Famous People From Detroit
- Born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom Selleck's journey to stardom began after he received a basketball scholarship to the University of Southern California. Here, he dabbled in acting and was soon discovered by Twentieth Century Fox, marking his entry into the world of cinema. Selleck's career took a significant turn when he landed the role of Thomas Magnum in the television series Magnum, P.I. which aired from 1980 to 1988. His portrayal of the private investigator living in Hawaii won him an Emmy and a Golden Globe, establishing him as a household name. Despite the success of this character, Selleck didn't limit himself to one genre or type of role. He showcased his versatility by appearing in a range of films and TV shows, including Three Men and a Baby, Quigley Down Under, and Blue Bloods. Off-screen, Selleck is known for his commitment to philanthropy. He served on the board of directors for the National Rifle Association and is actively involved in various charities. As an actor, philanthropist, and advocate, Tom Selleck has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood, demonstrating that a successful career can be coupled with a commitment to giving back to society.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- 1Quigley Down Under744 Votes
- 2The Shadow Riders427 Votes
- 3Jesse Stone: Stone Cold347 Votes
- Jana Rae Kramer (born December 2, 1983) is an country music singer and actress. She is known for her role as Alex Dupre on the television series One Tree Hill. Kramer began her musical career in 2012 and has released two albums: Jana Kramer (2012) and Thirty One (2015). The albums produced seven charted singles on Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay, including the top 10 hits "Why Ya Wanna" and "I Got the Boy". She competed on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars, finishing in fourth place.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Diana Ross, born as Diane Ernestine Earle Ross on March 26, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, is a renowned figure in the entertainment industry. She emerged from humble beginnings in a housing project to become an international superstar, a journey that began when she joined the Primettes, a sister group of The Primes, at just 15 years old. In 1961, the group was signed by Motown Records and rebranded as The Supremes, with Ross serving as the lead vocalist. Under this banner, Ross and her bandmates would go on to achieve monumental success, churning out twelve number-one hits. In 1970, Ross embarked on a solo career, demonstrating her versatility across multiple genres, including pop, R&B, soul, disco, and jazz. Her debut solo album, Diana Ross, spawned the number-one hit "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." Over the course of her solo career, Ross released 24 studio albums and earned numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award for her portrayal of Billie Holiday in the film Lady Sings the Blues. Beyond her musical prowess, Ross has made significant contributions to civil rights and humanitarian causes. She was one of the first African-American women to own her production company, and she played a critical role in promoting racial integration in popular music. Ross also devoted time to philanthropic efforts, working with charities focused on issues such as HIV/AIDS research and poverty alleviation. Diana Ross's illustrious career, marked by her unique vocal style, dynamic stage presence, and commitment to social justice, continues to inspire generations of artists and fans alike.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Sherilyn Fenn, a prominent figure in the world of television and film, has made a significant mark on the industry through her extensive and diverse career. Born on February 1, 1965, in Detroit, Michigan, she developed an unwavering passion for acting at an early age. Her breakthrough role came in 1990, when she was selected to portray Audrey Horne in David Lynch’s cult classic television series, Twin Peaks. The role skyrocketed her into fame, garnering her an Emmy nomination and solidifying her as one of Hollywood's most captivating talents. Fenn's versatility as an actor is evident through her wide range of roles in both film and television. After her success in Twin Peaks, she graced the big screen with memorable performances in films like Of Mice and Men (1992) and Boxing Helena (1993). She demonstrated a knack for embodying complex characters, displaying emotional depth and nuanced performances that set her apart from her contemporaries. Fenn's career further expanded in the mid-90s, as she took on more daring roles in independent cinema, proving her ability to transcend genre boundaries and cementing her reputation as a versatile actor. Beyond her work in film and television, Sherilyn Fenn has also made considerable contributions to literature, penning a children's book titled No Man's Land, which was published in 2013. This venture into writing showcases another facet of Fenn's creativity, exhibiting her ability to weave compelling narratives outside the realm of acting. Throughout her career, Fenn has consistently showcased her talent and adaptability, marking her as a dynamic force in the entertainment industry.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- A former advertising executive who moved into film production in the early 1970s, Jerry Bruckheimer has given audiences movies, videos and soundtracks that have topped $11 billion in grosses to date. Together with the late Don Simpson, with whom he formed Simpson-Bruckheimer Productions in 1983, the producer set the trend for the big-budget, action/adventure films that dominated Hollywood's output throughout the 1980s and 90s. Their joint ventures included "Beverly Hills Cop" (1984) and "Top Gun" (1986), both among the 20 highest-grossing features of all time and both produced via the company's long-term deal with Paramount Pictures. Their pictures were honored with 15 Academy Award nominations, two Oscars for Best Song, four Grammys, and three Golden Globes. But after Simpson's death in 1996, Bruckheimer ventured out on his own, scoring huge hits at the box office and in a new medium for the powerful film director- television.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Gilda Radner, an icon of comedy, was born on June 28, 1946, in Detroit, Michigan. She established her career in the entertainment industry as a comedian and actress, quickly rising to prominence as one of the original cast members of the critically acclaimed NBC show Saturday Night Live (SNL). Radner's remarkable ability to bring characters to life with her unique brand of humor earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Continuing or Single Performance by a Supporting Actress in Variety or Music in 1978. Radner was known for several memorable SNL characters, including the obnoxious news reporter Roseanne Roseannadanna and the elderly, hard-of-hearing Emily Litella. These characters not only brought laughter to millions but also showcased Radner's unparalleled talent for character creation and improvisation. Beyond her SNL fame, she also made significant contributions to theater and film, such as her Broadway show Gilda Radner - Live from New York and her roles in movies like Hanky Panky and Haunted Honeymoon. Despite her successful career, Radner faced personal challenges. In 1986, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a battle she fought publicly, becoming a symbol of courage and resilience. Her autobiography, It's Always Something, published posthumously in 1989, offered candid insights into her journey. The legacy of Gilda Radner extends beyond her comedic genius, and her advocacy continues to inspire and support those battling cancer through organizations like Gilda's Club. Radner's life was a testament to the power of laughter, even in the face of adversity.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- A bubbly presence with a charmingly husky voice, actress Marlo Thomas, the daughter of beloved entertainer Danny Thomas, rose to fame in the late 1960s as the accident-prone Ann Marie on "That Girl" (ABC, 1966-1971). The series, which earned Thomas a Golden Globe, might have been the alpha and omega of her career, as it minted her in the role of hapless ingénue for years to follow. But Thomas turned to weightier topics in the 1970s, most notably women and children's rights, for which she helped to launch the Ms. Foundation for Women and produce the children's special "Free to Be You and Me" (ABC, 1974), which endeared her to a generation of youngsters and parents. With the help and support of her famous talk show host husband Phil Donahue, Thomas later segued into producing for television while continuing her philanthropic pursuits through St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. In doing so, Thomas became one of the leading socially conscious figures in the entertainment industry.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Donyale Luna made her mark in the world of entertainment when she worked on the adaptation "Fellini Satyricon" (1970) with Martin Potter. In 1965, she made her film debut in Andy Warhol's "Camp." In 1972, she had her final film role in "Salomè." In 1966, she made history by becoming the first African-American model to appear on the cover of "Vogue.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Naima Mora (born March 1, 1984) is an American fashion model and the winner of Cycle 4 of America's Next Top Model.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Sharon Case (born February 9, 1971) is an American actress and former model. At the age of 17, Case began working as a model, relocating briefly to Japan, before pursuing an acting career. She is best known for her roles on daytime television soap operas, scoring parts in the serials General Hospital and As the World Turns during the early stages of her career. In 1994, she stepped into the role of Sharon Newman on the CBS daytime soap opera The Young and the Restless, which she still plays. Case, who is considered a leading actress in the series, won the 1999 Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for her performance.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Charles Lindbergh, born in Detroit, Michigan on February 4, 1902, was an American aviator who achieved worldwide fame as the first person to fly solo and non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean. Born to a congressman father and a schoolteacher mother, his love for machinery and technology was evident from a young age. Lindbergh's early years were marked by frequent moves, following his father's political career, which ultimately led him to develop a strong sense of independence and a curiosity about the world. Lindbergh's fascination with flight took root during his time as a U.S. Air Mail pilot, but it was his daring transatlantic flight in May 1927 that put his name in the history books. In his single-engine plane, "The Spirit of St. Louis," he flew from New York to Paris, covering an astonishing distance of nearly 3,600 miles in thirty-three and a half hours. The feat was not only a triumph of engineering but also a testament to Lindbergh's skill, courage, and unwavering determination. This historic achievement won him the prestigious Orteig Prize and secured his place in aviation history. However, Lindbergh's life was not without controversy. His first-born son was tragically kidnapped and murdered in 1932, a case that became known as "The Crime of the Century". Later, his apparent sympathy towards Nazi Germany prior to World War II stirred public outcry. Yet, despite these tumultuous personal trials and public scrutiny, Lindbergh continued his work in aviation and conservation until his passing in 1974. A complex figure, Charles Lindbergh remains emblematic of the bold spirit of exploration and the relentless pursuit of progress that characterized the early 20th century.