20 Best Actors Born in Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, has become a surprisingly successful breeding ground for talented actors. Many performers with ties to the city have gone on to star in everything from big-budget superhero movies and popular TV shows to critically acclaimed independent films and Broadway productions. Here’s a look at twenty actors who got their start in the Phoenix area and have achieved success across film, television, voice work, and stage.

Lynda Carter

Lynda Carter is famous around the world for her iconic role as Wonder Woman in the original TV series. She’s continued to embrace superhero stories with appearances in shows like ‘Arrow’ and ‘Supergirl’. She’s also appeared in films such as ‘Sky High’ and made a brief appearance in ‘Wonder Woman 1984’. In addition to acting, Carter is a talented singer and has released albums, performing to enthusiastic crowds in live concerts.

Mare Winningham

Mare Winningham is a well-established actress known for memorable performances in films like ‘St. Elmo’s Fire’, ‘Georgia’, and ‘Miracle Mile’. She’s also gained significant praise for her work in limited series and anthology shows, including ‘American Horror Story’ and ‘The Outsider’. Her stage work, particularly in ‘Girl From the North Country’, has earned her Tony Award recognition. Winningham is highly regarded for her ability to create realistic and believable characters in both dramatic and suspenseful roles.

Alexandra Shipp

Alexandra Shipp is known for playing Storm in the ‘X-Men’ movies, and has since appeared in popular films like ‘Love, Simon’ and ‘Barbie’. She also showcased her singing talent in the musical drama ‘tick, tick… BOOM!’. On television, she’s starred in the biopic ‘Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B’ and made appearances in several series. Shipp skillfully moves between big-budget franchises, independent films, and projects that highlight music.

Haley Lu Richardson

Haley Lu Richardson first gained recognition in the film ‘The Edge of Seventeen’ and has since starred in acclaimed dramas like ‘Columbus’ and ‘The Fallout’. She became known to a wider audience as part of the cast of ‘The White Lotus’. She’s also appeared in films like ‘Five Feet Apart’ and has done voice acting for animated movies, showcasing her range in both smaller, character-driven projects and bigger commercial releases.

Kaitlyn Dever

Kaitlyn Dever started her career with roles in shows like ‘Justified’ and ‘Last Man Standing’, which prepared her for leading parts. She became well-known after starring in ‘Booksmart’ and received critical acclaim for ‘Unbelievable’. More recently, she’s appeared in ‘No One Will Save You’ and other limited-run series, seamlessly switching between comedic and suspenseful roles.

Kimiko Glenn

Kimiko Glenn is well-known for her role as Brook Soso on ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She’s also become a popular voice actor, appearing in several ‘Spider-Man’ animated projects and ‘Dawn of the Croods’. Beyond that, she’s had roles in TV shows like ‘The Guest Book’ and ‘Liza on Demand’, and continues to work in theater and on musical recordings.

Chelsea Kane

Chelsea Kane first gained recognition starring in Disney Channel’s ‘Jonas’ and ‘Baby Daddy’, where she built a dedicated fanbase. She’s also lent her voice to animated shows like ‘Fish Hooks’, and has appeared in TV movies, reality competitions, and even contributed music to her series. Today, she continues to work on projects geared towards families and enjoys performing in traditional multi-camera sitcoms.

Matt Dallas

Matt Dallas is most famous for playing the main character in the sci-fi series ‘Kyle XY,’ which gained a loyal following. Since then, he’s worked on independent films and made guest appearances on popular TV shows. He’s also been in several holiday movies and genre films for streaming services. Beyond acting, Dallas connects with fans through his personal projects and by supporting causes he cares about.

Amy Davidson

Amy Davidson is best known for her role as Kerry on the show ‘8 Simple Rules’. Since then, she’s appeared in several TV series, both in recurring parts and as a guest star on shows like crime dramas and family comedies. She’s also done work in made-for-TV movies and voice acting. Beyond acting, Davidson writes about lifestyle topics and is involved in outreach programs focused on parenting and wellbeing.

Josh McDermitt

Josh McDermitt is known for his role as Eugene Porter on ‘The Walking Dead,’ where he brought both humor and emotional depth to the show. Beyond acting, he’s also worked in stand-up comedy and radio. He’s appeared in projects like ‘Retired at 35’ and on several comedy shows, and he still makes appearances at fan conventions and events for genre television.

