30 Most Famous People From Philadelphia

30 Most Famous People From Philadelphia

Originally published by Vanessa M in May 2023 and updated by Ruth in March 2024

Philadelphia is America’s sixth most populous city. Many things are famous in this city, including the Liberty Bell, Rocky, and cheesesteaks. There are many notable people from Philadelphia, whether you realize it or not. Some proudly represent Philadelphia (such as Will Smith), while others are less loud (but still very proud) of their Philadelphia background. Philadelphia has so many notable persons that many are forgotten! Did you know the following people were from Philadelphia?

Read also; 10 Most Famous people from Philadelphia

1. Will Smith

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Will Smith is one of the most known celebrities in our list of Philadelphia famous people. Will Smith’s journey from a fearful child in a tense West Philadelphia home to one of the biggest rap stars of his era and then one of the biggest movie stars in Hollywood history, with a string of box office successes that will almost certainly never be broken, is an epic tale of inner transformation and outer triumph, and Will tells it astonishingly well. Will has won numerous awards throughout his career. The US number-one singles “Gettin’ Jiggy wit It” and “Wild Wild West” were featured on his solo albums Big Willie Style (1997), Willennium (1999), Born to Reign (2002), and Lost and Found (2005). For his rap performances, he has won four Grammy Awards.

2. Noam Chomsky

Our list of 20 famous people in Philadelphia can’t be complete without Chomsky (the father of linguistics), who is the most-known celebrity in this city. Noam Chomsky, full name Avram Noam Chomsky, is an American theoretical linguist whose work from the 1950s revolutionized the discipline of linguistics by seeing language as a distinctively human, biologically grounded cognitive capacity. His contributions to linguistics and allied subjects, such as cognitive psychology and philosophy of mind and language.

3. Benjamin Franklin

Joseph-Siffred Duplessis, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Benjamin Franklin is well remembered for being the only Founding Father to sign all three documents that liberated America from British rule. As an envoy for numerous colonies, Franklin became a national hero in America when he spearheaded a drive in London to have the Parliament of Great Britain abolish the unpopular Stamp Act. He was also a key player in the American Enlightenment and the history of physics as a scientist for his studies of electricity, as well as for tracking and naming the Gulf Stream current. Among his many inventions are the lightning rod, bifocals, and the Franklin stove.

4. Kevin Hart

Anyone who has come across any of Kevin Hart’s movies would tell of his humor. Hart is an American comedian as well as an actor. With the 2009 release of his debut stand-up CD, I’m a Grown Little Man, Hart’s humorous fame only grew. Since then, he has put out four more comedic albums, including Seriously Funny (2010), Laugh at My Pain (2011), Let Me Explain (2013), and What Now? (2016). The Ride Along actor spends his downtime at home with his wife and four kids when he’s not acting in box office hits or selling out comedy tours. Together with his ex-wife Torrei Hart, Hart has two elder children: son Hendrix, 15, and daughter Heaven, 18. Hart married his current wife Eniko Hart in 2011 after divorcing Torrei. They later welcomed a daughter, Kaori, 2, and a son, Kenzo, 5.

5. Bill Cosby

The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Bill Cosby played a major role in the development of a more positive portrayal of Blacks on television but his sterling reputation has been tainted by dozens of sexual assault allegations over the course of many decades. Despite all that, Cosby has earned the moniker American Dad for his contributions to American and African-American culture.

Read also; 50 Most Famous People from the 80s

6. Grace Kelly

Grace Patricia Kelly was an American actress and the Princess of Monaco. Kelly rose to prominence as a top Hollywood actress after starring in High Noon. She also appeared in the Alfred Hitchcock flicks Rear Window, Dial M for Murder, and To Catch a Thief, in addition to her Academy Award-winning performance in The Country Girl. Kelly left Hollywood behind when she married Prince Rainier III of Monaco in 1956, becoming Princess Grace. The royal couple was blessed with three children Princess Caroline, Prince Albert, and Princess Stéphanie. Despite numerous attempts by filmmakers to entice her back into the film industry, Princess Grace resisted, embracing her role as Monaco’s ceremonial leader and being involved in a variety of cultural and humanitarian organizations. She was killed in an automobile accident in her adopted country in 1982.

