Bay City, Michigan, may be best known for its riverfront charm and industrial roots, but it’s also the birthplace of entertainers, athletes, and political leaders who made waves far beyond the Great Lakes. This Midwestern city has produced a wide range of talent from Olympic champions to pop superstars. Here’s a countdown of 12 famous individuals born in Bay City—each with a story that left a mark on history or pop culture.
12. Elizebeth Thomas Werlein (1883–1946)
Born in Bay City, Elizebeth Werlein became a preservation advocate in New Orleans. She helped protect historic buildings in the French Quarter and led civic efforts to maintain the city’s cultural identity. Though her legacy is tied to Louisiana, her Michigan roots began along the Saginaw River.
11. Gary Bautell (1942–2022)
Gary Bautell was born in Bay City and spent decades as a radio announcer for the American Forces Network in Europe. He interviewed U.S. presidents and music legends, becoming a familiar voice to American troops stationed overseas from the 1960s through the 2000s.
10. Tyler McVey (1912–2003)
Tyler McVey appeared in dozens of films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 60s. Born in Bay City, he had roles in The Day the Earth Stood Still and Bonanza, among others. He often played military men, judges, and professionals in supporting roles.
9. Charles B. Warren (1870–1936)
Charles B. Warren was a diplomat and lawyer born in Bay City. He served as U.S. Ambassador to Japan and Mexico during the 1920s. President Calvin Coolidge nominated him for Attorney General, but the Senate rejected the appointment. His political rise was notable during the Harding and Coolidge eras.
8. Eric Devendorf (1987– )
Bay City native Eric Devendorf starred at Syracuse University, where he became one of the school’s top basketball scorers. Though he never made the NBA, he played professionally overseas and in the G League. He’s since transitioned into coaching and training roles in the basketball world.
7. Troy Evans (1977– )
Troy Evans was born in Bay City and played as a linebacker in the NFL. He spent most of his career with the Houston Texans and New Orleans Saints. Evans was part of the Saints’ Super Bowl-winning roster in 2010 and became known for his special-teams play.
6. John Garrels (1885–1956)
John Garrels was an Olympic silver medalist in 1908 and an early football star. Born in Bay City, he competed in the decathlon and hurdles, earning medals for Team USA. He also played college football at the University of Michigan and worked later as a coach.
5. Bill Hewitt (1909–1947)
Pro Football Hall of Famer Bill Hewitt was born in Bay City and starred in the NFL during the 1930s. Known for his toughness and playing without a helmet, Hewitt played for the Bears and Eagles. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1971.
4. Kid Lavigne (1869–1928)
Kid Lavigne, born in Bay City, was a world lightweight boxing champion in the 1890s. Nicknamed “The Saginaw Kid,” he fought across the U.S. and earned a fierce reputation in the ring. His career marked one of Bay City’s earliest claims to sports fame.
3. Rick Steiner (1961– )
Rick Steiner, born Robert Rechsteiner in Bay City, rose to fame in the 1980s and 90s wrestling scene. As part of the Steiner Brothers, he won multiple tag team championships in WCW and WWE. He later entered politics in Georgia, serving on a school board.
2. Betsy Brandt (1973– )
Betsy Brandt, born in Bay City, is best known for playing Marie on the acclaimed series Breaking Bad. She’s also starred in shows like Life in Pieces and Parenthood. Brandt studied acting at Harvard and UCLA, earning praise for her emotional and comedic range.
1. Madonna (1958– )
Born in Bay City, Madonna Louise Ciccone became one of the most influential pop stars in history. She rose to fame in the 1980s with hits like Like a Virgin and Vogue. Her reinventions across decades reshaped music, fashion, and global pop culture.
Last Updated on August 7, 2026 by F.E.M