Five Famous Ottawans

The city of Ottawa is a stunning destination that is great for a memorable holiday travel trip. Not only does Canada’s capital city have some wonderful attractions and entertainment options, but many influential and famous people were born in the area and went on to be big stars. While planning a vacation in Ottawa, it may be fun to know some facts about some of the famous faces that will always call this city their hometown. In no particular order, these are five people who were either born in Ottawa or spent a significant amount of time in town and are now recognized for their talents by millions.

Jeremy Gara

Known for showcasing his skills as a drummer for the band Arcade Fire, Jeremy Gara was born in Ottawa in 1978. His group is recognized for its great success as a breakthrough indie rock band, even receiving a Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 2010. Richard Reed Perry, a bassist and accordion player in the band, calls Ottawa his hometown as well.

Matthew Perry

Perry has enjoyed fame through his iconic role as Chandler Bing on the American sitcom Friends. Although he was technically born in Massachusetts, Perry was raised by his mother in Ottawa throughout most of his childhood. In recent years, the actor has continued to be on television, starring in shows such as Mr. Sunshine, and making cameos on Ally McBeal and Scrubs

Margaret Atwood

This noted female author has created some incredible novels and poetry books that have experienced popularity worldwide. Atwood was raised in Northern Ontario and was born in Ottawa, gaining inspiration from her natural surroundings and landscapes for her future writing. Her books include The Blind Assassin and Cat’s Eye.

Brendan Fraser

Fraser is a well-known movie actor who is not a native Ottawan, but spent the better part of his childhood living in the area, due to his father working for the Canadian Government Office of Tourism. The list is long for Fraser’s movie appearances, including blockbusters such as The Mummy and G.I. Joe.

Alanis Morissette

Morissette was one of the most iconic musicians throughout the 1990s for her singer-songwriter status that became a global sensation. She was born and lived in Ottawa throughout her early childhood, making a name for herself on the children's TV show You Can't Do That on Television before she began to produce hit singles well-loved by fans throughout the world, including many songs off her 1995 album Jagged Little Pill.