Arts & Entertainment:
* Michael Jordan: While not born in Wilmington, Jordan's basketball career began here, playing for the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW). He is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
* Charles Frazier: Author of the bestselling novel "Cold Mountain," which won the National Book Award in 1997.
* David Alan Grier: Actor and comedian, known for his roles in "In Living Color" and "The Carmichael Show."
* David Spade: Comedian and actor, known for his work on "Saturday Night Live" and "Just Shoot Me!"
* Jonathan Taylor Thomas: Actor known for his roles in "Home Improvement" and "The Lion King."
* David Sedaris: Humorous writer and performer, though he was not born in Wilmington, he lived there for a short time.
* Elizabeth Mitchell: Actress known for her roles in "Lost," "The Purge," and "V."
* Wilmington Symphony Orchestra: A renowned symphony orchestra based in Wilmington.
Politics & Business:
* David Price: United States Representative for North Carolina's 4th congressional district.
* Thomas Bragg: United States Senator from North Carolina during the Civil War era.
* Jesse Helms: United States Senator from North Carolina, known for his conservative views.
* William Gaston: U.S. Representative from North Carolina and served as Attorney General of North Carolina.
* John N. Smith: Business leader and philanthropist, founder of the Smith Funeral Home and known for his contributions to Wilmington.
Sports:
* Michael Jordan: See above.
* Danny Green: NBA player, won multiple championships with the San Antonio Spurs and Toronto Raptors.
* Mike D'Antoni: Former NBA coach, known for his high-scoring "seven seconds or less" offense.
* Devon Allen: American track and field athlete, known for his speed and success in the 110-meter hurdles.
* Stephen Curry: While not born in Wilmington, he played college basketball at Davidson College, located near Wilmington.
* UNCW Seahawks: UNCW's athletic teams have produced several notable athletes, including former NBA player Brett Blizzard and current WNBA player Jasmine Dickey.
Other:
* Michael J. Fox: Actor, known for his roles in "Back to the Future" and "Family Ties," was raised in Wilmington for a period.
* Margo Price: Country singer and songwriter, known for her "Heart of a Coward" album.
* Jonathan Rhys Meyers: Actor known for his roles in "The Tudors" and "Bend It Like Beckham," lived in Wilmington for a period while filming.
Note: This list is not exhaustive and there are many other notable people from Wilmington, North Carolina. This is just a selection of some of the most famous and recognized individuals.