Gifted Oklahomans Who Became Famous

Reba McEntire, Entertainment Superstar

Brad Pitt- popular American actor. Born in Shawnee, OK, raised in Springfield, MO.

Will Rogers, Oklahoma's favorite son, had a career in rodeo, movies, politics, you name it!

Patti Page- platinum selling singer and Grammy winner

Garth Brooks- bestselling musical artist and superstar

Alfre Woodard- multiple award-winning actress from Tulsa, OK.

James Marsden- successful actor in Hollywood. Known for Westworld, X-Men, Enchanted, among other things.

Pulitzer Prize winning author, Ralph Ellison.

Jim Thorpe- one of the world's greatest athletes of all time.

Gayla Peevey- famous child singer of "I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas." Born in Oklahoma City and grew up in Ponca City. Donated hippo she received as a gift on the Ed Sullivan show to the OKC zoo.

Sam Bradford- From Oklahoma City, was starting quarterback for the OU Sooners and the 2008 Heisman Trophy winner. Was an NFL Quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, and Arizona Cardinals. Has retired due to injury.

Clara Luper, Oklahoma teacher who became a civil rights leader. Led sit-ins at Katz Drug Store, OKC, in the late 1950's, some of the first in the country. Known as the "Mother" of the Civil Rights movement in Oklahoma.

Sylvan Goldman, inventor of the shopping cart.

S. E. Hinton- bestselling novelist, inventor of young adult fiction. Wrote first novel, The Outsiders, while a student at Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, OK.

Alt rock super group, All American Rejects from Stillwater, OK: Mike Kennerty, Chris Gaylor, Tyson Ritter, and Nick Wheeler.

Bart Conner, Olympic gold medalist.

Becky Hobbs- singer, songwriter, playwright.

Blake Shelton, country music singer and television star of The Voice.

David Gates- singer, songwriter, lead singer of the 70's folk/pop group, Bread.

Gretchen Wyler, Broadway dame and funny actress from Bartlesville, OK. One of her final funniest performances was on "Friends."

Joe Diffee, country singer who hit it big in the '80's and '90's.

Mary Kay Place- long-careered actress from many films and television.

Carl C. Magee- inventor of the parking meter.

Ronnie Dunn, platinum selling singer from legendary country music duo, Brooks & Dunn.

Mel McDaniel, country music singer who hit it big on the charts with "Baby's Got Her Blue Jeans On."

Tony Randall, actor of stage, film, and television. Star of classic sitcom, The Odd Couple.

Rebecca Bluestone- world famous tapestry artist from Broken Arrow, OK.

Vince Gill, country music legend and superstar

Tom Mix- one of the first movie stars in the early days of cinema.

Wade Hayes, country singer and cancer survivor.

Wayman Tisdale, Basketball great and jazz music artist.

Country music superstar, Toby Keith.

Chuck Norris, actor, producer, martial artist founder.

Kristen Chenoweth, star of stage, screen, and television.

Roger Miller, singer, showman, and songwriter extraordinaire.

Alice Ghostley- character actress during the golden age of television. Born in Missouri, graduated from University of Oklahoma.

Ted Shackelford- television actor famous for playing Gary Ewing on Knots Landing and Dallas series.

James Garner- Hollywood legend and movie star. In a career that lasted over 6 decades, Garner was popular in both movies and TV.

Carl Albert- one of Oklahoma's most powerful politicians. Served as 54th Speaker of the House of Representatives. Was the next in line to be President after Gerald Ford, when Nixon resigned due to Watergate.

Sandi Patty- one of the first Contemporary Christian music superstars.

Rue McClanahan- television superstar of classic sitcom, The Golden Girls.

Joshua Morrow- soap actor, The Young and the Restless

Larry Drake- Emmy award winning character actor. Famous for LA Law and Dr. Giggles.

Robert Reed- although born in the Chicago area, he grew up in Muskogee and credited 4H for introducing him to art and culture as he grew up to be an actor. Forever famous as father "Mike Brady" of the Brady Bunch.

Megan Mullally- born in LA, Meg grew up in Oklahoma City where she performed with the Oklahoma City Ballet. She has won 2 Emmys for her funny performances playing "Karen" on Will and Grace.

