Bakersfield was named for Col. Thomas Baker, a former lawyer who settled by the Kern River in the 1860s. Its mix of desert and farmland helped shape the region’s hardworking culture and independent spirit. The city became known for oil, agriculture, and the distinctive Bakersfield Sound that changed American country music.
Many Bakersfield natives have gone on to national prominence in politics, sports, and entertainment. This countdown ranks fifteen of the most famous people born here, judged by fame, influence, and public recognition.
15. Anjelika Washington (1998)
Actor Anjelika Washington was born and raised in Bakersfield, where she began performing in local theater before moving to Los Angeles. She gained national attention for roles in Stargirl and Tall Girl. Washington continues to work steadily in television and film, building a reputation for charisma and versatility on screen.
14. Marc Davis (1913–2000)
Disney animator Marc Davis was born in Bakersfield and later became one of Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men.” He helped bring to life classic characters such as Tinker Bell and Cruella de Vil. His artistry also shaped Disneyland attractions including Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion. Davis’s legacy endures in animation schools worldwide.
13. Chris Childs (1967)
Born in Bakersfield, Chris Childs played basketball at Foothill High School before a decade-long NBA career. He earned a reputation for defense and leadership with the New York Knicks and New Jersey Nets. After retiring, he has stayed involved in youth programs encouraging sports participation across California.
12. Casey Mears (1978)
NASCAR driver Casey Mears was born in Bakersfield into a family of racers that included his uncle, Rick Mears. He attended Bakersfield College before competing in more than 450 Cup Series races. His 2007 Coca-Cola 600 win remains a highlight of his career. Mears continues to mentor younger drivers in motorsports.
11. Jerry Quarry (1945–1999)
Heavyweight boxer Jerry Quarry was born in Bakersfield and grew up in Southern California. Nicknamed “The Bellflower Bomber,” he fought greats like Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier during the 1960s and ’70s. Quarry’s determination and courage made him one of boxing’s most admired fighters of his era.
10. Lawrence Tibbett (1896–1960)
Opera baritone Lawrence Tibbett was born in Bakersfield and rose to prominence with the Metropolitan Opera in New York. His commanding voice led to a film and radio career in the 1930s. Tibbett helped popularize opera for American audiences and remains an important figure in U.S. music history.
9. Jo Ann Castle (1939)
Jo Ann Castle, a pianist and television personality, was born in Bakersfield and began playing piano at local events before joining The Lawrence Welk Show. Her energetic honky-tonk performances made her a household name in the 1960s. Castle’s music inspired a generation of variety-show entertainers.
8. Kelli Garner (1984)
Actor Kelli Garner was born in Bakersfield and raised in Southern California. She appeared in The Aviator and played Marilyn Monroe in The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe. Garner’s filmography spans drama and independent projects, and she continues to appear in new series through 2025.
7. Robert Beltran (1953)
Robert Beltran was born in Bakersfield, attended East Bakersfield High, and studied at Bakersfield College. He became widely recognized as Commander Chakotay on Star Trek: Voyager. Beyond acting, Beltran advocates for Latino representation in film and supports local arts education.
6. Jake Varner (1986)
Olympic wrestler Jake Varner was born in Bakersfield and won two state titles at Bakersfield High School. He earned a gold medal in freestyle wrestling at the 2012 London Games and later became a college coach. Varner remains a symbol of Bakersfield’s deep wrestling culture.
5. Jordan Love (1998)
NFL quarterback Jordan Love was born in Bakersfield and played football at Liberty High School. Drafted by Green Bay in 2020, he became the starting quarterback after Aaron Rodgers’s departure. Love’s leadership and steady performance make him one of the league’s rising stars.
4. David Carr (1979)
David Carr was born in Bakersfield and graduated from Stockdale High School before playing at Fresno State. He was the first overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft and later won a Super Bowl ring with the New York Giants. Carr now works as an NFL analyst and local coach.
3. Jonathan Davis (1971)
Jonathan Davis, born in Bakersfield, attended Highland High School and worked briefly in a local mortuary before founding Korn. His band defined the nu-metal genre and continues to tour worldwide. Davis remains one of the most recognizable voices in rock music.
2. Kevin Harvick (1975)
NASCAR driver Kevin Harvick was born in Bakersfield, attended North High School and Bakersfield College, and became the 2014 Cup Series Champion. He retired in 2023 with more than 60 career victories and now works as a Fox Sports analyst.
1. Kevin McCarthy (1965)
Kevin McCarthy was born and raised in Bakersfield, graduating from Bakersfield High and California State University, Bakersfield. He served as the 55th Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and remains one of the most influential political figures from California’s Central Valley.
Last Updated on April 26, 2026 by F.E.M