The Most Famous Person from Buffalo, NY, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the person you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 19, 2024 07:14

Buffalo, NY, has been the starting point for numerous individuals who have made significant marks in various fields such as entertainment, sports, and politics. Understanding who stands out in the public eye helps current residents and outsiders gauge the cultural and historical impact of the city. This insight is particularly useful for those looking to connect more deeply with Buffalo’s heritage or for educators shaping curricula that reflect the contributions of these notable figures. This dynamic list offers a snapshot of public opinion, showcasing which personalitites connected to Buffalo are making lasting impressions today. By participating, voters not only engage with the community's history but also influence the recognition of people who bring pride to the city. Each vote contributes to a broader understanding of the qualities and achievements that resonate most with residents and admirers of Buffalo.

Who Is the Most Famous Person from Buffalo, NY?

1

27
votes
Leach Entertainment Features · Public domain

Rick James

The legendary funk musician was born and raised in Buffalo. He is known for hits such as "Super Freak" and "Give It to Me Baby."
Rick James in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous funk singer
2

33
votes

hyku from Winter Haven, FL, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0

Tim Russert

The late NBC News journalist and host of Meet the Press was born and raised in Buffalo. He was known for his tough but fair interviewing style.
3

18
votes

Unknown authorUnknown author or not provided · Public domain

Grover Cleveland

The 22nd and 24th President of the United States was born in Caldwell, New Jersey, but grew up in Buffalo. He remains the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms.
4

9
votes
Erinc Salor · CC BY-SA 2.0

Ani DiFranco

The singer-songwriter and activist was born and raised in Buffalo. She founded the record label Righteous Babe Records and is known for her politically charged lyrics.
Ani DiFranco in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous independent artist
5

12
votes
Edward Kimmel from Takoma Park, MD · CC BY-SA 2.0

Wolf Blitzer

The CNN journalist and anchor of The Situation Room was born in Augsburg, Germany, but grew up in Buffalo. He has covered major news events such as the Iraq War and the 9/11 attacks.
Wolf Blitzer in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous CNN anchor
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular anchor
6

13
votes

Mathew Benjamin Brady · Public domain

Millard Fillmore

The 13th President of the United States was born in Summerhill, New York, but lived most of his adult life in Buffalo. He is known for signing the Compromise of 1850, which delayed the Civil War for a decade.
7

1
votes
Unknown authorUnknown author · Public domain

Mark Twain

The author and humorist lived in Buffalo for a brief period in the 1870s. He wrote his famous novel The Adventures of Tom Sawyer while living there.
Mark Twain in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous cigar smoker
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous misanthrope
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous person from Nevada
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous satirist in English literature
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous ENFP
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Freemason
8

4
votes
Al Adamson · Public domain

Jim Kelly

The former NFL quarterback played for the Buffalo Bills for 11 seasons. He led the team to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early 1990s.
Jim Kelly in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Buffalo Bills quarterback
9

9
votes

MarioM · CC BY-SA 3.0

Bobby Militello

The jazz saxophonist was born and raised in Buffalo. He has played with jazz legends such as Dave Brubeck and Maynard Ferguson.
10

7
votes

Robert G. Wilmers

The late banker and philanthropist was born in Bronxville, New York, but spent most of his life in Buffalo. He was the chairman and CEO of M&T Bank and was known for his generosity to the arts and education in Buffalo.

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Ranking factors for famous person

National and international recognition

Consider the individual's level of fame and recognition beyond the local Buffalo community. Have they achieved significant recognition on a national or international scale?
Accomplishments and achievements

Evaluate the individual's accomplishments and achievements in their respective field. This could include awards, honors, or notable contributions to their industry.
Impact on society and culture

Assess the influence the person has had on society and culture. Have they made a significant impact in their field or have they inspired others?
Media presence

Consider the person's media presence, including their visibility in traditional media such as television, print, and online platforms. Have they consistently had a high-profile public image?
Personal brand and reputation

Examine the person's personal brand and reputation. Are they widely recognized and respected for their talents, character, or professional successes?
Enduring legacy

Consider the person's lasting impact and legacy. Have they left a lasting impact in their field or on society, even after their prime years?

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous person from Buffalo, NY. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or person is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1553 views
134 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each person once every 24 hours. The rank of each person is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous person from buffalo, ny

Buffalo, NY is a city that has produced many notable figures in various fields. However, when it comes to determining who is the most famous person from Buffalo, it can be a subjective and contentious topic. Some of the most well-known names associated with Buffalo include Rick James, Ani DiFranco, Tim Russert, and Wolf Blitzer. Each of these individuals has made significant contributions to their respective fields, whether it be music, journalism, or politics. Ultimately, the title of "most famous person from Buffalo" is up for interpretation and debate, as it depends on individual perspectives and criteria for fame. Regardless, there is no denying the impact that Buffalo has had on the world through the talents and accomplishments of its residents.