Ron Howard- born in Duncan, OK. Became famous as a child actor on the Andy Griffith Show and as a teen on Happy Days. Went on to become a successful director of feature films. Won an Oscar as Best Director for the movie, A Beautiful Mind.

Mark Holton- born in Oklahoma City and graduated from NSU in Tahlequah. Famous character actor from classic films and TV. Famous roles include Pee Wee Herman's nemesis, Francis, in Pee Wee's Big Adventure and "Chub" in Teen Wolf.

Darla Hood- famous child actress from the Little Rascals series.

Heather Langencamp- actress, producer, director, and prosthetic make up artist. Famous role as "Nancy," in Nightmare on Elm Street. Born in Tulsa, attended Holland Hall school before moving to New York.

Anita Bryant- From Barnsdall, OK., was 2nd runner-up for Miss America in 1959. Became a popular singer and orange juice promoter in the 1960's and '70's.

Danny Cooksey- Born in Moore, OK. Famous child actor who has continued to perform in music.

Bryant Reeves- from Gans, OK., affectionately known nation-wide as "Big Country." Retired NBA superstar from the Vancouver Grizzlies.

Maria Tallchief- From Fairfax, OK. America's first major prima ballerina.

Shannon Miller- Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics. Actually born in Missouri, but moved to Edmond, OK., when she was six months old. The most decorated U. S. gymnast.

Susan Powell- From Elk City, OK. Former Miss America who became a famous opera performer and television host.

Shawntel Smith- From Muldrow, OK., former Miss America, current entrepreneur, and mother of 4.

Blake Griffin-From Oklahoma City. NBA superstar. Currently plays for the Detroit Pistons after making the NBA all-stars five times with the LA Clippers.

Lane Frost- From Lane, OK., 1987 PRCA World Champion Bull Rider. A popular movie was made about his life story entitled "8 Seconds."

Warren G. "Freckles" Brown- 1962 PRCA World Bull Riding Champion. Was hero and mentor to Lane Frost, 1987 champion. They are buried right next to each other at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Hugo, OK.

Joan Crawford- Oscar winning actress, born in Texas but raised in Lawton, OK.

Clark Gable- legendary Oscar winning actor. Born in Ohio, but spent many childhood years working in Oklahoma oilfields.

Gene Autry- famous singing cowboy in old movies and television. Born in Texas, but grew up in Johnston County, Oklahoma.

Jim Shoulders- known as the "Babe Ruth" of rodeo. Won 16 PRCA World Championships in rodeo.

Johnny Bench- two time World Series champion catcher with the Cincinnatti Reds. Born in Oklahoma City, raised in Binger, OK. Named greatest catcher in the history of baseball by ESPN.

Mickey Mantle- From Commerce, OK., major league superstar with the New York Yankees. Nicknamed "the Commerce Comet" for his super hitting ability.

Merle Haggard- Born in California, but his family was from Checotah, OK. Music legend famous for song, "Okie From Muskogee."

Carrie Underwood- American Idol winner and country music superstar from Checotah, OK.

Chester Gould- famous comic strip artist and creator of Dick Tracy. From Pawnee, OK.

Russell Myers- comic strip artist and creator of Broom Hilda. Born in Manhattan, KS., his father was a professor at the University of Tulsa, where he moved the family.

Dan Piraro- syndicated cartoonist of Bizarro. Born in Kansas City, Mo., but raised in Ponca City and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Graduated from Booker T. Washington High School.

Gordon Cooper- pioneering astronaut from Shawnee, OK. One of the original 7 astronauts from NASA's Project Mercury.

John Berryman- Influential poet from McAlester, OK.

Ben Johnson- Oscar winning actor

Van Heflin- Oscar winning character actor from Walters, OK.

Dale Robertson- famous 1950's Western TV series actor.

Hanson- Ike, Zac, and Taylor, musical brothers from Tulsa. Made a big splash in the mid 1990's. MMMBop, anyone?

Owen K. Garriott- Astronaut, scientist and engineer from Enid, OK.

Jeanne Tripplehorn- popular television and movie actress. A Tulsa girl who graduated from Edison High School.

Karl Guthe Jansky- American physicist and radio engineer. Discovered radio waves coming from the Milky Way. Founder of radio astronomy.

