The Dallas /Fort Worth area of Texas is filled with celebrities, businesses owned by celebrities, and rich cultured life experiences. This portion of Texas is far removed from the Hollywood scene, but many of the people you would expect to see in Hollywood can be found at local watering holes, restaurants, and shopping centers in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
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Celebrities Living in Texas
The following is a fraction of the notable celebrities who call Texas home. You know the stars at night are big and bright; deep in the heart of Texas.
Emmitt Smith
Emmitt Smith holds the record for being an all-time leading rusher while playing for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL. Of course, we all know that Emmitt went on to do other things like two seasons of Dancing with the Stars. But he will live on in our memories as being one of the greatest of the Dallas Cowboys.
Emmitt makes his home in Dallas, Texas and he shares that home with his beautiful wife Pat. Together Emmitt and Pat have five children. Emmitt Smith lives a faith led life, and is very proud of his faith according to an interview he did with Channel 21 News in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. (1)
Also read: Dallas County, Texas
Troy Aikman
You really cannot talk about the Dallas Cowboys or celebrities that live in Dallas, Texas without the name Troy Aikman coming up. Troy Aikman was the star quarterback on the Dallas Cowboy football team from 1989 until 2000.
During that time he won three Super Bowl championship games, was in the pro bowl six times, was the most valuable player at a Super Bowl game once, and received the Dallas Cowboy ring of honor. (2)
Troy Aikman is definitely one of the most memorable Dallas Cowboy quarterbacks. He was great when he was throwing the ball and now he makes a living as a sports announcer, and he is great at that job too. People like his friendly and inviting tone, but he is from Texas so we knew he would be friendly, that is a Texas thing, ya’ll.
Also read: How Much Does A Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader Make
Troy Aikman made a name for himself playing for the Cowboys, and he made a home in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, where he raised two daughters, Ashley and Alexa.
Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson was born in Texas. He has maintained a home in Dallas and a home in Hawaii and he splits his time between the two locations. Willie Nelson is a famous country singer, an actor, and he is also famous for being a “bad” boy who does not always pay his taxes, and who has been known to partake in marijuana and other recreational substances.
Texans are not judgmental and they simply love Willie because he is entertaining, and he believes and everyone letting everyone else live their lives according to their own dreams and desires.
Willie has been performing and entertaining people since he was only five years old back in 1938. At five his first performance was a poem recitation. Little Willie was very nervous before he went on stage so he picked his nose until it started to bleed. He was later given the nickname “Booger Red” because of this. (3)
Also read: Moving to Dallas Texas Pros and Cons
Tracy Byrd
Tracy Byrd has a list of hit country songs that is as long as your arm. This singer was born in Texas and attended High School in the small Texas town of Vidor. After High School Byrd went to Lamar College located in Beaumont, Texas.
He was discovered to have amazing singing talents when one of his friends coaxed him into recording the song “Your Cheating Heart” (originally performed by Hank Williams) at a local recording studio in Parkdale Mall. The owner of the studio recognized the talent and entered the recording into a local relent competition that got Byrd the attention of MCA Records, and the rest is history.
Byrd lives in Beaumont, Texas with his wife and family. They own a small store in Beaumont called Kitchen Concepts. The store sells everything (except large appliances) that you could need or want to have in your kitchen. (4)
Also read: Texas Universities: Academic Diversity and Cultural Heritage
Tracy Byrd
Born in Vidor, Texas, Tracy Byrd made significant waves in the country music scene in the ’90s with hits like “Holdin’ Heaven” and “The Keeper of the Stars.” Although not originally from Dallas, Byrd has spent a considerable amount of time there, absorbing the vibrant culture and atmosphere of the city. Known for his soulful voice and poignant lyrics, Byrd has always represented the essence of southern charm and hospitality, qualities that Dallas embodies. Living in Dallas allows Byrd to stay rooted in his Texan heritage while enjoying the amenities of one of Texas’s most bustling cities.
Erykah Badu
Often hailed as the “Queen of Neo-Soul,” Erykah Badu is a proud Dallas native. Growing up in the city’s dynamic neighborhoods, Badu’s unique style and sound were undoubtedly shaped by Dallas’s rich cultural tapestry. With classics like “On & On” and “Bag Lady,” she has always infused her music with reflections of her hometown experiences. Apart from her musical contributions, Badu actively engages with the Dallas community, continuously giving back and remaining a beacon of the city’s artistic spirit.
Demi Lovato
A powerhouse in the music industry, Demi Lovato’s roots trace back to Dallas. Born and raised in the city, the pop sensation started their journey by performing at local events and talent shows. Dallas served as the backdrop for the early years of Lovato’s life, shaping their perspective and artistic voice. Their chart-topping hits and candid openness about personal struggles resonate with fans globally. Though Lovato has traveled the world over, Dallas remains an integral part of their story, representing a place of origin, growth, and unwavering support.
