No one talked as Jesse moved—it was as if his acts were miracles of invention wonderous to behold.
― Ron Hansen
According to the US Census Bureau, "James" is the 80th most common surname in the country.
But, despite the surname's prevalence, you have to think hard to name a notorious James.
Wild West outlaw Jesse James is always the first James who comes to mind; but the cast of characters with that surname is in fact broad, particularly when you consider famous folks from the UK with that name—where it's the 45th most common surname, according to Forebears—and Americans and Brits who've adopted James as a stage name.
The British actor Lily James (whose real name is Lily Thomson). She stars in "The Dig."
The actor Clifton James. His casting in numerous films as as the archetypal Southern sheriff cemented his fame.
The TV game-show host Dennis James (whose real name was Demie Sposa). The "Dean of Game Shows," James hosted TV's first such program in 1946.
The actress Susan James (whose real name is Susan Miller). She always calls herself Susan Saint James—appropriate given her support of the Special Olympics.
The singer-songwriter Rick James (whose real name was James Johnson). He's known for hits like "Super Freak." Crack addiction wrecked his life and career.
The R&B singer Etta James (whose real name was Jamesetta Hawkins). She is best know for her rendition of "At Last."
The rock musician Tommy James (whose real name is Thomas Jackson). His band Tommy James and the Shondells is best known for "I Think We're Alone Now."
The slide guitarist Elmore James (whose real name was Elmore Brooks). He's named by George Harrison in the Beatles' song "For You Blue," as John Lennon mimics James' signature sound.
The big band leader Harry James. He's best known today for the classic "You Made Me Love You," used by Woody Allen as the theme song of "Hannah and Her Sisters."
The jazz keyboardist and composer Bob James (not the be confused with the intrepid artist and blogger of the same name). He's best known for his "Theme from Taxi."
The philosopher William James (Henry's brother). His work inspired AA.
The British mystery writer P.D. James.
The British erotic novelist E.L. James (whose real name is Erika Mitchell). She's best known for the racy Fifty Shades of Grey.
The serial wife killer "Rattlesnake" James (whose real name was Raymond Lisenba). Rattlesnake James was the last man executed by hanging in the state of California. Quite an honor!
