5 of 5

Write now Article Tools

There are a number of famous people that have lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There are actors, models, singers and even a sewer that have put their names down in history for all to remember them. Some have stayed in Philadelphia while most moved away as their careers bloomed.

Betsy Ross was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was famous for sewing the first American Flag. This flag consisted of 13 stars that represented the colonies of the United States at that time. Ross died in Philadelphia and was also buried there.

Jack Klugman was born and lived in Philadelphia until he enlisted in the Army. His father died when he was a teenager which led him to gambling in order for him to make a living. Since he owed money to a loan shark he decided to go to the Army to get away from the people that were going to hurt him. He became an actor soon after and became best known for his role as Oscar in the television show The Odd Couple.

Will Smith was born in West Philadelphia and lived there until his early 20's. His mother was an administrator on the school board. He began as a rapper with his childhood friend, "Jazz" and then moved on to acting in his own television series (The Fresh Prince of Bel Air) and eventually starred in movies.

Kelly Monaco was born in Philadelphia. She lived there until she went off to college in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. She worked as a lifeguard before attending college. She became a Playboy model once she sent nude pictures of herself to the magazine in 1996 and eventually became the Playmate of the month in 97. She went on to act in the series Baywatch and now General Hospital.

Richard Gere was born in Philadelphia and lived there until his early teens. His family moved to New York where he studied gymnastics, music, and philosophy. He is well known for his leading roles in An Officer and a Gentleman and Pretty Woman.

Kevin Bacon was born in Philadelphia and lived there until he was 17. His mother was a teacher in an elementary school and was a liberal activist while his father was an urban planner. By age 17 Kevin went on to New York to study theatre. From there, he established himself as one of the most well-known actors alive today. He has appeared in so many movies that it is hard to keep track of. Some of his best known films are Footloose and Tremors.

Bill Cosby was born in Philadelphia and lived there until he enlisted in the Navy. He has three brothers in which one died at an early age. His father fought in World War II. In school, Cosby was considered the class clown. He became one of the most famous comedians of all time.

Chuck Barris is a game show producer and presenter. He was born in Philadelphia and lived there until his mid 20's when he moved to New York to pursue his career working for NBC. Eventually he helped create The Newlywed Game and the Dating Game among others. He now lives right outside of Philadelphia.

Learn more about this author, Laura Hageman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Famous people who lived in Philadelphia?
We want to hear your view. Write now!