From musicians, professional athletes, actors, writers and both good and bad gunmen, here are 15 famous downstate Illinoisians. If you don't know much about them, there are some interesting tidbits of information following the list.

here will be no anonymity as they begin their run of parenting. Even before the baby's birth, Kate and William's caregiving choices have been scrutinized.

Recently, I've been reading about the trials and tribulations of the very rich and famous, and realized the aspiration to be part of that elite may not be so great as it's cracked up to be.

It's a challenge to maintain a consistent level of confidence when you know you are only as good as your last performance, when even the brightest stars fade quickly, and where success requires that you prove yourself over and over again in ways few others must.