New York is the largest city in the United States, and with that comes a wide variety of celebrities. From actors and musicians to athletes and politicians, there are many famous people who call New York home. But when it comes to determining who is the most famous, it can be difficult to narrow it down. To help answer the question of who is the most famous person in New York, we’ve rounded up a list of some of the biggest and brightest celebrities in the city.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift may be one of the most recognizable faces in the world, but her New York residency hasn’t gone unnoticed. From her days as the crown jewel of Nashville to her current career as a pop star spanning multiple genres, Swift has become an international sensation. From performing in iconic New York City venues like Madison Square Garden to becoming a major contributor to the city’s charitable organizations, Taylor Swift has made an undeniable impact both in and outside of the Big Apple.
Robert De Niro
A true New York legend, Robert De Niro has made his mark in the city and beyond. From his iconic roles in classic films like The Godfather and Taxi Driver to his Oscar-winning performances in Raging Bull and The Deer Hunter, it’s easy to see why De Niro is one of the most famous people in New York. He’s had a long and successful career, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
Billy Joel
Billy Joel is an iconic figure in both the music world and the city of New York. After having successful stints with both solo music and with his band, the New York-based Joel has become an icon of the city’s music scene. He’s released a string of hit singles (“Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl” being two of the most popular), earned numerous awards, and regularly performs at Madison Square Garden.
Scarlett Johansson
If you’re looking for one of the most famous New Yorkers in the entertainment industry, look no further than Scarlett Johansson. The Brooklyn native made her name in the indie world, with her breakout role in the critically-acclaimed Lost in Translation, before becoming one of the hottest names in Hollywood. From starring in blockbusters like Avengers: Endgame to voicing characters in animated films, Johansson continues to make an impact in today’s entertainment world.
Mayor Bill de Blasio
Mayor Bill de Blasio has been an important figure in the city since taking office in 2014. He’s made headlines for controversial decisions, from closing Rikers Island Prison to pushing for a higher minimum wage, but he’s also become one of the most recognizable faces in the city. While many don’t agree with his political ideologies, it’s hard to deny that de Blasio is one of the most famous people in New York.
Tina Fey
Tina Fey is another name that instantly comes to mind when thinking of the city’s celebrities. After attending college in the city and spending time on popular television shows like Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock, as well as starring in hit films like Mean Girls and Date Night, Fey has become a household name. In addition to her acting career, Fey has also been an advocate for progressive causes, making her an even more integral part of New York’s culture.
Barack Obama
Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States and the first African American to hold the office, is one of the most famous people in the city. After eight years in the White House, Obama made his home in New York City and quickly became a leader in the city’s progressive causes. Whether he’s flying in for a political speech or attending cultural events, Obama’s face is instantly recognizable everywhere in the city.
J.K. Rowling
J.K. Rowling is an internationally renowned author, best known for her series of Harry Potter novels. In recognition of her work, she was named one of the most influential people in the world in 2008. She now resides in New York City, where she has returned to her passion for writing. Her latest book series, The Cormoran Strike, was recently adapted into a television show on BBC America.
New York City is home to many well-known celebrities, but when it comes to determining who is the most famous, the list can be long and varied. From music icons like Taylor Swift and Billy Joel to political figures like Barack Obama and Mayor Bill de Blasio, there is no shortage of famous faces in New York. But when it comes to being the most recognizable, one name stands out: Robert De Niro. The iconic actor has had a long and successful career, making him one of the most famous people in the city.