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Although Pam Dawber harbored hopes of a career as a musical comedy star, she found her niche on television. Born and raised in Michigan, the tall, vivacious beauty began her career as a model and appeared in several print and broadcast advertisements. After making her stage debut in the lead in the Goodspeed Opera House revival of "Sweet Adeline" (1977), Dawber landed her first feature role as the former girlfriend of the groom who makes a memorable entrance astride a horse in Robert Altman's "A Wedding" (1977). She then landed a leading role in a busted ABC pilot "Sister Terri" but the network suits were impressed enough to offer her the star-making role of Mindy to Robin Williams' quirky alien in the hit sitcom "Mork and Mindy" (1978-82). Dawber had the difficult task of playing straight woman to Williams and his zany improvisations, but she brought a certain charm to the role. Once the characters were married, however, the magic seemed to dissipate (amid rumors of dissension between the stars) and ABC pulled the plug on the show.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Ken Jeong, a man of many talents, is an American actor, comedian, and physician. Born in Detroit, Michigan and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jeong's journey into the world of entertainment was far from conventional. He earned his undergraduate degree at Duke University before pursuing a medical degree at the University of North Carolina. While his passion for medicine led him to complete his internal medicine residency in New Orleans, it was during this time that Jeong discovered another passion - comedy. Jeong started off by performing stand-up comedy during his spare time while working as a licensed physician in California. His unique blend of humor and wit quickly caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to minor roles in various sitcoms and movies. However, it was his breakout role as Leslie Chow in the blockbuster movie The Hangover that catapulted him into stardom. The film's success gave Jeong the recognition he deserved, making him one of the most sought-after comedic actors in Hollywood. Despite his successful acting career, Jeong has never lost touch with his medical roots. He even used his medical expertise on set, most notably when he aided a woman having a seizure during one of his stand-up comedy shows. His diverse career paths have not only made him a versatile actor but also a compassionate human being.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- 1The Hangover100 Votes
- 2The Hangover Part II60 Votes
- 3Despicable Me43 Votes
- The founder and president of one of America's most successful and influential record labels, Berry Gordy, Jr. created Motown Records, which from the 1960s through the late 1980s was one of the most important labels in American popular music. A boxer-turned-songwriter, Gordy realized the importance of ownership when it came to artistic endeavors like music, and in 1959, he launched Motown in suburban Detroit. With its roster of stellar artists that included such legends as Smokey Robinson, the Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross and the Supremes, Motown epitomized the ebullience of youth - both black and white - and the hopefulness of the future in song after hit song. Changing times reduced Motown's standing in the music field, but Gordy's vision, determination and leadership helped to make it one of the most enduring and important companies in the history of American music.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Veronica Webb (born February 25, 1965) is an American model, actress, writer, and television personality. The first African-American to have a major cosmetics contract, Webb has appeared on covers of Vogue, Essence and Elle magazines and on the runway for Victoria's Secret and Chanel.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- James Lipton drew out compelling, deeply personal, and inspirational stories from the biggest names in show business to benefit aspiring actors and filmmakers. Lipton began his entertainment career as a student of the performing arts, and his deep passion and innate talent eventually brought him to the forefront of any project he undertook, from the bright lights of Broadway to the hectic schedule of daytime television. Lipton further propelled his career as a television producer responsible for Bob Hope's star-studded birthday specials, "Jimmy Carter's Inaugural Gala" (CBS, 1977), and the critically acclaimed talk show "Inside the Actors Studio" (Bravo, 1994- ). Lipton created the series based around a graduate-level acting program he founded in New York City. "Inside the Actors Studio" featured Lipton's interviews with the most prominent figures in entertainment and included a Q&A portion with the student audience. The hit series even garnered a hilarious "Saturday Night Live" (NBC, 1975- ) spoof with Will Ferrell's deadpan impersonation of the stoic host. Yet with all the hoopla surrounding the long-running show, "Inside the Actors Studio" was Lipton's master class in entertainment and a lasting gift from a true industry trailblazer.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Edward Leo Peter McMahon Jr. (March 6, 1923 – June 23, 2009) was an American announcer, game show host, comedian, trapeze artist, police officer, actor and singer. McMahon and Johnny Carson began their association in their first TV series, the ABC game show Who Do You Trust?, running from 1957 to 1962. McMahon then made his famous thirty-year mark as Carson's sidekick, announcer and second banana on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson from 1962 to 1992. He also hosted the original Star Search from 1983 to 1995, co-hosted TV's Bloopers & Practical Jokes with Dick Clark from 1982 to 1998 and also presented sweepstakes for the direct marketing company American Family Publishers (not, as is commonly believed, its main rival Publishers Clearing House). McMahon annually co-hosted the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon from 1973 to 2008. In the 1970s and 80s, he anchored the team of NBC personalities conducting the network's coverage of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. McMahon appeared in several films, including The Incident, Fun With Dick and Jane, Full Moon High and Butterfly, as well as briefly in the film version of Bewitched. He also performed in numerous television commercials. According to Entertainment Weekly, McMahon is considered one of the greatest "sidekicks".
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Ralph Johnson Bunche (; August 7, 1904 – December 9, 1971) was an American political scientist, academic, and diplomat who received the 1950 Nobel Peace Prize for his late 1940s mediation in Israel. He was the first African American to be so honored. He was involved in the formation and administration of the United Nations and played a major role in numerous peacekeeping operations sponsored by the UN. In 1963, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President John F. Kennedy.Bunche served on the US delegation to both the Dumbarton Oaks Conference in 1944 and United Nations Conference on International Organization in San Francisco in 1945 that drafted the UN charter. Bunche served on the American delegation to the first session of the United Nations General Assembly in 1946. He then joined the UN as head of the Trusteeship Department, and began a long series of troubleshooting roles. In 1948 he became an acting mediator for the Middle East, negotiating an armistice between Egypt and Israel. For this success he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950. He continued to serve at the United Nations, working on crises in the Sinai (1956), the Congo (1960), Yemen (1963), Cyprus (1964) and Bahrain in 1970, reporting directly to the UN secretary general. He also chaired study groups dealing with water resources in the Middle East. In 1957 he was promoted to Undersecretary for special political affairs, having prime responsibility for peacekeeping roles. In 1965 he supervised the cease-fire following the war between India and Pakistan. He retired from the UN in 1971.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Robert Rudolph Remus (born August 27, 1948) better known by his ring name Sgt. Slaughter, is an American retired professional wrestler currently signed in WWE in the ambassador program.From the late 1970s to the early 1980s, Slaughter had success in the National Wrestling Alliance, American Wrestling Association, and the World Wrestling Federation. He won the WWF World Heavyweight Championship, and headlined WrestleMania VII, in 1991. Slaughter also captured the NWA United States Heavyweight Championship twice. He is a Hall of Famer, inducted as part of the class of 2004. As Sgt. Slaughter, Remus became known for his dark sunglasses, his large hat, and his Vietnam War–era military fatigues. In the 1980s, an alternate version of the Sgt. Slaughter character was incorporated into the G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero toy line as well as its animated series and comic books.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Roger William Corman (April 5, 1926 – May 9, 2024) was an American film director, producer, and actor known as "The Pope of Pop Cinema." He was a trailblazer in independent film and has directed low-budget cult films adapted from the tales of Edgar Allan Poe. Corman's unique style of filmmaking has been admired by the French New Wave and Cahiers du cinéma. He co-founded New World Pictures, a multimedia company that helped establish Fox as a major American TV network. Corman mentored many young film directors, including Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and James Cameron. He also launched the careers of actors like Jack Nicholson and Sylvester Stallone. A documentary about his life and career, Corman's World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel, premiered at the Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals in 2011.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
1Directors: Roger Corman22 Votes- 2Lords of the Deep5 Votes
- 3Scream 39 Votes
- Survivor is an American reality television show, based on the Swedish program, Expedition Robinson. Contestants are referred to as "castaways", and they compete against one another to become the "Sole Survivor" and win one million U.S. dollars. First airing in 2000, there currently have been a total of 38 seasons aired; the program itself has been filmed on five different continents. Contestants usually apply to be on the show, but the series has been known to recruit contestants for various seasons. For Survivor: Fiji, the producers had hoped to have a more racially diverse cast, and hoped that a more diverse group would apply after the success of the racially segregated Survivor: Cook Islands. When this did not happen, the producers turned to recruiting and in the end, only one contestant had actually submitted an application to be on the show. For the most part, contestants are virtually unknown prior to their Survivor appearance, but occasionally some well-known people are cast. A total of 570 participants (castaways) have competed so far (as of Survivor: Edge of Extinction). 95 of those participants have competed in multiple seasons: 70 of them competed in two different seasons, 21 of those seventy have competed in three different seasons, and only four have competed in four different seasons of the show. Twelve seasons have featured returning players: four with all-returnees (Survivor: All-Stars in 2004, Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains in 2010, Survivor: Cambodia in 2015, and Survivor: Game Changers in 2017), five with two to four returning players on tribes with new players (Survivor: Guatemala in 2005, Survivor: Redemption Island and Survivor: South Pacific in 2011, Survivor: Philippines in 2012 and Survivor: Edge of Extinction in 2019), two with a tribe of ten returning "Favorites" facing off against a tribe of ten "Fans" (Survivor: Micronesia in 2008 and Survivor: Caramoan in 2013), and one featuring a tribe of ten returning players playing against a tribe of their family members (Survivor: Blood vs. Water in 2013). On two occasions, contestants have been cast but ultimately withdrew before the game began: a 20th contestant, model agency owner Mellisa McNulty was originally cast in Survivor: Fiji, but dropped out and returned home the night before the show began because of panic attacks, while in Survivor: San Juan del Sur, the 19th and 20th contestants, sisters So and Doo Kim, were removed just before filming due to a medical emergency. In both cases, the removed contestants were unreplaced. Fiji and San Juan del Sur proceeded with an uneven gender balance. This occurrence made the show's fourteenth season, Fiji, the only season in the history of the show to start with an odd number of players.