The Most Famous Person from Chicago, Ranked

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

Updated on Apr 24, 2024 08:23

In the bustling city of Chicago, known for its iconic skyline and deep-dish pizza, there arises often lively debates about who tops the list as the most renowned personality from this metropolis. Establishing a clear ranking helps settle friendly disputes and provides a fun insight into the diverse talents hailing from the Windy City. It becomes more than just trivia; it's a celebration of cultural and personal achievement. This interactive experience allows you, the user, to throw in your vote and see real-time changes in the rankings. Whether you're passionate about music, politics, sports, or cinema, your participation shapes the outcome. As votes pour in, you watch new heroes emerge and familiar legends secure their spots. This isn't just about observing; it's about being part of the city's ongoing narrative.

Who Is the Most Famous Person from Chicago?

1

73
votes
Official White House Photo by Pete Souza · Public domain

Barack Obama

Barack Obama

Former President of the United States and Illinois Senator, Obama was born and raised in Chicago. He began his political career there and his Presidential Library is set to be built in the city.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States serving from 2009 to 2017. He is widely regarded as one of the most beloved Presidents in recent history. Obama's presidency was marked by his charismatic leadership style, focus on social and economic reforms, and efforts to promote international cooperation.

Presidency Number: 44

Term: 2009-2017

Leadership Style: Charismatic

Domestic Focus: Social and Economic Reforms

International Focus: Promoting International Cooperation
Barack Obama in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous alumnus from Columbia University
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous African American
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person to have been kissed
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular Mii
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous leader
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous Scout
2

28
votes
Quadzilla99 · CC BY-SA 2.0

Michael Jordan

Nike

Considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Jordan played for the Chicago Bulls for the majority of his career and led the team to six NBA championships.
Michael Jordan is a basketball shoe released by Nike in collaboration with the renowned professional basketball player Michael Jordan. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and successful sneaker lines in history, known for its innovative design, performance, and cultural impact.

Release Year: 1984

Design Inspiration: Michael Jordan's playing style

Technology: Air cushioning for enhanced comfort and support

Materials: Combination of leather and synthetic materials

Colorways: Numerous color options and collaborations
Michael Jordan in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous celebrity in North Carolina
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Chicago Bulls player
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Duke Basketball player
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Michael Jackson
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous cigar smoker
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous African American
3

10
votes
US Embassy South Africa · Public domain

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey

A media mogul and philanthropist, Winfrey hosted The Oprah Winfrey Show for 25 years and has been named the most influential woman in the world. She also founded the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.
Oprah Winfrey is a highly successful American media executive, talk show host, television producer, actress, and philanthropist. She is considered one of the most influential women in the world of entertainment.

Birth Date: January 29, 1954

Birth Place: Kosciusko, Mississippi, U.S.

Career Start: The Oprah Winfrey Show (1986-2011)

Net Worth: Approximately $2.6 billion (as of 2020)

Awards: Multiple Emmy Awards, a Tony Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Oprah Winfrey in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous female talk-show host
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous African-American female artist
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous ladies
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous African American
- Position 4 of 10 in Most successful celebrities of all time
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous businessperson
4

16
votes
David Shankbone · Public domain

Kanye West

Kanye West

A rapper, producer, and fashion designer, West was born and raised in Chicago and has been a major force in music and popular culture for over a decade.
Kanye West is a prominent American rapper, producer, and fashion designer. He gained significant recognition for his music and outspoken personality. Often considered one of the most controversial figures in the entertainment industry, Kanye West has been both praised and criticized for his artistic contributions and public antics.

Musical Style: Hip hop, experimental

Albums: Multiple successful studio albums

Awards: Numerous Grammy Awards

Fashion Ventures: Founder of Yeezy fashion label

Entrepreneurship: Founder/owner of various ventures
Kanye West in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most difficult person to work with
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous rapper in Chicago
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous idol cap in the world
- Position 6 of 10 in Most overrated person
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous bad-kid
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous Black rapper
5

10
votes
Chicago Bureau (Federal Bureau of Investigation) - Wide World Photos · Public domain

Al Capone

One of the most notorious gangsters in American history, Capone ran his criminal empire from Chicago during the Prohibition era.
Al Capone in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous black gangster
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Mafia boss
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous money launderer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous convict
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous moonshiner
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous criminal of all time
6

