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20 Most Famous People From Malta

*Originally published by Charity K on July 2022 and Updated by Beatrice J on March 2024

Apart from being home to 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Malta is known for its warm climate and breathtaking landscapes that are used in major film productions. Malta is also known for having one of the cleanest and clearest seas in Europe.

Other than having angelic scenarios and climate, it has a good number of celebrities that were either born and raised in Malta or are Maltese by blood.

One good example of a world-famous person born in Malta is Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, who is also rated as an American member of the British royal family.

Before she was married to Prince Harry of England in a royal ceremony on May 19, 2018, Meghan was a famous actress in Hollywood. 

Surprisingly, Meghan’s first marriage was to film producer Trevor Engelson in September 2011. However, the couple got divorced two years later.

1. Meghan Markle

Photo by Wikimedia Commons –  

Born on August 4, 1981, born and raised in Los Angeles, California. The actress turned Duchess of Sussex confessed during her visit to Malta, that her great-great-grandmother lived there.

Even though her family may have moved to the states and started a fresh, she is still Maltese through her great-great-grandmother.

Markle has appeared in popular Hollywood films, including Get Him to the Greek, Remember Me, and Horrible Bosses. She got engaged to Prince Harry in 2017 and later got married in a royal ceremony on May 19, 2018. In 2017, she announced her retirement from acting. 

She became the Duchess of Sussex by the fact that she wed Prince Harry at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor in 2018.

Between Meghan and Prince Harry, they have two children, Archie Mountbatten-Windsor and Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor.

However, Meghan, who rose to fame on the television series Suits, now lives in California after she and Harry stepped back as senior members of the royal family.

Despite being a member of the royal family, she continues to support a number of charitable causes and organizations through her family Archewell Foundation. The charities include access to education, women’s empowerment, and fighting racial injustice. 

2. Joseph Calleja, Tenor

Photo by Reanu Keeves –  

Joseph is a singer born and raised in Malta he was born on January 22, 1978, and has been singing since he was 16 years old. 

His career skyrocketed and his music attracted a good audience, he was even able to make an appearance in the film The Immigrant. 

He was elected to be on the board of directors of the European Academy of Music on October 8, 2015. He still holds his annual concerts in Malta.

3. Joseph Calleia

Photo by Wikimedia Commons –  

In the spotlight as an actor and a singer, he was presented as the Maltese version of Leonardo di Caprio.

He worked with a handful of famous people in Hollywood and made a name for himself. Before that, he was just a humble guy who cruised the world in two and a half years.  However, he died at the age of 78 in Sliema.

4. Kerry Ingram

Photo by Gage Skidmore –  

Kerry Daniella Ingram, of Maltese descent, has her roots from her grandfather who hails from Mqabba although Ingram lives in Warfield and received her Maltese citizenship in September 2020.

What is interesting about her is that she never failed to attend the Mqabba village feast every single year since she was born. This, according to the people of Mqabba is very amazing!

Kerry is an English actress, who is known for her role in the Netflix series Free Rein and HBO series Game Of Thrones. 

She has been nominated for the 2011 WhatsOnStage.com Awards and in 2012, she won the Laurence Oliver Award.  

5. Edwige Fenech

Is an actress born to a Maltese father and a Sicilian mother she was born in French, now known as Algeria.

Edwige is a film producer whose works have been spread across the world giving her a good outcome from the box office reviews. Her career began in 1967 when she moved to Rome to film her first Italian film Samoa, Queen Of The Jungle. 

6. Edward De Bono

Born on 19 May 1933, Edward was a Maltese physician, author, inventor, philosopher, and consultant.

He gained a medical degree from the University of Malta, but he didn’t stop there, he gained a Ph.D. degree in Medicine from Trinity University in Cambridge.

He got married to Josephine Hall and they had two sons together- Caspar and Charlie. He is remembered for his lateral thinking and his work.

7. Paul Tisdale

Paul is a professional football manager and a former player. He was just recently turned into the manager of the EFL League Two club Stevenage. Over the years he played a good amount of games with different teams.

He has managed teams like; Team Bath 2001-2006, Exeter City 2006-2008, Milton Keynes Dons 2018-2019, Bristol Rovers 2020-2021, and most recently Stevenage 2021-2022. 

8. Britney Spears

Photo by Glenn Francis –  

The American singer who is often known as the Princess Of Pop is credited for her music over the years. She has sold nearly 150 million records worldwide, her music has been played in quite a number of Tv shows and movies.

Her career helped her make appearances in a handful of movies and Tv shows.  She never forgets that her great-grandfather from her mother’s side is Maltese thus making her Maltese by blood.

9. Tash Sultana

The Maltese- Australian musician has made a name for herself through her talent. She is able to play 20 instruments namely: Bass, Guitar, Trumpet, Flute, Piano, Percussion, Saxophone, and vocals.

She can play in all genres like Lo-Fi, and Reggae rock. Alternative Rock, and Psychedelic rock. Her talent began at the young age of three years old and since then her star has only shined brighter.

10. Andy Partridge

Musician Andrew John Partridge was born on 11 November 1953 and was able to take the stage through his music, songwriting, and record producing. While in Swindon College, he attracted the name ‘Rocky’.

