While the Pocono Mountains may be better known as a filming location than a birthplace for Hollywood stars, the region has produced and been home to several notable figures in entertainment. Here are five actors and performers with ties to the Poconos region of Pennsylvania.

1. Scott MacDonough – Woody Allen’s Favorite Extra

Born in East Stroudsburg in 1944, Scott MacDonough carved out a unique niche in Hollywood as a character actor who appeared in several Woody Allen classics. MacDonough’s credits include roles in “Annie Hall” (1977), “Manhattan” (1979), and “Interiors” (1978). While not a household name, MacDonough represents the steady working actors who make their living in the industry, bringing authenticity to supporting roles in some of cinema’s most beloved films. His East Stroudsburg roots gave him a Pennsylvania sensibility that translated well to the neurotic New York characters Allen was famous for creating.

2. Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick – The Omen’s Damien

East Stroudsburg’s Seamus Liam Davey-Fitzpatrick made a memorable, if terrifying, film debut as Damien Thorn in the 2006 remake of “The Omen.” Born December 29, 1998, Davey-Fitzpatrick was just a child when he took on the iconic role of the Antichrist in the horror remake. Playing one of cinema’s most notorious evil characters at such a young age is quite a claim to fame for a kid from the Poconos. While he hasn’t become a major star, his portrayal of Damien introduced him to horror fans worldwide and gave East Stroudsburg its most famous child actor credit.

3. Nellie McKay – Multi-Talented Performer

Singer-songwriter, actor, and former stand-up comedian Nellie McKay has connections to East Stroudsburg and has made her mark as a unique voice in entertainment. Known for her eclectic musical style and sharp wit, McKay has released multiple albums and appeared in various theatrical productions. Her career represents the diverse paths entertainers from smaller communities can take, combining music, comedy, and acting into a distinctive artistic identity. McKay’s work has earned her critical acclaim in New York’s theater and cabaret scenes.

4. Phil Woods – Jazz Legend and Cultural Ambassador

While primarily known as a jazz musician rather than an actor, Phil Woods (1931-2015) deserves mention as one of East Stroudsburg’s most celebrated entertainment figures. The alto saxophonist and composer was a co-founder of the famous annual Celebration of the Arts Festival in the Poconos. Woods performed on countless recordings and was renowned internationally, bringing cultural prestige to his hometown. His presence helped establish the Poconos as a destination for arts and culture, not just tourism and outdoor recreation.

5. G.E. Smith – Saturday Night Live’s Guitar Legend

Born in Scranton and raised in Stroudsburg, G.E. Smith (George Edward Smith, born January 27, 1952) is arguably the Poconos’ biggest contribution to the entertainment world. Smith started playing guitar at age four in Stroudsburg and was playing professional gigs at Pocono resorts like Mount Airy Lodge by age 11.

Smith’s career is the stuff of rock and roll legend. He was the lead guitarist for Hall & Oates during their massive 1979-1985 heyday, playing on five #1 singles including “Private Eyes,” “Maneater,” and “Kiss on My List.” When Hall & Oates took a break, Smith became the bandleader and musical director of Saturday Night Live from 1985 to 1995, becoming one of the show’s most recognizable figures with his trademark blonde ponytail and expressive guitar playing just before commercial breaks.

But Smith’s resume doesn’t stop there. He toured as Bob Dylan’s lead guitarist from 1988-1990, served as musical director for Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Concert at Madison Square Garden, was the de facto musical director of Live Aid in 1985, and toured with Roger Waters on The Wall Live tour (one of the highest-grossing concert tours of all time) from 2010-2013. He’s also played with Mick Jagger, David Bowie, Tina Turner, and countless other legends.

Smith has won Grammy and Emmy nominations and still performs regularly. When asked about his incredible career, the humble Stroudsburg native often says: “I’m a bar band guitar player from Stroudsburg, PA, and now here I am, playing with these people. It was a dream.” The Poconos may not have produced many Hollywood actors, but in G.E. Smith, the region gave the world one of rock music’s most respected and accomplished guitarists.

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