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- William James Myers (April 16, 1937 – February 16, 2017), better known by his ring name George "The Animal" Steele, was an American professional wrestler, school teacher, author, and actor. His career lasted from 1967 until 1988, though he made occasional wrestling appearances into the 1990s and 2000s. Steele portrayed Swedish wrestler and actor Tor Johnson in Tim Burton's film Ed Wood.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Katie Chonacas is an American actress. Chonacas was born in Detroit, Michigan. After moving to Los Angeles in 2002 she landed roles on television series including CSI: NY, It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia, Cold Case and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. She had supporting roles in Major Movie Star as Amber, Thick as Thieves as June, and Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans as Tina.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Whether chatting about football for television or extolling the virtues of his casual eating restaurant in his home town, football great Jerome Bettis was always comfortable in the spotlight. But it wasn't always this way. As a kid Jerome would rather be throwing a bowling ball down a lane than talking sports. But his skill running with a pigskin would prove to one day bring him to the heights of football, the Super Bowl, while his amiable familiarity in front of the camera made him a sought-after commentator once his playing days were through.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Eric Aaron Bischoff (born May 27, 1955) is an American entrepreneur, television producer, professional wrestling booker, podcast host, and on-screen personality. He is currently signed by WWE where he serves as the executive director of SmackDown Live. He is best known for serving as Executive Producer and later President of World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and subsequently, the on-screen General Manager of WWE's Raw brand. Bischoff has also worked with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) where he served as Executive Producer of Impact Wrestling. With an amateur background in taekwondo, Bischoff also sporadically performed as an in-ring competitor, and is a former WCW Hardcore Champion. He wrote an autobiography, titled Controversy Creates Cash, which was released in 2006 under WWE Books.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Anna Sui is an American fashion designer. Sui is one of the most celebrated names in American fashion, known for her timeless designs and ability to transcend eras with historical and culturally inspired collections. She was named one of the "Top 5 Fashion Icons of the Decade" and in 2009 earned the Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America, joining the ranks of Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren, and Diane von Furstenberg. Her worldwide luxury fashion brand includes clothing, shoes, cosmetics, eyewear, and accessories, as well as her renowned line of signature fragrances. Anna Sui products are sold through her free-standing stores and distributors around the world in over 50 countries. In 2006, Fortune estimated the collective value of Sui's fashion empire at over $400 million.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Loni Love (born July 12, 1971) is an American comedian, television host, actress and author. While working as an electrical engineer in the early 2000s, she switched to music engineering, until later launching a career in stand-up comedy. She was the runner-up on Star Search 2003 and was named among the "Top 10 Comics to Watch" in both Variety and Comedy Central in 2009. Currently, Love is one of the hosts of the syndicated daytime talk show, The Real, alongside Jeannie Mai, Tamera Mowry-Housley, and Adrienne Houghton, which premiered on July 15, 2013.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Tim Meadows, widely recognized as one of the longest-running cast members on NBC's Saturday Night Live, has etched a remarkable signature in the entertainment industry. Born on February 5, 1961, in Highland Park, Michigan, Meadows began his journey in the world of comedy at a young age. He attended Wayne State University before moving to Chicago, where he refined his comedic skills at the legendary improv group, The Second City. Meadows's tenure on Saturday Night Live lasted from 1991 to 2000, during which he created an array of memorable characters including "Leon Phelps," also known as "The Ladies' Man." This particular creation was so beloved that it led to a spin-off movie under the same title in 2000. Beyond SNL, Meadows had the versatility and talent to transition seamlessly into other roles in television and film. His notable credits include principal roles in sitcoms like The Bill Engvall Show, The Michael Richards Show, and Son of Zorn. In the realm of film, Tim Meadows demonstrated equal prowess. His filmography features appearances in popular movies such as Mean Girls, Grown Ups, and Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Additionally, he lent his voice to animated projects like Bob's Burgers and The Simpsons.
- Birthplace: Highland Park, Michigan, USA
- Arthur "Art" Clokey (born Arthur Charles Farrington; October 12, 1921 – January 8, 2010) was an American pioneer in the popularization of stop motion clay animation, best known as the creator of the character Gumby and the original voice of Gumby's sidekick, Pokey. Clokey's career began in 1953 with a film experiment called Gumbasia, which was influenced by his professor, Slavko Vorkapich, at the University of Southern California. Clokey and his wife Ruth subsequently came up with the clay character Gumby and his horse Pokey, who first appeared in the Howdy Doody Show and later got their own series The Adventures of Gumby, from which they became a familiar presence on American television. The characters enjoyed a renewal of interest in the 1980s when American actor and comedian Eddie Murphy parodied Gumby in a skit on Saturday Night Live. Clokey's second most famous production is the duo of Davey and Goliath, funded by the Lutheran Church in America (now the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America).Clokey founded the company Premavision (which has manufacturing subsidiary, Prema Toy Company) around his Gumby and Pokey franchise.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Michael Kinsley (born March 9, 1951) is an American political journalist and commentator. Primarily active in print media as both a writer and editor, he also became known to television audiences as a co-host on Crossfire. Kinsley has been a notable participant in the mainstream media's development of online content.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Lenda Murray (born February 22, 1962) is an American professional female bodybuilding champion.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- John Newton Mitchell (September 15, 1913 – November 9, 1988) was the 67th Attorney General of the United States (1969–1972) under President Richard Nixon. Prior to that, he had been a municipal bond lawyer, chairman of Nixon's 1968 presidential campaign, and one of Nixon's closest personal friends. After his tenure as U.S. Attorney General, he served as chairman of Nixon's 1972 presidential campaign. Due to multiple crimes he committed in the Watergate affair, Mitchell was sentenced to prison in 1977 and served 19 months. As Attorney General, he was noted for personifying the "law-and-order" positions of the Nixon Administration, amid several high-profile anti-war demonstrations.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Charles Coles Diggs Jr. (December 2, 1922 – August 24, 1998) was an African-American politician from the U.S. state of Michigan who served in the state senate and U.S. House of Representatives. Diggs was an early member of the civil rights movement. He attended the trial of Emmett Till's murderers, and was elected the first chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus. He was a staunch critic of the apartheid regime in South Africa. Diggs resigned from the United States House of Representatives and served 14 months of a three-year sentence for mail fraud, although he maintained his innocence. He was the first African American elected to Congress from Michigan.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Born on June 3, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, Suzi Quatro worked her way up in the entertainment industry to become a renowned rock singer and bassist. With an early interest in music, she was roped into the music scene by her father Art Quatro, who was a semi-professional musician himself. Later, she joined "The Pleasure Seekers," an all-female band initiated by her sister Patti, before launching her solo career in the 1970s. Quatro's breakthrough came when renowned British record producer Mickie Most discovered her. In 1971, she moved to England after signing a contract with Most's RAK Records. Her first single, "Rolling Stone," may not have been a hit in the UK or US, but it topped the charts in Portugal, paving the way for an international career. The following years saw Quatro release a string of hits, including "Can the Can" and "Devil Gate Drive," both of which reached number one in the UK. By 1980, she had sold over 50 million records worldwide. In addition to her music career, Suzi Quatro also ventured into acting. She appeared in popular TV shows such as Happy Days, where she played the character Leather Tuscadero. Her charisma and talent led to multiple other roles in theater and television, showcasing her remarkable versatility. A trailblazer in many ways, Quatro smashed gender stereotypes in rock n' roll and paved the way for future female musicians. She continues to be a significant influence in the music industry, demonstrating a fierce persistence that aligns with her rock n' roll spirit.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Dominic Anthony "Tony" Antonelli (born August 23, 1967) is a retired NASA astronaut. Antonelli was born in Detroit, Michigan, but was raised in both Indiana and North Carolina. He is married and has two children.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Jalen Anthony Rose (born January 30, 1973) is an American former professional basketball player, current sports analyst for ESPN, and cofounder of the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy. In college, he was a member of the University of Michigan Wolverines' "Fab Five" (along with Chris Webber, Juwan Howard, Jimmy King, and Ray Jackson) that reached the 1992 and 1993 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship games as both freshmen and sophomores. Rose played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for six teams, most notably alongside Reggie Miller on the Indiana Pacers teams that made three consecutive Eastern Conference finals, including the 2000 NBA Finals. Rose was primarily a small forward; however, he sometimes played the role of a shooting guard. Currently, he co-hosts Get Up!, a morning sports talk show on ESPN.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- With a startlingly long career that encompassed jazz, pop, film, and television, Della Reese was a multi-media phenomenon. And as an African-American artist working before and during the civil rights era, her achievements were doubly significant. Delloreese Patricia Early was born on July 6, 1931 in Detroit, Michigan to a black father and Cherokee mother. She started out in gospel music, singing with Mahalia Jackson when she was just 13 years old, and subsequently with The Meditation Singers in the late '40s. By the early '50s, Reese had made the shift towards a jazz/pop style, and in 1954 she released her first solo single, "Yes Indeed." She plugged away for the next few years, releasing several singles on the Jubilee label, and in 1957 she had her big breakthrough with the song "And That Reminds Me," which became a huge success and earned her national attention for her big, lustrous vocal style. Two years later she made a move to RCA, and scored her biggest success ever with "Don't You Know?" that same year, hitting No. 2 Pop and No. 1 R&B and earning Reese a Grammy nomination. Her 1960 LP Della hit big too, and gave her another Grammy nomination. By the late '60s, though she continued to record, Reese began to develop her career as an actor. She started out with one-off appearances on TV shows like "The Mod Squad" (ABC 1968-73) and then TV movies. In the mid '70s she had a recurring role in hit series "Chico and the Man" (NBC 1974-78). In 1989 she appeared in the Eddie Murphy/Richard Pryor film "Harlem Nights" (1989) and two years later co-starred with Redd Foxx in the short-lived TV series "The Royal Family" (CBS 1991-92). But her biggest acting role came with a starring part in the series "Touched By An Angel" (CBS 1994-2003), which ran for nine seasons and earned Reese multiple awards. Reese continued acting into the 2010s and passed away on November 19, 2017 in Los Angeles at the age of 86.