Buffalo, New York, has long been a city of grit, ambition, and undeniable talent. From legal minds to musical innovators, the city has shaped figures who made a national and international impact. This list highlights notable individuals born in Buffalo, ranked from rising names to influential icons.
Here are Buffalo’s famous trailblazers:
15. Marc Mero (b. 1960)
Marc Mero grew up in Buffalo and became a professional wrestler during the 1990s wrestling boom. He performed in both WWF and WCW under the ring name Johnny B. Badd. After retiring from wrestling, he transitioned into a motivational speaker focusing on youth advocacy and anti-bullying efforts. He often speaks to schools and organizations across the country.
14. Lex Luger (b. 1958)
Lex Luger, born Lawrence Pfohl, is a former professional wrestler best known for his time in WCW and WWF. He earned fame through his “Total Package” persona and appearances in major wrestling events. Later in life, he faced health issues that significantly altered his career path. He remains associated with wrestling history.
13. Howard Bloom (b. 1943)
Born in Buffalo, Howard Bloom began as a music publicist before becoming a science and philosophy writer. He worked with major artists before publishing books on human behavior, cosmology, and mass movements. His works have gained attention across scientific and literary communities. He continues to write and lecture.
12. Jeffrey Jones (b. 1946)
Jeffrey Jones is a Buffalo native best known for playing Principal Rooney in “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.” He also appeared in “Beetlejuice” and “Amadeus” during the 1980s and 1990s. His performances contributed to several popular films. Jones’ early education took place in Buffalo before he pursued acting.
11. Wendie Malick (b. 1950)
Wendie Malick was born in Buffalo and built a career in television and film. She gained recognition for roles in “Just Shoot Me!” and “Hot in Cleveland.” Malick also pursued voice acting in animated series and movies. She participates in animal welfare and environmental advocacy.
10. Vincent Gallo (b. 1961)
Vincent Gallo was born in Buffalo and became a filmmaker, actor, and musician. He gained recognition for “Buffalo ’66,” which he directed, wrote, and starred in. Gallo’s work is noted for its unconventional style. He has also released music albums and participated in art exhibitions.
9. Neil Abercrombie (b. 1938)
Neil Abercrombie, born in Buffalo, served as Governor of Hawaii from 2010 to 2014. Before his governorship, he represented Hawaii in the U.S. House of Representatives for several terms. Abercrombie studied at Union College in Schenectady, New York, before moving to Hawaii. He remains active in political discussions.
8. Kyle Chandler (b. 1965)
Born in Buffalo, Kyle Chandler earned an Emmy Award for his role as Coach Eric Taylor in “Friday Night Lights.” His acting career includes appearances in films such as “Argo,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” and “Manchester by the Sea.” Though he grew up primarily in Georgia, he was born in Buffalo. Chandler has continued to work steadily in television and film.
7. Benny the Butcher (b. 1984)
Benny the Butcher, born and raised in Buffalo, is a rapper and member of the hip-hop collective Griselda Records. His music features detailed storytelling and has brought attention to Buffalo’s rap scene. Benny has released solo albums and collaborated with artists across the industry. He is signed to Roc Nation for management.
6. Brian McKnight (b. 1969)
Brian McKnight, born in Buffalo, became a successful R&B singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. His albums include hits like “Back at One” and “Anytime.” He has been nominated for numerous Grammy Awards. McKnight’s early musical experiences started with church choirs and school performances.
5. Ani DiFranco (b. 1970)
Ani DiFranco, born in Buffalo, is a singer-songwriter and founder of Righteous Babe Records. She became prominent in the 1990s with her blend of folk, punk, and feminist themes. DiFranco has released over 20 albums independently. She attended the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts during her youth.
4. Christine Baranski (b. 1952)
Christine Baranski, born and raised in Buffalo, trained at Juilliard and became a celebrated stage and screen actress. She earned Emmy Awards for “Cybill” and acclaim for “The Good Wife” and “The Gilded Age.” Baranski has also performed in films such as “Chicago” and “Mamma Mia!” Her early education included Catholic schools in Buffalo.
3. Tim Russert (1950–2008)
Tim Russert, born in Buffalo, was the longtime moderator of NBC’s “Meet the Press.” He attended Canisius High School before studying at John Carroll University and Cleveland State University College of Law. Russert served as an aide in New York state politics before transitioning to journalism. His interviews became a standard for political accountability.
2. Rick James (1948–2004)
Rick James, born and raised in Buffalo, became a major funk artist in the late 1970s and 1980s. His music catalog includes hits like “Super Freak,” “Give It to Me Baby,” and “Mary Jane.” James began his music career in Buffalo before signing with Motown Records. He also worked as a producer for other artists.
1. John Roberts (b. 1955)
John Roberts, born in Buffalo, serves as the 17th Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court. He attended Harvard College and Harvard Law School after growing up in Buffalo. Roberts worked in private practice and government service before his Supreme Court appointment in 2005. He continues to preside over major cases shaping American law.
Last Updated on April 26, 2025 by F. E. Mufute