15 TV and movie characters you may not realize were based on real people

Olivia Pope's high-stakes life as a fixer was inspired by real-life crisis manager Judy Smith. The latter handled everything in DC, from Monica Lewinsky to other major political scandals. Smith even served as a producer on ABC's Scandal to keep the drama messy and realistic. 

The Great Gatsby's Jordan Baker was inspired by Edith Cummings, a friend of the author's wife. Cummings was an American socialite and golfer. She was one of the first female golf champions in the 1920s. 

Star Wars director JJ Abrams formed a meaningful relationship with his high school English teacher, who inspired Maz Kanata in The Force Awakens, a "diminutive being with vast experience at surviving in the underworld." 

Buzz Lightyear's name pays homage to astronaut Buzz Aldrin, the second man to walk on the moon. While the Toy Story character doesn't exactly land on the moon, that larger-than-life sense of bravery definitely feels similar. 

Matt Groening named many of the Simpson family members after his own relatives, including his father Homer, mother Margaret, and sisters Lisa and Maggie. Perhaps that's why the show always hits so close to home. 

Will Ferrell originated the character of Ron Burgundy in Anchorman; however, his character was based on a former news anchor, Mort Crim, who's most known for his slew of problematic moments on the air.  

Rocky Balboa was inspired by real-life boxer Chuck Wepner, who was known for his unexpected 15-round fight against Muhammad Ali. Wepner's underdog story captivated the movie's, which sparked the creation of the Rocky franchise. 

Severus Snape's stern demeanor and complex persona were partially inspired by J.K. Rowling's former chemistry teacher. He was reportedly strict and intimidating, much like the potions master himself. 

Lucious Lyon's rise from street hustler to music mogul mirrors the life of Jay-Z. According to the show's creators and producers, they wanted Lyon to capture the perfect blend of ambition, survival, and swagger. 

In Seinfeld, Kramer was based on Larry David's real-life neighbor, Kenny. The real Kenny even started a "Kramer's Reality Tour" in New York, capitalizing on his sitcom counterpart's fame. 

Psycho's Norman Bates was inspired by Ed Gein, a real-life murderer and grave robber whose deeply disturbed mind became the blueprint for countless horror villains. 

Miss Piggy has always been a whole mood. Real-life jazz singer Peggy Lee was the inspiration behind the fictional character's larger-than-life persona. Her diva attitude and glamorous style reflect Lee's own stage presence. 

Vinny Chase from Entourage was loosely based on Mark Wahlberg's early days hustling through Hollywood. Wahlberg even produced the series, sprinkling in plenty of real-world debauchery for good measure. 

Jurassic Park's Dr. Alan Grant was modeled after the real-life dinosaur expert Jack Horner. Horner even consulted on the film, giving Grant's obsession with Triceratops a bit more bite.  

Sherlock Holmes was based on Dr. Joseph Bell, one of Arthur Conan Doyle's medical school professors, who reportedly had impressive observation skills.