Famous American Entertainers

Robert William Barker was an American media personality known for hosting CBS's The Price Is Right, the longest-running game show in North American television history, from 1972 to 2007. Prior to this, he hosted Truth or Consequences from 1956 to 1975. Barker started his broadcasting career in radio before moving to California in 1950 to pursue it further. He became a prominent advocate for animal rights and activism, supporting various organizations. Barker retired from television in 2007 after a 50-year career, remaining a pop culture icon.

Evel Knievel was an American stunt performer known for attempting more than 75 ramp-to-ramp motorcycle jumps. He gained fame for his daredevil career, breaking records and bones along the way. Knievel's most famous stunts included jumping the fountains at Caesars Palace and attempting to jump the Grand Canyon. He capitalized on his image through endorsements and marketing deals, becoming a legendary figure in the world of daredevil stunts. Despite facing setbacks and legal issues, Knievel continued to be involved in various ventures and made a marketing comeback in the 1990s.

Gypsy Rose Lee was a multifaceted American entertainer known for her burlesque performances, acting roles, and literary contributions. She gained fame for her iconic striptease act, which showcased her wit and charm. Lee's 1957 memoir served as the basis for the popular stage musical "Gypsy," further solidifying her legacy in the entertainment industry. Beyond her work on stage, she also delved into writing, acting, and playwriting, leaving a lasting impact on the world of performance arts.

George M. Cohan was a prolific American entertainer, playwright, composer, lyricist, actor, singer, dancer, and theatrical producer. He made significant contributions to American musical theatre by writing, composing, producing, and appearing in over three dozen Broadway musicals. Cohan wrote more than 50 shows and published over 300 songs during his lifetime, including iconic pieces like "Over There," "Give My Regards to Broadway," "The Yankee Doodle Boy," and "You're a Grand Old Flag." Known as "the man who owned Broadway," he is considered the father of American musical comedy.

Jaina Lee Ortiz is an accomplished American actress and dancer. She gained recognition for her role as Detective Annalise Villa on the Fox series Rosewood from 2015 to 2017. Following this success, she went on to star as the lead in the ABC drama series Station 19 from 2018 to 2024. Ortiz has showcased her talent and versatility in portraying complex characters on popular television shows, earning praise for her performances and solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Chang Bunker was a Siamese (Thai)-American conjoined twin who, along with his brother Eng, became famous worldwide as "Siamese twins." They were exhibited as curiosities in freak shows, captivating American and European audiences. Initially managed by others, they later toured independently, showcasing their athleticism and engaging in dignified conversations. After a successful decade of touring, they settled in North Carolina, becoming American citizens and starting families. Their professional life was marked by financial success, challenges post-Civil War, and ultimately, a shared fate in death.

James A. Bailey was an American circus owner and manager known for his involvement in The Barnum and Bailey Greatest Show on Earth. He played a key role in the success of several 19th-century circuses, contributing to their growth and popularity. Bailey's managerial skills and business acumen helped elevate the circus industry, leading to innovative performances and increased public interest. His collaboration with P.T. Barnum resulted in one of the most famous and successful circus ventures in history, solidifying his legacy in the entertainment world.

Adrian Cronauer was a United States Air Force Sergeant and radio personality known for his innovative work as a disc jockey on the American Forces Network during the Vietnam War. His unique and engaging style inspired the 1987 film "Good Morning, Vietnam," in which Robin Williams portrayed Cronauer. Through his on-air presence, Cronauer brought humor and entertainment to troops serving in Vietnam, making a significant impact on their morale during a challenging and tumultuous time in history.

Don Ho was a renowned Hawaiian traditional pop musician, singer, and entertainer. He gained widespread recognition for his hit song "Tiny Bubbles" from the album of the same name. Throughout his career, Don Ho captivated audiences with his smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence, becoming a beloved figure in the music industry. He was known for blending traditional Hawaiian music with contemporary pop influences, creating a unique and captivating sound that resonated with listeners worldwide.

Lisa Marie Joyner is an American entertainment reporter and television host who has reported on celebrity news in the Los Angeles area for KTTV and KCBS-TV. She gained national recognition for her InFANity segments on the TV Guide Network. Joyner is both an adoptive parent and an adoptee, having searched for and found her birth family in her 30s. She co-hosted the US version of Find My Family on ABC and currently co-hosts Long Lost Family on TLC with Chris Jacobs.

Rick Dees is a versatile American entertainer with a successful career spanning various fields. He is best known for hosting the internationally syndicated radio show The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown and for his hit satirical song "Disco Duck". Dees has received accolades such as the People's Choice Award and a Grammy nomination. He is a member of the Broadcast Hall of Fame and has contributed to the entertainment industry through his work in radio, television, music, and voice acting.

