Top 10 Celebrities with Hawaiians Heritage

1. Jason Momoa

• Known for his iconic role as Khal Drogo in Game of Thrones and as Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe, Jason Momoa is arguably one of the most popular celebrities of Hawaiian descent today.

2. Bruno Mars

• Born and raised in Hawaii, Peter Gene Hernandez, professionally known as Bruno Mars, is a Grammy-award winning musician known for hit songs like “Just the Way You Are” and “Grenade”. His Hawaiian heritage has had a significant influence on his music.

3. Nicole Scherzinger

• Best known as the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls, Nicole Scherzinger is of Filipino, Native Hawaiian, and Ukrainian descent. Her Hawaiian roots influenced her upbringing and cultural identity.

4. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

• Although Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, is of Samoan and Canadian descent, he was born and partly raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. The popular actor and former professional wrestler holds strong ties to the Hawaiian community.

5. Bette Midler

• Bette Midler, also known as The Divine Miss M, was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. The singer, actress, and comedian has won numerous awards throughout her career, and her Hawaiian upbringing continues to be an important part of her life.

6. Tia Carrere

• Tia Carrere, born in Honolulu, Hawaii, rose to fame with her roles in Wayne’s World and True Lies. The actress and singer of Chinese, Filipino, and Spanish descent often embraces her Hawaiian heritage through her work.

7. Kelly Hu

• Kelly Hu is an actress and former fashion model who gained prominence with her roles in The Scorpion King and X2. Of Chinese, English, and Hawaiian descent, she is a proud representative of the Hawaiian community in Hollywood.

8. Keanu Reeves

• While Keanu Reeves was born in Beirut, Lebanon, he spent a significant part of his childhood in Hawaii. The actor is of Chinese, Hawaiian, English, and Portuguese ancestry, and has continued to build a successful career in the entertainment industry.

9. Jack Johnson

• Jack Johnson, born and raised in Hawaii, is a singer-songwriter who reflects the laid-back island vibes in his music. Known for hits like “Banana Pancakes” and “Better Together,” Johnson’s Hawaiian heritage is often woven into his songs.

10. Keala Settle

• Keala Settle is an actress and singer of Native Hawaiian and Filipino descent. She gained international recognition for her performance of “This Is Me” in the film The Greatest Showman, which earned her an Academy Award nomination.

Hawaiians’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Hawaiians community is rich in history and cultural heritage. The indigenous people of Hawaii have a unique identity and have made significant contributions to the islands’ history. From their language and traditions to their connection with nature, here are three well-known historical inheritances associated with the Hawaiians heritage:

• Hula: The hula is a traditional dance form that is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. It is a way for Hawaiians to express their stories, legends, and history through graceful movements and chants. The hula is not just a dance but also a form of communication and connection to their ancestors and the land. It is performed at various events, including festivals and celebrations, and continues to be an integral part of the Hawaiians’ heritage today.
• Aloha Spirit: The concept of “aloha” goes beyond just a simple greeting in Hawaii. It is a way of life that embraces love, kindness, harmony, and respect for both people and nature. The Hawaiians have a strong connection to their land and believe in living in harmony with the environment. The aloha spirit is reflected in their hospitality, friendliness, and warm demeanor towards visitors and locals alike. It is an essential part of the Hawaiians’ heritage and has shaped the culture of the islands.
• Language: The Hawaiian language, also known as ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, is a Polynesian language that holds a significant place in Hawaiian culture. Although it had faced a decline over the years, there has been a recent resurgence in efforts to revive and preserve the Hawaiian language. The language is not only a means of communication but also holds cultural and historical importance. Today, there are Hawaiian language schools and programs dedicated to teaching and preserving the language, ensuring that future generations can connect with their heritage.

The Hawaiians community is proud of their heritage, and these historical inheritances play a vital role in maintaining their cultural identity. Through practices like hula, the aloha spirit, and the preservation of their language, the Hawaiians continue to honor and pass down their traditions from generation to generation.

Ethnic Factsheet: The Hawaiians People

References to the Hawaiians Ethnic Group

When delving deeper into the Hawaiian ethnic group, there are various references and resources available that provide valuable insights and information. These sources offer a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, traditions, and challenges faced by Hawaiians throughout the years. Here are some references and resources you can explore:

• Books: Several books shed light on the history and culture of Hawaiians. Some notable titles include “Hawaiian Mythology” by Martha Warren Beckwith, “Hawaiian Antiquities: Moolelo Hawaii” by David Malo, “Hawaiian Dictionary: Hawaiian-English, English-Hawaiian” by Mary Kawena Pukui and Samuel H. Elbert, and “Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen” by Queen Liliuokalani.
• Academic Journals and Articles: Academic journals such as the “Journal of Hawaiian Archaeology and History,” “The Hawaiian Journal of History,” and the “Journal of the Polynesian Society” offer scholarly research and articles on various aspects of Hawaiian history, cultural practices, and contemporary issues.
• Online Resources: Websites like the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (oha.org) and the Hawaiian Historical Society (hawaiianhistory.org) provide a wealth of information on Hawaiian history, genealogy, cultural preservation, and advocacy.
• Documentaries and Films: Films like “The Hawaiians” (1970), “The Descendants” (2011), and “Princess Ka’iulani” (2009) offer narratives that touch on different aspects of Hawaiian history, contemporary life, or notable figures.
• Hawaiian Language Resources: Learning more about the Hawaiian language is key to understanding the culture. Resources like the “Hawaiian Language Dictionary” by Mary Kawena Pukui and Samuel H. Elbert, as well as online language courses and tutorials, help familiarize yourself with the language.
• Local Libraries and Museums: Hawai’i State Public Library System and specialized libraries, such as the Hawaiian and Pacific Collections at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, house an extensive range of materials, such as books, manuscripts, and oral histories, that offer deeper insights into the Hawaiian ethnic group.

These references and resources provide ample opportunities to deepen your knowledge about the Hawaiian ethnic group, their rich cultural heritage, and the contemporary challenges they face. Whether your interest lies in history, language, culture, or land issues, there are diverse sources available to help you explore and appreciate the unique aspects of the Hawaiian people.

Explore other famous people with Amhara, Batak and Coushatta roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Delving into the lives of notable figures from various ethnic backgrounds associated with these Hawaiians roots reveals the intricate web of connections between global cultures and their significant contributions to the world.