And we’re back. Once again, we here at Trill Mag would like to thank you for near year long patience as we decide who are the most influential people to have ever lived. Last time we discussed an NBA Center who would dominate the paint and go on a tear in the early 2000s with a certain Mamba.
We now move on to the inventor of a mouse that would leave his imprint on film throughout the last century, an HBCU alum who took the nickname “Sweetness” to Chicago, and America’s very first president.
Here are the 100 Most Influential People of All-Time 50-41:
50. Will Smith – Rapper/Actor
Let’s preface this entrant by saying he shouldn’t have slapped Chris Rock at the 94th Academy Awards. Now that that’s out of the way, Will Smith has become one of the most iconic performers ever. From West Philadelphia (born and raised) comes a rapper turned actor whose work ethic is beyond belief. Previously known as the Fresh Prince, he’s often accompanied by his DJ/Producer Jeffery Townes, otherwise known as DJ Jazzy Jeff.
After becoming the first Hip-Hop duo to win Best Rap Album in 1989 for their effort, Parents Just Don’t Understand Smith’s career would change just a year later. On September 10, 1990, a new sitcom starring Smith would hit the NBC airwaves, and as they say, “the rest is history.” The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air comically follows a teenage version of Will Smith relocating from West Philadelphia to Bel-Air, CA, after running into trouble. For six seasons, it carried the powerhouse network to extended success until the show ended on May 20, 1996.
Since then, he won two Grammy Awards for his musical work, including Best Rap Solo Performance in 1998 for “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It” and Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 1999 for “Men in Black.” In film, he earned two Academy Award nominations: Best Actor for Ali (2001) and The Pursuit of Happyness (2006). Smith also received four Golden Globe nominations and a Screen Actors Guild Award for his role in The Pursuit of Happyness. His significant contributions to both music and film have solidified his status as a versatile and influential entertainer.
49. George Washington (1732-1799) 1st POTUS
Born at Popes Creek in Westmoreland, VA, George Washington was the first child of Augustine and Mary Washington the former was a merchant while the latter was a planter. The Commander-in-chief during the American Revolution, Washington led the American Continental Army against the British Army. As history would have it, the Americans won the War leading to signing of The Declaration of Independence.
His strategic acumen and leadership were crucial in key battles like Yorktown. After the war, Washington’s political career flourished as he became the nation’s inaugural President, serving two terms from 1789 to 1797. His presidency set many precedents and helped shape the new republic. During his presidency, George Washington enacted several notable policies.
He established the precedent of a two-term limit, set up the executive departments, and created the Bill of Rights to protect individual freedoms. His Farewell Address warned against permanent foreign alliances and political parties (and boy if he were to see America today). Additionally, he endorsed the Judiciary Act of 1789, which organized the federal judiciary and supported Alexander Hamilton’s financial plan to stabilize the national economy. George Washington died on December 14, 1799. He fell ill with a severe throat infection, likely acute epiglottitis, and despite treatments, he passed away at his Mount Vernon estate.
48. Walter Disney (1901-1966) – Animator/Producer
From Chicago, IL comes THE pioneer of the American Animation Business.Co-founder of The Walt Disney Company, he is best known for creating iconic characters like Mickey Mouse, which debuted in 1928. Walter Disney has the distinction of being the man with the most Academy Award Wins (22) and Nominations (59) of all time. Disney’s innovative spirit led to the creation of the first synchronized sound cartoon, “Steamboat Willie,” and the first full-length animated feature, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” in 1937.
After the massive success of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” this opened doors for more of his work, including Pinocchio (1940), Fantasia (1940), and Bambi (1942). In the 1950s, Disney expanded into television with shows like The Mickey Mouse Club and ventured into theme parks, opening Disneyland in 1955, which became a groundbreaking success and the blueprint for future parks worldwide. Disney continued to innovate with projects such as the development of Walt Disney World in Florida. However, his career was cut short when he died on December 15, 1966, at age 65 from lung cancer. His death marked the end of an era, but his legacy lived on, shaping the animation, entertainment, and theme park industries, with his influence still felt worldwide.
47. Vincent Kennedy McMahon – WWF/E Owner
Vince McMahon, born in 1945, transformed professional wrestling after purchasing the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) from his father, Vince McMahon Sr., in 1982. McMahon revolutionized the industry by expanding the WWF from a regional promotion to a national and global powerhouse. He rebranded wrestling as sports entertainment, blending athletic competition with storylines and larger-than-life characters. In 1985, McMahon launched WrestleMania, which became an annual mega-event and helped establish WWF as a dominant force in the industry.
In the early 2000s, the company was rebranded as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) to reflect its broader entertainment ambitions. Under McMahon’s leadership, WWE expanded into various media, including films, video games, and streaming services like the WWE Network.
However, McMahon’s legacy became tarnished by controversy. In 2022, reports surfaced that he paid over $12 million in hush money to several women to cover up alleged sexual misconduct and infidelity. Amid an internal investigation and mounting public scrutiny, McMahon stepped down from his roles as WWE Chairman and CEO in July 2022, marking the end of an era. Despite his controversial exit, McMahon remains a pivotal figure in wrestling history, credited with transforming WWE into a global entertainment juggernaut.
46. “Smokin” Joe Frazier (1944-2011) – Pro Boxer
Joe “Smokin’ Joe” Frazier, born in 1944 in Beaufort, South Carolina, was one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. Known for his relentless pressure, powerful left hook, and indomitable spirit, Frazier rose to prominence in the 1960s, capturing the heavyweight title in 1970. He is best remembered for his epic rivalry with Muhammad Ali, which included three legendary bouts that defined an era of boxing.
