Philadelphia is home to a long line of talented actors who have become famous in film and television over the years. These performers, ranging from legendary stars of Hollywood’s golden age to the creators of today’s hit TV comedies, excel in all genres. Many began their careers on Philadelphia’s local stages before moving on to New York or Los Angeles to pursue bigger opportunities. Here are twenty notable actors born in the city who have made a significant impact on the screen.
Will Smith
Will Smith began his career in West Philadelphia as a musician before becoming famous for his role in ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. He received Academy Award nominations for his performances in ‘Ali’ and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’, and ultimately won the award for ‘King Richard’. Throughout his career, he’s starred in blockbuster films like ‘Independence Day’ and ‘Men in Black’, and has also produced content through his companies, Overbrook Entertainment and Westbrook.
Kevin Bacon
Born in Philadelphia, Kevin Bacon received training at the Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York City. He became well-known with the film ‘Footloose’ and has since enjoyed a successful career in movies and television. He received a Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award for his work in ‘Taking Chance,’ and his diverse filmography includes titles like ‘Mystic River’ and the TV series ‘The Following.’
Richard Gere
Richard Gere began his life in Philadelphia and spent his childhood in the Northeast before pursuing a theater career in New York City. He rose to fame with roles in films like ‘American Gigolo’ and ‘An Officer and a Gentleman,’ and later won a Golden Globe for his performance in the acclaimed musical ‘Chicago.’ Known for films such as ‘Pretty Woman,’ Gere is also deeply committed to various humanitarian causes.
Grace Kelly
Born in Philadelphia, Grace Kelly trained as an actress at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She became famous for her roles in Alfred Hitchcock thrillers like ‘Dial M for Murder’, ‘Rear Window’, and ‘To Catch a Thief’. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘The Country Girl’, and later, she married Prince Rainier III, becoming Princess of Monaco.
Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart began his comedy career performing stand-up in Philadelphia clubs before taking his act on tour across the country. He then moved into acting, appearing in popular movies like ‘Ride Along’, ‘Central Intelligence’, and ‘Jumanji’. Known for his successful comedy specials and large-scale international performances, Hart also established Hartbeat, a production company creating films, TV shows, and audio content.
Quinta Brunson
Quinta Brunson grew up in Philadelphia and went to Temple University. She started her comedy career online and at the Second City. She’s the creator and star of ‘Abbott Elementary,’ a comedy series about a public school in Philadelphia. The show has won her several awards, including Emmys for both her writing and acting. She’s also an executive producer, helping to guide the show’s overall vision.
Rob Mac
Rob McElhenney grew up in Philadelphia and worked as a waiter in New York City while writing his early scripts. He’s best known as the creator and star of the long-running sitcom ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.’ More recently, he co-created the show ‘Mythic Quest’ and, with Ryan Reynolds, became a prominent figure in the ownership of Wrexham AFC. Throughout his career, he often includes references to his Philadelphia roots.
Seth Green
Seth Green started his career with small film roles before gaining recognition on TV. He’s best known for playing Oz in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and voicing Chris Griffin on ‘Family Guy’. He also co-created the Emmy-winning animated show ‘Robot Chicken’ and has appeared in popular movies like ‘Austin Powers’ and ‘The Italian Job’.
Bob Saget
Bob Saget began his life in Philadelphia and went to Temple University, where he received an award for a student film he made. He became a household name playing Danny Tanner on ‘Full House’ and later as the voice of the narrator on ‘How I Met Your Mother’. He also famously hosted the early seasons of ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’. Throughout his career, he continued to perform stand-up comedy, direct projects, and dedicate time to charitable causes.
Kim Delaney
As a lifelong movie and TV fan, I remember Kim Delaney really breaking through with ‘NYPD Blue’. It’s hard to believe she started out as a model in Philadelphia! Before that iconic role, she actually honed her skills on daytime television, which is a great training ground. Of course, she eventually won an Emmy for her supporting work on ‘NYPD Blue’, and then continued to be a familiar face with roles in shows like ‘Army Wives’ and ‘CSI Miami’. She’s definitely had a solid and impressive career.
