Corpus Christi is rich with history, and it’s also the birthplace of some pretty iconic celebrities. From chart-topping musicians to stars of the big screen, the Gulf Coast Capital has produced its fair share of famous faces. Read on to see if you recognize anyone on the list!
Selena Quintanilla
Known as the Queen of Tejano music, Selena Quintanilla was an American singer, songwriter, spokesperson, model, actress and fashion designer. She is known as one of the most influential Latin artists of all time and is credited for catapulting a music genre into the mainstream market. Learn more about Selena here: Selena’s Legacy Lives on in the Coastal Bend
Eva Longoria
Actress, producer, and director Eva Longoria grew up in Corpus Christi and graduated from Texas A&M University–Kingsville. In 1998, she earned the title of Miss Corpus Christi. A proud local, she’s also known for her love of the hometown favorite, Boat-N-Net.
Farrah Fawcett
Actress Farrah Fawcett, best known for her iconic role in the hit TV series Charlie’s Angels, graduated from Ray High School right here in Corpus Christi. While you're exploring Downtown, be sure to check out the vibrant mural dedicated to her at 601 N. Water St. Read more about the mural here: Murals to Check Out In Downtown Corpus Christi.
Jeremy Jordan
Jeremy Jordan is an American actor, singer, and dancer known for his standout performances on Broadway, in film, and on television. He’s best known for playing Jack Kelly in the 2012 musical Newsies and Clyde Barrow in Bonnie & Clyde. He also starred as Winslow Schott on the superhero drama series Supergirl. A Corpus Christi native, Jeremy graduated from Carroll High School.
Kevin Abstract
Musician, rapper, and singer-songwriter Ian Simpson (better known as Kevin Abstract) released his debut album MTV1987 in 2014 and received attention from major music blogs and magazine publications. Before going solo, he was part of the popular rap group, Brockhampton. You'll even find a street with the same name as the group in Corpus Christi! Kevin Abstract's influences include names like Frank Ocean, Kanye West and Kid Cudi.
Roger Creager
Texas country music singer-songwriter Roger Creager is a favorite on the radio and can be seen from time to time at Brewster Street Icehouse on Texas Throwdown Thursdays! Some of his popular singles include "Gulf Coast Time" and "The Everclear Song".
Ernestine Jackson
Ernestine Jackson made her Broadway debut in 1967 as Irene Molloy in the all-black cast of Hello, Dolly! She has also acted in several feature films and has won several Tony Awards including the Theatre World Award and a nomination for the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical.
Ashley Kidd
Ashley Kidd, a Corpus Christi native, is a professional wakesurfer and seven-time World Wake Surfing Champion. She began wakesurfing in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first world title in 2014. Kidd has continued to dominate the sport, securing multiple national titles and inspiring the next generation of wakesurfers.
Bobby and Terry Labonte
NASCAR legends Bobby and Terry Labonte both hail from Corpus Christi, and they’re the only brothers to have each won a Sprint Cup championship. Their achievements left a lasting mark on the sport and their hometown. You can even visit Labonte Park in Corpus Christi, named in honor of these local racing heroes.
Chris "Whipper" Layton
Chris “Whipper” Layton, a Ray High School graduate from Corpus Christi, made his mark as the drummer for Double Trouble alongside legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan. He’s also toured with the acclaimed Experience Hendrix project, honoring the legacy of Jimi Hendrix through live performances.
Victoria Moroles
Actress Victoria Moroles is from Corpus Christi and was raised in Rockport, growing up in the local art scene alongside her artistic relatives. She is best known for her role as Margot in Netflix's Never Have I Ever and Andie on the Disney Channel show Liv and Maddie. She also has played Hayden Romero on MTV's Teen Wolf since its fifth season. Recently, she played the starring role of Lupe in Plan B on Hulu.
Lary Norman
Born in 1947 in Corpus Christi, Larry David Norman is known as a pioneer of Christian rock music. His thought-provoking lyrics and genre-blending sound helped shape the foundation of contemporary Christian music, earning him a lasting legacy as one of its most influential figures.
William Norris "Billy" Powell
Musician and songwriter William Norris "Billy" Powell was the longtime keyboardist for the Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd, performing with the group from 1970 until his passing in 2009. Known for his powerful piano solos, especially in hits like “Free Bird," Powell played a key role in shaping the band’s iconic sound.
Jessie Pavelka
Jessie Pavelka, an American fitness expert and television host known for his work in extreme weight loss and healthy living, attended Calallen High School in Corpus Christi. He’s appeared on several health-focused shows, inspiring audiences with his motivational approach to wellness.
Pepe Serna
Actor Pepe Serna, a Corpus Christi native, has appeared in over 100 films throughout his career. He’s best known for roles in Car Wash and Scarface, where he played Angel Fernandez—Tony Montana’s friend featured in the film’s infamous “chainsaw scene.”
Lori Singer
Actress Lori Singer is best known as the female lead and Kevin Bacon's co-star, Ariel Moore in Footloose and in the television hit show Fame. Fun fact: she's also a Julliard-trained cellist.
Jose Trevino
All-Star catcher Jose Trevino, a proud Corpus Christi native, currently plays for the New York Yankees. He began his Major League career with the Texas Rangers before joining the Yankees, where he was named an American League All-Star Reserve in 2022.
