by Adina T. Mason

Created on: April 23, 2008   Last Updated: December 05, 2008

There are many famous people who hail from the city of Philadelphia. Many movie stars, athletes, and musicians are all proud to call Philadelphia their home.

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN
Although born in Massachusetts, this Founding Father later moved to Philadelphia where he is credited for making the city what it is today. While traveling through the city, you will notice quite few landmarks named after him such as the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.

WILLIAM PENN
Although born in London, this Quaker made his mark by founding Pennsylvania, hence the name. Just like Benjamin Franklin, you will see that there are many landmarks named after "Billy Penn" himself, such as Penn's Landing, the famous waterfront. While you are out sightseeing in Philadelphia, stop by City Hall and check out the bronze William Penn Statue that sits on top of the building.

WILL SMITH
We all remember Will Smith as a rap artist in his early years with catchy songs such as "Parents Just Don't Understand" and "Summertime." He later went on to become an award winning actor, starting out in his famous sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel Air" and then going on to star in top movies such as "Independence Day" and "Men In Black" and "I Am Legend." Smith was born and raised in the Germantown section of Northwest Philadelphia. He attended and graduated from Overbrook High School, which is also in West Philadelphia. Smith is very proud to let the world know that his roots lie in the historic city of Philadelphia.

PATTI LABELLE
R&B songstress Patti Labelle was born in West Philadelphia in 1944. Labelle was born and raised in the city and still resides in the suburbs of Philadelphia. She is an advocate for diabetes awareness and is active in the Philadelphia community.

BILL COSBY
Bill Cosby, who began his career as a stand up comedian and ended up with a hit television sitcom, was born and raised in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. He also attended the well-known Temple University and still goes back to his alma mater regularly for speaking engagements. Mr. Cosby still calls Philadelphia home.

KEVIN BACON
An award-winning actor who starred in films such as "Mystic River", "Footloose", "Animal House", and "A Few Good Men." Mr. Bacon was born and raised in Philadelphia. Bacon attended the Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Arts and also worked at the Philadelphia's Manning Street Theatre before heading on to New York City to pursue his acting career.

As you can see, the city of Philadelphia can claim bragging rights to quite a few famous people. Others that have lived or live in this city are: Danny Bonaduce, Richard Gere, Chris Matthews, M. Night Shyamalan, Ed Bradley, and many more.

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