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- This no-nonsense, Ivy-educated, stage-trained player parlayed his success on the boards into increasingly substantial work in TV and films. A history major as a Harvard undergraduate, Vance began acting in college and joined Shakespeare and Company, a theater company in nearby Lenox, Massachusetts. He went on to further hone his thespian skills at the Yale School of Drama. While there, Vance originated the role of Cory, son of a formidable James Earl Jones, in the Yale Rep production of August Wilson's award-winning "Fences." In 1987, he made his Broadway debut reprising the role. Vance's performance garnered critical kudos, a Theatre World Award and a Tony nomination as Best Featured Actor in a Play. His other stage credits included the 1988 New York Shakespeare Festival production of "Romeo and Juliet," Athol Fugard's "My Children! My Africa!" (1989), for which he won an OBIE Award and a starring role in the Broadway production of John Guare's "Six Degrees of Separation," which brought Vance yet another Tony nomination. When "Six Degrees of Separation" came to the big screen as a 1993 feature, Stockard Channing reprised her role from Broadway but Vance could not even get a meeting to read for the role of the charismatic liar Paul, the self-proclaimed son of Sidney Poitier. Though he had already had significant experience in film and TV, the producers opted for a "name" actor--the better known, if less trained, rapper-cum-sitcom star Will Smith. Vance responded by developing another strategy for Hollywood success. He networked with fellow Harvard alumni in the industry to land meaty TV roles in high-minded cable movies such as "The Tuskegee Airmen" and "The Affair" (both HBO, 1995) and "Race to Freedom: The Underground Railroad" (Family Channel/BET, 1994) and classy network specials like the Hallmark Hall of Fame presentations of August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson" (CBS, 1995) and Tom Griffin's "The Boys Next Door" (CBS, 1996). These projects displayed Vance's range as he variously played a love-struck slave with aspirations to escape North ("Race to Freedom"), a sweet-natured dimwit ("The Piano Lesson"), an innocent black G.I. in love with a married white woman in WWII England ("The Affair") and a severely mentally challenged man in a group home ("The Boys Next Door"). In features, Vance has successfully cultivated an image of dignity and restraint. He was the outspoken medic Doc in the war drama "Hamburger Hill" (1987) and a submarine sonar specialist in "The Hunt for Red October" (1990). Vance gained attention with his interpretation of the role of Jim in a Disney retelling of Mark Twain's classic "The Adventures of Huck Finn" (1993). He strayed from the outdated renditions of the Jims of old, creating a more intelligent figure and bringing weight and sadness to a man whose only desire is to be free. He also convinced as a subdued Bobby Seale, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, in Mario and Melvin Van Peebles' "Panther" and a soft-spoken traditionalist high school principal in "Dangerous Minds" (both 1995). Vance held his own against glamorous headliners Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston as he played the frustrated minister in Penny Marshall's romantic comedy fantasy "The Preacher's Wife" (1996). Vance married renowned actress Angela Bassett in 1997 and continued to win key roles in notable productions, including William Friedkin's acclaimed multiracial made-for-TV update of "12 Angry Men" (Showtime). He received accolades for his lead turn in the legal feature "Blind Faith" (1998), and appeared in Robert Altman's small-town dramedy "Cookie's Fortune" (1999), both films that co-starred Charles S. Dutton. After playing an astronaut in the Clint Eastwood movie "Space Cowboys" (2000), Vance portrayed the title character in Showtime's "Whitewash: The Clarence Brandley Story" (2002), a real-life tale of misplaced Texan justice. Gravitating more towards television, he joined the cast of the procedural drama spin-off "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" (NBC/USA, 2001-2011) as by-the-book assistant district attorney Ron Carver, a role that he held for five seasons. Following a recurring role on the medical drama series "ER" (NBC, 1994-2009), Vance became a regular on the much-touted high-concept drama "FlashForward" (NBC, 2009-2010), but the show was cancelled after one season, giving him a window to appear on episodes of "The Closer" (TNT, 2005-2012). Returning more prominently to movies, Vance had supporting roles in the thoughtful drama "Extraordinary Measures" (2010), starring Harrison Ford and Brendan Fraser, and the tense thriller "The Divide" (2011), before playing a skeptical FBI agent in the hit horror sequel "Final Destination 5" (2011). Notably switching gears for the warm, folksy gospel movie "Joyful Noise" (2012), he also turned up briefly on the TV mystery series "Revenge." In 2013, Vance successfully returned to his theater roots, playing editor Hap Hairston in the tabloid-centric Nora Ephron play "Lucky Guy," a performance that won him a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor. After appearing in "Terminator Genisys" (2015), a critically unsuccessful reboot of the action franchise, Vance returned to television as defense attorney Johnnie Cochran in "American Crime Story" (FX 2016- ).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Mayce Edward Christopher Webber III (born March 1, 1973) is an American former professional basketball player. He is a five-time NBA All-Star, a five-time All-NBA Team member, a former NBA Rookie of the Year, and a former number one overall NBA draftee. As a collegiate athlete, he was a first-team All-American and led the Michigan Wolverines' 1991 incoming freshman class known as the Fab Five that reached the 1992 and 1993 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship games as freshmen and sophomores. However, Webber was indicted by a federal grand jury and stripped of his All-American honors by the NCAA as a result of his direct involvement in the Ed Martin scandal. He is also a former National High School Basketball Player of the Year who led his high school Detroit Country Day to three Michigan State High School Basketball Championships, but never won any national championship in college or the NBA.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- George Gervin (born April 27, 1952), nicknamed "The Iceman", is an American retired professional basketball player who played in both the American Basketball Association (ABA) and National Basketball Association (NBA) for the Virginia Squires, San Antonio Spurs, and Chicago Bulls. Gervin averaged at least 14 points per game in all 14 of his ABA and NBA seasons, and finished with an NBA career average of 26.2 points per game. In 1996, Gervin was named as one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- John Witherspoon was an American stand-up comedian and actor who appeared in numerous comedy films and TV shows. Witherspoon was one of 11 children, pursuing music as a young man with his brother William, who would go on to success as a songwriter and producer at Motown. Witherspoon made his start as a stand-up in the early '70s, soon appearing in small parts in popular sitcoms like "Good Times" and "What's Happening!!" as well as dramatic shows like the crime drama "Barnaby Jones" and the comic book hit "The Incredible Hulk." In the late '80s Witherspoon made inroads with many of the African-American members of Hollywood, appearing in Robert Townsend's 1987 comedy "Hollywood Shuffle," Keenen Ivory Wayans's comedy "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" in 1988, and Reginald Hudlin's teen comedy "House Party" in 1990. In 1995, Witherspoon appeared as the irritable Mr. Jones in the hit comedy "Friday" with Ice Cube and returned in both sequels. In 1995 he was cast as John 'Pops' Williams in the WB sitcom "The Wayans Brothers," which lasted for five seasons. Witherspoon played the part of Spoon on NBC's comedy "The Tracy Morgan Show" in 2003. In 2005 he began lending his voice to the character Robert 'Granddad' Freeman on the animated program "The Boondocks." Witherspoon was also a close friend of talk show host David Letterman, who is the godfather to his son. In 2011, Witherspoon starred in the comedy "A Thousand Words" with comedy great Eddie Murphy. John Witherspoon died on October 29, 2019 at the age of 77.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Levi Stubbs (born Levi Stubbles, June 6, 1936 – October 17, 2008) was an American baritone singer, best known as the lead vocalist of the R&B group the Four Tops, who released a variety of Motown hit records during the 1960s and 1970s. He has been noted for his powerful, emotional, dramatic style of singing. Stubbs was also a voice artist in film and television, most famously having provided the voice of "Audrey II", the alien plant in the 1986 musical horror comedy film Little Shop of Horrors (an adaption of the stage musical of the same name), as well as Mother Brain in the 1989 TV series Captain N: The Game Master. Stubbs was admired by his peers for his impressive vocal range, and influenced many later pop and soul artists, such as Daryl Hall of Hall and Oates.Stubbs was born and spent much of his life in Detroit, Michigan. He had five children with his wife Clineice Stubbs, to whom he was married for over 40 years. His last performance was at the Four Tops' "50th Anniversary Concert" on July 28, 2004, at the Detroit Opera House.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Like many voice actors, Rob Paulsen could probably walk down any street in America and not be recognized, despite having worked on hundreds of animated series, video games, and television commercials. Beginning in 1981, with the "Smurfs," Paulsen was a cartoon regular, subsequently contributing to "G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero" and "Snorks," while also appearing on the popular TV shows "St. Elsewhere" and "MacGyver." After voicing numerous episodes of the robot show "The Transformers," Paulsen played Raphael on "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" and Gusto Gummi in "Adventures of the Gummi Bears." In '93, after having worked on the macabre animated series "The Addams Family," Paulsen voiced Throttle on "Biker Mice from Mars" and Antoine Depardieu on "Sonic the Hedgehog," and started on the long-running "Animaniacs," creating the voice of the popular character Pinky. After working on the animated superhero comedy "The Tick," Paulsen reprised Pinky in '95's "Pinky and the Brain," arguably his best-known role to date. Paulsen has worked consistently over his career, with numerous other series credits, including the action-packed shows "The Powerpuff Girls," "Danny Phantom,"and "The Mask," where he voiced the rambunctious title character. Paulsen has also contributed video games such as the fan favorites "Doom" and "Metal Gear Solid," and was "Mr. Opportunity" on commercials for Honda.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Jessica Cauffiel is an American actress who appeared in "Law & Order," "Frasier," and "Legally Blonde."
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Judge Greg Mathis is an American actor and producer who appeared in "Judge Mathis," "The Steve Harvey Show," and "Mathis Family Matters."
