1

Julia Child

Image: Caroline Attwood

Probably the first name that comes to mind when thinking about famous American chefs is Julia Child, and for good reason. This chef, author, and television personality is recognized for bringing French cuisine to the American public with her first cookbook, Mastering the Art of French Cooking , and her television programs, like 1963’s The French Chef.

Child began learning to cook after meeting her future husband, Paul, who grew up in a family passionate about food and was known for his sophisticated palate.

2

Emeril Lagasse

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Another familiar name (one of many) on this list is Emeril Lagasse, a celebrity chef, restaurateur, television personality, cookbook author, and regional James Beard Award winner (more on this name later), known for his mastery of Creole and Cajun cuisine.

He is known for catchphrases like "Kick it up a notch!" and "Bam!" and has appeared on a wide variety of cooking shows , including Emeril Live and Essence of Emeril .

3

Paula Deen

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The hostess of Paula’s Party is a chef, cookbook author, and TV personality from Savannah, Georgia, where she owns and operates The Lady & Sons restaurant with her sons . She has been the star of several cooking shows, including Paula’s Home Cooking, Positively Paula, Paula’s Best Dishes , and the aforementioned Paula’s Party .

Another show where you might recognize her—though it doesn't bear her name—is MasterChef , where she appears as a guest alongside other well-known chefs, mentoring home cooks through a series of challenges.

4

James Beard

Image: Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦

If Julia Child is not the first name that comes to your mind when you think of a celebrity chef, then this might be the one. James Beard pioneered television cooking with shows like 1946’s I Love to Eat, taught at The James Beard Cooking School, and lectured extensively. He was a big promoter of American cooking, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients.

Beard taught and mentored generations of professional chefs and food enthusiasts, and published more than twenty books.

5

Leah Chase

Image: Jorge Zapata

The Queen of Creole Cuisine, Leah Chase, was a New Orleans chef, author, and television host, also known for her civil rights advocacy and her extensive African-American art collection . Her restaurant, Dooky Chase, was known as a gathering place during the 1960s for many involved in the Civil Rights Movement, and in 2018, it was named one of the 40 most important restaurants of the past 40 years by Food & Wine .

Leah Chase was inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s Who’s Who of Food & Beverage in America in 2010, received a lifetime achievement award from the Southern Foodways Alliance in 2000, and was awarded honorary degrees from several universities, among other honors.

6

Bobby Flay

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A staple on the Food Network, Bobby Flay has been a prominent figure in American television since 1995, winning several awards and even earning a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame . He has hosted or been a part of several shows, including Hot Off the Grill with Bobby Flay, 3 Days to Open with Bobby Flay, Throwdown with Bobby Flay , and many more.

He has participated in many shows competing against other chefs, mentoring home chefs, and has hosted many cooking reality shows.

7

Sara Moulton

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Described as "one of the nation’s most enduring recipe writers and cooking teachers...and a dean of food television and magazines," Sara Moulton is a chef, cookbook author, and television personality. She served as the food editor for ABC’s Good Morning America from 1997 to 2012 and hosted Cooking Live , Cooking Live Primetime , and Sara’s Secrets on the Food Network.

Moulton has authored several cookbooks, including Sara Moulton Cooks at Home (2002), Sara’s Secrets for Weeknight Meals (2005), and Sara Moulton’s Everyday Family Dinners (2010). Since 2008, she has hosted Sara’s Weeknight Meals .

8

Guy Fieri

Image: Manu Ros

This easily recognizable and colorful personality is widely known for hosting many television series on The Food Network, licensing his name to restaurants in cities worldwide, and for his signature flashy shirts and spiky hair. His shows are said to bring an "element of rowdy, mass-market culture to American food television."

A series of TV specials and cooking shows showcase Fieri traveling the country visiting eateries, cooking, participating in and hosting game shows, and making appearances in other chefs’ shows.