He founded the rock band XTC and even acted as the frontman and songwriter for the group. He got married to Marianne Wyborn from 1979 to 1994, they have two children Holly and Harry.

After his divorce, he got into a long-term relationship with Erica Wexler, an American singer.

11.Aidan Zammit

Aidan Zammit is a talented Maltese artist known for his innovative and thought-provoking work in contemporary art. His pieces often reflect a deep connection to Malta’s rich cultural heritage while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Zammit’s unique approach has garnered attention both locally and internationally, contributing to the growing recognition of Maltese artists on the global stage. His commitment to exploring new mediums and themes sets him apart, making him a noteworthy figure in Malta’s vibrant art scene.

12.Madeleine Collinson

Madeleine Collinson, born in Sliema, Malta, achieved fame as a model and actress. Along with her twin sister Mary, she became the first set of twins to feature as Playboy Playmates in 1970. The Collinson twins’ international success brought attention to Malta and its talent in the entertainment industry.

Madeleine’s charm and beauty captivated audiences, contributing to the island’s positive representation abroad. Despite her ventures beyond Malta, Collinson remains a source of pride for the country, symbolizing the global impact of Maltese individuals in the world of entertainment.

13.David Millar

David Millar is a prominent figure in the field of professional cycling and a proud Maltese-British athlete. Born in Malta, Millar later moved to Scotland, where he developed his passion for cycling. His achievements include multiple stage wins in prestigious races like the Tour de France.

Millar’s success has inspired a new generation of Maltese cyclists and highlighted Malta’s potential as a training ground for elite athletes. Beyond his sporting accomplishments, Millar is known for his advocacy work promoting clean and ethical practices in professional cycling, adding a socially conscious dimension to his Maltese identity.

14.Marama Corlett

Marama Corlett is a Maltese actress whose talent has shone on both stage and screen. Born in Valletta, she has successfully transitioned from Maltese theater productions to international film and television projects. Corlett’s diverse roles showcase her acting prowess, and her contributions have not only elevated her career but also brought positive attention to Malta’s burgeoning film industry.

As a versatile performer, she exemplifies the global reach of Maltese talent, proving that individuals from this small Mediterranean island can make a significant impact in the competitive world of entertainment.

15.Clare Azzopardi

Clare Azzopardi is a distinguished Maltese author and academic, renowned for her significant contributions to Maltese literature. As a prolific writer, her works often explore the complexities of identity, culture, and social issues in Malta. Azzopardi’s literary achievements extend beyond her homeland, gaining recognition on an international scale.

Her commitment to fostering a literary culture in Malta is evident through her involvement in education, where she plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Maltese writers. Azzopardi’s impact on the literary landscape underscores the richness and depth of Maltese storytelling.

16.Miriam Gauci

Miriam Gauci is a Maltese operatic soprano celebrated for her exceptional vocal talent and international stage presence. Born in Sliema, Gauci has graced renowned opera houses worldwide, earning acclaim for her performances in leading roles.

Her contributions to the world of classical music have not only brought pride to Malta but also showcased the island’s cultural diversity. Gauci’s achievements underscore the global reach of Maltese artists, demonstrating that excellence knows no boundaries. Her commitment to musical education in Malta further cements her legacy as a cultural ambassador for the country.

17.Emma Heming

Emma Heming is a Maltese-born model and actress who has made a mark in the international fashion and entertainment industry. Raised in London, she began her modeling career before transitioning to acting, where she has appeared in various films and television shows.

Heming’s success reflects the global nature of talent nurtured in Malta, as her achievements continue to contribute to the positive representation of Maltese individuals on the global stage. Her versatility and accomplishments showcase the diversity of talent emerging from the Mediterranean island.

18.Joe Sacco

Joe Sacco, born in Malta, is a renowned cartoonist and journalist known for his groundbreaking work in graphic novels. His impactful and immersive storytelling, often centered around conflict zones and social issues, has earned him international acclaim.

Sacco’s ability to blend journalism with art has set a precedent in the world of graphic storytelling, making him a pioneer in his field. His Maltese heritage is interwoven with his narratives, reflecting a unique perspective that adds depth to his work. Sacco’s influence extends beyond the pages of his graphic novels, shedding light on the power of visual storytelling to evoke empathy and understanding.

19.Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams, though born in Canada, has a connection to Malta through his Maltese mother. The internationally acclaimed rock singer, songwriter, and photographer has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Adams’ successful career spans decades, marked by hits such as “Summer of ’69” and “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You.” While his global fame is widespread, his Maltese heritage is a point of pride for the island. Adams’ enduring impact on the world of music reinforces Malta’s influence on the global stage.

20.Joe Camilleri

Joe Camilleri is a Maltese-Australian musician and songwriter known for his influential role in the music scene. As the frontman for the band Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons and The Black Sorrows, Camilleri has made significant contributions to Australian rock and blues.

His Maltese heritage is reflected in his diverse musical influences, showcasing the cultural richness that shapes his work. Camilleri’s enduring presence in the Australian music landscape and his global recognition underline the international success achievable by individuals with Maltese roots.