10 Famous People Born in Gadsden, Alabama ⋆ SprawlTag.com

Gadsden, Alabama, has produced a mix of musicians, actors, athletes, and historical figures who’ve left a mark far beyond Etowah County. From sports stars tied to Alabama’s football legacy to entertainers recognized across the globe, the city’s influence runs wide. Here’s a ranked look at ten of the most notable names connected to Gadsden.

#10 Sunny Mabrey (1975– )

*An Alabama native who blended modeling and acting into a Hollywood career.*

Sunny Mabrey, born in Gadsden, is an actress and model best known for her roles in Species III and Snakes on a Plane. She attended Jacksonville State University in Alabama before pursuing acting. Mabrey has built a steady career in film and television while also being active on social media. Her combination of modeling and acting has kept her in the spotlight for two decades.

#9 Jerry McCain (1930–2012)

*A blues legend whose harmonica carried the sound of Gadsden nationwide.*

Jerry McCain was a blues harmonica player from Gadsden who gained recognition across the South and beyond. His career began in the 1950s with Excello Records, and he later toured nationally. McCain’s songs, like “She’s Tough,” influenced generations of harmonica players. He remained tied to Gadsden, where his musical roots shaped his unique sound.

#8 Darnell Mooney (1997– )

*An NFL receiver whose career began on the fields of Etowah County.*

Darnell Mooney, born in Gadsden, is a wide receiver in the NFL. After starring at Tulane University, he was drafted by the Chicago Bears in 2020. In 2024, he signed a three-year, $39 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons, where he became a key part of the offense. His speed and reliability have made him one of the team’s most underrated playmakers.

#7 Freddie Kitchens (1974– )

*From Gadsden to Alabama football and the NFL sidelines.*

Freddie Kitchens, born in Gadsden, played quarterback at the University of Alabama before moving into coaching. After years as an NFL assistant and head coach of the Cleveland Browns in 2019, he shifted to the college ranks. Kitchens joined the University of North Carolina, where he now serves as offensive coordinator and tight ends coach. His Alabama roots and long coaching journey keep him connected to the game.

#6 Cadillac Williams (1982– )

*An Auburn legend and NFL star who returned home to coach.*

Carnell “Cadillac” Williams grew up in Gadsden before becoming a star at Auburn University. He was drafted fifth overall in the 2005 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. After coaching at Auburn and briefly joining the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024, he stepped away from coaching in early 2025. Williams remains a respected name in Alabama sports history.

#5 Dre Kirkpatrick (1989– )

*From Gadsden to first-round draft pick and NFL starter.*

Dre Kirkpatrick, born in Gadsden, became a standout cornerback at the University of Alabama. A first-round draft pick in 2012, he played most of his NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals before joining the Arizona Cardinals. Known for his coverage skills, he contributed to multiple playoff runs. His Alabama roots remain a big part of his story.

#4 Beth Grant (1949– )

*A Gadsden-born actress with a career spanning stage and screen.*

Beth Grant, born in Gadsden, is a well-known character actress who has appeared in dozens of films and TV shows. Her credits include Donnie Darko, No Country for Old Men, and Speed. She graduated from East Gadsden High School before pursuing acting at East Carolina University. Her long career has made her a recognizable face in Hollywood.

#3 James Hood (1942–2013)

*From Gadsden to the front lines of the Civil Rights Movement.*

James Hood was born in Gadsden and became a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement. In 1963, he and Vivian Malone were the two Black students who integrated the University of Alabama, famously facing Governor George Wallace’s “stand in the schoolhouse door.” Hood later earned degrees from multiple universities and worked in education. His courage made him a symbol of change in American history.

#2 Yelawolf (1989– )

*A rapper from Gadsden who mixed Southern grit with hip hop swagger.*

Michael Wayne Atha, better known as Yelawolf, was born in Gadsden. A rapper known for blending hip hop, country, and rock, he signed with Eminem’s Shady Records and released acclaimed albums like Love Story. Yelawolf’s unique style and lyrics set him apart in the industry. He remains one of the most visible musicians to come from Alabama.

#1 Mathew Knowles (1952– )

*The Gadsden-born manager who helped launch Beyoncé to global fame.*

Mathew Knowles, born in Gadsden, is a music executive best known as the father and manager of Beyoncé and Solange. He managed Destiny’s Child, one of the most successful girl groups of all time. Knowles studied at Fisk University before beginning his business career. His influence on pop music has made him the most prominent figure to emerge from Gadsden.