Tony Hillerman- Edgar Award winning writer of mystery novels. Grew up in Pottawatomie County, OK.

Shannon Lucid- Female space pioneer. Held record for longest hours in space. From Bethany, OK.

Jennifer Jones- Oscar winning actress from Tulsa.

Dan Rowan- Comedian from Beggs, OK. Won an Emmy for his popular show, Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, during the 1960's.

Paul Harvey- famous radio commentator for over 5 decades. "Now you know, the rest of the story."

Dave Innis- keyboardist for successful country music group, Restless Heart. From Bartlesville, OK.

Joe Don Rooney- lead guitarist for country music super group, Rascal Flatts. Grew up in Picher, OK., which is now a ghost town.

Dr. Phil McGraw- television icon. Born in Vinita, OK.

Bill Hader- SNL funnyman and actor. Graduated from Cascia Hall High School in Tulsa.

Ree Drummond- the Pioneer Woman chef and blogger. Born in Bartlesville. Broadcasts her show from Pawhuska, OK., around the world.

Logan Shroyer- actor on "This is Us."

Tisha Campbell-Martin- successful actress in film and television. Born in OKC.

Bill Moyers- internationally known TV journalist.

Robert Stemmons- world famous whistler. From Jenks, OK. Performed with famous Cirque du Soleil for 7 years.

Roy Harris- American composer. His Symphony No. 3 has achieved world-wide fame and is still played everywhere. Born in Chandler, OK.

Woody Guthrie- renowned songwriter, poet, and folk singer. "This Land is Your Land" was one of his masterpieces.

Olivia Munn- actress and model. Born in OKC.

Jeane Kirkpatrick- first woman to serve as Ambassador to the United Nations.

Mason Dye- television actor who grew up in Ada, OK.

Madison Dye (right)- from country music duo, "Maddie & Tae." Sister of Mason Dye, actor. Grew up in Ada, OK.

Bill Goldberg- Pro wrestling superstar of the 1990's. From Tulsa, OK.

Wilma Mankiller- former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

Mary Pope Osborne- popular children's book author of the Magic Tree House series. Born at Ft. Sill, OK.

Sam Walton- entrepreneur and businessman. Founder of Walmart.

Lee Pace- popular actor in movies and television. Born in Chickasha, OK.

Malese Jow- popular TV actress from Tulsa, OK.

Owen Joyner- new Disney channel star of "Knight Squad."

Charlie Wilson- famous blues singer and founder of the 80's funk group, The GAP Band.

Troy N. Smith- founder of Sonic Drive-Ins, from Seminole, OK. to New York and across the country.

Ken Selby- Tulsa teacher who built a pizza empire. Founder of Ken's Pizza and Mazzio's.

Edwin Malzahn- inventor of the Ditch Witch. Farming boy from Pawnee, OK. who just happened to be an engineer.

Clinton Riggs- Tulsa policeman who invented the Yield sign.

Wiley Post- famous pilot who invented the pressurized flight suit. Was born in Texas but moved to Oklahoma when he was five years old.

Gordon Matthews- Inventor of voice mail. Born in Tulsa, OK.

Jack Zink- Indy 500 auto race winner, twice! Engineer who held 35 patents in the field of combustion. Renowned philantropist who raised millions of dollars for many causes in Oklahoma.

Mae Boren Axton- Known as the "Queen Mother of Nashville" for writing over 200 songs, including "Heartbreak Hotel" for Elvis Presley. Moved to Oklahoma from Texas when she was two years old. Lived around Comanche, OK.

Hoyt Axton- Actor, singer, songwriter. Son of famous songwriter Mae Boren Axton. Made it big in country music and went on to star in movies and television.

Kate Barnard- first woman to be elected to office in the state government of Oklahoma. Fought for education, children, and reform in prisons. Lost her position when greedy and corrupt businessmen voted to defund her office. Advocated for her causes for the rest of her short life.

Angie Debo- noted historian and author. Moved to Oklahoma territory in a covered wagon. Was barred from teaching in Oklahoma universities because her books told the truth about white corruption in Indian affairs. In old age, she was finally recognized and honored.

Leona Mitchell- famous opera singer. Performed 18 seasons as the leading soprano at the Metropolitan Opera (Met) in New York. Grammy award winner from Enid, OK.