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Best known as the showrunner for "The Simpsons" (Fox 1989- ), the longest running American primetime scripted series of all time, Al Jean first earned his comedy stripes in the hallowed halls of the humor publication The Harvard Lampoon. The Michigan-born mathematics major had enrolled at Harvard University at the young age of 16, and though he would begin his studies in pre-med and eventually shift into math, it was his extra-curricular life at the Lampoon that would foretell the most about Jean's future career. It was there that Jean met Mike Reiss, who would become his writing partner. After graduating with his bachelor's degree in 1981, Jean teamed up with Reiss on a number of television projects, and the two were eventually hired together to write and produce for major TV series such as "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" (NBC 1962-1992) and "It's Garry Shandling's Show" (Showtime 1986-1990). When the duo was offered the chance to write for an upcoming animated series called "The Simpsons" in 1989, Jean and Reiss discovered that many of their peers had turned the same offer down, convinced that a cartoon wouldn't last long in a primetime timeslot. The two were excited about the idea, however, and signed on to help script the show's debut season. "The Simpsons" was loved by viewers and praised by critics for its mixture of emotional warmth and sharp social commentary, making it a runaway success. By its third season, Jean was working as the series' showrunner, overseeing all aspects of production. In 1994, however, after its fourth season, Jean and Reiss left the series in order to pursue their own animated project, a primetime comedy about a stuffy movie reviewer called "The Critic" (ABC / Fox 1994-95). The project featured comedy great Jon Lovitz as the voice of the main character and was executive produced by "Simpsons" creator James L. Brooks. However, as the show fluctuated between timeslots and even networks, it failed to secure an audience and was cancelled before it could see a second season, though it would go on to become a beloved cult hit on DVD. Undaunted, Jean and Reiss moved on to sign a deal with The Walt Disney Company, developing the show "Teen Angel" (ABC 1997-98). When that series also failed to pan out, Jean was eventually able to return to "The Simpsons" in 1998. By 2001, he had once again assumed the position of showrunner, though for the first time, he was doing so without Reiss. This period would prove a great success for both Jean and the entire "Simpsons" team, and he would remain with the show for years to come, even helping to write and produce the feature length "The Simpsons Movie" (2007).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Michael Ilitch Sr. (July 20, 1929 – February 10, 2017) was an American entrepreneur, founder and owner of the international fast food franchise Little Caesars Pizza. He owned the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League and Detroit Tigers of Major League Baseball. Ilitch was at the center of Detroit's downtown redevelopment efforts; he purchased and renovated the Fox Theatre and relocated his business headquarters (Ilitch Holdings) there. He also owned Olympia Entertainment. A first generation American of Macedonian descent, he was married to Marian Bayoff Ilitch.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Betty Shabazz (born Betty Dean Sanders; May 28, 1934 – June 23, 1997), also known as Betty X, was an American educator and civil rights advocate. She was the wife of Malcolm X. Shabazz grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where her foster parents largely sheltered her from racism. She attended the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, where she had her first encounters with racism. Unhappy with the situation in Alabama, she moved to New York City, where she became a nurse. It was there that she met Malcolm X and, in 1956, joined the Nation of Islam. The couple married in 1958. Along with her husband, Shabazz left the Nation of Islam in 1964. She witnessed his assassination the following year. Left with the responsibility of raising six daughters as a single mother, Shabazz pursued higher education, and went to work at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. Following the 1995 arrest of her daughter Qubilah for allegedly conspiring to murder Louis Farrakhan, Shabazz took in her ten year old grandson Malcolm. In 1997, he set fire to her apartment. Shabazz suffered severe burns and died three weeks later as a result of her injuries.
- Birthplace: Georgia, Pinehurst, USA
- Tom Skerritt, renowned for his rugged charm and versatile talent, is a dynamic figure in the world of cinema. Born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1933, Skerritt made his debut in the film industry with War Hunt, quickly establishing himself as an actor known for portraying complex characters. This debut was the launchpad for a career spanning over five decades, throughout which Skerritt has transformed himself into an array of unforgettable roles across diverse genres. Skerritt's breakthrough role came in the form of M*A*S*H, a movie that solidified his standing in the industry. His portrayal of characters in films like Alien and Top Gun further underscored the breadth of his acting capabilities. He received an Emmy award for his remarkable performance in the television series Picket Fences, elevating his status to that of a celebrated TV actor. Skerritt's body of work is not just extensive but also notable for the range of characters he inhabits, from stern authority figures to approachable everyman heroes. Throughout his career, Skerritt's dedication to his craft has been unwavering. Despite the fame and recognition, he never shied away from smaller roles, taking on characters that challenged him. This commitment to his work has earned him respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Maitresse Madeline
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- C Michael Armstrong (born October 18, 1938 in Detroit, Michigan) is an American business executive and former AT&T chairman and CEO. He tried to reestablish AT&T as an end-to-end carrier but, due to the dot-com bust and various other issues, he was forced to break the group up in 2001. He resigned in 2002 and was succeeded by AT&T President David Dorman. He is also the former CEO of Hughes Electronics, and Comcast Corporation. He worked for IBM from 1961 to 1992. He served as a Director of Citigroup from 1989 to 2010. Armstrong is a member of the Alfalfa Club and the Council on Foreign Relations. He received his BS in Business at Miami University in 1961. In 2000 he was a board member of Citigroup and voted to oust former Citicorp CEO, John S. Reed, in favor of Sandy Weill who was co-CEO with Reed at the time. Influential analyst Jack Grubman wrote an upgraded favorable opinion of AT&T which was a reversal of Grubman's opinion just prior to that time.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Rajiv "Raj" Shah, (born March 9, 1973) is the President of the Rockefeller Foundation. He is a former American government official, physician and health economist who served as the 16th Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from 2010–2015.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- At the tender age of 15, BeBe Winans began her entertainment career as an actress. She appeared in a number of television specials, including "MDA Jerry Lewis Telethon" (1990-91), "America's All-Star Tribute to Oprah Winfrey" (ABC, 1990-91) and "The All-Star Salute to Our Troops" (CBS, 1990-91). She also appeared in "Victory & Valor: A Special Olympics All-Star Celebration" (ABC, 1990-91). Winans worked in television around the start of her acting career with a role on "20/20" (ABC, 1977-). She also contributed to a variety of television specials, including "The National Veterans Day Concert" (1991-92), "Back to School '92" (CBS, 1992-93) and "An American Reunion: New Beginnings, Renewed Hope" (HBO, 1992-93). Winans also created music for the Wesley Snipes dramedy "White Men Can't Jump" (1992). Winans won an Album Of The Year Grammy Award in 1993. She also appeared in the Denzel Washington action picture "The Manchurian Candidate" (2004). She held additional roles in television including a part on "Sunday Best" (BET, 2007-2015). Most recently, Winans appeared in "Celebrity Holiday Homes 2012" (HGTV, 2012-13).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Sander Martin Levin (born September 6, 1931) is an American politician who served in the United States House of Representatives from 1983 to 2019, representing Michigan's 9th congressional district (numbered as the 17th District from 1983 to 1993 and as the 12th District from 1993 to 2013). Levin, a member of the Democratic Party from Michigan, is a former ranking member on the House Ways and Means Committee; he was Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee from 2010 to 2011. He is the older brother of former U.S. Senator Carl Levin, and the father of current Congressman Andy Levin, his successor. In December 2017, Levin announced that he would retire from Congress at the end of his current term, and not seek re-election in 2018. His son Andy was elected on November 6, 2018 and took office in the 116th Congress, which commenced on January 3, 2019.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Augustus Cornelius Johnson Jr. (born August 10, 1967) is an American sportscaster. He currently calls play-by-play for Fox Sports .
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Born in Detroit, Michigan, and raised in Seattle, Washington, Martin Milner was a film and television actor best known for his roles in the popular TV series "Adam-12" (NBC 1968-1975) and "Route 66" (CBS 1960-64). Milner's parents, who both worked in the film industry, encouraged his acting ambitions from a young age. After relocating to Los Angeles when he was 14, Milner began taking acting lessons and made his film debut in the drama "Life With Father" (1947). After he graduated from high school, he appeared in such films as "Sands of Iwo Jima" (1949) and "Our Very Own" (1950), and in 1950 he landed a recurring role on the comedy series "The Stu Erwin Show" (ABC 1950-55) while also working on the radio serial "Dragnet." In 1952 he was drafted into the United States Army and he spent his time entertaining soldiers and directing military films. Upon leaving the Army, Milner landed roles in numerous films and TV series, including "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" (1957) and the TV version of "Dragnet" (NBC 1951-59). In 1960 he landed a high-profile role in the series "Route 66," in which he and co-star George Maharis drove around the country in a Corvette, getting into adventures along the way. Milner next appeared in such TV series as "Felony Squad" (ABC 1966-69) and "Run For Your Life" (NBC 1965-68). In 1968 he was cast as Officer Pete Malloy in the police drama "Adam-12," a procedural produced by "Dragnet" creator Jack Webb. After leaving the show in 1975, Milner landed his final lead role as Karl Robinson in the family adventure series "Swiss Family Robinson" (ABC 1975-76). He also appeared in numerous TV guest roles until his retirement in the late 1990s. Martin Milner died at his home in Carlsbad, California on September 6, 2015. He was 83.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- William "Benny" Benjamin (July 25, 1925 – April 20, 1969), nicknamed Papa Zita, was an American musician, most notable as the primary drummer for the Motown studio band known as The Funk Brothers. He was a native of Birmingham, Alabama.Benjamin originally learned to play drums in the style of the big band jazz groups in the 1940s. In 1958, Benjamin was Motown's first studio drummer, where he was noted for his dynamic style. Several Motown record producers, including Berry Gordy, refused to work on any recording sessions unless Benjamin was the drummer and James Jamerson was the bassist. The Beatles singled out Benjamin's drumming style upon meeting Gordy in the UK. Among the Motown songs Benjamin performed the drum tracks for are early hits such as "Money (That's What I Want)" by Barrett Strong and "Do You Love Me" by The Contours; as well as later hits such as "Get Ready" and "My Girl" by The Temptations, "Uptight (Everything's Alright)" by Stevie Wonder, "I Heard It Through the Grapevine" by Gladys Knight & the Pips, and "Going to a Go-Go" by The Miracles. Benjamin was influenced by the work of drummers Buddy Rich and Tito Puente. He recorded with a studio set composed of Ludwig, Slingerland, Rogers and Gretsch components and probably Zildjian cymbals.By the late 1960s, Benjamin struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, and fellow Funk Brothers Uriel Jones and Richard "Pistol" Allen increasingly recorded more of the drum tracks for the studio's releases. Benjamin died on April 20, 1969, of a stroke at age 43.Benjamin was inducted into the "Sidemen" category of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. He was named the eleventh best drummer of all time by the Rolling Stone magazine in 2016.
