Famous People from New Jersey You Should Know

From the bright lights of Hollywood, most notably multi-award winning actors like Meryl Streep, to the electrifying beats of rock ‘n’ roll as evidenced by the most famous music legend ever to hail from New Jersey, Bruce Springsteen, New Jersey has undoubtedly produced an impressive roster of celebrities who have left their mark on the world. These famous New Jerseyans were not only able to achieve global fame - they also maintained a strong connection to their roots, often paying homage to their home state through their art, philanthropy, and public appearances. Let’s now take a closer look at some of these remarkable individuals - and how their ties to New Jersey have shaped their journeys and contributions to the world at large.

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1. Bruce Springsteen: The Boss

Few names are as synonymous with New Jersey as Bruce Springsteen. Born in Long Branch under the name Bruce Frederick Joseph Springsteen and raised in Freehold, Springsteen has become a global rock icon with a career spanning decades. His music, which is deeply rooted in the working-class culture of middle America, often paints vivid portraits of life in the small towns of the USA - with New Jersey, of course, frequently serving as his muse.

Springsteen’s landmark album Born to Run features hits like Thunder Road and Jungleland, which summarize the struggles and dreams of the everyday American. But it wasn’t until Springsteen released Born in the USA that he saw his star rise to the very top. But as he rose to fame, Springsteen never forgot his New Jersey roots. The iconic Asbury Park boardwalk and Stone Pony nightclub served as the breeding ground for his career, and they remain symbols of his enduring connection to the state. Today, fans from all over the world flock to Asbury Park to experience the places that inspired "The Boss." Springsteen’s legacy has also extended to philanthropy, as he has supported numerous New Jersey charities, including food banks and housing initiatives in the state.

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2. Frank Sinatra: The voice of a generation

Another equally legendary figure born in New Jersey is Frank Sinatra. Born in Hoboken in 1915 to Italian immigrants, Sinatra’s journey from a small-town boy to one of the most celebrated entertainers of all time is nothing short of extraordinary. Widely known as “Ol’ Blue Eyes,” Sinatra dominated the music and film industries for decades, winning multiple Grammy and Academy Awards – and he also had early ties to Las Vegas, becoming one of the pioneer musicians who established residencies on the Vegas Strip.

Hoboken, the place of his birth, has embraced Sinatra’s legacy, with landmarks like the Frank Sinatra Park, where a bronze statue commemorates him, and the Hoboken Historical Museum, where a permanent exhibit celebrates his life and achievements. His music, including classics like “My Way” and “New York, New York,” continues to resonate across multiple generations. Sinatra’s career not only brought prestige to New Jersey – it also showcased the state’s ability to nurture world-class talent.

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3. Whitney Houston: A voice for the ages

Whitney Houston, widely regarded as one of the greatest talents and vocalists in history, was born in Newark and grew up in East Orange. With a voice that could move mountains, Houston achieved monumental success with hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “Greatest Love of All.” Her groundbreaking achievements include becoming the first artist to have seven consecutive No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hits.

Houston’s connection to New Jersey was deeply personal. Her upbringing was in a gospel-rich household, with a mother who was a well-known gospel singer. This laid the foundation for her incredible career that gave her many awards and outstanding hits and accolades – in 2013, she was even inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame. Houston’s contributions to her hometown include charitable efforts through the Whitney Houston Foundation for Children, which supported education and other initiatives for the youth. Her elementary school, the Franklin School in East Orange, NJ, was renamed the Whitney E. Houston Academy of Creative & Performing Arts. In December of 2023, the New Jersey Hall of Fame even unveiled a new area on the Garden State Parkway, the Whitney Houston Service Area, in honor of her life and career. Even after her untimely passing, her legacy continues to inspire new generations in Newark and beyond.

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4. Jon Bon Jovi, from Sayreville to unparalleled stardom

Jon Bon Jovi, born Jon Francis Bongiovi Jr. in Perth Amboy and raised in Sayreville, is another New Jersey native who achieved global superstardom. As the frontman of Bon Jovi, he’s delivered chart-topping hits like “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Wanted Dead or Alive.” The band’s blue-collar vibe and arena rock anthems resonate with fans worldwide, many of whom recognize the influence of New Jersey on Bon Jovi’s music.