Ashly Burch

Let me tell you, Ashly Burch is everywhere! As a voice actor, she’s instantly recognizable – I mean, she is Aloy from ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’ and a huge part of what made ‘Life Is Strange’ so compelling. But she’s not just a voice; she’s also an actress you might recognize from ‘Mythic Quest’, and she’s a writer too, contributing to the creative process behind a lot of animated shows. Seriously, check out her resume – ‘Adventure Time’, anything from ‘Critical Role’, tons of video games… the list goes on! And it’s not just performing, she’s a really insightful voice in the industry, often speaking on panels about acting and how stories are built.

Jordin Sparks

I’ve always been so impressed with Jordin Sparks! She didn’t just stop at being a fantastic singer; she seamlessly transitioned into acting, landing roles in movies like ‘Sparkle’ and popping up in some great TV shows. And it’s not just small parts – she’s a true performer, having taken her talent on stage with touring productions and special concerts. What’s really cool is how they always find a way to showcase her incredible voice even when she’s acting. She really manages to juggle both her music career and acting projects beautifully, and I can’t wait to see what she does next!

Krystina Alabado

Krystina Alabado started her career on Broadway, performing in shows like ‘Mean Girls’ and ‘American Idiot.’ Since then, she’s appeared in several TV series, blending her acting and singing talents in both musical programs and dramatic shows. She also performs in concerts that feature music from modern Broadway composers and actively participates in developing new stage productions through workshops.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone first gained widespread recognition with the movie ‘Easy A’ and has since starred in critically acclaimed films like ‘La La Land’ and ‘Poor Things’. She’s also appeared in popular ensemble movies such as ‘Zombieland’ and ‘The Help’. Beyond film, she’s worked in television with shows like ‘Maniac’ and has become a frequent and well-received host on sketch comedy programs. In addition to acting, Stone is expanding her work as a producer, collaborating on a variety of projects.

Frankie Muniz

Frankie Muniz is best known for starring in the TV show ‘Malcolm in the Middle’. He also appeared in films like ‘Agent Cody Banks’ and took on roles in smaller independent movies and television shows. Beyond acting, Muniz has pursued a career in professional racing and has been involved in various entertainment businesses. Today, he still participates in events that celebrate classic TV and brings fans together for reunions.

Heather Morris

Heather Morris first became well-known for her role as Brittany on the show ‘Glee,’ where she combined a talent for comedy with impressive dance skills. Since then, she’s been in TV movies and made guest appearances on shows focused on mysteries and short, self-contained stories. Before acting, Morris was a professional dancer, even touring with popular musicians. She continues to perform live and work on podcast projects.

Danielle Fishel

Danielle Fishel is best known for playing Topanga on both ‘Boy Meets World’ and ‘Girl Meets World’. Beyond acting, she’s worked as a host for various talk and clip shows, and has directed TV episodes. She’s also appeared in several teen comedies and TV movies. More recently, Fishel has expanded into producing podcasts and creating content that focuses on nostalgic memories and behind-the-scenes insights.

Kellan Lutz

Kellan Lutz first became well-known for his role in the ‘Twilight’ movies and went on to star in action films like ‘The Legend of Hercules’. He also appeared in the TV show ‘FBI Most Wanted’, as well as various thrillers and inspirational dramas. Beyond acting, Lutz dedicates his time to supporting charities that help children and fight human trafficking.

Aidy Bryant

Aidy Bryant gained prominence as a featured performer on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ where she often played central roles in sketches and developed memorable recurring characters. She then co-created and starred in the series ‘Shrill,’ also working behind the scenes as an executive producer. In film, she’s appeared in supporting roles in movies like ‘The Big Sick’ and ‘I Feel Pretty,’ and has made guest appearances on shows including ‘Girls’ and ‘Broad City.’ She’s also lent her voice to animated series such as ‘Human Resources’ and ‘Danger & Eggs,’ and is currently developing new comedy shows for television.

Let us know in the comments which performers from Phoenix are your favorites, and suggest anyone else we should include!

2025-10-28 09:31