Arthur Godfrey was a prominent American radio and television broadcaster and entertainer known for his extensive presence on CBS in the early to mid-1950s. He hosted multiple popular programs such as Arthur Godfrey Time, Arthur Godfrey's Talent Scouts, and Arthur Godfrey and His Friends. Godfrey's career took a hit after the controversial firing of Julius La Rosa in 1953, leading to a decline in popularity. Despite being fiercely competitive and firing multiple cast and crew members, Godfrey remained strongly associated with sponsors like Chesterfield cigarettes and Lipton Tea.

Dolores Hope was an accomplished American singer, entertainer, and philanthropist. She gained recognition for her musical talents and captivating performances. Dolores had a successful career in the entertainment industry, showcasing her vocal abilities on various platforms. She was known for her charitable work and dedication to helping others through philanthropic endeavors. As the wife of renowned actor and comedian Bob Hope, she also played a significant role in supporting her husband's career and contributing to their shared legacy in the world of entertainment.

Hank the Angry Drunken Dwarf, also known as Henry Joseph Nasiff Jr., was an American entertainer who gained fame through his appearances on The Howard Stern Show and E! channel segments. He was a member of the show's Wack Pack and became a popular figure for his unique personality and humor. Hank's career began in 1996 when he entered Stern's studio in New York City. He received widespread media attention in 1998 when he unexpectedly won an online poll for the most beautiful person in the world, showcasing his unexpected popularity and impact on pop culture.

Wavy Gravy, born Hugh Nanton Romney Jr., is an American entertainer and peace activist known for his involvement in Woodstock and his countercultural beliefs. He has founded several organizations, including the Hog Farm commune, Camp Winnarainbow, and the Seva Foundation. In the 1960s, he established the Phurst Church of Phun, a group of comics and clowns advocating for the end of the Vietnam War through political theater. As Wavy Gravy, he incorporates a clown persona into his political activism and entertainment work, and has served as the official clown of the Grateful Dead. He has hosted radio shows on Sirius Satellite Radio and was the subject of the documentary "Saint Misbehavin': The Wavy Gravy Movie." Wavy Gravy received the Kate Wolf Memorial Award in 1992.

Louise Mandrell is an accomplished American country music singer known for her successful career in the music industry. She gained recognition for her string of hits in the 1980s, solidifying her place in the country music scene. Mandrell's talent and dedication to her craft led to a fruitful singing career in the 1970s and beyond. Her contributions to country music have left a lasting impact on the industry, earning her a reputation as a respected and talented artist.

Bert Williams was a pioneering Bahamian-born American entertainer during the vaudeville era, known for his comedic talent and popularity across diverse audiences. He made significant contributions to African-American entertainment, breaking racial barriers by taking lead roles on Broadway and becoming the best-selling Black recording artist before 1920. Credited as a key figure in the development of Black themes in independent American cinema, Williams was praised as one of the world's greatest comedians and admired by contemporaries for his unique blend of humor and pathos.

Earl Nightingale was an influential American radio speaker and author known for his work on human character development, motivation, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence. In the early 1950s, he was the voice of Sky King in a popular radio adventure series and hosted a program on WGN radio from 1950 to 1956. Nightingale is best known for his book, The Strangest Secret, which is considered one of the greatest motivational books of all time by economist Terry Savage.

Clyde Beatty began his career in the circus industry as a cage boy in 1921 and steadily climbed the ranks to become a renowned animal trainer and circus owner. Over the course of four decades, Beatty gained international fame for his daring performances and exceptional skills in working with wild animals. He established his own circus, the Clyde Beatty Circus, in 1945, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in the world of circus entertainment. His legacy as a circus mogul and animal trainer remains influential to this day.

Frank Lentini was a renowned Italian-American sideshow performer with three legs, born with a conjoined twin. He toured with various circuses, captivating audiences with his unique physical appearance. Lentini's exceptional talent and showmanship made him a popular attraction, drawing crowds wherever he performed. His remarkable physical condition and ability to entertain and engage spectators set him apart as a memorable figure in the world of circus and sideshow entertainment during his time.

General Tom Thumb, born Charles Sherwood Stratton, was a renowned American performer with dwarfism who gained immense popularity under circus pioneer P. T. Barnum. His stage name became synonymous with entertainment, and he captivated audiences worldwide with his remarkable talents. Tom Thumb's career flourished as he showcased his unique skills and charisma, becoming a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry. Through his collaboration with P. T. Barnum, he became a household name and left a lasting legacy as a beloved and iconic performer.