10
votes
Eva Rinaldi · CC BY-SA 2.0

Robin Williams

An actor and comedian, Williams was born in Chicago and got his start in comedy clubs in the city. He went on to become one of the most beloved actors of his generation.
Robin Williams in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person with Parkinson's Disease
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous ENFP
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous person born in July
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person from the Bay Area
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular Cancer Zodiac sign
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous comedian of all time
7

10
votes
Mireille Ampilhac · CC BY-SA 2.0

Harrison Ford

A Hollywood icon, Ford was born in Chicago and got his start in acting at the city's renowned Second City improv theater. He went on to star in some of the biggest movies of all time, including Star Wars and Indiana Jones.
Harrison Ford in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person born in Wyoming
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Star Wars actor
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous person born in July
8

7
votes
Harald Krichel · CC BY-SA 3.0

Bill Murray

Another Second City alum, Murray is a beloved actor and comedian who has starred in classic movies like Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day. He is also known for his quirky personality and love of the Chicago Cubs.
Bill Murray in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous Bill
- Position 8 of 10 in Most popular host of SNL
9

2
votes
Hillary Clinton

A former Secretary of State and Presidential candidate, Clinton grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and has strong ties to the city. She began her political career in the state as well.
Hillary Clinton in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Secretary of State
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous Scorpio
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous person in Washington, DC
10

4
votes
Coolcaesar · CC BY-SA 4.0

Walt Disney

Walt Disney

Though he was born in Chicago, Disney moved to California as a child and is more closely associated with that state. However, his early years in Chicago had a profound impact on him and his creative vision, and the city has honored him with a statue in Millennium Park.
Walt Disney is a multinational entertainment and media company known for its iconic creations and contributions to the film, animation, and theme park industries. Despite facing numerous setbacks and failures throughout its history, the company has become one of the most successful and recognizable brands worldwide.

Founding Year: 1923

Headquarters: Burbank, California, United States

Industry: Entertainment

Number of Employees: approximately 223,000

Key Contributions: Film production, animation, theme parks
Walt Disney in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous cartoonist
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous Floridian
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous ENFP
- Position 6 of 10 in Most successful failures
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person with Dyslexia
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous person in California

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Ranking factors for famous person

Popularity and recognition

Consider the level of fame and recognition the individual has achieved both locally and globally. This can be determined by analyzing their overall popularity, influence, and media coverage.
Talent and accomplishments

Evaluate the individual's talent and notable achievements in their respective fields, such as music, sports, film, literature, or politics. Look for significant accomplishments, awards, or groundbreaking contributions to their industry.
Impact and influence

Assess the individual's impact on their community, society, or the world. Look for their philanthropic efforts, activism, or contributions to society that have brought about positive change or inspired others.
Longevity and enduring legacy

Consider how long the individual has been in the public eye and whether their fame has stood the test of time. Look for a consistent presence and influence over an extended period.
Cultural significance

Determine the individual's impact on popular culture and their portrayal of Chicago. Did they contribute to shaping the city's cultural identity, or did they represent Chicago in a significant manner?
Geographic association

Consider the extent to which the person is associated with Chicago. Factors like birthplace, upbringing, or significant connections to the city can add weight to their fame in relation to Chicago specifically.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous person from Chicago. 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

2354 views
175 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 chicago

Chicago, the Windy City, is known for its iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, and jazz music. It has also been home to numerous famous personalities that have made their mark in different fields. From entertainment to politics, Chicago has produced some of the most influential and recognizable names in history. One of the most famous Chicagoans is Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Obama spent his early years in Chicago, where he worked as a community organizer before pursuing a career in politics. He served as a senator for the state of Illinois before becoming the first African American President of the United States in 2008. Another iconic figure from Chicago is Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul, and philanthropist. Born and raised in the city, Oprah started her career as a news anchor before rising to fame as the host of her talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show. She is now one of the most influential women in the world and a successful businesswoman. Other notable Chicagoans include Michael Jordan, the legendary basketball player, and actor, Bill Murray. Chicago has also produced some of the most acclaimed writers in history, including Ernest Hemingway and Saul Bellow. Chicago may be known for its harsh winters, but its contributions to the world of politics, entertainment, and sports are nothing short of remarkable. The city's rich cultural heritage has produced some of the most influential figures of our time, making it a true gem of the Midwest.