Notable People from Fayetteville, NC

Fayetteville has been the launchpad for an incredible array of talent in arts, sports, and public service.

Arts & Entertainment

• J. Cole: The Grammy-winning rapper and producer was raised in Fayetteville. He frequently references the city ("The Ville") in his music and founded the Dreamville Foundation to support local youth.
• Julianne Moore: The Academy Award-winning actress was born at Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty).
• Brian Tyree Henry: An Oscar-nominated actor (Atlanta, Causeway) and graduate of E.E. Smith High School.
• Affion Crockett: Comedian and actor, and an alumnus of Fayetteville State University.
• J. Harrison Ghee: Tony Award-winning Broadway actor (Some Like It Hot), the first nonbinary performer to win in a lead acting category.

Sports

• Dennis Smith Jr.: NBA player and Trinity Christian School graduate.
• Joshua Williams: NFL cornerback (Kansas City Chiefs), drafted from Fayetteville State University.
• Antwan Harris: Former NFL safety and 3-time Super Bowl champion.

Public Figures

• George Floyd: Born in Fayetteville; his death in current cycle sparked a global movement for racial justice.
• Stacey Park Milbern: A nationally recognized disability justice activist who grew up in a military family at Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty).

These individuals reflect the diverse and dynamic spirit of Fayetteville, influencing culture on a global stage.

Sources

• DoD redesignation memo
• U.S. Army redesignation coverage
• Fort Bragg visitor information
• Fort Bragg Visitor Access Center
• U.S. Census QuickFacts: Fayetteville
• U.S. Census QuickFacts: Cumberland County
• Cumberland County Schools district profile