Also read: List Of Celebrities That Live In San Antonio
Matthew McConaughey
Born in Uvalde, Texas, Matthew McConaughey’s southern charm is synonymous with his Texan roots. His acclaimed roles, from the philosophical detective in “True Detective” to his Oscar-winning portrayal in “Dallas Buyers Club,” often showcase this charm.
While the actor is deeply associated with Austin having graduated from the University of Texas there he has frequently been spotted in Dallas, attending events, premieres, and supporting local businesses. Dallas, with its rich arts scene, likely resonates with McConaughey, who’s known to value the authenticity and depth of characters.
Elon Musk
Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, has grown increasingly fond of Texas. While he’s initiated expansive projects like the Gigafactory near Austin, Dallas has drawn his attention for personal visits and potential business endeavors. The city, being a major urban center with a robust economic landscape, offers the kind of entrepreneurial spirit Musk gravitates towards.
With Texas being more conducive to some of his ambitious projects and given the state’s business-friendly policies, Dallas could be an important pin on his map. Furthermore, Musk’s ventures into transport innovation might see synergies with Dallas’s sprawling infrastructure.
Scott Eastwood
The son of legendary actor-director Clint Eastwood, Scott Eastwood had colossal shoes to fill. He has, however, managed to carve an identity for himself, especially with roles in films like “The Longest Ride” and “Pacific Rim: Uprising.” While his Hollywood endeavors keep him on the west coast often, Dallas offers an escape from the limelight a place to reconnect with real-world roots. The city, known for its genuine warmth and grounded sensibilities, is likely a refreshing contrast to the glamorous life of Hollywood, offering Eastwood a balanced perspective.
Also read: Denton County, Texas
Chris Harrison
Chris Harrison, through his iconic stint as the host of “The Bachelor” and its spinoffs, has become synonymous with reality television romance. Behind the scenes, Dallas plays a significant role in grounding him. Born in Dallas, he has deep ties to the city, and despite his globe-trotting filming schedules, he returns to find solace and connection.
Harrison’s presence is felt in the community he’s often seen supporting local businesses, attending events, and investing in local initiatives. The charm of Dallas, coupled with its community spirit, might be the perfect antidote to the dramatic world of reality TV for Harrison.
George W. Bush
After serving as both the Governor of Texas and the 43rd president of the United States, George W. Bush’s return to Dallas was like a homecoming. He and former First Lady Laura Bush chose the serene Preston Hollow neighborhood for their residence. Beyond his political life, Bush’s post-presidential years in Dallas have seen him taking up painting, participating in local events, and spearheading initiatives through the George W. Bush Presidential Center. The city has offered him a quieter, yet still impactful, platform to continue his service, emphasizing education, public health, and global outreach.
Also read: Tips To Encourage Relaxation in Texas
Angie Harmon
Angie Harmon’s captivating performances in TV series like “Rizzoli & Isles” and “Law & Order” have made her a recognized face on television. Born and raised in Dallas, the city’s culture and values are embedded in her. Harmon’s connection to Dallas goes beyond just her birthplace she often reminisces about her Texan upbringing, which she believes played a role in shaping her grounded personality. Dallas, for Harmon, represents family, tradition, and an authentic connection to her roots. Whether attending local events or supporting causes close to her heart, her presence is a testament to her deep bond with the city.
Mark Cuban
As a business magnate, Mark Cuban’s association with Dallas is profound. Owner of the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks, Cuban’s influence is felt not only in the sports arena but also in the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. His investments, often showcased on “Shark Tank,” have catapulted many Dallas-based businesses into success. Cuban’s commitment to Dallas extends to his philanthropic endeavors. Through the Mark Cuban Foundation, he’s championed causes in the city, from education to healthcare. His outspoken nature combined with his business acumen makes him a defining figure in Dallas’s contemporary landscape.
Also read: Best Liberal Cities of Texas
Final Thoughts
Everything is bigger and better in Texas, including our list of celebrities who call this amazing state home. Texas is a bit slower paced than Los Angeles or New York, and some celebrities crave the ability to live a life that is not all paparazzi, busy schedules and commotion.
The people of Texas treat celebrities just like they treat everyone else because after all, they put their pants on one leg at a time just like the rest of us do.
References
- Doug Dunbar, CBSDFW, Emmitt Smith Discusses Living a Faith Led Life, https://dfw.cbslocal.com/2011/11/14/emmitt-smith-discusses-living-a-faith-led-life/
- Skip Hollandsworth, Texas Monthly, The Real Troy Aikman, https://www.texasmonthly.com/articles/the-real-troy-aikman/
- Southern Living, Interview with Willie Nelson, https://www.southernliving.com/culture/celebrities/willie-nelson-interview-video
- Kevin King, The Examiner, Tracy Byrd Talks fishing, music, and family, http://theexaminer.com/stories/news/tracy-byrd-talks-fishing-music-and-family