Gloria Stewart Farley- (pictured at Heavener Runestone with her sons) Author and teacher who became an expert on Viking runes and archaeology. Visited "Indian Rock" as a 12-year-old girl, came back to Heavener, OK. as an adult and established the Heavener Runestone.

Betty Boyd- famous local Tulsa television host and personality. Went on to serve in the Oklahoma House of Representatives for 10 years.

Ada Lois Sipuel- Oklahoma law student who fought against segregation in Oklahoma at the University of Oklahoma Law school. Her case went to the Supreme Court and won.

Enoch Kelly Haney- Internationally famous artist and sculptor. His statue is on top of the Oklahoma Capitol building dome. Also has served as a state senator and Principal Chief of the Seminole Nation.

Jerome Tiger- famous artist. Was called the "Oklahoma Rembrandt" because of his ability to draw something after a moment's glance.

The Kiowa Five: Spencer Asah, James Auchiah, Jack Hokeah, Stephen Mopope, and Monroe Tsatoke. Five young Kiowa Indian artists who would become renowned for their style and ability. Four of the five had the same first art teacher: a talented nun assigned to their Indian mission school.

Lois Smoky- the 6th member of the Kiowa 5 (now being touted as the Kiowa 6). Influential 20th century artist. Her work and role in the Kiowa 6 is just now being appreciated.

Blake Edwards- (with wife, Julie Andrews) Iconic Hollywood film maker and director. Directed classics like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "The Pink Panther." Born in Tulsa, OK.

T. Boone Pickens- oil and natural gas tycoon from Holdenville, OK.

Bill, Mary, and Drew Braum- owners and operators of Braum's Ice Cream and Dairy Stores. Founded in Oklahoma in 1968.

Paul Schatte and Danny Head- owners of Head Country Barbecue, Inc. in Ponca City, OK. Have sold their sauce, created by Danny's uncle, all over the world. It is fast becoming the most popular barbecue sauce in the United States.

Stan Clark- founder and CEO of Eskimo Joe's in Stillwater, OK.

B. J. Thomas- Grammy award winning singer from Hugo, OK. His song, "Raindrops Are Falling on My Head," is in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Sheb Wooley- singer and actor from Erick, OK. Had a huge hit with his song, "Purple People Eater."

Roy Clark- famous country music entertainer who made Tulsa his home. Became a household name on the popular '70's TV show, "Hee Haw." Hit the top of the country charts with his hit song, "Thank God and Greyhound" she's gone!

Kellie Coffey- singer from Moore, OK. Her musical talents were featured on the popular television show, "Walker, Texas Ranger."

Shug Fisher- early television character actor, musician, singer, and comedian. Born in Grady County, Oklahoma near Chickasha in a place called Tabler, OK.

Kay Francis- early movie superstar from Oklahoma. Called the "Queen of Warner Bros." in the 1930's.

Lon Chaney, Jr. - famous classic horror movie actor as The Wolf Man. Born in OKC, when Oklahoma was just a territory. Had a career that spanned over 5 decades.

Gary Busey- prolific character actor who was raised in Tulsa, OK. Graduated from Nathan Hale High School. Famous for his many roles in major films.

Terrence Malick- famous Hollywood film director. Famous for movie classics: Badlands, Days of Heaven, The Thin Red Line, and The Tree of Life. Grew up around Bartlesville, OK.

Vera Miles- famous movie and television actress born in Boise City, OK. Starred in movies by Alfred Hitchcock and westerns with John Wayne.

Thad Luckinbill- soap opera actor from Enid, OK. Famous for his role of "J. T." on the Young and the Restless. Has been featured on many prime time television shows.

Michael Dolan- character actor from Oklahoma City. Famous for movies like Hamburger Hill, Biloxi Blues, and Necessary Roughness

Jason London- successful character actor who grew up in Tuttle, OK. Famous for role of "Pink" Floyd in the movie classic, "Dazed and Confused."

Jeremy London- character actor and twin brother of Jason London. Famous for the movie Mallrats and starring on TV in Party of Five.

Royce D. Applegate- famous character actor from Midwest City, OK. Chances are you have seen him in something if you watched television or movies in the 70's, 80's, or '90's.

