Greece is the birthplace of numerous renowned individuals who have gained international fame. Here is a list of some of these famous people with Greek Heratige
Zach Galifianakis
Zach Galifianakis, born Zachary Knight Galifianakis, is a well-known actor and comedian who has appeared in several A-list movies. The 48-year-old actor was born to Sophia Kastrinakis and Mike Galifianakis, both from Crete. He was baptized in a Greek Orthodox Church at the time of his birth. Throughout his career, Zach has been featured in over 40 movies and television shows and has received several prestigious awards.
Betty White
Comedienne Betty White, recognized as the longest living entertainer in the world, has connections to Greece. Born as Betty Marion White Ludden, she is an award-winning actress with a career spanning over seven decades.
Maria Menounos
Maria Menounos, a TV host, wrestler, and socialite, was born to Greek parents. She has also hosted various shows in her home country, including the Eurovision Song Contest held in Athens.
Tommy Lee
Tommy Lee, born Thomas Lee Bass, hails from Athens, Greece. His mother, Vassiliki Papadimitriou, is also from Athens and once competed as Miss Greece in the Miss World Pageant.
Billy Zane
Hollywood veteran Billy Zane, whose birth name is William George Zanetakos, is of Greek descent. His father is from Mani, while his mother is from Chios. The actor is known for his appearances in movies such as Titanic, Tombstone, and Pocahontas.
Tina Fey
Tina Fey, a popular actress, was born as Tina Stamatina Fey. The award-winning thespian's mother is a native of Piraeus in Greece. Tina Fey is known for her roles in blockbusters like Mean Girls, Baby Mama, and Megamind.
Dave Bautista
Dave Bautista, also known as "Batista," is a WWE Champion and actor of Greek descent. Born to a Greek mother and a Filipino father, this award-winning wrestler is considered one of the greatest fighters of all time, despite his modest background.
Hugh Jackman
Hugh Jackman, best known for his portrayal of "Wolverine," can trace his roots back to Greece. His paternal ancestor, Nicholas Isidor Bellas, hailed from the Ottoman Empire of Greece. In addition to his screen appearances, Hugh Jackman has made a name for himself in television, theater, and video games. He has starred in award-winning movies including Van Helsing, X-Men and its sequels, Logan, Les Misérables, and many more.
Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston, originally from Crete, has a famous actor father named Giannis Anitios Anastasakis, who was born into a prominent family on the island. Her father's surname was anglicized upon his migration to the United States. Throughout her four-decade-long career, Jennifer Aniston has appeared in a plethora of successful films, including Combat, Mission: Impossible, That Girl, Kojak, Diagnosis Murder, Star Trek, and The West Wing.
Prince Philip
Prince Philip, the esteemed husband of Queen Elizabeth II of England, is the most iconic personality from Greece. Born into a royal family in Corfu, Prince Philip's Greek heritage is deeply rooted.
