The Most Famous Person from North Carolina, Ranked

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

Updated on May 5, 2024 07:10

With a rich tapestry of culture and history, North Carolina has been home to many influential individuals whose contributions have resonated both nationally and internationally. Establishing who stands out the most among these luminaries can offer insights into the cultural and social impacts these figures have made. It can also stir a sense of state pride and awareness about the region’s historical significance. By participating in the ranking of the most famous person from North Carolina, you contribute to a collective acknowledgement of these individuals' legacies. This dynamic tally not only reflects public opinion but also educates about the diverse achievements of those who hail from the state. Whether shaping political thought, inspiring artistic movements, or innovating within sciences, your votes help spotlight the most compelling figures.

Who Is the Most Famous Person from North Carolina?

1

61
votes
Quadzilla99 · CC BY-SA 2.0

Michael Jordan

Nike

Michael Jordan one of the greatest basketball players of all time, born in Brooklyn but raised in Wilmington, North Carolina.
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
2

36
votes
White House photo by Paul Morse · Public domain

Andy Griffith

Andy Griffith an actor, comedian, and singer known for his roles in "The Andy Griffith Show" and "Matlock," born in Mount Airy, North Carolina.
Andy Griffith in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous celebrity in North Carolina
3

33
votes
MGM · Public domain

Ava Gardner

Ava Gardner an actress known for her roles in "The Killers" and "Mogambo," born in Grabtown (now Smithfield), North Carolina.
Ava Gardner in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous celebrity in North Carolina
- Position 4 of 10 in Most beautiful actress of all time
4

19
votes
Paul Keleher · CC BY 2.0

James Taylor

James Taylor Inc.

James Taylor a singer-songwriter known for hits such as "Fire and Rain" and "You've Got a Friend," born in Boston but raised in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
The James Taylor band is a highly comfortable band designed to provide a superior wearing experience. It offers excellent durability and a stylish design, making it an ideal choice for everyday use.

Material: High-quality silicone

Width: 20mm

Closure: Stainless steel buckle

Adjustability: Multiple size options

Water Resistance: Up to 50 meters
James Taylor in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous celebrity in North Carolina
5

14
votes
York College ISLGP · CC BY 2.0

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou herself

Maya Angelou is a poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist known for her book "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," born in St. Louis but raised in Stamps, Arkansas and later Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Maya Angelou was an American author, poet, and civil rights activist who was widely regarded as one of the most beautiful elderly women. She became an influential figure and achieved immense success in various fields.

Birth Name: Marguerite Annie Johnson

Date of Birth: April 4, 1928

Place of Birth: St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.

Occupation: Author, poet, civil rights activist

Awards and Honors: Presidential Medal of Freedom, National Medal of Arts, three Grammy Awards, etc.
Maya Angelou in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous African-American female artist
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person from St. Louis
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous poet alive
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous celebrity from Arkansas
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous African American
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous person from the Bay Area
6

7
votes

Camera Operator: TSGT JACK BRADEN, USAF · Public domain

Dale Earnhardt

Dale Earnhardt a NASCAR driver and seven-time Winston Cup Series champion, born in Kannapolis, North Carolina.
7

11
votes
United States Congress · Public domain

Elizabeth Dole

Elizabeth Dole a politician and former U.S. Senator from North Carolina, also serving as Secretary of Transportation and Secretary of Labor, born in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Elizabeth Dole in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous influencers from North Carolina
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous person from Fayetteville, NC
8

2
votes
CleftClips from Los Angeles, CA, United States of America · CC BY 2.0

Zach Galifianakis

Zach Galifianakis a comedian and actor known for his roles in "The Hangover" and "Baskets," born in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.
Zach Galifianakis in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous celebrity in North Carolina
9

14
votes
Mauricio Campino · Public domain

Richard Petty

Richard Petty a former NASCAR driver and seven-time Winston Cup Series champion, born in Level Cross, North Carolina.
Richard Petty in other rankings
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous driver
10

3
votes

Carl Van Vechten · Public domain

Thomas Wolfe

Thomas Wolfe a novelist known for his book "Look Homeward, Angel," born in Asheville, North Carolina.

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Discussion

Ranking factors for famous person

Recognition and Popularity

The individual's level of recognition and popularity both within North Carolina and the wider world.
Accomplishments and Achievements

Consider the person's notable accomplishments, including achievements in their respective field, awards received, and contributions to society.
Influence and Impact

Assess the person's influence and impact on their industry, community, or society as a whole.
Legacy

Consider the long-term impact of the individual's work, their lasting contribution to their field, and the recognition they receive even after their prime years.
Cultural Significance

Evaluate the person's influence on the culture and identity of North Carolina, including their representation of the state's values, heritage, or unique attributes.
Media Presence

Discuss the individual's media presence, including their public image, media coverage, and overall visibility in the media.

About this ranking

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

1772 views
199 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 north carolina

North Carolina has produced a number of notable individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. From sports legends to celebrated musicians, the state has a rich history of producing some of the most famous people in the world. In this poll, we aim to determine who among them is the most famous. With so many notable personalities, it's going to be a tough competition. So, let's dive in and explore who deserves the crown of the most famous person from North Carolina.