12 Celebrities and Famous Residents Who Have Lived on Marco Island, Florida

12 Celebrities and Famous Residents Who Have Lived on Marco Island, Florida 🏝

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Marco Island such a desirable place to live, the answer is simple: paradise draws attention. From its pristine white-sand beaches and luxurious waterfront homes to its exclusive, laid-back lifestyle, Marco Island has long attracted celebrities, public figures, and successful professionals from around the country.

Whether you’re considering investing in Marco Island real estate or just curious about which celebrities have lived here, this list of 12 famous and influential residents highlights why this Southwest Florida island is such a sought-after destination for high-end buyers.

1. Dog the Bounty Hunter (Duane Chapman) Reality TV icon Duane “Dog” Chapman and his wife Francie purchased a home on Marco Island in 2021. Known for their larger-than-life personalities, the couple cited peace, privacy, and Marco’s stunning scenery as key reasons for relocating. They were frequently spotted along Collier Court and at local restaurants near South Barfield Drive.

2. Tom Cruise’s Mother – Mary Lee South Mary Lee South, mother of global film star Tom Cruise, quietly lived on Marco Island for nearly two decades. While her exact address was never made public, she was said to reside in a waterfront condo along Swallow Avenue—known for its views of Caxambas Pass and easy beach access. Her quiet, elegant lifestyle mirrored the best of Marco’s charm.

3. Eminem (Rumored) There have long been rumors that Grammy-winning rapper Eminem owned a luxury waterfront home at 1288 Laurel Court. Though unconfirmed, the house's private dock, pool, and Gulf access made it a fitting retreat for any A-list celebrity. Speculation continues online, with fans and locals often citing this address during celebrity sighting chatter.

4. Neal Boortz Syndicated radio host Neal Boortz called Marco Island home following his retirement. He frequently discussed his love for the community on air. Boortz's property was located near Bald Eagle Drive—placing him just minutes from Tigertail Beach and the Marco Island Yacht Club.

5. Bob Turley Yankees legend and 1958 Cy Young Award winner Bob Turley lived part-time on Marco Island after his baseball career. He invested in waterfront real estate near San Marco Road and spent time mentoring young investors. His presence added to the island's history of attracting accomplished figures in both sports and business.

6. Leighton Meester The “Gossip Girl” actress and singer has connections to Marco Island through family and past travel. While her stays were more vacation-oriented than permanent, she was rumored to have spent time in homes along Heathwood Drive and Winterberry Drive—two streets lined with upscale coastal properties.

7. George McGovern The 1972 Democratic presidential nominee and U.S. Senator George McGovern owned property on Marco Island later in life. He sought the calm and privacy of Marco’s southern neighborhoods, particularly along Lamplighter Drive, where many political and business retirees reside.

8. James Franklin Hyde Known as the "Father of Silicones," Hyde was a pioneer in chemical science and a seasonal resident on Marco Island. His home was near North Collier Boulevard, giving him direct access to the beach, fine dining, and golf at The Island Country Club.

9. Fay Biles A trailblazer in education and civic engagement, Fay Biles was instrumental in developing the community identity of Marco Island. Her residence along Kendall Drive was a hub for local initiatives, and her legacy is deeply woven into the island’s real estate and public service story.

10. Tommie Barfield One of Marco Island’s earliest and most impactful residents, Tommie Barfield helped shape the educational framework of Collier County. She lived on the original Barfield property before it was subdivided into what is now known as Barfield Drive—an area lined with luxury canal-front homes.

11. James Lorenzo Walker Born on Marco Island, Walker went on to serve in the Florida House of Representatives. His lifelong ties to the area, especially near the Goodland Bridge and southern reaches of San Marco Road, are part of the island’s unique civic history.

12. Bruce J. Scott A former state representative and real estate developer, Scott's influence was instrumental in shaping early land use on Marco. His residence near Inlet Drive reflected his love for unobstructed bay views and peaceful boating access.

Why Celebrities and High-Profile Individuals Choose Marco Island

Marco Island offers more than beautiful beaches—it's a luxury lifestyle. The island's exclusive communities and waterfront enclaves provide unmatched privacy, security, and prestige. Whether on streets like Royal Palm Drive, Collier Court, or Hideaway Circle, Marco Island homes offer breathtaking Gulf views, deepwater canals, and custom-designed architecture.

Luxury real estate on Marco Island continues to be a magnet for celebrities and affluent buyers who value:

• Privacy and Security – Gated communities and secluded waterfront properties

• Waterfront Access – Private docks with direct Gulf access, perfect for yachting

• No State Income Tax – Florida’s favorable tax laws benefit high-net-worth individuals

• Prime Location – Easy access to Naples, Miami, and international airports

Live Where Celebrities Vacation — Or Stay Forever

At The Gulf Group at William Raveis Real Estate, we specialize in helping buyers and sellers navigate the high-end real estate market on Marco Island. Whether you're seeking a luxury beachfront condo, a golf course estate, or a custom waterfront property on streets like Spinnaker Drive, Copperfield Court, or Blue Hill Creek Drive—we’re your trusted real estate partner.

Let us help you live like a celebrity, in one of Florida’s most iconic destinations.

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