Billings is Montana’s largest city, but its influence reaches well beyond the state. The city has produced Olympic athletes, major entertainers, political figures, artists, and sports stars.
This list sticks to one rule. Each person had to be born in Billings, Montana. Not just raised there. Not just connected to the city. Born there.
10. Ethel Hays (1892–1989)
Ethel Hays was born in Billings and became a nationally known illustrator and cartoonist. Her work appeared in newspapers during the early 20th century. She later became known for her illustrations and children’s book art. Hays helped give Billings a place in American cartooning history.
9. Stan Lynde (1931–2013)
Stan Lynde was born in Billings and became a celebrated cartoonist. He created the comic strip Rick O’Shay, which mixed Western themes with humor and adventure. Lynde’s work was widely syndicated and deeply connected to Montana identity. His career made him one of the state’s best-known creative figures.
8. Zooey Zephyr (1988–)
Zooey Zephyr was born in Billings and became a Montana state lawmaker. She gained national attention after being elected to the Montana House of Representatives. Zephyr became one of the most visible political figures from Billings in recent years. Her career has made her a nationally discussed name in state politics.
7. Denny Rehberg (1955–)
Denny Rehberg was born in Billings and built a long political career. He served as Montana’s lieutenant governor in the 1990s. Rehberg later represented Montana in the U.S. House of Representatives. His years in public office make him one of the city’s most prominent political figures.
6. Wally Kurth (1958–)
Wally Kurth was born in Billings and became a familiar face on daytime television. He is best known for roles on General Hospital and Days of Our Lives. Kurth built a long-running career in soap operas, music, and television. His staying power gives him one of the strongest entertainment résumés on this list.
5. Tim Chantarangsu (1986–)
Tim Chantarangsu was born in Billings and became a comedian, rapper, and internet personality. He gained major attention through online comedy and MTV’s Wild ’N Out. Chantarangsu built a large following across YouTube, television, and social media. His career shows how modern fame can grow from digital platforms.
4. Jeff Kober (1953–)
Jeff Kober was born in Billings and became a veteran film and television actor. He has appeared in shows such as Sons of Anarchy, The Walking Dead, and General Hospital. Kober is often known for intense character roles and a rugged screen presence. His long career has made him one of Billings’ most recognizable actors.
3. Cody Miller (1992–)
Cody Miller was born in Billings and became an Olympic swimmer. He won a gold medal and a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Miller also became known for his openness about living with pectus excavatum. His Olympic success gives Billings a major name in international sports.
2. Dave McNally (1942–2002)
Dave McNally was born in Billings and became one of Montana’s greatest baseball players. He pitched for the Baltimore Orioles during one of the franchise’s strongest eras. McNally won multiple World Series titles and was a four-time All-Star. His baseball career gives him one of the strongest sports cases on this list.
1. Bud Luckey (1934–2018)
Bud Luckey was born in Billings and became a major figure in animation. He worked with Pixar and helped shape the look and feel of several beloved projects. Luckey also created the Oscar-nominated animated short Boundin’. His creative legacy reaches millions of viewers, making him the top name on this list.
Last Updated on June 22, 2026 by F.E.M