Ever been at a party and listened to someone brag about how a famous person once passed through their town? Yeah great, guy, I am from Albany. We have had a ton of celebs not only pass through here, but were born, went to school, or even still live here.

First, and maybe my current favorite, Jimmy Fallon. It's well known in the area that Fallon attended The College of St. Rose. Fallon, who is originally from Brooklyn, began at St. Rose as a computer science major. He later dropped out of school with only a handful of credits remaining on his graduation path. Fallon has since received a degree from The College of St. Rose, and is currently the host of NBC's The Tonight Show.

"The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" Debut Episode
"The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"
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Rachael Ray hails from Glens Falls. Ray began her career in food early on working at various stores, and even teaching cooking classes. Her classes were enjoyed so much, CBS scooped her up, eventually leading to her own national cooking show. She's hot and she cooks? Guys, Rachael Ray is a home run!

As a sports lover, I have always idolized and respected Pat Riley. Sure enough, he grew up Schenectady. Though he was born in Central, NY, Riley attended Schenectady High School, then known as Linton High School, and is in the schools hall of fame for basketball. Riley is a nine-time NBA champ between his tenure as a player and a coach, and is undoubtedly an NBA legend.

Andy Rooney, journalism legend, also dawns from Albany. Rooney, most known for his segment on CBS's 60 Minutes, was born in Albany, and attended the Albany Academy for Boys. He is one man you hear an awful lot about as a journalism student in college.

How about all the great Yankee players to have played for the local affiliate during their time in the minors? Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte... just to name of few. My grandpa used to brag about these guys back in the day. Tell me all about how he met them and used to go to all the games.

The list goes on and on, and suddenly, you realize Albany is actually cooler than you thought. Who knows, maybe you live down the road from a celebrity and don't even know it? For another short list of famous people from the area, check this out. Next time you're at a party and the guy next to you begins to brag about who once mentioned their small hometown, politely extend your hand and rattle off some of Albany's finest.

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