Roy Horn was a German actor and illusionist known for his partnership with Siegfried Fischbacher in the famous duo "Siegfried & Roy" in Las Vegas. Together, they captivated audiences with extravagant costumes and performances featuring tigers, elephants, and snakes. Their debut in Las Vegas occurred in the late 1960s, establishing them as one of the most renowned acts in the entertainment industry. Despite a life-threatening incident in 2003 involving a tiger during a show, Horn continued to showcase his remarkable talents until his passing in 2020.

Sahara Davenport, born Antoine Ashley, was a prominent figure in the world of drag entertainment. Known for her talent as a singer, classically trained dancer, and reality TV personality, she gained widespread recognition as a contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race. With a successful career in drag performance, Sahara Davenport showcased her artistry and creativity on various platforms, leaving a lasting impact on the drag community and fans alike. Her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated and remembered.

Peter Lind Hayes was a versatile American performer known for his work in vaudeville, film, and television. With a career spanning several decades, he entertained audiences with his charismatic presence and comedic timing. Hayes showcased his talents on stage, in movies, and on various TV shows, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. As a vaudeville entertainer, film actor, and television personality, Hayes carved out a successful professional life filled with laughter and memorable performances.

Manny Puig is a renowned wildlife entertainer with a fearless reputation for engaging with dangerous animals such as sharks, black bears, and American alligators. He has been featured on popular television shows like Jackass, Wildboyz, and Gator Boys, showcasing his daring encounters with wildlife. Puig is also recognized for his role as the host of Outdoor Channel's "Savage Wild" and has made appearances on documentaries as an animal expert. He has shared his expertise on platforms like Late Night with Conan O'Brien and Shark Week, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the wildlife entertainment industry.

Elisabeth Welch was a renowned American singer, actress, and entertainer with a career spanning seven decades. She gained fame for her exceptional performances of hit songs such as "Stormy Weather", "Love for Sale", and "Far Away in Shanty Town". Although American-born, Welch spent the majority of her career in Britain, where she captivated audiences with her powerful vocals and charismatic presence. Throughout her professional life, she left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with her talent and versatility.

Dan Emmett was an American composer and entertainer known for founding the Virginia Minstrels, the first troupe of the blackface minstrel tradition. He is most famous for composing the song "Dixie," which became a popular anthem of the American South. Emmett's career was defined by his contributions to minstrelsy, a form of entertainment that incorporated music, comedy, and dance. Through his work with the Virginia Minstrels and his iconic songwriting, Emmett left a lasting impact on American music history.

Lotta Crabtree, also known as Lotta, was an American actress, entertainer, comedian, and philanthropist. Raised in the gold mining hills of Northern California, she gained fame as a child performer and became one of the wealthiest and most beloved American entertainers of the late 19th century. From a young age, she captivated audiences and earned the title "The Nation's Darling." Her life story was later depicted in the film Golden Girl (1951), showcasing her remarkable career and enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.

Gunther Gebel-Williams was a renowned animal trainer known for his work with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1968 to 1990. He was celebrated for his exceptional ability to train and perform with a wide range of animals, including elephants, tigers, lions, and horses. His captivating performances captivated audiences worldwide with his daring stunts and close interactions with the animals. Gebel-Williams' innovative training methods and dedication to his craft established him as one of the most influential and respected animal trainers in the circus industry.

Jakob Gerlich, known professionally as Jackie Gerlich, was an Austrian-born American actor and circus entertainer with dwarfism. He began his career in the entertainment industry as a circus performer, captivating audiences with his unique talents and charismatic stage presence. Gerlich later transitioned to acting, appearing in various film and television productions where he showcased his versatility and skill as a performer. Throughout his professional life, Jackie Gerlich left a lasting impact on both the circus and entertainment worlds with his remarkable contributions.

Georgia Frontiere was an American businesswoman and entertainer who served as the majority owner and chairperson of the St. Louis Rams NFL team for nearly three decades. During her tenure, the Rams achieved significant success, making the playoffs 14 seasons, playing in 25 postseason games, winning 13 postseason games, reaching the Super Bowl three times, and winning the championship game in the 1999 season. Frontiere's dedication to the team earned her the nickname "Madame Ram." She was also known for her philanthropic efforts, creating the St. Louis Rams Foundation and supporting various charitable organizations.

Ermenegildo "Jilly" Rizzo was a prominent American restaurateur and entertainer known for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He gained recognition for owning and managing well-known establishments frequented by celebrities, establishing himself as a key figure in New York City's social scene. Rizzo's charisma and connections allowed him to develop strong relationships with various entertainers and public figures, further solidifying his reputation as a successful businessman and socialite in the world of entertainment.