Their first fight, the “Fight of the Century” in 1971, saw Frazier hand Ali his first professional loss in a 15-round unanimous decision, knocking Ali down in the 15th round with a powerful left hook. The second bout in 1974 saw Ali win a close decision, setting the stage for their final showdown, the “Thrilla in Manila” in 1975, widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in boxing history. After 14 brutal rounds, Frazier’s corner stopped the fight, giving Ali the victory, but both men emerged as legends.
Throughout his career, Frazier also won an Olympic gold medal in 1964, held the heavyweight title from 1970 to 1973, and had notable wins over fighters like Jerry Quarry and George Chuvalo. Frazier retired in 1976 with a record of 32 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw, cementing his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats. Frazier passed away on November 7, 2011 from Liver Cancer at the age of 67.
45. Walter Payton (1953-1999) – Football Hall of Famer.
Walter Payton, born in 1954 in Columbia, Mississippi, is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. He attended Jackson State University, an HBCU, where he excelled on the field, earning All-American honors and setting records that caught the attention of NFL scouts. In 1975, Payton was drafted by the Chicago Bears, where he spent his entire 13-season career. Known as “Sweetness” for his graceful yet punishing running style, Payton became a dominant force in the league.
Payton’s career highlights include winning the NFL MVP in 1977 and becoming the NFL’s all-time leading rusher with 16,726 yards at the time of his retirement in 1987. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler, a Super Bowl XX champion, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Payton was known for his charitable work and community involvement.
Therefore, the NFL honored his legacy by naming the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award after him, recognizing players who demonstrate excellence on the field and in their community. Unfortunately, Payton passed away in 1999, but his impact on the game and his humanitarian spirit continue to inspire.
44. Queen – Rock Band
Indeed, The Freddie Mercury lead band is without a doubt the most iconic and influential rock band, possibly ever. Mercury, alongside guitarist Brian May, drummer Roger Taylor, and bassist John Deacon, Queen quickly gained a massive following. Their anthems, like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Somebody to Love,” continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
The band’s innovative sound and Mercury’s dynamic stage presence set them apart. Despite their success, tragedy struck in 1991 when Freddie Mercury died of AIDS-related complications, a loss that deeply impacted fans and the music world.
Nevertheless, Queen’s legacy endures. Their music remains timeless, celebrated through tribute tours, biopics, and millions of fans. Today, Queen’s influence is still felt across generations, proving that their groundbreaking sound and indomitable spirit continue to rock on.
43. Sinead O’Connor (1966-2023) – Irish Singer
We now pivot to the recently departed Irish Singer-Songwriter Sinead O’Connor. With a haunting voice and unflinching activism, she rose to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with hits like “Nothing Compares 2 U.” She captivated audiences with her raw talent and fearless persona. However, her career took a controversial turn during a 1992 appearance on “Saturday Night Live” when she tore up a photo of Pope John Paul II, boldly condemning the Catholic Church’s role in covering up sexual abuse.
This shocking act immediately sparked outrage, leading to her blacklisting in the music industry. As a result, the backlash overshadowed her artistic achievements and marked a turning point in her career. Despite the industry’s rejection, O’Connor continued to speak out against injustice and never shied away from clashing with societal norms. She faced many personal struggles, including mental health challenges and a complicated relationship with fame.
Tragically, in 2023, O’Connor passed away from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchial asthma, shocking fans and reminding the world of her complex legacy. Her death prompted a renewed appreciation of her music and activism, which remain powerful symbols of defiance. Though controversy followed her throughout her life, Sinéad O’Connor’s unwavering voice continues to resonate, highlighting the enduring power of art to provoke and inspire.
42. Langston Hughes (1901-1967) – American Poet/Civil Rights Activist.
He’s a pioneering figure of the Harlem Renaissance, is celebrated for his profound impact on American literature through his poetry, plays, and essays. Born in 1901 in Joplin, Missouri, Hughes quickly rose to prominence by capturing the struggles and joys of Black life in America. Moreover, his works, including iconic poems like “The Negro Speaks of Rivers,” “I, Too,” and “Harlem,” reflect his deep commitment to social justice and his keen understanding of the human condition.
Honorable Mention – Ryan Reynolds
Ryan Reynolds is a versatile Canadian actor best known for his quick wit and charismatic screen presence. He first gained fame in comedies like Van Wilder and rom-coms like The Proposal. However, his portrayal of the wisecracking antihero in Deadpool cemented his status as a Hollywood A-lister. Recently, Reynolds teamed up with Hugh Jackman for the much-anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine, bringing Deadpool and Wolverine together on screen for the first time, thrilling fans worldwide.
41. The Notorious B.I.G (1972-1997) – Rapper
We close out this entry with perhaps one of the greatest rappers of all time. The Late great Christopher George Latore Wallace. Otherwise known as The Notorious B.I.G. A trailblazing rapper whose vivid storytelling and smooth flow reshaped the hip-hop landscape, he emerged from Brooklyn, New York, Biggie quickly became a central figure in the 1990s rap scene with his debut album, Ready to Die, which featured iconic tracks like “Juicy,” “Big Poppa,” and “Gimme the Loot.”
As a result of soaring fame, tensions between East Coast and West Coast hip-hop would rise as well. Undoubtedly, he became entangled in a fierce rivalry with West Coast rapper Tupac Shakur, fueled by media sensationalism and personal disputes. Ultimately, the feud defined the era, pitting Biggie and his label, Bad Boy Records, against Tupac and Death Row Records.
Tragically, on March 9, 1997, Biggie was shot and killed in Los Angeles in a still-unsolved drive-by shooting, just six months after Tupac’s murder. His posthumous album, Life After Death, released just weeks later, solidified his legacy with hits like “Hypnotize” and “Mo Money Mo Problems.” Despite his short career, The Notorious B.I.G. remains a monumental figure in music, remembered for his influence on hip-hop and his unforgettable voice.
