Famous families and Tennessee go hand-in-hand
Tennessee is home to celebrity parents who not only shine in their professional careers but also excel in the most important role of all – parenthood. Our state boasts an impressive roster of stars who prioritize family and fame. Some Volunteer celebrities were born and raised in Tennessee and now have families of their own who call Tennesssee home. Others, have chosen Nashville as their family home, demonstrating the state’s magnetic pull for those who value both professional success and meaningful family connections
1. Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon, the Oscar-winning actress known for her roles in “Legally Blonde” and “Walk the Line,” is a mother of three children. Born and raised in Tennessee, Reese has spoken fondly about instilling Southern values in her kids. Reese’s parenting style emphasizes respect, manners, and a strong work ethic, reflecting her own upbringing in Nashville.
2. Justin Timberlake
Justin Timberlake, the multi-talented singer and actor from Memphis, has two sons with wife Jessica Biel. Known for being a former member of NSYNC and for hits like “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” Timberlake has embraced fatherhood with enthusiasm. He once said, “Having kids, I feel like you get to see the world again through their eyes.” The couple focuses on teaching their children about gender equality and maintaining a normal life despite their fame.
3. Billy Ray Cyrus
Billy Ray Cyrus, the country music star from Kentucky who made Tennessee his home, is best known for his 1992 hit “Achy Breaky Heart” and his role in the Disney Channel series “Hannah Montana.” As a father of six children, Billy Ray has experienced the joys and challenges of parenting in the spotlight. His family includes daughters Miley, Noah, and Brandi, sons Trace, Braison, and Christopher Cody.
4. Megan Fox
Born in 1986 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and raised in Rockwood, Tennessee Megan Fox has Tennessee roots. Megan Fox, the Hollywood actress renowned for her roles in blockbusters like “Transformers” and cult classics such as “Jennifer’s Body,” is a devoted mother of three sons: Noah, Bodhi, and Journey. Fox has made headlines for her progressive parenting approach, which resonates with many modern parents across the country.
5. Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman, the iconic actor known for his distinctive voice and memorable roles in films like “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Driving Miss Daisy,” and “Million Dollar Baby,” is also a father of four children. With Tennessee roots, Freeman currently resides in Charleston, Mississippi, while maintaining a home in New York City. As a parent, Freeman has experienced both triumphs and challenges.
5. Faith Hill
Nashville resident, Faith Hill, one of country music’s biggest stars, is not only known for her powerful voice and chart-topping hits like Breathe and This Kiss but also for her role as a devoted mother. Married to fellow country singer Tim McGraw, Faith is the proud mom of three children: Gracie, Maggie, and Audrey. In interviews, she often speaks about how motherhood has grounded her, sharing that her kids have taught her more about life and love than anything else. Faith and Tim’s family life is grounded in faith, love, and a strong sense of family, making them one of country music’s most admired couples both on and off the stage.
6. Tina Turner
Born in Brownsville, Tennessee, Tina Turner, the legendary “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll,” is not just celebrated for her iconic voice, electrifying performances, and empowering anthems like Proud Mary and What’s Love Got to Do with It—she is also a proud and resilient mother. Tina has two biological children, Craig and Ronald, as well as adopted sons, Ike Jr. and Michael, from her marriage to her former husband, Ike Turner. Tina’s fierce love for her children and her determination to give them a better life were central to her story, making her legacy not only one of musical greatness but also of profound maternal devotion.
7. Nate Bargatze
Tennessee native, Nate Bargatze, the hilarious comedian known for his clean, observational humor and down-to-earth storytelling, is also a devoted dad. Born and raised in the suburbs of Nashville, Tennessee, Nate has made a name for himself with his relatable stand-up specials like The Tennessee Kid and Greatest Average American. Offstage, Nate is the father of one daughter, Harper, whom he shares with his wife, Laura. His lighthearted approach to parenthood, combined with his ability to laugh at himself, has made him one of the most beloved comic dads in the industry. His stories about life as a dad—like getting a real laugh from his daughter over a simple dad joke—have made him a favorite for families who love comedy that everyone can enjoy.
8. Leeann Morgan
Leanne Morgan, a beloved stand-up comedian from Tennessee, is known for her down-home humor, which blends Southern charm with relatable parenting stories. With her witty takes on life as a mom, wife, and woman navigating middle age, Leanne has built a huge following through her comedy specials and performances, especially with her Netflix special I’m Every Woman. Leanne and her husband, Charlie, have three children. As a mom, Leanne has often shares the challenges and rewards of raising her kids with humor and honesty. She once said, “Being a mom is the hardest job I’ve ever had, but it’s also the most rewarding. And I wouldn’t change a thing, except maybe getting a little more sleep!”
9. Nichole Kidman
Nicole Kidman, the Australian-born actress who has made Nashville her home for many years, is as celebrated for her remarkable career as she is for her role as a devoted mother. Known for her iconic performances in films like Moulin Rouge!, The Hours, and Big Little Lies, Nicole has always been open about how motherhood has influenced her life and work. She and her husband, country music star Keith Urban, have two daughters and she also has two children from her previous marriage to actor Tom Cruise. Nicole’s deep commitment to her family, combined with her grounded presence in Tennessee, has made her an inspiring figure for many celebrity parents who strive to maintain a balance between their public careers and private lives.
10. Melissa Joan Hart
Melissa Joan Hart, the actress best known for her role as Sabrina the Teenage Witch, is also a dedicated mom who has embraced both her Hollywood career and her family life. Living in Nashville with her husband, musician Mark Wilkerson, Melissa is the proud mother of three boys. While she’s starred in iconic TV shows and movies, including Clarissa Explains It All and Melissa & Joey, her role as a mom has been a big part of her life off-screen. Melissa has often opened up about the joys and challenges of parenting, sharing her down-to-earth approach to raising her children.