Daniela Rajic is a former American stripper, dancer, and model, best known for her involvement with NBA player Paul George. She co-owns a swimwear line with the fiancée of one of Paul's teammates. Daniela's professional life has been marked by her work as a dancer and stripper at the infamous 'Tootsies' strip club. Despite personal challenges, she has navigated a career in the entertainment industry and fashion world, showcasing her entrepreneurial skills through her swimwear business.

Jennifer Miller is an accomplished American circus entertainer, writer, and professor at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. Known for living with a beard, she is a talented juggler and fire eater. Her professional life revolves around performing in various circus acts, captivating audiences with her unique skills. Additionally, she shares her knowledge and expertise as a professor at Pratt Institute, enriching the lives of her students. Miller's presence in the circus world and academia in New York City highlights her diverse and inspiring professional endeavors.

David Barry Brudnoy was an influential American talk radio host known for his libertarian views and courteous manner in discussing political issues. Hosting a radio talk show on WBZ radio from 1976 to 2004, he gained a significant following across the United States and Canada due to WBZ's widespread broadcast signal reach. Brudnoy's articulate and respectful approach to discussing various political topics made him a respected figure in the world of talk radio. His professional career was tragically cut short by Merkel cell carcinoma, which eventually spread to his lungs and kidneys, leading to his untimely passing.

Bil Baird was a prominent American puppeteer of the mid- and late 20th century. He gained recognition for his puppetry performances, captivating audiences of both adults and children. One of his notable creations was Charlemane the lion. Baird's work extended to film, where he and his wife produced and performed famous puppet sequences, including for "The Lonely Goatherd" in The Sound of Music. He authored The Art of the Puppet and contributed puppetry to various projects, such as Dark Shadows and a musical adaptation of Pinocchio.

Lillian Frances Smith was an American trick shooter and trick rider who began her professional career at the age of fourteen with Buffalo Bill's Wild West. She was known as "the champion California huntress" and was a direct competitor to the famous Annie Oakley in the show. Smith's skills as a sharpshooter and rider made her a standout performer, captivating audiences with her daring and precision. Throughout her career, she gained recognition for her talent and became a respected figure in the world of entertainment.

Frank DeCaro is an accomplished American writer, performer, and talk radio host. He gained recognition for his contributions to The Daily Show as a contributor from 1996 to 2003. He further solidified his presence in the industry by hosting The Frank DeCaro Show from 2004 to 2016, a live daily radio show on SIRIUS XM OutQ 106. In April 2019, he released a book titled Drag: Combing Through the Big Wigs of Show Business, focusing on the history of drag queens, showcasing his diverse talents and interests.

Robert Orben was a versatile American professional known for his work as a comedy writer, magician, and political speechwriter. He gained fame for his witty one-liners and gags, which were featured in his newsletter, Orben's Current Comedy, as well as in numerous books. Transitioning into politics, Orben served as the head speechwriter for Vice President Gerald R. Ford in 1973. His writing talents spanned various genres, from comedy to magic, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment and political spheres.

Joe Weber was an American vaudeville performer known for forming the comedy double-act of Weber and Fields with Lew Fields. Together, they became a successful duo in the entertainment industry, performing in various venues and gaining popularity for their comedic routines. Weber's stage presence, comedic timing, and ability to connect with audiences made him a standout performer. His collaboration with Lew Fields resulted in numerous successful performances and contributed to the duo's lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

Henry Doyle Haynes was an American comedy entertainer and musician known for his work as a country and jazz guitarist. Alongside Kenneth C. Burns, he formed the duo Homer and Jethro, which gained fame on radio and television. They recorded over 50 albums together, won a Grammy for best comedy performance in 1959, and were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001. Haynes served in the US Army during World War II and continued his successful career in music until his passing in 1971.

Gilbert R. Spaulding was a pioneering American innovator, showman, and circus owner known for his groundbreaking contributions to the entertainment industry. He made history as the first person to own a showboat and to utilize his own railroad cars to transport an entire circus on tour in 1856. Throughout his career, Spaulding attracted renowned performers like Dan Rice to work with him, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the world of entertainment and circus production.

Dan Rice was an American entertainer known for his diverse talents, most notably as a clown, before the American Civil War. He achieved widespread fame and recognition, becoming a household name at the peak of his career. Rice coined terms like "One Horse Show" and "Greatest Show" and popularized the barrel-style "French" cuff. He played a significant role in shaping the new American mass culture arising from the Industrial Revolution. His bid for the presidency in 1868 and subsequent decline in fame reflect the changing circus landscape and cultural shifts post-Civil War.