9

Mary Ann Esposito

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Being the hostess of the longest-running television cooking program in America is no small feat, and Mary Ann Esposito—chef, cookbook writer, and central figure of _Ciao Italia_—has achieved just that.

This 30-minute show features Esposito's recipes and cooking tips, along with visits from guest chefs, as she explores the history of Italian cooking and food. The food is made from scratch in the studio, with each dish being prepared in numerous batches and at different recipe stages. This allows Esposito to execute an entire recipe in a matter of minutes, even if it would normally take hours to complete.

10

Anthony Bourdain

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One of the most famous names in American television cooking history is, without a doubt, Anthony Bourdain. After honing his skills in various eateries and graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, including several years as executive chef at Brasserie Les Halles in Manhattan, he became best known for his travel documentaries, where he explored local cuisines from around the world, as well as for his books.

His first food and world-travel television show was A Cook's Tour , which was followed by Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations , The Layover , and Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. His funny, philosophical, and daredevil attitude made him a beloved figure in the world of television food shows.

1

Meryl Streep

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We’ll begin with a modern icon. Since her start in stage plays in 1975, Meryl Streep has completely risen to stardom, to the point of being considered by many as the very best actress of her generation.

Streep holds the distinct honor of being the most nominated actress for an Academy Award in history, with 21 nominations and 3 wins. Some of her most memorable performances include Sophie's Choice , Kramer vs. Kramer , and The Bridges of Madison County .

2

Marilyn Monroe

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What more can be said about the "Blonde Bombshell" that hasn’t been said before? Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, Marilyn Monroe is definitively one of America’s most famous pop icons. There’s a good reason why legendary pop artist Andy Warhol decided to immortalize her with a series of paintings: Marilyn not only perfectly encapsulates Hollywood in the '50s but also serves as a great representation of how the world sees the American dream.

Monroe’s first on-screen appearance dates back to 1947, when she briefly appeared as a waitress. Nobody knew that this small role would be followed by an extremely profitable career, which included classics like Some Like It Hot , The Seven Year Itch , and The Misfits .

3

Grace Kelly

Image: Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0

Many of the actresses on this list are considered Hollywood royalty, but only Grace Kelly holds the honor of being an actual princess. However, while her marriage to Prince Rainier III of Monaco was truly a spectacular moment, we shouldn’t overlook the incredible career of this amazingly talented actress.

After a number of small roles, Kelly first achieved stardom with her performance in John Ford's 1953 film Mogambo , for which she was nominated for her first Academy Award. That being said, perhaps her most iconic roles are the numerous Hitchcock films she appeared in, including such classics as Dial M for Murder , Rear Window , and To Catch a Thief .

4

Judy Garland

Image: Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0

Sometimes actresses and actors are typecast after a particularly amazing role: Carrie Fisher will always be Princess Leia, Anthony Hopkins will always be Hannibal Lecter, and Judy Garland will always be remembered as the brave Dorothy Gale from The Wizard of Oz . And while this role truly cemented Garland as an undisputed American icon, there’s so much more to this amazing actress's career.

Garland’s incredible voice and acting chops skyrocketed her to fame from an early age. One year before portraying Dorothy, she starred alongside Mickey Rooney in the 1938 film Love Finds Andy Hardy . As an adult, she received Oscar nominations for such iconic films as A Star Is Born and Judgment at Nuremberg .

5

Elizabeth Taylor

Image: photo by Alan Light, CC BY 2.0

If there’s one thing that you probably remember about Elizabeth Taylor , it’s those hauntingly beautiful eyes of hers: They were a gorgeous blue that almost seemed to shift into a unique shade of violet under the right light. Regardless, this amazing American actress is still remembered as one of Hollywood’s most iconic legends.

Elizabeth Taylor’s many acting roles are too many to count, so we’ll leave you with a few of our favorites: two film adaptations of Tennessee Williams’ plays, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and Suddenly, Last Summer , and her performance as the Queen of the Nile herself in the 1961 film Cleopatra .