7. Meek Mill

Chris Sikich from Philadelphia, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Meek Mill rose to prominence in the Philadelphia streets thanks to battle rhymes and mixtapes before breaking out with a feature on the Maybach Music Group album Self-Made, Vol. 1 (2011). Meek maintained his high commercial status with Maybach despite continuing mixtape output, making his true solo debut with Dreams and Nightmares (2012) and topping the Billboard 200 for the first time with the follow-up Dreams Worth More Than Money (2015). Wins and Losses (2017) saw him branch out with probing and pointed wordplay about the school-to-prison pipeline, a topic that has had a significant impact on his life due to an overturned prison sentence that preceded the release of Championships (2018), which featured the multi-platinum Top Ten pop hit “Going Bad” and earned him his first Grammy nomination. Expensive Pain (2021) brought Meek’s Top Five album streak to five.

8. Patti LaBelle

Patti LaBelle has one of the longest careers in contemporary music, capable of matching the wail of a fire engine and yet just as moving while singing just above a whisper. She has had hits in a number of styles, including girl group pop, brave soul, space-age funk, hard-hitting disco, luxurious calm storm, and high-tech pop, from her early 1960s days with the Bluebelles, the girl group that morphed into ’70s funk trailblazers LaBelle. The vocalist launched a solo career in 1977, resulting in 13 Top Ten R&B singles, including the chart-topping quiet storm classic “If Only You Knew” (1983) and crossover hits like “New Attitude” (1985) and “On My Own” (1986). One Night Only (1998), both earned R&B Grammy Awards. LaBelle has since released gospel and jazz albums, including The Gospel According to Patti LaBelle (2006) and Bel Hommage (2017), while continuing to perform and act.

9. Kobe Bryant

Keith Allison from Hanover, MD, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The first guard selected by the NBA out of high school was Kobe. Kobe spent his whole professional career with the Los Angeles Lakers. He was the NBA game’s youngest starter. John Cox, the brother of Kobe’s mother, was an NBA player. He averaged 25 points per game, won five titles, was MVP once, and ranks second in All-Star appearances (18). Every player’s game consists of several aspects that cannot be quantified. Kobe created the Black Mamba persona for himself. He possessed the qualities of being tenacious, fearless, and inspirational, which made him a hero.

10. Tina Fey

Tina Fey is an American writer and actress. She became prominent through her works on the television series 30 Rock (2006–13) and Saturday Night Live (SNL). While working at The Second City, the legendary improvisational comedy troupe, the 30 Rock actress and creator met her now-husband, Jeff Richmond a composer, actor, director, and producer who composed the music for and directed many episodes of 30 Rock. They tied the knot in 2001 and have two daughters.

Read also; 50 Famous People And Celebrities In Glasses From Around The World

11. Boyz II Men

Lunchbox LP from Culver City, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Boyz II Men, an American vocal harmony group from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is well renowned for its passionate songs and cappella harmonies. Their name is pronounced, “boys to men.” Currently, the group consists of tenors Shawn Stockman, a non-relative of Wanyá Morris, and baritone Nathan Morris. Boyz II Men were a quartet in the 1990s, with bass vocalist Michael McCary being a member. McCary quit the group in 2003 owing to health problems, which led to a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. The group experienced success on a global scale thanks in part to the top 5 singles “Motownphilly” and “It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday.”

12. Richard Gere

American actor Richard Tiffany Gere was born on August 31, 1949. His 1980 movie American Gigolo, made him a leading man and sex icon. Today, Gere works as a human rights activist in Tibet and also as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the International Campaign for Tibet. He is also a co-founder of the Tibet House US and the Gere Foundation. He is never allowed to visit China since he backs the Tibetan Independence Movement.

13. Kevin Bacon

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Kevin Norwood Bacon is an American actor and musician who grew up In Philadelphia in a close-knit household. His father, Edmund Bacon (1910-2005), was an urban planner who served as executive director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission and wrote the seminal text Design of Cities. His mother, Ruth Hilda (née Holmes; 1916-1991), was an elementary school teacher and a liberal activist. Awarded multiple honors, including a Golden Globe, a Screen Actors Guild, and a nomination for a Primetime Emmy, Bacon is well known for his leading man and character performances.