- Birthplace: Mobile, Alabama
- Although he has worked constantly in both television and film over a span of 40 years, actor Max Gail is, and probably always will be, remembered mostly for his role as the loveable Detective Stan Wojciehowicz on the classic '70s cop sitcom "Barney Miller." Gail got his big break in 1970 when he originated the role of Chief Bromden in the original stage version of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," which played in both San Francisco and New York. The "Barney Miller" gig came in 1975, relatively early in his career. He played the big-hearted but oafish Detective 'Wojo' in perfect balance with Abe Vigoda's burnt-out, elder 'Fish'. After the show was retired in 1983 Gail jumped over to film, starring in the cult classic action comedy "D.C. Cab." Although he kept busy throughout the '80s, he wouldn't see another regular role on a TV series until 1990, with "Normal Life," co-starring real-life siblings Dweezil and Moon Unit Zappa. Since then Gail has starred in dozens of TV movies and feature films including "Chicago Hope," "Judging Amy," and "Sons and Daughters," and even did a turn as himself on the hit HBO series "Entourage." He delivered another standout performance as Gary's eccentric father in the short-lived but well-cast comedy "Gary Unmarried" in 2008. Gail also runs Full Circle, a production company that creates documentaries on social and political issues.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Mary Scheer is an American actress, comedian, screenwriter and producer. She is best known as one of the original cast members of the sketch comedy series MADtv and for playing Freddie's mother, Marissa Benson, on iCarly. She also played Alice the Zookeeper on The Penguins of Madagascar. She played Gladys on Disney Channel's TV series, Bunk'd.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Alice Randall (born May 4, 1959) is an American author and songwriter of African-American descent. She is perhaps best known for her novel The Wind Done Gone, a reinterpretation and parody of the popular 1936 novel Gone with the Wind.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Gregg Bissonette (born June 9, 1959) is an American drummer. He has been a touring, session recording, and full-time drummer in many jazz and rock bands. He is primarily known being part of the David Lee Roth band, and for his instructional videos and drum clinics. He is the brother of bass player Matt Bissonette, who for a short while joined Gregg in Roth's band.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Geoffrey Alan Landis (; born May 28, 1955) is an American scientist, working for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on planetary exploration, interstellar propulsion, solar power and photovoltaics. He holds nine patents, primarily in the field of improvements to solar cells and photovoltaic devices and has given presentations and commentary on the possibilities for interstellar travel and construction of bases on the Moon, Mars, and Venus.Supported by his scientific background Landis also writes hard science fiction. For these writings he has won a Nebula Award, two Hugo Awards, and a Locus Award, as well as two Rhysling Awards for his poetry. He contributes science articles to various academic publications.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Marc Letzmann is a retired American professional wrestler, best known under his ring name Excalibur. Letzmann is one of the six founders of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, where he continues to work as the company's "Liaison to the Board of Directors". After retiring from in-ring competition in 2007, he became the company's lead play-by-play commentator. He is also a commentator for All Elite Wrestling.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Terrance Guido Gerin (born October 7, 1975) is an American professional wrestler, actor and politician, better known by the ring names Rhyno and Rhino. He is currently signed to Impact Wrestling. He is best known for his work in WWE and Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW). He also has worked for Ring of Honor (ROH), New Japan Pro-Wrestling and House of Hardcore. Rhyno held the ECW World Heavyweight Championship and NWA World Heavyweight Championship once each, and was the final ECW World Heavyweight Champion within the original ECW promotion. He is also a one-time WCW United States Champion, two-time ECW World Television Champion, three-time WWF Hardcore Champion, and a one-time and inaugural WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champion with Heath Slater.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Born Jonathan Kimble Simmons on January 9, 1955, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, J.K. Simmons kick started his acting journey with Broadway before transitioning to screens big and small. Simmons spent his early years refining his craft, performing in stage productions and TV shows while gradually establishing himself in Hollywood. His body of work spans genres and mediums, demonstrating his ability as a performer who can slip into any role seamlessly. Simmons' breakthrough came with his portrayal of neo-Nazi Vernon Schillinger in the HBO series Oz, a role that showcased his ability to tackle complex characters with gusto. The actor's versatility was further celebrated when he voiced the yellow M&M in the popular candy's commercials, a testament to his wide-ranging talents. However, his most acclaimed performance came in the form of Terence Fletcher in the 2014 film Whiplash. The role, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, unveiled yet another facet of Simmons' multifaceted talent and solidified his status as one of the finest character actors of his generation. Beyond his success on screen, J.K. Simmons is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He has lent his voice and influence to several charitable causes, including the Stand Up To Cancer campaign. Despite his fame, he remains rooted in his love for acting, continually seeking roles that challenge and inspire him.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Jeffrey Kent Eugenides (born March 8, 1960) is an American novelist and short story writer. He has written numerous short stories and essays, as well as three novels: The Virgin Suicides (1993), Middlesex (2002), and The Marriage Plot (2011). The Virgin Suicides served as the basis of a feature film, while Middlesex received the 2003 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in addition to being a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award, the International Dublin Literary Award, and France's Prix Médicis.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Amos Garrett (born November 26, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, United States) is an American-Canadian blues and blues-rock musician, guitarist, singer, composer, and musical arranger. He has written instructional books about music and guitar. Garrett holds dual citizenship and was raised in Toronto and Montreal. He is best known for his guitar solo on Maria Muldaur's recording "Midnight at the Oasis". He has written books about music, such as "Amos Garrett—Stringbending: A Master Class". Over the course of his career, Garrett has recorded with more than 150 artists, ranging from Stevie Wonder, Todd Rundgren and Pearls Before Swine to Emmylou Harris, Bonnie Raitt and Martin Mull. He can be heard on Anne Murray's chart-topping rendition of "Snowbird". The guitarist Jimmy Page, of Led Zeppelin, stated Garrett was one of his favorite American guitar players in a 1975 Rolling Stone interview.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Dorian Hill (born August 9, 1982) is an American professional wrestler, better known under his ring name D-Ray 3000. He is best known for his stint in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Anthony E. Siegman (November 23, 1931 – October 7, 2011) was an electrical engineer and educator concerned with masers and lasers. He was president of the Optical Society of America in 1999 and was awarded the Esther Hoffman Beller Medal in 2009.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Christopher James Moore, also known by his alias CDVR is an American vocalist, keyboardist, and hip hop producer. He was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 19, 1990. Moore has performed in a number of post-hardcore and metalcore bands, including Dead Like Me, We Came as Romans, and I See Stars. He is now concentrating on his stylistically diverse solo-project called CDVR. On August 4, 2011, he released his debut EP titled Electronic Play. On March 28, 2013 he released his debut album DΔRK$IDE.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Alice Coltrane (née McLeod, August 27, 1937 – January 12, 2007), also known by her adopted Sanskrit name Turiyasangitananda or Turiya Alice Coltrane, was an American jazz musician and composer, and in her later years a swamini. One of the few harpists in the history of jazz, she recorded many albums as a bandleader, beginning in the late 1960s and early 1970s for Impulse! and other major record labels. She was the second wife and the widow of jazz saxophonist and composer John Coltrane.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Regina Carter (Detroit, August 6, 1966) is an American jazz violinist. She is the cousin of jazz saxophonist James Carter.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
Eddie Slovik
Dec. at 24 (1920-1945)Edward Donald Slovik (February 18, 1920 – January 31, 1945) was a United States Army soldier during World War II and the only American soldier to be court-martialled and executed for desertion since the American Civil War.Although over 21,000 American soldiers were given varying sentences for desertion during World War II, including forty-nine death sentences, Slovik's death sentence was the only one that was carried out.During World War II, 1.7 million courts-martial were held, representing one third of all criminal cases tried in the United States during the same period. Most of the cases were minor, as were the sentences. Nevertheless, a clemency board, appointed by the Secretary of War in the summer of 1945, reviewed all general courts-martial where the accused was still in confinement, and remitted or reduced the sentence in 85 percent of the 27,000 serious cases reviewed. The death penalty was rarely imposed, and those cases were for rapes or murders. Slovik was the only soldier executed who had been convicted of a "purely military" offense.- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Brad Edward Budde (born May 9, 1958) is a former American college and professional football player who was an offensive guard in the National Football League (NFL) for seven seasons during the 1980s. Budde played college football for the University of Southern California (USC), and was an All-American and the winner of the Lombardi Award. He was a first-round pick in the 1980 NFL Draft, and played professionally for the NFL's Kansas City Chiefs.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Mary J. Ruwart (born October 16, 1949) is an American retired biomedical researcher and a libertarian speaker, writer, and activist. She was a leading candidate for the 2008 Libertarian Party presidential nomination and is the author of the award-winning Healing Our World.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- John William "Frenchy" Fuqua (born September 12, 1947) is a retired professional American football running back who played from 1969 to 1976, for the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL) and the New York Stars of the World Football League (WFL).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
Tom Yawkey
Dec. at 73 (1903-1976)Thomas Austin Yawkey, born Thomas Yawkey Austin (February 21, 1903 – July 9, 1976), was an American industrialist and Major League Baseball executive. Born in Detroit, Yawkey became president of the Boston Red Sox in 1933 and was the sole owner of the team for 44 seasons, longer than anyone else in baseball history. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980. Yawkey's racism and resistance to baseball's integration have led the modern day Red Sox to distance themselves from his legacy.- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Elvis Mitchell (born December 6, 1958) is an American film critic, host of the public radio show The Treatment, and visiting lecturer at Harvard University. He has served as a film critic for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, the LA Weekly, The Detroit Free Press, and The New York Times. In the summer of 2011, he was appointed as curator of LACMA's new film series, Film Independent at LACMA. He is also currently a Film Scholar and lecturer at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Highland Park, Detroit
- Dennis Foon (born November 18, 1951 in Detroit) is a playwright, producer, screenwriter and novelist. He was artistic director of the Green Thumb Theatre for twelve years, before turning to films and television in 1986. He has written screenplays for many types of drama. In the mid-1990s his personal project Little Criminals became a success in Canada. His novels include The Longlight Legacy trilogy and Skud. Foon was born and raised in Detroit, but has worked and resided in Canada since 1973.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- William David Ford (August 6, 1927 – August 14, 2004) was a U.S. Representative from Michigan.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Carolyn Jean Cheeks Kilpatrick (born June 25, 1945) is an American politician who was U.S. Representative for Michigan's 13th congressional district from 1997 to 2011. She is a member of the Democratic Party. In August 2010 she lost the Democratic primary election. She was replaced by Hansen Clarke in January 2011.The 13th district, which is entirely contained within Wayne County, runs along the Detroit River (which is also the Canada–US border) from the northern county line to the southern line; it includes Grosse Pointe, half of Detroit, and portions of Downriver. Kilpatrick is also the mother of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Dennis Coffey (born November 11, 1940) is an American guitarist. He was a studio musician for many soul and R&B recordings, and is well known for his 1971 Top 10 hit single "Scorpio".