6

Katharine Hepburn

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Throughout her nearly sixty-year career, Katharine Hepburn amassed an impressive number of awards and accolades. Critics and fans alike adored the outspokenness, independence, and freedom that she brought to her characters. It seems only natural that her amazing talent earned her 4 Academy Awards for Best Actress, a record she holds to this day.

Born and raised in Hartford, Connecticut, Hepburn started acting during her college years. After a very successful run on Broadway, she gained international fame after Hollywood discovered her. Her third film, Morning Glory , earned Hepburn her very first Academy Award.

7

Ginger Rogers

Image: Kyle Head

It should go without saying that all the actresses on this list have multiple talents, including singing and dancing. However, it would be a safe bet to state that Ginger Rogers , Fred Astaire’s most beloved dance partner, is the very best dancer on this list (which is definitely saying something).

Born in Independence, Missouri, but raised in Kansas City, Rogers began her career in a vaudeville act at the age of 14. In the 1930s, she met her perfect partner in crime, Fred Astaire. From 1933 to 1939, the duo starred in 9 iconic films, which completely revolutionized the Hollywood musical genre.

8

Julia Roberts

Image: David Shankbone, CC BY 3.0

Julia Roberts became an instantly recognizable icon in the ‘90s, starring in such classics as Steel Magnolias , Pretty Woman , and My Best Friend’s Wedding . However, it wasn’t until the start of the new millennium that she earned her first well-deserved Academy Award, when she played the paralegal-turned-environmental activist in the 2000 film Erin Brockovich .

Nowadays, Roberts continues to shine on the silver screen. The 21st century saw her starring in films like Ocean's Eleven and Eat Pray Love . Not only that, she was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in 2014 for her performance in the 2014 TV film The Normal Heart .

9

Whoopi Goldberg

Image: Canadian Film Centre from Toronto, Canada, CC BY 2.0

Caryn Elaine Johnson, known to the world as Whoopi Goldberg , is undeniably a jack of all trades. She is an Academy Award-winning actress, received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor for her work as a comedian, and is also a TV personality who entertains millions of American homes every day.

Whoopi first rose to prominence for her wonderful performance in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 film The Color Purple , for which she received a Golden Globe for Best Actress. That first recognition was quickly followed by a myriad of awards, including an Academy Award for Ghost and an Emmy for hosting the TV show The View .

10

Rita Hayworth

Image: photo by Alan Light, CC BY 2.0

Just like Judy Garland, many people know Rita Hayworth as "Gilda," a nickname she earned after starring in the titular 1946 film. However, there’s so much more this actress contributed to Hollywood throughout her spectacular career, so we decided to honor her life and work with this final entry.

Born Margarita Carmen Cansino, Rita was already a professional dancer by age 12, performing on stage with her father, who was also a dancer. By the time she was in her early 20s, she had already taken the world by storm, becoming one of the most profitable actresses of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

1

Charlie Chaplin

Charles Chaplin was far more than a slapstick icon; he was also a gifted, self-taught composer. Despite never learning to read music, he had an exceptional ear and a deep love for melody. He personally created the musical scores for many of his films, ensuring every note matched his vision. One of his most enduring compositions, "Smile," was later turned into a beloved ballad recorded by Nat King Cole, Michael Jackson, and many others. Did you know that?

2

Clint Eastwood

Known for his lone-wolf type characters and acclaimed work behind the camera, Clint Eastwood also has a deep love for jazz that has shaped much of his personal and creative life. A skilled piano player, Eastwood doesn’t just tinker with the keys—he plays with real finesse. He’s even composed original scores for several of his own films, including Mystic River and Million Dollar Baby . At home, his Steinway grand piano sits surrounded by a carefully curated vinyl collection, a tribute to the music that inspires him.

