I thought this list was about fame, There is no fame without commercial exposure (publicity). Ask Graham and he will admit that if he had been given more commercial exposure, then his name would be known in every household in Britain. Are we to say someone who earns a living from his or her choice of vocation, occupation or profession are not worthy of a place in a list of Birmingham's most famous.
Lets face it if those were the parameters then no one would be worthy of a place, Mathew Boulton though worthy of a place gained position and money from his great works. The De Bermingham family gained respect and revenue from the tenants and tradesmen that they encouraged to settle in Birmingham. Even politicians seek betterment, advancement and have an ultimate aim of being Prime Minister.
If we are to have a list of only professional do gooders, doctors, scientists and the like. I'm afraid it will be a pretty small elite list.
Phil