Broward County Stars and Icons
Located in the Sunshine State, Broward County has long been a place for talent. With a diverse range of cultures, dreams, and ambitions, this Florida hub has been the cradle of numerous individuals who have risen to the peak of their fields, etching their names in history. From the streets of Fort Lauderdale to further south in Miramar, Broward has gifted the world with stars in sports, music, film, entertainment, and beyond.
Ten Most Iconic Residents of Broward County
Lamar Jackson
Playing for the Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson debuted in the league in 2018, when the Ravens drafted him as the 32nd overall pick in the first round. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Jackson quickly became a standout player, earning the MVP award in only his second season.
He became the second unanimous MVP in NFL history, following Tom Brady. Lamar is especially recognized for his rushing ability, having broken the single-season rushing record for a quarterback previously held by Michael Vick. His unique playing style and on-field success have solidified him as one of the most exciting talents of his generation.
Kodak Black
Kodak Black, out of Pompano Beach, Florida, gained initial recognition with his single “No Flockin” released in 2014. His debut album, Painting Pictures, dropped in 2017 and reached the very top of the charts.
One of his most notable tracks, “Tunnel Vision,” became his first major single that was a hit. Despite having a number of legal issues and controversies, nothing has set Kodak back, as he remains a significant figure in hip-hop.
Johnny Depp
Johnny Depp entered the entertainment industry in the 1980s with his film debut in A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) but gained widespread fame with the television series 21 Jump Street (1987-1990).
Over the years, Depp has earned numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and Screen Actors Guild awards. The Miramar, Florida native is best known for his role as Captain Jack Sparrow in the Pirates of the Caribbean film series and for starring and featuring in over 50 films.
XXXTentacion
XXXTentacion was an influential rapper who carved out a unique space in the industry before his untimely death in 2018. He catapulted to fame with his hit song “Look at Me” in 2017, though he had been releasing music on platforms like SoundCloud since 2013.
XXXTentacion’s work was characterized by its deeply introspective lyrics and varied musical influences, including punk rock, hip-hop, and R&B. XXXTentacion developed a substantial and dedicated fan base that resonated with his struggles and authenticity, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the music world.
Jason Derulo
Jason Derulo is a singer, songwriter, and dancer who rose to fame since his music debut in 2009 with the single “Whatcha Say.” Now, Derulo has become a mainstay in both the pop and R&B music scene. He has sold over 30 million records and achieved eleven Platinum singles, including “Wiggle,” “Talk Dirty,” “In My Head,” and “Want to Want Me.”
Michael Irvin
Michael Irvin is a legendary wide receiver out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He played his entire career for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL from 1988 to 1999. Known as “The Playmaker” for his big-game performances, Irvin was selected by the Cowboys in the first round of the 1988 NFL Draft.
He was a key player during an era that saw the team win three Super Bowl titles in four years during the 1990s. After Irvin was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2007, he transitioned into broadcasting.
Geno Smith
Geno Smith is a quarterback who revived his career with a standout season for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Another Miramar, Florida native, he originally debuted in 2013, when he was selected in the second round by the New York Jets. Smith spent the early years of his career as a starting quarterback before transitioning to backup roles with various teams.
His resurgence with the Seahawks as a starting quarterback came in 2022 following the departure of long-time Seahawk Russell Wilson. Smith’s performance during the 2022 season earned him a Pro Bowl selection and Comeback Player of the Year consideration.
Norman Reedus
A Hollywood star from Hollywood, Florida, Norman Reedus achieved widespread fame through his role as Daryl Dixon in the hit television series The Walking Dead, which premiered in 2010.
Before his breakout role, Reedus made his acting debut in the play Maps for Drowners at the Tiffany Theater on Sunset Boulevard. He then had roles for parts in films such as Mimic and Boondock Saints in the late 1990s. His rugged on-screen presence and artistic off-screen pursuits have made him a unique fixture in contemporary pop culture.
Ace Hood
Ace Hood is a legendary Broward County rapper from Deerfield Beach, Florida. Ace Hood’s journey to fame began after meeting DJ Khaled and signing to his label, We the Best Music Group, and later to Cash Money Records.
His breakthrough came with the hit singles “Hustle Hard” and “Bugatti,” which not only dominated the charts but also became anthems within the hip-hop community. Over the years, Ace Hood has released multiple albums and mixtapes, showcasing his versatility as an artist.