Bon Jovi has always been proud of his New Jersey roots. He has supported numerous local causes, including opening the JBJ Soul Kitchen, a nonprofit community restaurant located in Red Bank followed by succeeding locations in Toms River and New Jersey City University that help fight food insecurity. His efforts showcase his dedication to giving back to the state that shaped him and helped make him into who he is today.

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5. Meryl Streep: The timeless queen of Hollywood

Meryl Streep, widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time, hails from Summit, New Jersey. In an interview as a prelude to being inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in late 2024, she said that her “dreams were born in New Jersey” and that her imagination “was nurtured in (New Jersey’s) public schools, and for that, I am very, very grateful.” With a record-breaking number of Academy Award nominations, Streep has delivered unforgettable performances in films like The Devil Wears Prada, Sophie’s Choice, and Kramer vs. Kramer.

Streep’s New Jersey upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping her career. Born Mary Louise Streep in 1949, she often credits her education at Bernards High School in Bernardsville and her experiences in local theater productions for igniting her passion for acting. And although she’s a global superstar, Streep has remained grounded, frequently visiting her hometown and supporting arts initiatives in the state.

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6. Queen Latifah: A multifaceted star

Dana Elaine Owens, better known as Queen Latifah, was born in Newark and grew up in East Orange. As a rapper, singer, actress, and producer, Queen Latifah has broken barriers in multiple industries. From her Grammy-winning music career to her acclaimed acting roles in films like Chicago and Hairspray, she has become a pioneer for African-American women in entertainment.

Queen Latifah’s impact on New Jersey extends beyond her artistic achievements. She has supported numerous community programs in Newark, including initiatives for youth empowerment and housing. Her pride in her New Jersey roots is evident in her public speeches and philanthropic work. She once said that “growing up in New Jersey prepares you for whatever you might encounter outside in the world,” and it has made her unafraid to go to different places and try new things.

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Other notable New Jerseyans

While these stars have dominated headlines, New Jersey boasts a long list of other notable figures across various fields:

Shaquille O’Neal: The 7’1” basketball legend was born in Newark and has invested in revitalizing his hometown through real estate projects and community centers. He was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2009, and he has given credit to the Boys & Girls Club of America, located in Newark, for keeping him off the streets and giving him a safe place to stay.
Paul Rudd: The beloved actor, known for his roles in Ant-Man and Clueless, was born in Passaic and frequently mentions his New Jersey upbringing. He was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame last 2024, along with Meryl Streep and 17 other celebrities, including Phil Simms (NY Giants quarterback) and Kevin Smith, the actor and director. Rudd’s wife is also a New Jersey native.
Jack Nicholson: Jack Nicholson, or John Joseph Nicholson, was born and raised in Neptune City and attended Manasquan High School in Monmouth County, NJ, where he was voted the ‘class clown’ – and a theater and acting award in the school are designated in his honor. Nicholson’s illustrious acting career includes three Academy Awards and starring roles in numerous iconic films – including The Shining and One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.
Danny DeVito: Born in Neptune Township and raised in Asbury Park, DeVito has had a prolific career in both acting and producing, with hits like It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Matilda.

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New Jersey’s ongoing influence

The contributions of these famous New Jerseyans extend far beyond their individual careers and achievements. They have collectively helped to shape and reshape the state’s cultural identity - proving time and again that New Jersey is a wellspring of talent and creativity. Many of these stars have even used their platforms to give back to their communities, creating a legacy that continues to inspire New Jersey residents and fans all over the world.

New Jersey’s unique blend of urban landscapes, small-town charm, and diverse communities has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in nurturing these iconic figures. Whether it’s through music, film, sports, or philanthropy, these celebrities have carried the spirit of New Jersey onto the global stage, ensuring that the Garden State’s contributions to culture and art will never be overlooked.