Who's The Best Actor From Every State?
No matter what part of the US you're from, you can brag about the famous people who grew up in your state. If you're not sure which stars got their start in your homeland, it's time for a quick refresher on the best actor from every state.
In states that spawned a considerable number of celebrities, some pretty good actors don't make the cut. While Jack Nicholson could be considered one of the best actors of all time, he unfortunately grew up in the same state as Meryl Streep (sorry, Jack). If musicians were added into the mix, the competition would be even steeper.
Most of these renowned performers have won Oscars and Emmys, and some have appeared in fantastic movies and TV shows filmed in their native lands. You might not recognize a small handful of these actors, as a few snuck onto the list thanks to their tiny home states.
- 1Dec. at 63 (1951-2014)
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Williams was born in Chicago, though his family moved to Michigan when he was 12. He initially made a name for himself as a stand-up comedian in San Francisco, before landing a role on the TV show Mork & Mindy. He was nominated for four Oscars, including a win for Good Will Hunting.
- 2Age: 86
- Birthplace: Tennessee, USA, Memphis
From Memphis, one of Freeman's earliest roles was Easy Reader on The Electric Company. He went on to earn five Oscar nominations, including a win for Million Dollar Baby.
- 3Age: 66
- Birthplace: Concord, California, USA
California is a sprawling state with a huge population, but Concord, CA native Tom Hanks takes home the prize. His work as David S. Pumpkins speaks for itself, as does his Oscar wins for Philadelphia and Forrest Gump.
- 4Age: 58
- Birthplace: Virginia, United States of America
From Arlington, VA, Sandra Bullock shot to stardom with 1994's Speed. She won an Oscar for The Blind Side and was nominated again for Gravity.
- 5Dec. at 83 (1933-2016)
- Birthplace: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Born in Milwaukee, Wilder is known for roles in The Producers, Young Frankenstein, and Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. He also won an Emmy for a guest appearance on Will & Grace.
- 6Age: 53
- Birthplace: Uvalde, Texas, United States of America
Matthew McConaughey was born in Uvalde, TX, and shot to fame with his role in Dazed and Confused. He won an Oscar for Dallas Buyers Club, and was nominated for an Emmy for his role on True Detective.
