Oregon is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, but it’s also home to a variety of celebrities who have chosen to make the state their residence. From writers and actors to musicians and artists, Oregon has become a hub for creative minds seeking inspiration and solitude.
The Attraction of Oregon
Oregon has become a popular destination for celebrities and artists in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural offerings, and laid-back lifestyle. The state provides a unique and inspiring environment for creative minds to thrive. Whether it’s the vibrant music scene in Portland, the artistic community in Ashland, or the rugged beauty of the coast and mountains, Oregon has something to offer everyone.
Famous People Who Live In Oregon
- Chuck Palahniuk
- Matt Groening
- Sam Elliott
- Kim Novak
- Rainn Wilson
- Ty Burrell
- Donal Logue
- Chelsea Cain
- Carrie Brownstein
- Bruce Campbell
- Gus Van Sant
- Beverley Cleary
- Jim Belushi
1. Chuck Palahniuk
Chuck Palahniuk is a novelist and essayist best known for his debut novel, Fight Club, which was later adapted into a hit film. Born in Pasco, Washington, Palahniuk has called Portland, Oregon home for many years. He often draws inspiration for his novels from his surroundings and has described Portland as a place “where people go to retire and die.” In addition to his literary works, Palahniuk is also a sought-after speaker, with a unique and irreverent style that has earned him a devoted following.
2. Matt Groening
Matt Groening is a cartoonist and animator best known for creating the hit television show, The Simpsons. Born in Portland, Oregon, Groening grew up in nearby Springfield, which served as the inspiration for the fictional town in the show. After attending college in Olympia, Washington, Groening returned to Portland and began drawing the comic strip Life in Hell, which eventually led to his career in animation. Today, Groening continues to work on The Simpsons as well as other projects, and he’s known for his quirky sense of humor and unique artistic style.
3. Sam Elliott
Sam Elliott is an actor and producer who has appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career. Born in Sacramento, California, Elliott moved to Oregon with his family as a child and attended high school in Portland. He’s perhaps best known for his deep, resonant voice and his roles in classic Westerns like Tombstone and The Big Lebowski. Elliott has also been a spokesperson for a variety of products, and his distinctive voice has become synonymous with the American West.
4. Kim Novak
Kim Novak is an actress who rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s, appearing in films like Vertigo and Picnic. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Novak eventually settled in Oregon, where she lives on a ranch in the countryside. Despite her status as a Hollywood icon, Novak has chosen to live a quiet life away from the limelight, and she’s become an advocate for animal rights and other causes.
5. Rainn Wilson
Rainn Wilson is an actor and writer best known for his role as Dwight Schrute on the hit television show, The Office. Born in Seattle, Washington, Wilson attended college in New York before moving to Portland, Oregon, where he began his acting career. Wilson has also appeared in numerous films and television shows, and he’s known for his offbeat humor and distinctive look.
6. Ty Burrell
Ty Burrell is an actor best known for his role as Phil Dunphy on the hit television show, Modern Family. Born in Grants Pass, Oregon, Burrell grew up in the state and attended college in nearby Ashland. He’s appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, and he’s known for his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles.
7. Donal Logue
Donal Logue is an actor who has appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, often playing character roles. Born in Ottawa, Canada, Logue grew up in El Centro, California, Logue eventually settled in Oregon. Where he’s become a part of the state’s creative community. In addition to his acting work, Logue is also a writer, and he’s published several books and essays over the years.
8. Chelsea Cain
Chelsea Cain is a New York Times bestselling author who has made her home in Portland, Oregon. She is best known for her thrillers, including the Gretchen Lowell series. Which follows a female serial killer and her complicated relationship with the detective pursuing her. Cain’s work is often set in Portland, and she has cited the city’s quirky culture and “keep Portland weird” mentality as an inspiration for her writing.
9. Carrie Brownstein
Carrie Brownstein is a musician, writer, and actress who is best known as one-third of the band Sleater-Kinney and as a co-creator and star of the television show Portlandia. Brownstein grew up in Washington state but has called Portland home for many years. She has been an active member of the city’s music and arts scenes and has cited the city’s unique culture and community as a major influence on her work.
10. Bruce Campbell
Bruce Campbell is an actor and filmmaker who has appeared in numerous cult classics. Including the Evil Dead franchise and Bubba Ho-Tep. Campbell currently resides in Jacksonville, Oregon, where he is involved in the local theater scene and has appeared in productions at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
11. Gus Van Sant
Gus Van Sant is a filmmaker who has made his mark with critically acclaimed movies like Good Will Hunting, Milk, and Elephant. Van Sant has lived in Portland for many years and has cited the city’s unique culture and artistic community as an inspiration for his work. He has also been involved in local projects, including a recent collaboration with the Portland Art Museum.
12. Beverly Cleary
Beverly Cleary is a beloved children’s author who has made her home in Portland for many years. She is best known for her Ramona Quimby series, which is set in Portland and follows the adventures of a young girl growing up in the city. Cleary’s work has been a beloved part of many childhoods, and her legacy continues to inspire young readers today.
13. Jim Belushi
Jim Belushi is an actor and comedian who has appeared in movies and television shows like According to Jim, Twin Peaks, and Saturday Night Live. Belushi currently resides in Southern Oregon, where he owns and operates a cannabis farm and has been involved in local philanthropy efforts.
Conclusion
Oregon has become a haven for celebrities and artists seeking a unique and inspiring environment in which to live and work. From Chelsea Cain’s thrilling novels to Beverly Cleary’s beloved children’s books. The creative output of these famous residents has left an indelible mark on the state’s cultural landscape. Whether you’re a fan of film, literature, music, or comedy, there’s something to discover in the lives and legacies of these talented individuals.