Charleston, South Carolina, is not only a popular destination for visitors — it’s also where several celebrities live. Some reside in the city because they were born and raised there, and others moved there because of the city’s ambiance and lifestyle. Whatever their profession as musicians, actors, or artists, these celebrities all have a strong connection with Charleston. Some give back to the community or prefer the Lowcountry way of life.
Stephen Colbert, the showy host of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, is Charleston-born and raised and proud of his Southern roots. While Colbert was actually born in Washington, D.C., he spent his formative years on James Island, just beyond Charleston. His quick wit and sarcasm might be well adapted to New York, but his heart has never departed the South. Colbert regularly talks up his hometown in interviews and speeches, and his tie isn’t a coincidence — he’s actively involved politically in local affairs. He’s been spotted volunteering for Charleston’s Spoleto Festival and is regularly showing up at functions around the city.
Bill Murray is only one of the celebrities who really lives like a native in Charleston. The comedy legend has a home on Sullivan’s Island and is often seen strolling downtown, crashing wedding photos, or dropping into a local bar for a beer. He’s also a co-owner of the Charleston RiverDogs, the city’s minor league baseball team, and is often seen at games.
One of Charleston’s proudest sons is Darius Rucker, the lead vocalist of the ’90s rock band Hootie & the Blowfish. Raised and born in Charleston, Rucker has enjoyed a prosperous solo career as a country musician with multiple awards and top-charted songs. He remains close to home in spite of fame, living in the Lowcountry still and giving back through philanthropic efforts, including his yearly benefit golf tournament.
Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon is familiar with Southern hospitality. Originally from New Orleans, she’s added Charleston to her lifestyle as well. Not born in South Carolina, it is rumored that she owns property on Sullivan’s Island and has spoken extremely positively about Charleston as a city of culture and beauty. Her enthusiasm for the South is evident in her lifestyle brand, Draper James, and in her television and film projects honoring Southern stories, including Big Little Lies and Sweet Home Alabama.
Creator and actor of HBO’s The Righteous Gemstones, Danny McBride brought fresh star power to Charleston. Falling in love with the area, he moved his family and crew here, where he now produces his hit show. By bringing his productions to the hub of Charleston, he has created a boost to the local film industry by providing jobs and putting the city on the national map.
Judge Judy Sheindlin, whose blunt courtroom personality has acquired countless devotees, has succumbed to Charleston’s allure as well. Though she is not a native, she vacations at her home on Kiawah Island, within a few minutes’ driving distance from downtown. Her association with the area may be low-key, but her presence lends an air of gravitas. After retiring from her hit television show, she’s chosen a more relaxed, scenic existence.
Shepard Fairey might not be a name that rings a bell, but you certainly know his work — specifically the iconic “HOPE” poster of Barack Obama’s presidential campaign in 2008 and his “OBEY” series of street works. Born and raised in Charleston, his artistic roots trace back to the city streets. Although he left to earn a living, he is still connected and has now returned for the last few years to leave bigger murals and public art that illuminate the city.
Josh Strickland is a Charleston-born Broadway performer best known for developing the title character in Tarzan: The Musical. He has acted on reality shows and in Vegas productions, adding his uniquely Southern charm to fans everywhere across the country. Strickland travels back to Charleston regularly and is keen to tell of growing up there.
Will Patton, a veteran character actor who has appeared in such movies as Remember the Titans and Armageddon, was born in Charleston. With a long and diverse career, Patton brings gravitas to the city’s roll call of celebrity connections.
Thomas Gibson was raised in Charleston and has had a successful movie and television career. He is best known for his work on Criminal Minds as Aaron Hotchner and Greg Montgomery on Dharma & Greg. With professional training at Juilliard, Gibson’s craft displays his richness. Although he has worked the majority of his life in Hollywood, he often cites his affection for Charleston as having a major impact.
Margaret Anne Florence is a true native of Charleston and a versatile actress on television, film, and stage. She studied classical music and has been involved in productions like Sun Records and The Mighty Macs. She’s an alumnus of the College of Charleston and NYU.
Jonny Weston is a rising Charleston star who was given notice playing surfer Jay Moriarity in Chasing Mavericks. He also starred in the science fiction action movie Project Almanac. Identified by his energetic young looks and athletic physique, Weston credits his South Carolina origins for remaining humble in pursuing his Hollywood career.
Charleston’s not just a beautiful city — it’s a city that draws talent and honors it. From Hollywood celebrities and singers to artists and reality TV personalities, there are many celebrities with a deep affinity to the city. They were either born in the city or migrated to the city later in life, but what they all have is a genuine attachment to the city. Whether philanthropy or merely basking in the Lowcountry lifestyle, Charleston is a city where stars feel comfortable. Its history, charm, and culture give it a welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to shun — an environment where creativity flourishes and roots are deep.