David Green- founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby. Started it by building picture frames in his garage in Oklahoma City.

Larry Reasor- founder of Reasor's Food Stores. Started with one store in Tahlequah, OK., in 1963, now one of the fastest growing supermarket retail chains.

John T. Griffin- son of founder of Griffin Food Products in Muskogee, OK. Took father's business to the next level while pioneering television stations in Oklahoma and Texas.

Juanita Kidd Stout- girl from Wewoka, OK., who went on to serve on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

Kelli O'Hara- Born in Elk City, OK., grew up in Deer Creek, graduate of Oklahoma City University. Has become a star on Broadway, especially in Rogers and Hammerstein musicals.

Lynn Riggs- famous playwright and screenwriter. His play, "Green Grow the Lilacs," is what the Rogers and Hammerstein musical, "Oklahoma," is based.

Steve Largent- All-Pro NFL wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks. Received NFL Man of the Year Award in 1988. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. After football, served as U.S. Congressman for Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District for four terms.

Tommy Hanson- MLB pitcher for the Atlanta Braves. Born in Tulsa, OK.

Chris Harris, Jr.- NFL cornerback for the Denver Broncos. Grew up in Bixby, OK. Known for his great charitable work off the field.

A. J. Hinch- former MLB catcher who became a team manager. Current manager for the Houston Astros. Grew up in Midwest City, OK.

Dan Bailey- NFL placekicker for the Dallas Cowboys. College star at Oklahoma State. Grew up in Mustang, OK.

Jeff Banister- Former Pittsburgh Pirate catcher, now the manager of the Texas Rangers. From Weatherford, OK.

Bobby Cox- Baseball Hall of Fame manager. Manager of the Toronto Blue Jays and the Atlanta Braves. Won World Series with the Braves. From Tulsa, OK.

Sherri Hill- Fashion designer from Minco, OK. Started out with Jovani and then launched her own line of formal wear. Famous for evening gowns worn by Selena Gomez and Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

Elvin Bishop- Singer, songwriter, and guitarist. National Merit Scholar who graduated from Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, OK. Member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well as the Blues Hall of Fame. Hit it big on the charts in 1976 with his single, "Fooled Around and Fell In Love."

Bryan White- Country music singer from Lawton, OK. Made it big in the '90's with several number one hits.

Jordy Mercer- MLB shortstop for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Oklahoma All Stater from Taloga, OK. Played college ball at Oklahoma State.

Dallas Keuchel- MLB pitcher for the Houston Astros. Grew up in Tulsa, OK. Won the 2017 World Series with the Houston Astros.

Rico Noel- MLB outfielder for the New York Yankees. Grew up in Lawton, OK.

Lexi Ainsworth- Soap actress from Oklahoma City. Won an Emmy in 2017 for her portrayal of "Kristina Davis" on General Hospital.

Maree Cheatham- Popular character actress from Oklahoma City. Started out on soaps but now works as a frequent guest star on primetime series television.

Candy Clark- Actress from Norman, OK. Famous for role of "Debbie Dunham" in American Graffitti.

Wes Studi- Cherokee actor who grew up around Tahlequah, OK. Famous for Native American roles in Dances With Wolves, Last of the Mohicans, and Geronimo: An American Legend.

Gailard Sartain- Famous comic and character actor from Tulsa, OK.

Will Sampson- Famous Native American actor. Famous roles in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and Pale Rider.

Skip Bayless- American sports columnist, author, and TV personality.

Josh Henderson- Actor, born in Dallas, raised in Tulsa. 2000 graduate from Memorial High School.

Ryan Merriman- Actor from Choctaw, OK. Famous for Disney and Hallmark channel movies.

Nicki Aycox- From Hennessey, OK., versatile movie and television actress.

Marshall Bell- Long-careered character actor from Tulsa.

Hayley McFarland- Popular character actress from Edmond, OK.

Megyn Price- Grew up in Norman, OK. Funny actress famous for Rules of Engagement and The Ranch.

Lauren Stamile- Actress from Tulsa. Had recurring roles on Grey's Anatomy and Community. Graduate of Cascia Hall.

Ryan Tedder- Grammy award winning singer, songwriter, and producer. Lead singer of the band, OneRepublic. Went to Jenks schools. Attended Oral Roberts University.