14. Chubby Checker

Booby Checker American was a rock and roll singer and dancer born on October 3, 1941. He is also recognized for popularizing a variety of dance genres, such as the Twist dance genre with his 1960 smash cover of the R&B song “The Twist” by Hank Ballard & The Midnighters and the Pony dance genre with his 1961 cover of the song “Pony Time“. One year later, in 1962, he created his biggest UK hit, “Let’s Twist Again.” That same year, he also made “Limbo Rock,” an instrumental smash by the Champs that he added vocals to, as well as its signature Limbo dance and additional dance movements including The Fly. 

15. Manoj Nelliyattu Shyamalan

Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsManoj Nelliyattu “M. Night” Shyamalan born August 6, 1970 is an American film director. He is an American actor and filmmaker of Indian descent. He is most renowned for creating original movies with cutting-edge spooky themes and surprising conclusions. Before his breakthrough picture The Sixth Sense (1999), which earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Director and Best Original Screenplay, he made the movies Praying with Anger (1992) and Wide Awake (1998). Then he released The Village (2004), Signs (2002), and Unbreakable (2000). His career experienced a comeback with the movies The Visit (2015), Split (2016), Glass (2019), Old (2021), and Knock at the Cabin (2023), after a period of failures that included several poorly received movies like The Happening (2008), The Last Airbender (2010), and After Earth (2013).

16. Wilt Chamberlain

Wilton Norman Chamberlain played center in professional basketball for the United States. He played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 14 years and for his achievements, he is honored in the IVA Hall of Fame. He played the adversary in the 1984 Arnold Schwarzenegger movie Conan the Destroyer and was known for his power. In addition to being a lifelong bachelor, Chamberlain gained notoriety for declaring to have had sex with 20,000 different women.

17. Bradley Cooper

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On January 5, 1975, Bradley Charles Cooper was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Gloria (Campano), his mother, is of Italian ancestry and employed by a nearby NBC station. Bradley came to New York City to participate in the Masters of Fine Arts program at the Actors Studio Drama School at New School University as soon as he received his degree in Honors English from Georgetown University in 1997. His thesis performance as John Merrick in Bernard Pomerance’s “The Elephant Man,” presented in New York’s Circle in the Square, was the culmination of his stage work there.

18. Sylvester Gardenzio Stallone

As the creator and star of the Academy Award-winning boxing movie Rocky (1976), Sylvester Stallone gained notoriety. He then rose to fame as one of the top action actors in the world, returning to play his roles in the 1982 sequels to Rocky and First Blood. After experiencing a mid-career slump, he found box office success again with The Expendables (2010) and received praise for bringing the Rocky brand back with Creed (2015), earning him his first Golden Globe win and a further Oscar nomination.

19. Billie Holiday

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Billie Holiday joined the thriving Harlem Renaissance scene as a teenage singer, appearing in jazz and nightclubs. She was only eighteen when she made her debut album with a Benny Goodman-led studio ensemble. Her career took off fast as she collaborated on songs with Teddy Wilson and started a long relationship with Lester Young, who gave her the moniker “Lady Day.” She received an invitation from Artie Shaw to lead an orchestra in 1938. Holiday made history by becoming the first black woman to perform with an all-white band.

Read also; Top 10 Facts about Billie Holiday

20. Hall & Oates

The American pop-rock duo Hall & Oates was founded in Philadelphia in 1970 by Daryl Hall and John Oates. John Oates mostly plays electric guitar and sings backup to Daryl Hall, who usually sings the lead vocals. Although they are frequently referred to as Hall & Oates, Hall has been adamant that the group’s official name should be Daryl Hall & John Oates. On all of their US albums, they have been listed as Daryl Hall & John Oates (or Daryl Hall John Oates). Between 1974 and 1991, 29 of the duo’s 33 tracks that charted on Billboard’s Hot 100 helped them reach the US Top 40.

21. M. Night Shyamalan

Night Shyamalan is an acclaimed filmmaker, screenwriter, and producer. Shyamalan gained international recognition with his breakthrough film, The Sixth Sense, 1999, which received widespread critical acclaim and earned him Academy Award nominations. Known for his distinctive storytelling and penchant for unexpected plot twists, Shyamalan has become a prominent figure in the thriller and supernatural genres. His notable works include Unbreakable (2000), Signs (2002), and Split (2016). Shyamalan’s ability to create suspenseful narratives with a touch of the supernatural has solidified his place in the annals of filmmaking.

