1891 – 1964) Nationality: American Known For: Composing, Songwriting Born in Peru, Porter was a renowned composer and songwriter, celebrated for his contributions to Broadway musicals.	Red Skelton (1913 – 1997) Nationality: American Known For: Comedy, Entertainment A Vincennes native, Skelton was a beloved comedian and entertainer, known for his radio and television shows.	John Dillinger (1903 – 1934) Nationality: American Known For: Bank Robbery Born in Indianapolis, Dillinger was a notorious gangster and bank robber during the Great Depression era.
Jane Pauley (1950 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Television Journalism From Indianapolis, Pauley is a respected television journalist and author, known for her work on NBC’s “Today” show and “Dateline NBC.”	Jim Gaffigan (1966 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Stand-up Comedy, Acting A renowned stand-up comedian, Gaffigan is also a successful film and theater personality, known for his unique brand of humor.	Kurt Vonnegut (1922 – 2007) Nationality: American Known For: Writing A writer from Indianapolis, Vonnegut’s novels, such as “Slaughterhouse-Five,” are celebrated for their satirical and darkly comedic examination of modern society.
John Mellencamp (1951 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Singer-Songwriter A Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, Mellencamp is famed for hit singles like ‘Jack & Diane’ and his involvement in the Farm Aid concerts.	Adam Lambert (1982 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Singing, Songwriting A dynamic singer-songwriter and actor, Lambert has been a trailblazer in the LGBTQ community and an influential figure in modern pop music.	Vivica A. Fox (1964 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting An accomplished actress known for her roles in “Independence Day” and “Kill Bill,” Fox’s career spans film and television.
Larry Bird (1956 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Basketball An NBA legend, Bird’s extraordinary skills on the basketball court have made him one of the sport’s greatest players.	Gus Grissom (1926 – 1967) Nationality: American Known For: NASA Astronaut, Mercury Seven Hailing from Mitchell, Grissom was a pioneering NASA astronaut who was one of the original Mercury Seven. His contributions to space exploration have been invaluable.	Mike Epps (1970 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting, Stand-up Comedy Known for his roles in “Next Friday” and “The Hangover,” Epps is a celebrated actor and stand-up comedian.