Everyone comes from somewhere and sometimes, whether for better or for worse, some achieve fame during their lives. Though known more for its natural beauty than for its production of celebrities, Montana yet boasts a list of famed individuals that may call the state home. Here are four of these individuals; Montana natives that have risen to fame.
David Lynch
According to Montana Kids, David Lynch was born in Missoula, Montana on January 20th, 1946. Thirty-one years later, David Lynch made his first mark on the film industry with his first film, Eraserhead. From that point forward, Lynch would become, as stated by critics for The Guardian, “…no one could fault the conclusion that David Lynch is the most important film-maker of the current era.” Aside from writing and directing the films that brought him acclaimed fame, David Lynch is also a musician, a painter, and an author.
Dana Carvey
Also born in Missoula, Montana is actor, comedian, and screenwriter Dana Carvey. Known best for his six standout seasons on Saturday Night Live, Carvey is responsible for many of the show’s most loved characters such as, “Church Lady,” “Garth,” and the bodybuilder Hans. Dana Carvey also produced impeccable impressions of the likes of George Bush and Johnny Carson, Dana Carvey had slim success in movies according to IMDB, but he remains atop the list of most successful comedians.
Phil Jackson
Born in Deer Lodge, Montana in 1945, “Zen Master” Phil Jackson’s rise to fame began when he was drafted into the NBA by the New York Knicks. Jackson played for 13 seasons in the league where he gained moderate notoriety, primarily from Knicks fans. His fame quickly escalated into its full form when Phil Jackson became the reputable, respected, and ultimately successful head coach of the Chicago Bulls for many fruitful years as well as for the Los Angeles Lakers to bring his career to a close.
Evel Knievel
Born and buried in Butte, Montana, “America’s Legendary Daredevil,” Evel Knievel is one of Montana’s true gems. Jumping cars and busses by motorcycle and intensely advocating healthy lifestyles and mental positivity catapulted Knievel’s fame to the reach of national icon. His tremendous (and entirely risky) successes as America’s daredevil had its downsides, too. Evel Knievel crashed, a lot. He suffered lasting comas, numerous fractures and broken bones, and even a broken back. But for Knievel, and to his enduring legacy, it was all a part of the job.