22. Stevie Wonder

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Stevie Wonder is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Blind since infancy, Wonder demonstrated an extraordinary musical talent from a young age, signing with Motown Records at just 11 years old. Over his illustrious career, Wonder has amassed an impressive collection of Grammy Awards and created timeless hits, including Superstition, Sir Duke, and I Just Called to Say I Love You. Beyond his musical prowess, Wonder is a passionate advocate for social justice and civil rights, using his platform to address important issues.

23. Jazzie Redd

Jazzie Redd is a pioneering rapper and actor in the hip-hop genre. Hailing from Philadelphia, Redd played a pivotal role in the early years of rap, contributing to the development of the genre. He is recognized for his contributions to the hip-hop group, the Roots, and his solo work, known for its insightful lyrics and rhythmic beats. Jazzie Redd’s influence extends beyond his musical contributions, as he remains an emblematic figure in the history of hip-hop, shaping the culture of an entire generation.

24. Alecia Beth Moore 

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Alecia Beth Moore, famously known as Pink is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, known for her powerful vocals, rebellious attitude, and eclectic musical style. With hit songs like Get the Party Started and Just Give Me a Reason, Pink has become a global pop sensation. Beyond her musical career, Pink is recognized for her philanthropic efforts, advocating for various causes, including LGBTQ rights and animal welfare.

25. Betsy Ross 

Betsy Ross is an American historical figure renowned as the seamstress who crafted the first American flag. Raised in Philadelphia, Ross was a skilled upholsterer and seamstress. Legend has it that in 1776, she received a visit from George Washington and two other Founding Fathers, who commissioned her to create the flag with thirteen stars and thirteen stripes, representing the original thirteen colonies. While the historical accuracy of this account has been debated, Betsy Ross’s legacy endures as a symbol of American craftsmanship and patriotism. Her contribution to the creation of the national flag has left an indelible mark on American history and identity.

26. Noelle Stevenson

Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Noelle Stevenson is a talented cartoonist, writer, and animator. Known for her exceptional work in the animation industry, Stevenson gained widespread recognition for her webcomic Nimona and her role as the showrunner for the animated series She-Ra and the Princesses of Power.  Stevenson’s creativity and ability to craft compelling narratives with diverse characters have earned her accolades, making her a prominent figure in the world of animation.

27. Jerome Allen

Jerome Allen is a former professional basketball player and coach. Hailing from Philadelphia, Allen played college basketball at the University of Pennsylvania before enjoying a successful career in the NBA. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching, ultimately becoming the head coach of the University of Pennsylvania’s men’s basketball team. Allen’s contributions to both playing and coaching have left an indelible mark on the world of basketball.

28. Jill Scott

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Jill Scott is a renowned singer-songwriter, actress, and poet. Often referred to as the Queen of Neo-Soul, Scott’s soulful voice and poignant lyrics have made a significant impact on the music industry. With hits like A Long Walk and Golden, she has earned multiple Grammy Awards. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Scott has ventured into acting, showcasing her versatility in projects like The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency and Why Did I Get Married?

29. Marian Anderson

Marian Anderson, born on February 27, 1897, in Philadelphia, was a groundbreaking contralto and a symbol of African American achievement in the arts. Despite facing racial discrimination, Anderson’s extraordinary vocal talent led her to become the first African American to perform at the Metropolitan Opera in 1955. Her historic performance on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, after being denied the stage at a segregated venue, remains a pivotal moment in the fight against racial inequality.

30. Charles Barkley 

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Charles Barkley is a basketball icon, sports analyst, and philanthropist. Known for his dominant career in the NBA, Barkley played for teams like the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, and Houston Rockets. Renowned for his charismatic personality, Barkley has transitioned into a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst, providing insightful commentary on basketball and societal issues. His impact extends beyond the court, making him a respected figure in both sports and media.

Philadelphia is a popular destination for athletic events, Broadway blockbusters, music festivals, and concerts. Numerous famous people who perform on the big screen, in stadiums, and elsewhere call it home as well. There are still some well-known figures who reside in Philadelphia, at least occasionally, even though some superstars with Philadelphia connections now call cities like Los Angeles or New York their home.