Oklahoma, known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, has been the birthplace of many remarkable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. Here is a list of famous people from Oklahoma, showcasing their extraordinary achievements and impact in different areas of life.
Famous People from Oklahoma
Woody Guthrie (1912 – 1967) Nationality: American Known For: Folk Music Woody Guthrie, from Okemah, was a folk singer and songwriter whose music, including “This Land Is Your Land,” has influenced countless musicians and shaped American folk music. |
Will Rogers (1879 – 1935) Nationality: American Known For: Acting, Humor Will Rogers, born in Oologah, was a cherished actor, cowboy, humorist, and social commentator known for his folksy persona and witticisms. |
Jim Thorpe (1887 – 1953) Nationality: American Known For: Athletics Jim Thorpe, born in Prague, was a versatile athlete, considered one of the greatest in the 20th century, excelling in football, baseball, and the Olympic decathlon. |
Blake Shelton (1976 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music, Television Blake Shelton, hailing from Ada, is a renowned country music singer and television personality, known for his multiple chart-topping hits and role as a coach on “The Voice.” |
Kristin Chenoweth (1968 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting, Singing Kristin Chenoweth, born in Broken Arrow, is a Tony and Emmy award-winning actress and singer known for her roles in musical theatre, film, and television. |
Shannon Miller (1977 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Gymnastics Shannon Miller, hailing from Rolla, is the most decorated American gymnast, known for her success in the Olympics and World Championships. |
Elizabeth Warren (1949 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Politics, Law Elizabeth Warren, born in Oklahoma City, is a prominent politician and academic, serving as a U.S. Senator and a leading voice in consumer protection and financial regulation. |
Brad Pitt (1963 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Acting, Film Production Brad Pitt, from Shawnee, is an acclaimed actor and film producer, known for his roles in “Fight Club,” “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and numerous other films. |
Maria Tallchief (1925 – 2013) Nationality: American Known For: Ballet Maria Tallchief, born in Fairfax, was America’s first major prima ballerina, and a groundbreaking figure in the world of ballet, inspiring generations of dancers. |
Reba McEntire (1955 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music, Acting Reba McEntire, from McAlester, is a country music icon and actress known for her contributions to the genre and her roles in television and film. |
Garth Brooks (1962 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music Garth Brooks, born in Tulsa, is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, known for integrating rock and pop elements into the country genre. |
Carrie Underwood (1983 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Country Music Carrie Underwood, from Checotah, is a Grammy Award-winning country music singer and songwriter, known for winning “American Idol” and her subsequent successful music career. |
Ralph Ellison (1914 – 1994) Nationality: American Known For: Literature Ralph Ellison, born in Oklahoma City, was an influential African American writer and scholar best known for his novel “Invisible Man,” which addresses complex issues of identity and race in America. |
Joy Harjo (1951 – present) Nationality: American Known For: Poetry, Music Joy Harjo, from Tulsa, is a poet, musician, and the first Native American Poet Laureate of the United States, celebrated for her rich and emotionally powerful work. |
Mickey Mantle (1931 – 1995) Nationality: American Known For: Baseball Mickey Mantle, from Spavinaw, was a legendary baseball player for the New York Yankees, known for his incredible power hitting and speed. |