Hollywood, Florida may share a famous name, but this beach city has its own spotlight. Between the ocean, old Florida charm, and Broward energy, it produced some surprising stars. This countdown includes actors, musicians, athletes, and entertainers who carried Hollywood roots onto much bigger stages.
10. Seth Gabel (1981–)
Television fans may recognize Seth Gabel from several intense and stylish roles. He appeared in Fringe, Salem, Nip/Tuck, and other popular shows. His career has moved across science fiction, drama, horror, and crime stories. Born in Hollywood, Florida, Gabel built a steady screen career without being boxed into one genre.
9. Bryant McFadden (1981–)
Football gave Bryant McFadden a national stage and two Super Bowl rings. The cornerback played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals during his NFL career. He became known for tough coverage, playoff experience, and big-game moments. Hollywood, Florida, produced a defender who reached football’s biggest stage more than once.
8. Steve Blake (1980–)
Before his long NBA career, Steve Blake helped Maryland win the 2002 national championship. That college success made him one of the most memorable guards in school history. He later played for several NBA teams, including the Lakers, Trail Blazers, and Warriors. Born in Hollywood, Blake became respected for passing, toughness, and steady leadership.
7. Marquise Brown (1997–)
Speed made Marquise “Hollywood” Brown one of football’s most dangerous deep threats. His nickname fits nicely, since he was born in Hollywood, Florida. Brown starred at Oklahoma before becoming a first-round NFL draft pick. He brought instant big-play energy to the league with his quickness and explosive routes.
6. Mike Napoli (1981–)
Baseball fans remember Mike Napoli for power, grit, and October moments. The catcher and first baseman played for several MLB teams during a strong career. He won a World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2013. From Hollywood, Florida, Napoli became a fan favorite with a hard-nosed style.
5. Bethany Joy Lenz (1981–)
A generation of television viewers knows Bethany Joy Lenz from One Tree Hill. Her role as Haley James Scott made her a familiar face on teen drama television. Music also became part of her career, giving her fans another creative side. Born in Hollywood, Florida, Lenz built a loyal following through acting and singing.
4. Joe Trohman (1984–)
Modern rock fans know Joe Trohman as a founding member of Fall Out Boy. His guitar work helped shape one of the biggest pop-punk bands of the 2000s. Fall Out Boy crossed from scene fame into mainstream success with huge albums and arena tours. Hollywood, Florida, can claim one of the musicians behind that rise.
3. Victoria Justice (1993–)
Nickelodeon turned Victoria Justice into one of the most recognizable young stars of her era. She broke through on Zoey 101 before leading Victorious as Tori Vega. Her career also expanded into music, films, and later television projects. Born in Hollywood, Florida, Justice became a major name for a generation of viewers.
2. Josh Gad (1981–)
Few voices are more instantly recognizable to families than Josh Gad’s Olaf from Frozen. That role turned him into a global animation favorite. Broadway fans also know him from The Book of Mormon, where he earned major acclaim. Born in Hollywood, Florida, Gad built a career around comedy, music, and big-hearted characters.
1. Norman Reedus (1969–)
Norman Reedus became a pop-culture icon through his role as Daryl Dixon on The Walking Dead. The character grew from gritty survivor into one of television’s most beloved antiheroes. Reedus also gained fans through The Boondock Saints, video games, modeling, and motorcycle projects. Born in Hollywood, Florida, he tops this list with the broadest cultural footprint.
Last Updated on July 15, 2026 by F.E.M