8 Kentucky Stars You Probably Didn'T Know Called It Home

Surprising Star Connections to the Bluegrass State

It's a well-known fact that Kentucky has produced some of the finest celebrities like the charming Jennifer Lawrence and the musical sensation Jack Harlow. But beyond the obvious, the state is a hidden goldmine of talent, churning out stars whose origins might just surprise you.

From Country Roots to Hollywood Heights

Billy Ray Cyrus – The Country Legend

Hailing from Flatwoods in Greenup County, Billy Ray Cyrus is a name synonymous with country music classics like "Achy Breaky Heart." With two Grammy Awards to his name, thanks in part to his hit "Old Town Road" with Lil Nas X, this Kentucky native was inducted into the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame in 2018.

Reality Meets Daytime Drama with Chrishell Stause

If "Selling Sunset" is your guilty pleasure, you've already met Draffenville's own Chrishell Stause. From reality TV royalty to soap opera star, Stause has graced shows like "Days of Our Lives" and "The Young and the Restless."

From the Basketball Court to the Silver Screen

D'Angelo Russell – Louisville's NBA Star

Louisville native D'Angelo Russell dribbled his way to fame as a leading player for the Los Angeles Lakers. Off the court, he's giving back through the D’Angelo Russell Foundation, recently donating $100,000 to uplift Algonquin Park.

George Clooney – A Hollywood Icon with Kentucky Roots

Before he became a global star, George Clooney was just a boy from Lexington. With Academy Awards for "Syriana" and "Argo," he's also got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. And if that isn't enough Kentucky connection, Clooney is the nephew of Maysville-born singer Rosemary Clooney.

From Pirates to Hunger Games

Johnny Depp – The Owensboro Origin

Known for roles in "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Edward Scissorhands," Johnny Depp's journey began in Owensboro. His eclectic film career has made him a household name worldwide.

Josh Hutcherson – From Union to the Big Screen

Union native Josh Hutcherson has been acting since childhood, with breakout roles in "Little Manhattan" and the "Hunger Games" franchise. Most recently, he's scared up audiences in "Five Nights at Freddy's."

From the Game Room to the Hall of Fame

Marisha Ray – The Voice and Vision

A true Louisville gem, Marisha Ray shines in television and streaming, known for "Critical Role" and its animated spin-off. "I am an actor, host, stunt performer, and all-around nerd," Ray proudly shares on her website.

Rajon Rondo – Kentucky's Dual Basketball Legacy

Louisville's Rajon Rondo not only wowed as a University of Kentucky Wildcat, but he also holds a place in the UK Athletics Hall of Fame. He's since expanded his talent across the NBA, playing for teams like the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers.

From basketball legends to Hollywood icons, these Kentucky-born celebrities remind us that greatness often has humble beginnings in the heart of America.