Starlight Mints- Famous indie pop band from Norman, OK. Currently disbanded.

Flaming Lips- Rock band from Oklahoma City who never really hit it big.

Darrell K Royal- Famous Football coach for University of Texas. Has stadium named after him. From Hollis, OK. In college football Hall of Fame.

Warren Spahn- From Hartshorne, OK. Famous left-handed pitcher in major league baseball. Has MLB award named for himself. MLB Hall of Famer, and winner of Cy Young Award (best pitcher in baseball.)

Bill Pickett- Famous cowboy who invented bulldogging in the sport of rodeo.

Tommy Morrison- Famous boxer who grew up around Jay, OK. Starred in Rocky V.

Darrell Porter- Famous baseball catcher who grew up in Oklahoma City.

Tony Casillas- Famous football player. Won 2 Super Bowls with Dallas Cowboys. In College Football Hall of Fame. From Tulsa, All State football winner at East Central High School.

Joe Carter- Famous major league baseball player from Oklahoma City. Had a historic home run in the 1993 World Series.

Alvin Dark- Major league shortstop and manager. From Comanche, OK.

Carl Hubbell- Baseball Hall of Famer who grew up in Meeker, OK.

Bobby Murcer- Famous New York Yankees outfielder and Gold Glove winner. Had a distinguished career as a broadcaster on NBC. From Oklahoma City.

Bertha Frank Teague- Famous girls basketball coach. From Byng, OK., inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1985.

Billy Vessels- From Cleveland, OK., first OU Sooner Heisman Trophy winner in 1952. Later played for the Baltimore Colts.

Lloyd and Paul Waner- Baseball Hall of Fame brothers from Harrah, OK., who famously played for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Maybelle Kennedy- Oklahoma banker and rancher from Osage County who served as Assistant U.S. Treasurer under President Harry Truman.

Lucille Mulhall- America's first cowgirl. Became famous part of 101 Ranch Wild West Show in Ponca City, OK.

Tom Ferguson- Pro Rodeo Hall of Famer from Tahlequah, OK.

Milena Govich- Actress from Norman, OK. Famous for role on Law and Order

Rex Linn- Famous character actor from Oklahoma City, OK.

Tim Blake Nelson- Character actor, writer, and director from Tulsa, OK. Famous for playing George Clooney's brother in "O Brother Where Art Thou."

Regina Taylor- Golden Globe winning actress and playwright. Grew up in Muskogee, OK.

Amber Valletta- Actress and model who grew up in Tulsa, OK. Graduated from Booker T. Washington.

Randy Wayne- Actor from Moore, OK. Played "Luke Duke" in "Dukes of Hazzard: The Beginning."

Dr. John Hope Franklin- world famous historian and teacher. Was president of Phi Beta Kappa. Received Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995.

Cleavon Little- famous actor from Chickasha, OK. Forever known as the sheriff in "Blazing Saddles."

Reynaldo Rey- funny actor, writer, and singer from Sequoyah County, OK.

G. D. Spradlin- Famous character actor from Pauls Valley, OK. Played corrupt senator in The Godfather, Part 2.

Don Wilbanks- character actor from Holdenville, OK. Worked constantly during the Golden Age of Television.

Hal LeSueur- actor who grew up in Lawton, OK. with sister: Oscar winning actress, Joan Crawford.

Richard Kelton- Popular character actor in the 1970's and '80's, who died way too young. Grew up in Northeastern Oklahoma.

Shea Kerry- Actor, writer, and producer born in Lawton, OK.

Clint Kimbrough- Character actor from Allen, OK. Worked in many movies and on TV in 1960's, '70's and '80's.

Wright King- Famous character actor from Okmulgee, OK. Did classic work on shows like the Twilight Zone.

Ken Drake- Another famous Oklahoma character actor from Enid, OK.

Margaret Avery- Actress from Mangum, OK. Nominated for an Academy Award for her performance as "Shug" in "The Color Purple."

Barbara Lawrence- Actress from Carnegie, OK. Famous for role of Gertie Cummings in movie adaptation of "Oklahoma!"

Lynn Cartwright- Character actress from McAlester, OK. Famous for part in the movie, "A League of Their Own."

