Source: Michael S. Schwartz, Frank Trapper, Jason Miller from Getty / Getty
Northeast Ohio might not scream “celebrity hotspot,” but don’t let that fool you. From lakefront mansions in Bratenahl to hidden retreats in the suburbs, a surprising number of stars either live here now or have called this region home.
Whether they stayed close to their roots, moved here for peace and privacy, or planted a flag during their time in Cleveland, these celebs prove you don’t need Hollywood to live large. Some still quietly blend into the local scene—others left behind jaw-dropping real estate.
Scroll on to see which big names are (or were) living right here in our backyard.
The Grammy-winning artist grew up in the Cleveland suburbs of Shaker Heights and Solon.
7. Machine Gun Kelly
The Rap-rock star proudly represents Cleveland and grew up in the East Cleveland/Shaker Heights area.
8. John Legend
The R&B star was born in Springfield, Ohio
9. Geraldo Rivera
Owns a home in Shaker Heights, a Cleveland suburb.
10. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony
The iconic Cleveland hip-hop group is still connected locally.
11. Michael Keaton
Michael Keaton, some Batman fans’ favorite Dark Knight, is a graduate of Kent State University.
12. Michael Symon
The celebrity chef sold his Tudor-style Cleveland home, but he was a well-known local resident.
13. Sarah Jessica Parker
The Sex & The City star was born in Nelsoneville, Ohio.
14. Drew Carrey
Drew Carey lived on Flowerdale Ave in Old Brooklyn, which is a neighborhood within the city of Cleveland.
15. The Russo Brothers
The Russo brothers, best known for directing blockbuster Marvel films, were born and raised in Cleveland and even shot scenes from Captain America: The Winter Soldier in their hometown.
16. Fred Willard
Comedy legend Fred Willard was born and raised in Shaker Heights, where his signature wit first took shape before he hit it big in Hollywood.
17. Paul Newman
Oscar-winning actor and philanthropist Paul Newman was born in Shaker Heights, where his early years laid the foundation for a legendary career on and off the screen.
18. Yvette Nicole Brown
The Community star was raised in Warrensville Heights.
19. Phil Donahue
Trailblazing talk-show host, born and raised near Cleveland, and a 1953 alum of St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio
20. Arsenio Hall
The iconic late-night host and comedian grew up in Cleveland and graduated from Warrensville Heights High School in 1973 before rising to fame with The Arsenio Hall Show