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Character actor Curtis Armstrong is best-known for two continuing roles: the lovelorn operative Herbert Viola on TV's "Moonlighting" (ABC, 1985-89) and Dudley "Booger" Dawson in four "Revenge of the Nerds" movies and TV films. Armstrong began acting in his native Michigan, where he founded his own theater company. By the early 1980s, he was touring with "Da" and appearing in regional theaters around the country.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Kwame Malik Kilpatrick (born June 8, 1970) is an American former politician, having served as a Democratic Michigan state representative and mayor of Detroit from 2002 to 2008. Kilpatrick resigned as mayor in September 2008 after being convicted of perjury and obstruction of justice. He was sentenced to four months in jail and was released on probation after serving 99 days. On May 25, 2010, Kilpatrick was sentenced to eighteen months to five years in state prison for violating his probation, and served time at the Oaks Correctional Facility in northwest Michigan. On March 11, 2013, he was convicted on 24 federal felony counts, including mail fraud, wire fraud, and racketeering. On October 10 of that year, Kilpatrick was sentenced to 28 years in federal prison.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Deborah Lacusta (born March 15, 1958) is an American television writer and actress.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Milton "Bags" Jackson (January 1, 1923 – October 9, 1999) was an American jazz vibraphonist, usually thought of as a bebop player, although he performed in several jazz idioms. He is especially remembered for his cool swinging solos as a member of the Modern Jazz Quartet and his penchant for collaborating with several hard bop and post-bop players. A very expressive player, Jackson differentiated himself from other vibraphonists in his attention to variations on harmonics and rhythm. He was particularly fond of the twelve-bar blues at slow tempos. He preferred to set the vibraphone's oscillator to a low 3.3 revolutions per second (as opposed to Lionel Hampton's speed of 10 revolutions per second) for a more subtle tremolo. On occasion, Jackson sang and played piano professionally.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Jerry N. Uelsmann (born June 11, 1934) is an American photographer and was an early exponent of photomontage in the 20th century in America. His work in darkroom effects foreshadowed the use of Adobe Photoshop to make surrealistic images in the late 20th century, a process led by his ex-wife, Maggie Taylor, at that time. He received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1967, a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in 1972, and the Lucie Award in Fine Art in 2015. He is a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain, a founding member of The Society of Photographic Education.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Thomas Lynch (born 1948 in Detroit, Michigan) is an American poet, essayist, and undertaker.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
Jake Kasdan
Age: 50The son of renowned writer-director Lawrence Kasdan, filmmaker Jake Kasdan laid to rest any potential charges of unearned nepotism with a string of quirky, intelligent and well-regarded feature films. After learning the ropes of the business from his father on such films as "Grand Canyon" (1991), Kasdan made his impressive feature debut as the writer-director of the oddball detective yarn, "Zero Effect" (1998). Work with Judd Apatow on the short-lived cult television series "Freaks & Geeks" (NBC 1999-2000) further honed his comedic sensibilities and paved the way for the theatrical forays "Orange County" (2002) and "The TV Set" (2006). Although consistently praised by reviewers, even Kasdan's more accessible projects, like the music industry biopic spoof "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story" (2007), failed to bring in the crowds. Box office success finally came with the scatological Cameron Diaz comedy "Bad Teacher" (2011), although this time the critics were less amused. Regardless of differing opinions on his individual efforts, the one thing all could agree upon was that his filmmaking talent was not only genetic, but uniquely his own and held great promise.- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Robert Carlton Breer was an experimental filmmaker, painter, and sculptor. "A founding member of the American avant-garde," Breer was best known for his films, which combine abstract and representational painting, hand-drawn rotoscoping, original 16mm and 8mm film footage, photographs, and other materials. His aesthetic philosophy and technique were influenced by an earlier generation of abstract filmmakers that included Hans Richter, Viking Eggeling, Walter Ruttmann, and Fernand Léger, whose work he discovered while living in Europe. Breer was also influenced by the concept of Neo-plasticism as described by Piet Mondrian and Vasarely. After experimenting with cartoon animation as a child, he started making his first abstract experimental films while living in Paris from 1949 to 1959, a period during which he also showed paintings and kinetic sculptures at galleries such as the renowned Galerie Denise René. Breer explained some of the reasons behind his move from painting to filmmaking in a 1976 interview: This was 1950 or '51...
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Daniel Okrent (born April 2, 1948) is an American writer and editor. He is best known for having served as the first public editor of The New York Times newspaper, inventing Rotisserie League Baseball, and for writing several books (such as Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition, which served as a major source for the 2011 Ken Burns/Lynn Novick miniseries Prohibition). In November 2011, Last Call won the Albert J. Beveridge prize, awarded by the American Historical Association to the year's best book of American history.His most recent book, published May 2019, is The Guarded Gate: Bigotry, Eugenics, and the Law That Kept Two Generations of Jews, Italians, and Other European Immigrants Out of America.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- A former child actor who played some leading roles in the 1940s, notably in "For Me and My Gal" (1942) and "We've Never Been Licked" (1943), Quine began his behind-the-camera career in 1948, when he co-directed "Leather Gloves" with William Asher. He went on to direct several fine films in the 1950s, proving himself adept with thrillers ("Pushover" 1954), musicals ("My Sister Eileen" 1955) and comedies ("The Solid Gold Cadillac" 1956). His later output, despite the bigger budgets he was able to command, were generally less satisfactory.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Sixto Diaz Rodriguez (July 10, 1942 – August 8, 2023), known professionally as Rodriguez, was an American singer-songwriter from Detroit, Michigan. His career initially proved short-lived in the United States, but unknown to Rodriguez his albums became extremely successful and influential in South Africa, where he is believed to have sold more records than Elvis Presley. In the 1990s, determined South African fans managed to find and contact Rodriguez, which led to an unexpected revival of his musical career. This was told in the 2012 Academy Award–winning documentary film Searching for Sugar Man and helped give Rodriguez a measure of fame in his home country. In May 2013, Rodriguez received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from his alma mater, Wayne State University, in Detroit.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Producer John Cameron attended Birmingham Groves High School in Birmingham, Michigan. While there, he befriended director Sam Raimi and actor and producer Bruce Campbell. The three of them began working on short films together as teenagers in 1973. Upon finishing high school, he went to study film at New York University. When he completed his education, he connected with Raimi and Campbell again, as well as producer Robert G. Tapert, and acted in a small part in Raimi's first full-length, the quirky horror film "The Evil Dead," which would go on to become a cult hit. Raimi had hired Joel Coen, who was a talented young editor, to assist cutting the film, introducing Cameron to another of his long-time collaborators. In 1985, he acted as second assistant director on another Raimi-directed dark comedy, "Crimewave," which was co-written by the Coens and the director. His first occasion working directly with the Coen brothers was in 1994, when he was first assistant director on their comedy film "The Hudsucker Proxy." He has since enjoyed a fruitful relationship with the duo. Starting with the 1996 dark-comedy crime picture "Fargo," he has co-produced many of their films. He is also the president of their production company, the KL Line. As a result of his relationship with Raimi, Cameron has also directed episodes of the TV shows "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" and "Xena: Warrior Princess."
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Thomas J. Sugrue (born 1962, Detroit, Michigan) is an American historian of the 20th-century United States at New York University. From 1991 to 2015, he was the David Boies Professor of History and Sociology at the University of Pennsylvania and founding director of the Penn Social Science and Policy Forum. His areas of expertise include American urban history, American political history, housing and the history of race relations. He has published extensively on the history of liberalism and conservatism, on housing and real estate, on poverty and public policy, on civil rights, and on the history of affirmative action. His most recent collaboration with Glenda Elizabeth Gilmore, These United States: A Nation in the Making 1890 to the Present, was published in 2015.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Gary Dennis Danielson (born September 10, 1951) is a former professional American football player and a current college football commentator. Danielson was a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). He played for the Detroit Lions from 1976 to 1984 and for the Cleveland Browns in 1985, 1987, and 1988. He is currently working for CBS Sports as a commentator for its college football coverage; he previously held the same position for ABC Sports.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- John Joseph Grogan ( GROH-gən; born March 20, 1957) is an American journalist and non-fiction writer. His memoir Marley & Me (2005) was a best selling book about his family's dog Marley.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Lizzie Andrew Borden (July 19, 1860 – June 1, 1927) was an American woman who was the main suspect in the August 4, 1892, axe murders of her father and stepmother in Fall River, Massachusetts. Borden was tried and acquitted of the murders. The case was a cause célèbre and received widespread newspaper coverage throughout the United States. Following her release from jail, where she was held during the trial, Borden chose to remain a resident of Fall River despite facing ostracism from the other residents. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts elected not to charge anyone else with the murder of Andrew and Abby Borden. Even though the crimes occurred 127 years ago, speculation about the crimes still continues. She spent the remainder of her life in Fall River before dying of pneumonia, aged 66, just days before the death of her sister, Emma. Borden and her association with the murders has remained a topic in American popular culture mythology into the 21st century, and she has been depicted in various films, theatrical productions, literary works, and folk rhymes.