3

Mae West

Long before anyone coined the term "multi-hyphenate," Mae West was already doing it all. A screen legend and the epitome of 1930s allure, she wasn’t just known for her wit and curves—she also had serious musical chops. Her signature sultry voice was famous, but did you know she also composed music and wrote her own lyrics? She even experimented with rock ’n’ roll in the 1960s, releasing albums well into her seventies. True to form, her songs—like her film scripts—were brash, playful, and unapologetically ahead of their time.

4

Jimmy Stewart

Beyond his warm, everyman charm, Jimmy Stewart had a lesser-known talent: playing the accordion. Though he never pursued it professionally, the instrument was his faithful companion. He often brought it to movie sets, entertaining cast and crew during breaks. For Stewart, music wasn’t about showmanship but a way to unwind and create a friendly atmosphere wherever he went.

5

Jerry Lewis

Renowned for his wild antics and legendary comedy duo with Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis was more than just a funny man—he was also a talented, self-taught pianist. He began playing as a child and kept music close throughout his career, often incorporating piano interludes into his routines. Beyond the stage, Lewis composed original pieces for films and television specials, showcasing a musical side that many fans may not even know about.

6

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep may be the queen of acting, but long before she stepped in front of a camera, she was busy mastering the violin. As a young woman, she studied classical violin passionately, developing not just technique but a deep appreciation for music. Though she didn’t pursue it professionally, her early training paid off in unexpected ways—giving her the confidence and credibility to tackle musically demanding roles later in life, such as the hilariously off-key opera singer in Florence Foster Jenkins or the show-stopping mother in Mamma Mia!

7

Paul Robeson

More than just a performer, Robeson was a powerful voice —both literally and politically. His booming bass made "Ol’ Man River" unforgettable, but his musical talent went far beyond that. A trained singer and accomplished actor, he viewed art as a force for justice. Fluent in over 20 languages, Robeson performed around the world, using his voice not only to entertain but also to speak out against racism and inequality wherever he went.

8

Johnny Carson

Best known as the face of The Tonight Show , Johnny Carson also had rhythm running through his veins. A lifelong music lover, he took up the drums as a boy and never lost the habit. While he never pursued it professionally, he occasionally surprised audiences by sitting in with the studio band for a quick jam—a subtle reminder that behind the suit and tie was a performer with more than one talent.

9

Anthony Quinn

Long before captivating audiences as Zorba the Greek, Anthony Quinn was making noise in a completely different way. Born in Mexico and raised in Los Angeles, he picked up the trumpet and saxophone, playing in local jazz bands to earn money and express himself creatively. Music was his first love, and although acting eventually took center stage, those early musical roots stayed with him throughout his life.

10

Jack Lemmon

Beloved for his wit and warm on-screen charisma, Jack Lemmon had another talent up his sleeve: he was a gifted pianist. Audiences who saw him on talk shows were often treated to impromptu performances, where he’d sit down at the piano and play with real flair. It wasn’t just a party trick—music was a lifelong passion for Lemmon, a source of joy, and a way to express himself beyond the roles he played. Whether behind the keys or in front of the camera, his genuine charm always shone through.

11

Steve Martin

Long before he became a household name with comedies like The Jerk , Steve Martin was already strumming the banjo with remarkable skill. What began as a teenage hobby grew into a lifelong passion for bluegrass. He has recorded several albums, earning multiple Grammy Awards, and shared the stage with legends like Earl Scruggs and Dolly Parton. Not just a performer, Martin also founded a nonprofit to support up-and-coming banjo players and keep the tradition alive.

12

Julie Andrews

We can’t wrap up this list without tipping our hat to the great Julie Andrews. Most folks remember her as the angel-voiced Maria from The Sound of Music , but did you know she’s also a talented pianist? Trained in music from an early age, her time at the piano helped shape her legendary perfect pitch. Later in life, she often sat down to compose music—sometimes even teaming up with her daughter to create songs for children. A true class act, on and off the screen!