Stars Born in the City of Brotherly Love
Will Smith
From West Philadelphia, born and raised, Will Smith ascended from rapper to Hollywood superstar. His charisma and versatility shine in films like Men in Black, The Pursuit of Happyness, and his Oscar-winning performance in King Richard.
Benjamin Franklin
A true Renaissance man, Benjamin Franklin was a Founding Father, inventor, and diplomat. Like the lightning rod, his wit, curiosity, and inventions embody Philadelphia's innovative spirit.
Kevin Hart
This pint-sized powerhouse brings Philly's infectious energy to the stage and screen. His stand-up comedy and blockbuster movies, like Ride Along and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, deliver nonstop laughs.
Bill Cosby
His legacy is complex, but Cosby once held a pioneering position in television, showcasing positive depictions of Black families and breaking down racial barriers in comedy.
Patti LaBelle
This "Godmother of Soul" possesses a voice that commands attention. Her decades-long career is filled with iconic songs like "New Attitude" and the Grammy-winning "Lady Marmalade."
Kevin Bacon
Six degrees of separation, indeed! Bacon's filmography spans genres from the iconic Footloose to the gritty Mystic River, showcasing his undeniable range.
Billie Holiday
Her velvety voice and heartbreaking melodies made Billie Holiday a jazz icon. Songs like "God Bless the Child" and "Strange Fruit" continue to resonate with their raw power and emotion.
Stevie Wonder
A musical prodigy, Stevie Wonder's blindness didn't hinder his extraordinary talent. His songs like "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours" and "Isn't She Lovely" are timeless treasures.
Pink (Alecia Beth Moore)
Bold, outspoken, and a champion for self-expression, Pink brought her Philly attitude to the global stage. Her acrobatic performances and anthems like "Get the Party Started" make her a pop powerhouse.
Jill Scott
Jill Scott is the queen of neo-soul, blending R&B, spoken word, and jazz influences. Her music oozes sensuality and wisdom while acting in films like Black Panther showcases her dramatic talents.
Noam Chomsky
A revolutionary mind, Noam Chomsky's work in linguistics, philosophy, and political discourse has challenged the status quo for decades. His intellectual power and unwavering activism make him a Philadelphia iconoclast.
Grace Kelly
This Oscar-winning actress turned real-life princess exuded timeless elegance on and off the screen. From Hitchcock thrillers like To Catch a Thief to high-society dramas like High Society, Kelly remains a Hollywood legend.
Kobe Bryant
The "Black Mamba" was a basketball force known for his fierce competitiveness and clutch performances. He won five NBA titles with the LA Lakers and inspired generations with his relentless work ethic.
Boyz II Men
Their soulful harmonies and heartfelt ballads defined an era of R&B. From chart-toppers like "I'll Make Love to You" to their record-breaking "End of the Road," Boyz II Men remain musical legends.
Wilt Chamberlain
"The Big Dipper" dominated basketball courts with his record-breaking statistics and larger-than-life personality. His 100-point game and fierce rivalry with Bill Russell are etched in sports history.
Sylvester Stallone
The ultimate underdog story, Stallone wrote and starred in the iconic boxing film Rocky. His action-packed career in franchises like Rambo made him a global action star.
Betsy Ross
Her name stands synonymous with American patriotism. Though debated, the story of Betsy Ross sewing the first American flag with its stars and stripes has become a powerful symbol of the nation's birth.
Marian Anderson
A trailblazer against racial injustice, this gifted contralto broke barriers as the first African-American to sing at the Metropolitan Opera. Her influential 1939 concert at the Lincoln Memorial remains a defining civil rights moment.
Tina Fey
With her sharp wit and comedic brilliance, Tina Fey redefined humor on Saturday Night Live and created the beloved sitcom 30 Rock. She continues to break ground as a writer, producer, and actress.
Richard Gere
This silver-haired heartthrob rose to fame with roles in An Officer and a Gentleman and Pretty Woman. He's now a passionate humanitarian activist, especially for the cause of Tibet.
Philadelphia's diverse and talented sons and daughters testify to the city's vibrant culture. These change-makers, innovators, and entertainers continue to shape their fields, inspiring audiences worldwide and carrying a bit of Philly's spirit wherever they go.