- Birthplace: Fall River, Massachusetts
- Barry Doyle Harris (born December 15, 1929) is an American jazz pianist, bandleader, composer, arranger and educator. He is an exponent of the bebop style.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Anne Fletcher (born May 1, 1966) is an American dancer, actress, choreographer and film director. She is best known for her films Step Up (2006), 27 Dresses (2008) and The Proposal (2009).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Joel Surnow (born December 18, 1955) is an American television writer, producer and director. He is the co-creator of the action series La Femme Nikita and 24.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Brandon Timothy Jackson (born March 7, 1984) is an American stand-up comedian, rapper, actor, and writer. He is known for his roles in the films Roll Bounce (2005), Tropic Thunder (2008), Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010), Lottery Ticket (2010), Big Mommas: Like Father, Like Son (2011), and Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (2013).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Donaldson Toussaint L'Ouverture Byrd II (December 9, 1932 – February 4, 2013) was an American jazz and rhythm & blues trumpeter and vocalist. A sideman for many other jazz musicians of his generation, Byrd was known as one of the rare bebop jazz musicians who successfully explored funk and soul while remaining a jazz artist. As a bandleader, Byrd was an influence on the early career of Herbie Hancock.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- George Stults was a former high school wrestling champ and commercial model. He later took his athletic good looks to television, appearing in numerous guest roles on sitcoms, as well as a five-year stint on the long-running family drama "7th Heaven." It was a path he almost didn't take. Stults initially considered joining the Navy, but with the encouragement of an acting agent, he began auditioning for TV parts. Before his big break on "7th Heaven," as Kevin Kinkirk, the husband of central character Lucy Camden (Beverley Mitchell), the former wrestler played small, guest roles on popular sitcoms such as "Will & Grace" and "Friends." After the cancellation of "7th Heaven" in 2007, Stults worked sporadically in TV and film, earning a role opposite James Kyson-Lee and former pop idol Tiffany in the 2009 thriller "Necrosis."
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Lynn Goldsmith (born February 11, 1948) is an American recording artist, a film director, a celebrity portrait photographer, and one of the first female rock and roll photographers. Lynn's photographs have appeared on the covers and in publications in many countries for the past 50 years. She has done over 100 album covers. In addition to her editorial work, Goldsmith has also focused on fine art photography with conceptual images. Her photographs are in the collections of The Smithsonian among other museums and her 3D videos created in 1982 are in the collection of Moma.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- James Leo Herlihy (; February 27, 1927 – October 21, 1993) was an American novelist, playwright and actor. Herlihy is known for his novels Midnight Cowboy and All Fall Down, and his play Blue Denim, all of which were adapted for cinema. Other publications include The Season of the Witch and several short stories.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Roland Pembroke Hanna (February 10, 1932 – November 13, 2002) was an American jazz pianist, composer, and teacher.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Michael Davis (June 5, 1943 – February 17, 2012) was an American bass guitarist, singer, songwriter and music producer, best known as a member of the MC5.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Scott Campbell is an American musician, composer, and actor.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Detroit
- Diana Lucile Paxson (born February 20, 1943) is an author, primarily in the fields of Paganism and Heathenism. Her published works include fantasy and historical fiction novels, as well as numerous short stories. More recently she has also published books about Pagan and Heathen religions and practices. She is a founder of the Society for Creative Anachronism, where she is known as Diana the Listmaker.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Robert Wayne "Bob" Birch (July 14, 1956 – August 15, 2012) was an American musician. He was primarily a session musician and sideman to a variety of notable artists.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Jacqueline Joan Kim (born March 31, 1965) is an American writer, actress, filmmaker and composer. She was nominated for a FIND Independent Spirit award for Best Supporting Actress in the film Charlotte Sometimes.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Dusky-voiced, elegantly beautiful leading lady of stage, screen and TV who frequently played doomed chanteuses or tragic mulattos. McKee made a highly praised film debut as the drug-addicted lead singer of a Supremes-like pop group in "Sparkle" (1976). She first appeared on Broadway as Rachel (Mrs. Jackie) Robinson in the short-lived musical "The First" (1981) and won a Tony nomination for her portrayal of Julie in the 1983 Houston Grand Opera revival of "Show Boat" (she was reportedly the first black actress to play that role in a major American production).
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Douglas Houghton Campbell (December 19, 1859 – February 24, 1953) was an American botanist and university professor. He was one of the 15 founding professors at Stanford University. His death was described as "the end of an era of a group of great plant morphologists."Campbell was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. His father, James V. Campbell, was a member of the Supreme Court of the state of Michigan and a law professor at the University of Michigan. Douglas Campbell graduated from Detroit High School in 1878, going on to study at the University of Michigan. He studied botany, learning new microscopy techniques, and becoming interested in cryptogramic (deciduous) ferns. He received his master's degree in 1882, and taught botany at Detroit High School while he completed his PhD research. He received his PhD in 1886, then travelled to Germany to learn more microscopy techniques. He developed a technique to embed plant material in paraffin to make fine cross-sections; he was one of the first if not the first to study plant specimens using this technique, which had been newly developed by zoologists. He was also a pioneer in the study of microscopic specimens using vital stains.When Campbell returned to the United States he took up a Professorship at Indiana University (1888 to 1891), writing the textbook Elements of Structural and Systematic Botany. In 1891 he became the founding head of the Botany department at Stanford University and remained at Stanford for the remainder of his career, retiring in 1925. He studied mosses and liverworts, producing The Structure and Development of Mosses and Ferns in 1895. This book, together with its subsequent editions in 1905 and 1918, became the authoritative work on the subject and "firmly established Campbell's reputation as one of the leading botanists of the United States." His Lectures on the Evolution of Plants was published in 1899, and became widely used as a botany textbook. University Textbook of Botany was published in 1902, with fears expressed by colleagues that interest in pure research interest would prejudice its worth being found to be misplaced. He also travelled extensively though the Pacific collecting samples and writing Outline of Plant Geography, published in 1926, about his travels. Campbell was a member of a number of scientific institutions. He was president of the Botanical Society of America in 1913 and was elected to the National Academy of Sciences in 1910. He was a member of the Linnaean Society of London, the Royal Society of Edinburgh, the Deutsche Botanische Gesellschaft, the International Association of Botanists, and the American Philosophical Society.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Kenneth Earl Burrell (born July 31, 1931) is an American jazz guitarist known for his work on the Blue Note label. His collaborations with Jimmy Smith produced the 1965 Billboard Top Twenty hit album Organ Grinder Swing. He has cited jazz guitarists Charlie Christian and Django Reinhardt as influences, along with blues guitarists T-Bone Walker and Muddy Waters.Burrell is a professor and Director of Jazz Studies at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Steven Horwitz (born 7 February 1964) is an American economist of the Austrian School. Horwitz is currently the Distinguished Professor of Free Enterprise in the Department of Economics in the Miller College of Business at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. In 2017, he retired as the Dana Professor of Economics Emeritus at St. Lawrence University.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Hailed as "the quintessential independent," Shaye has masterminded the transformation of a modest homegrown "niche pic" operation into a leading film production and distribution studio over the course of the last 25 years. As the founder, president and chief executive officer of New Line Cinema, Shaye evolved from distributing 16mm foreign and "cult" films on the college and midnight circuit to having 25 projects scheduled for production between 1996 and 1998 at a cost of $520 million. New Line also successfully diversified into various fields including home video and TV programming distribution and launched its own art-film division. Not bad for a company that started out in a Greenwich Village apartment.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
William Boeing
Dec. at 74 (1881-1956)William Edward Boeing (; October 1, 1881 – September 28, 1956) was an American aviation pioneer who founded The Boeing Company in 1916.- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- David Albert DeBusschere (October 16, 1940 – May 14, 2003) was an American professional National Basketball Association player and coach and Major League baseball player. In 1996, DeBusschere was named as one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history. DeBusschere was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan
- Without a doubt, audiences and critics alike appreciate Laurence Rosenthal's work which led to his television work being honored with an Emmy. Rosenthal began his entertainment career with his music featured in films like the dramatic adaptation "A Raisin in the Sun" (1961) with Sidney Poitier, the Anthony Quinn dramatic adaptation "Requiem For a Heavyweight" (1962) and "The Miracle Worker" (1962) with Anne Bancroft. He followed this honor with songs in "Hotel Paradiso" (1966) with Alec Guinness and the Richard Burton dramatic adaptation "The Comedians" (1967). Rosenthal won a Golden Globe Award for "Becket" in 1964. In the seventies, Rosenthal's music continued to appear on the silver screen, including in films like "The Return of a Man Called Horse" (1976) with Richard Harris, the horror feature "The Island of Dr. Moreau" (1977) with Burt Lancaster and the action film "Who'll Stop the Rain?" (1978) with Nick Nolte. His work was also in "Brass Target" (1978). Rosenthal's music was also featured in "Majestic White Horses" (2001), the Shiri Appleby dramatic adaptation "A Time for Dancing" (2002) and the Eddie Murphy comedy "Meet Dave" (2008). Rosenthal most recently appeared on the documentary "Stealing America: Vote by Vote" (2008) with Bob Hagan. Rosenthal won an Outstanding Achievement In Music Composition For a Miniseries or a Special (Dramatic Underscore) Primetime Emmy Award for "Peter the Great" in 1986 as well as an Outstanding Achievement In Music Composition For a Miniseries or a Special (Dramatic Underscore) Primetime Emmy Award for "Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna" in 1987. Rosenthal was nominated for a Best Original Song - Motion Picture Golden Globe Award for "The African Elephant" in 1971 as well as for a Music (Scoring: Adaptation and Original Song Score) Academy Award for "Man of La Mancha" in 1972.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