Sarah Vowell- American historian, author, journalist, essayist, social commentator and actress. From Muskogee, OK.

Blaine Saunders- From Ada, OK. Famous for playing "Carly" on "The Middle."

Meg Randall- Character actress from Clinton, OK. Famous for "Ma and Pa Kettle" movies.

Mary Harless Howard- Acting legend from Bartlesville, OK. Tied with her twin sister for Miss Tulsa 1927.

Hayley Lovitt- Oklahoma born actress popular in movies and television.

Annie Funke- Character actress from Edmond, OK. Has been active on stage as well as movies and television.

Evelyn Varden- Classic Hollywood character actress. Born in Adair, OK.

Brina Palencia- Internationally famous voice actress and character actor. From Owasso, OK.

Kathryn Zaremba- Child Broadway and television actress. From Broken Arrow, OK.

Countess Vaughn- Popular television and movie actress from Idabel, OK.

Rende Rae Norman- Television and film actress from Pryor, OK.

Kirsten Nelson- Television actress born in Enid, OK.

Te Ata Fisher- Famous Chickasaw actress and storyteller. Born in Emet, OK., grew up around Tishomingo, OK.

Mike Synar- Famous Oklahoma Congressman who passed away much too soon. Recipient of the John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Award in 1995.

Beverlee McKinsey- Famous soap actress from McAlester, OK.

Irene Champlin- Early television actress from Waurika, OK. Famous for creating a strong female character in the 1950's on a hit TV show. Inspired generations of girls who watched "Flash Gordon."

Lou Antonio- Much-in-demand character actor from Oklahoma City, OK. Familiar face in movies and television of the 1960's, '70's, and '80's. Went on to become a busy director in films and television.

Erika Anderson- Fashion model and actress from Tulsa, OK.

Greyson Chance- Internet pop singer from Edmond, OK.

T. V. Carpio- Actress and singer from Oklahoma City, OK.

Christian Kane- Actor and singer who grew up in Norman, OK.

Sharron Miller- Pioneering female director in Hollywood. Born in Enid, OK., grew up in Perry, OK. Also known for her famous Academy for the Performing Arts.

Heather Wahlquist- Actress from Seminole, OK.

Chelcie Ross- In-demand character actor from Oklahoma City, OK. Familiar face in movies and television.

Dennis Weaver- Famous Western actor and producer. Grew up in Joplin, MO., was a track star at University of Oklahoma.

Susan Watson- Famous Broadway actress from Tulsa, OK. Performed in original productions of "West Side Story" and "The Fantasticks. " Also guest-starred on television.

Paul Sparks- Actor from Lawton, OK. Graduated from Marlow High School. Famous for roles on Boardwalk Empire and House of Cards.

Paula Trickey- Actress who grew up in Tulsa, OK. Graduated from East Central High School. Has had many roles in television and films.

Cindy Pickett- Busy actress from Sand Springs, OK. Famous for role as mother to Ferris Bueller!

Kinga Phillipps- Born in Poland, grew up in Bartlesville, OK. Graduate of Oklahoma State University. Has had many roles in television and film.

Archie Bradley- Major league pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks. Grew up in Muskogee and Broken Arrow, OK.

John Kolb- 4X Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburg Steelers. Born in Ponca City, OK. Grew up in Owasso, OK.

Harrris Wittels- Actor, comedian, writer, and producer from Oklahoma City, OK.

Neil Woodward- Astronaut from Oklahoma City. Graduated from Putnam City High School.

Dr. Donna Nelson- Famous organic chemist who is a professor at the University of Oklahoma. Works as a science advisor in Hollywood, consulting on many projects, including the TV show, "Breaking Bad."

Anita Hill- Famous lawyer and teacher. Grew up in Morris, OK.

Kim Davenport- Famous pool player from McAlester, OK. Originator of target pool. Inducted into the BCA Hall of Fame in 2018.

Ray William Johnson- Actor, comedian, producer, and director. Has one of the most popular YouTube channels in the history of the medium. Born in Oklahoma City, OK.

Charles Page- Important leader in the early days of Tulsa County and Oklahoma. Founded the town of Sand Springs, OK. Philanthropist who built homes for widows and children.

Jennifer Berry- Miss America 2006, from Jenks, OK.

