Who’s From Seattle? You May Be Surprised.

Once they hit the big-time, whether in sports, entertainment, or business, a celebrity’s origins are often overlooked. They are simply “famous” and associated with a team or Hollywood or a song on the radio. Believe it or not, there are a lot of famous people who were either born in the Seattle area or are current residents. Rather than list the sports stars who are obviously associated with their Seattle teams, this article will touch on a few of the famous people with less obvious links to the Northwest.

Arguably, the richest, most famous resident in the area is Bill Gates. Born in Seattle, the man who was destined to become one of the most renowned entrepreneurs in the world, used his interest in computer programming, innovative ideas, and business savvy to build the Microsoft Empire. Gates resigned as CEO this year and continues to live in Lake Washington.

If you’ve ever watched The Office, you know Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute, clueless paper salesman. He was born and raised in Seattle, WA and received some of his education at the University of Washington.

Apolo Ohno, not just a Dancing with the Stars winner, but also an Olympic medalist eight times over. He lived and trained in Washington to become one of the most famous speed skaters of our time. He has used his fame to become a role model for kids as well as for his philanthropic efforts.

Ben Haggerty aka Macklemore was also born and raised in Seattle. The hip hop superstar has been nominated for several Grammy awards and won Best New Artist, Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance. I’m not a rap fan, but the Macklemore songs that I have heard have been different than the usual misogynistic, nasty stuff. Some of his songs are fun – Thriftshop – and Same Love takes on the issue of gay rights. A rapper with an attitude – that isn’t so bad.

Sir Mix-A-Lot (Anthony Ray) is a music producer in Seattle. He won a Grammy award for his single Baby Got Back and continues to produce music. He has collaborated with the Seattle Symphony this year with new orchestral music.

Dave Matthews wasn’t born in Seattle, but he lives there now with his family. He is best known for his alternative rock music with a focus on vocals and guitar. He has appeared in movie and guest roles on television. He has two Grammys to his name for So Much to Say and Gravedigger.

Bill Nye the Science Guy, everybody’s favorite rocket scientist, started his acting career in Seattle and lived there for many years. He has provided many elementary school students with science concepts in particularly entertaining and attainable ways. He has continued to discuss science on The Discovery Channel and the Weather Channel. Believe it or not, he also competed on Dancing with the Stars.

There are so many more amazing people who either were born, lived, or are currently living in Seattle or the surrounding areas that it would take a novel to include them all. Is your curiosity piqued? Google it for yourself and see more of the city’s famous inhabitants.

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