Brooklyn has long been a breeding ground for talent, producing some of the most influential figures in entertainment, politics, sports, and science. Some spent their entire childhood in the borough, shaping their success, while others were born there but moved away at a young age.
Here’s a look at 10 famous people who were born and raised in Brooklyn, plus 10 more who were born there but grew up elsewhere.
These individuals grew up in Brooklyn, attended local schools, and often reference their Brooklyn roots. Their early years in the borough played a huge role in shaping who they became.
Mel Brooks (1926)
Mel Brooks, the king of comedy, was born and raised in Williamsburg. His quick wit and humor took him from Brooklyn’s streets to Hollywood. He directed classics like Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein, earning an Oscar and multiple Tony and Emmy Awards.
Busta Rhymes (1972)
Busta Rhymes, one of hip-hop’s most electrifying performers, grew up in East Flatbush. Known for his rapid-fire rapping and high-energy delivery, he became a defining voice in ’90s hip-hop with hits like Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check.
Big Daddy Kane (1968)
Brooklyn’s own lyrical pioneer, Big Daddy Kane, was raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant. He played a key role in shaping hip-hop’s golden age, influencing countless rappers with his smooth delivery and stage presence.
Al Capone (1899–1947)
Before he became America’s most infamous gangster, Al Capone was a Brooklyn kid. He grew up in the Navy Yard section and got his start in organized crime here before heading to Chicago to build his empire.
Jay-Z (1969)
Born and raised in Brooklyn’s Marcy Projects, Jay-Z turned his life story into a billion-dollar empire. From rap superstar to business mogul, he built Roc-A-Fella Records, became part-owner of the Brooklyn Nets, and still represents his hometown proudly.
The Notorious B.I.G. (1972–1997)
Biggie Smalls, one of hip-hop’s greatest storytellers, grew up in Bedford-Stuyvesant. His songs like Juicy and Big Poppa captured Brooklyn life in the ’90s. Though his career was cut short, his influence on rap is undeniable.
Carl Sagan (1934–1996)
The famed astrophysicist and author of Cosmos grew up in Brooklyn, fascinated by science from an early age. He helped popularize astronomy, making the universe more accessible to the public.
Bernie Sanders (1941)
Before becoming a U.S. Senator and presidential candidate, Bernie Sanders was just a kid from Brooklyn. He attended James Madison High School and often credits his working-class Brooklyn upbringing for shaping his political views.
Barbra Streisand (1942)
A Brooklyn girl with a powerful voice, Barbra Streisand grew up in Williamsburg and Flatbush. She went from singing in clubs to becoming an Oscar-winning actress and one of the best-selling musicians of all time.
Mae West (1893–1980)
Mae West, the original Hollywood provocateur, grew up in Brooklyn before taking Broadway and Hollywood by storm. Known for her bold wit and comedic timing, she was one of early cinema’s most influential actresses.
These celebrities were born in Brooklyn but spent most of their childhood in other places. While they don’t always claim Brooklyn as home, their roots still trace back to the borough.
Adam Sandler (1966)
Sandler was born in Brooklyn but moved to Manchester, New Hampshire, when he was six. He became one of comedy’s biggest movie stars with films like Happy Gilmore and The Waterboy.
Eddie Murphy (1961)
Brooklyn-born, Eddie Murphy grew up in Roosevelt, Long Island. His time on Saturday Night Live launched his career, leading to massive hits like Coming to America and Beverly Hills Cop.
Carmelo Anthony (1984)
The 10-time NBA All-Star was born in Brooklyn but raised in Baltimore. He became one of the NBA’s most prolific scorers, winning an NCAA championship with Syracuse before heading to the pros.
Jimmy Fallon (1974)
Fallon was born in Brooklyn but grew up in Saugerties, New York. He made his name on Saturday Night Live before becoming the host of The Tonight Show.
Anthony Fauci (1940)
The face of public health during the COVID-19 pandemic, Fauci was born in Brooklyn but spent much of his childhood in Manhattan. He became one of the world’s leading immunologists.
Rudy Giuliani (1944)
The former mayor of New York City was born in Brooklyn but moved to Long Island. He gained fame for leading NYC after 9/11 and later became a key political figure.
Al Michaels (1944)
The legendary sportscaster was born in Brooklyn but moved to Los Angeles as a child. He’s famous for calling iconic moments like the “Miracle on Ice” at the 1980 Olympics.
Larry King (1933–2021)
Larry King was born in Brooklyn and raised there, but his career made him a national figure. His long-running talk show, Larry King Live, defined television interviews for decades.
Joe Torre (1940)
Torre was born in Brooklyn but became better known as a Yankee. He managed the team to four World Series titles and became a Hall of Famer.
Vince Lombardi (1913–1970)
Born in Brooklyn, Lombardi became an NFL coaching legend. Though most associated with the Green Bay Packers, he started his football journey in Brooklyn before revolutionizing the sport.
Last Updated on February 3, 2026 by F.E.M