Lauren Nelson- Miss America, 2007. From Lawton, OK. Won Miss America as Miss Oklahoma for the second time in a row. Has only happened one other time in the pageant's history.

Jeffrey Rowland- Famous internet cartoonist from Locust Grove, OK.

Josh Shipp- Famous motivational speaker, author, and television personality. Known as expert on youth and teens. From Oklahoma City, OK.

Dwight Twilley- Rock singer and songwriter. Born in Tulsa, graduated from Edison High School. Had several big hits in late '70's and early '80's.

Clarence Nash- Voice actor who created the voice of Donald Duck. From Watonga, OK. Named a Disney Legend in 1993.

Jimmy Webb- Songwriter extraordinaire. Has written some of the most popular songs of the 1960's and 1970's. From Elk City, OK.

Leon Russell- Legendary musician and songwriter. Inspired many infamous singers with his talent and humor. Born in Lawton, OK. Always considered Oklahoma his home.

Charles Coe- Known as the world's greatest amateur golfer. Made the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine. Proud Oklahoman from Ardmore, OK.

Charlie Haas- WWE Professional Wrestler from Edmond, OK. Former state champion wrestler in Oklahoma.

Olivia Jordan- Actress and model from Tulsa, OK. Won Miss USA pageant in 2015.

Burr DeBenning- Popular character actor in the golden age of television. Born in Seminole, OK., but grew up in Stillwater, OK. Oklahoma State graduate who earned his Master's in Drama at New York University. Worked constantly in the 1970's and 1980's on many popular television shows.

Patrick Cranshaw- Popular character actor known for stealing the show in the movie "Old School." Also known for "Air Bud" movies. Born in Bartlesville, OK.

William Boyd- Famous television star of "Hopalong Cassidy"- the most popular cowboy on the screen. Grew up during his teen years in Tulsa, OK.

Gus Hardin- Country soul singer from Tulsa, OK. Had huge career win in duets with superstar, Earl Thomas Conley.

Nicole Jordan- New York Times Bestselling author of romance novels. Born in Oklahoma.

Wilson Rawls- Author of popular novel, "Where the Red Fern Grows." Born in the Ozark Mountain town of Scraper, OK.

Louis L'Amour- Prolific writer of western novels. Grew up all over the country but finally settled down in Choctaw, OK., where he began his writing career. One of the most popular authors of all time. Many of his novels have been made into popular movies.

Martin Gardner- Famous mathematician, author, and scientist. Wrote articles in "Scientific American" magazine for over 40 years. Was a leading expert on author Lewis Carroll and considered a groundbreaking magician. His puzzles and illusions are world famous. Born in Tulsa, OK. Lived in Norman, OK.

Billie Letts- Bestselling author of fiction. Her most famous book, "Where the Heart Is," was made into a popular movie. Born and lived in Tulsa, OK. for most of her life.

Tracy Letts- 2008 Pulitzer Prize winning playwright of "August: Osage County." Also a Tony Award winning actor. Born in Tulsa, OK., the son of author Billie Letts and Southeastern Oklahoma State University professor/actor, Dennis Letts.

Dennis Letts- Late-in-life actor in movies, television, and the Broadway stage. Professor at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, OK. Husband of famous author, Billie Letts and father of famous playwright and actor, Terry Letts.

Richard Erdman- Born in Enid, OK., he had a very long and rewarding career. Played old student "Leonard Rodriguez" on the hit sitcom, "Community."

Chet Allen- Early days of Hollywood actor who later became one of the most famous swimming pool designers in California. Born and raised in Chickasha, OK.

Jean Speegle Howard and Rance Howard (with their more famous son, Ron Howard)- Parents of child actors, Ron and Clint Howard, they each had acting careers on their own. Born and raised in Duncan, OK., where they were high school sweethearts.

Jeremy Castle- country singer born in Oklahoma City and raised in Blanchard, OK. Former GT student in Blanchard!

G. T. Bynum- Mayor of Tulsa, OK. Grandson of legendary Tulsa mayor, Robert LaFortune.

Did you know these folks were from Oklahoma?  Check out these gifted people and think about the FUTURE.  Which one of our students will be among them?  Do our students know about these people and their accomplishments?  Can we use these Oklahomans to inspire our students to reach their full potential?