Texas is the birthplace and home to many of the celebrities of television and film that we all love to watch. Sandra Bullock, Beyonce, Carol Burnett, Willie Nelson, and many more celebrities were born and raised in Texas and moved away when they wanted to be closer to where their work was.
There are several celebrities who still make Texas their home, and many of those celebrities have been in Texas from the day they were born. Like other Texans these celebrities feel a loyalty and love for the Lone Star state that keeps them living deep in the heart of Texas, drinking sweet tea, and enjoying the prestige of being ‘pure’ Texan.
Celebrities who live in Texas
Some of the celebrities that fit this category, and make their homes in the great state are:
Matthew McConaughey
There are very few people who are not familiar with the name Matthew McConaughey. He has made a name for himself as an actor in films such as; “A Time to Kill”, “The Wedding Planner”, “Sahara”, “The Dallas Buyers Club”. “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”, and Magic Mike”. He has proven his acting talent by playing both serious and light roles, and he has developed a reputation for being an excellent director.
In an interview with Matt Reilly, who is the program director of KUTX, (1) Matthew talked about Austin, Texas, and why he lives there. He was born in Uvalde, Texas and he now makes his home in Austin, Texas with his lovely wife Camila Alves and their children Levi, Livingston, and Vida.
Tommy Lee Jones
Tommy Lee Jones is simply a television and film megastar. He has starred in movies such as “U.S. Marshall”, “No Country for Old Men”, “The Fugitive”, “Lonesome Dove”, Captain America: The First Avenger”, and let us not forget his beginning role on the soap opera One Life to Live, where for six years he played the role of Dr. Matt Toland.
In an interview with Skip Hollandsworth (2) Tommy Lee Jones talked about why he has remained a Texan. The actor was born in San Saba, Texas, he spent his childhood in Midland, Texas and he owns a ranch in Van Horn, Texas and one in San Saba, Texas, but makes his home in Terrence Hill, Texas. You could say that Tommy Lee Jones is just a simple Texas boy, born and bred there, and likely to stay there until he dies.
Few people know that when he was in college he shared a dorm room with Al Gore. He loves to play Polo and besides his ranch in Texas he owns a house on the polo country club located in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Read more: Famous Country Singers from Texas
Lou Diamond Phillips
Lou Diamond Phillips is a talented actor known for his roles in “young Guns”, “Courage Under Fire”, “Che”, “The 33”, “Longmire”, The King and I”, “Stand and Deliver, and “La Bamba”.
In an interview with Dallas News (3) Lou Diamond Phillips talks about his Gulf Coast home and the fact that he was not born in Texas, (he was born in the Phillipines where his father was stationed at the Subic Bay Naval Station); but he was raised in Texas, so he feels as if Texas is his home. This proves that you do not have to be born a Texan to get Texas in your blood.
Selena Gomez
With the voice of an angel Selena Gomez has sang her way into the hearts of her fans. You may not know that little Selena started out with an acting career on the television series “Barney and Friends”. She is better remembered for her roles on the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place.
She has many musical accolades under her young belt. Her hits “Come and Get it”, “The Heart Wants what it Wants,“ and “Good for You” propelled her forward and she has not slowed down yet. She battles the disease Lupus, but she does not let her health concerns stop her or intimidate her. She is an inspiring face for lupus sufferers, and she is very active in charities such as Unicef.
Selena Gomez was born in Grand Prairie, Texas, and she still loves the great Lone Star state. Selena talked about living in Texas and her favorite things about Texas in an interview with Vogue magazine. (4)
Learn More: Celebrities who live in Dallas, TX
Jaclyn Smith
Jaclyn Smith was born and raised in Houston, Texas. She once told Texas Monthly in an interview that she studied dance under the great Patrick Swayze’s mother Patsy Swayze.
Jaclyn is well known for her portrayal of Kelly Garrett in the hit television show Charlie’s Angels. After that she starred in Jaqueline Bouvier Kennedy, Rage of Angels, Nightmare in Daylight and more.