Kate Flannery
Kate Flannery, originally from Philadelphia, trained as an actress at the University of the Arts. She’s widely recognized for her role as Meredith Palmer in the popular TV show ‘The Office,’ where she appeared throughout the entire series. Before television fame, she honed her comedic skills performing with the Annoyance Theatre and Second City. She also has experience in stage productions, including national tours and cabaret shows.
Jill Scott
Jill Scott, a Philadelphia native, started her career as a poet and singer and later became an accomplished actress. She’s known for her roles in shows like ‘The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’ and ‘First Wives Club’, as well as films such as ‘Why Did I Get Married’. In addition to her acting work, Scott has received several Grammy Awards for her successful music career.
Eve
Eve started her career as a rapper in Philadelphia and later became a successful actress. She’s known for her roles in the ‘Barbershop’ movies and as the star of her own sitcom, ‘Eve’. She’s also appeared in the film ‘xXx’ and hosted the talk show ‘The Talk’. Throughout her career, she’s worked in music, television, and film, earning awards for her work in hip hop.
Jack Klugman
Jack Klugman, born in Philadelphia, served in the Army during World War II and then pursued acting. He became famous for his role as Oscar Madison in ‘The Odd Couple’, earning him two Emmy Awards. Later, he starred in the long-running TV show ‘Quincy, M.E.’, which helped shape many medical dramas that followed. Before his success on television, Klugman performed on Broadway.
Frankie Avalon
Frankie Avalon began his career as a young singer in Philadelphia before becoming a popular movie actor. He was a leading figure in the wave of beach party films, starring alongside Annette Funicello in ‘Beach Party’ and its follow-ups. He also had roles in more dramatic films like ‘The Alamo’ and later revisited his teen idol status in ‘Grease’. Throughout his career, his hit records helped boost his on-screen popularity.
Robert Prosky
Robert Prosky began his acting career on stage in Philadelphia and at Arena Stage. He later transitioned to film and television, appearing in movies like ‘Thief’, ‘Broadcast News’, and ‘Dead Poets Society’. He also played a significant role in the TV series ‘Hill Street Blues’ and received Tony Award nominations for his work on Broadway.
Larry Fine
Larry Fine, originally from Philadelphia, started his career as a violinist before moving into vaudeville. He’s best known as one of ‘The Three Stooges,’ starring in countless short films and features. His comedic work greatly influenced American slapstick comedy, and remains popular today, with dedicated fans and collectors still celebrating his life and career.
John Barrymore
John Barrymore came from a famous acting family and was born in Philadelphia. He first became well-known performing on Broadway, and then starred in popular films like ‘Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ and ‘Grand Hotel’. He was highly regarded for performing Shakespeare, both on stage and in movies. The Barrymore family’s legacy in entertainment continued with his children and grandchildren.
Paul F. Tompkins
I’ve been a fan of Paul F. Tompkins for years! He started doing stand-up in Philadelphia before making the move to LA. I first really noticed him on ‘Mr. Show,’ which was brilliant, and since then he’s become this incredibly prolific voice actor. Seriously, he’s everywhere – ‘BoJack Horseman,’ ‘Adventure Time,’ tons of podcasts, live performances… you name it. Plus, he’s fantastic on those panel shows and sketch comedy series. He’s just a really versatile and consistently funny performer.
Joey Lawrence
Joey Lawrence started his career in Philadelphia, appearing in commercials before moving into television. He first gained widespread recognition on the show ‘Blossom’ and later starred in ‘Melissa and Joey’. Beyond those series, he’s appeared in movies and made guest appearances on various comedy shows. He’s also a musician and has competed on reality TV shows.
Share your picks for the best Philly born actors in the comments.
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2025-10-28 12:16