Elijah Wood
Elijah Wood, whose indelible portrayal of Frodo Baggins in Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy captured the hearts of many, has found solace in the city of Austin, Texas. Unlike the perilous journey of Middle-earth, Austin provides a haven for the actor. Celebrated for its eclectic art scene, live music, and cultural richness, the city’s vibrancy aligns with Wood’s personal interests. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, he appreciates the genuine interactions and close-knit community Austin has to offer.
Sandra Bullock
With an acting range spanning from heartfelt dramas to hilarious rom-coms, Sandra Bullock is Hollywood royalty. Yet, the pull of Austin’s charm has made it her personal sanctuary. Her connection with the city extends beyond mere residence; Bullock has invested in local businesses, including the beloved Bess Bistro. Her commitment to Austin underscores the depth of her bond with the city, where she navigates life away from the constant scrutiny of the spotlight.
George W. Bush
The ties that bind George W. Bush, the 43rd President of the United States, to Texas run deep. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, Bush’s family moved to Texas when he was just two. Following his presidential tenure, he returned to the familiar terrains of Dallas. Here, he set up the George W. Bush Presidential Library, ensuring his legacy remains intertwined with Texas. He frequently attributes his grounded approach to leadership and life to the Texan values he imbibed growing up.
Brooklyn Decker
As a top-tier model and actress, Brooklyn Decker has graced countless magazine covers and screens. Yet, amidst the global travels and bustling career, Austin’s allure captivated both her and her husband, Andy Roddick. The serenity of the Texas hill country, coupled with the city’s rich cultural scene, offers a balanced life for the couple. Whether enjoying Lake Austin or partaking in local events, Decker and Roddick are truly Texans by choice.
Andy Roddick
The world once watched as Andy Roddick dominated tennis courts with his powerful serves. Retired from the sport, Roddick now finds fulfillment in Austin’s embrace. The city, known for its picturesque landscapes and welcoming populace, has become Roddick’s retreat. Beyond leisure, he has channeled his energies into philanthropic endeavors, including the Andy Roddick Foundation, which seeks to provide opportunities for young people, underscoring his commitment to giving back.
Angie Harmon
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A luminous presence on television screens, Angie Harmon of “Rizzoli & Isles” fame, has always had her roots firmly planted in Texas soil. Born and raised in Dallas, the city’s values of hospitality, hard work, and community resonate deeply with her. It’s no surprise that even with the opportunities to live anywhere in the world, Harmon’s heart remains tethered to her Texan origins, reflecting in her mannerisms, roles, and everyday life.
George Foreman
George Foreman’s legacy is multi-faceted; while many recognize him as a two-time world heavyweight boxing champion, others might recall his successful line of grilling products. Born in Marshall, Texas, Foreman’s journey from humble beginnings to global stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His early life in Texas, marked by hardships, instilled in him a fighting spirit and an unyielding faith. Even as he rose to prominence, his Texan heritage remained a guiding force, grounding him in principles and perseverance.
References
- Gabriel C. Perez, KUTX, Matthew McConaughey tells us why he still lives in Austin, http://kutx.org/features/matthew-mcconaughey-tells-us-why-he-still-lives-in-austin
- Patricia McConnico, Texas Monthly, Mr. Not-So-Nice Guy,https://www.texasmonthly.com/articles/mr-not-so-nice-guy/
- Tommy Cummings, Is Hollywood Diverse Enough? Lou Diamond Phillips thinks it has a long ways yet to go’, https://www.dallasnews.com/arts/performing-arts/2017/09/04/hollywood-diverse-enough-lou-diamond-phillips-thinks-long-ways-yet-go
- Britton Peele, What Selena Gomez Likes most about Texas and other tidbits from her ‘Vogue’ interview, https://www.guidelive.com/celebrities/2017/03/21/selena-gomez-likes-texas-tidbits-vogue-interview
- Brian D. Aweany, Jacylyn Smith, https://www.texasmonthly.com/the-culture/jaclyn-smith/
