Renowned actor and director Bradley Cooper recently embarked on a nostalgic journey, revisiting his Philadelphia roots for his 30th high school reunion. The gathering, hosted at the Chestnut Hill Brewing Company, marked the 30-year milestone since their graduation.
Cooper, celebrated for his role in “Maestro”, was one of the early birds at the reunion. He set up a sign that read “Germantown Academy”, the name of his high school.
As his old classmates trickled in, he greeted them with a warm smile, wearing a nametag that read “Bradley”, a shift from his high school moniker, “Brad”.
Class of ’93 Reunion: Bradley Cooper’s Heartfelt Journey to Germantown Academy
The brewery marked the occasion with a social media post on November 28, showcasing snapshots from the reunion, including one featuring a radiant Cooper.
The post expressed appreciation to Germantown Academy for selecting their venue for the class of 1993 reunion, subtly hinting at the unexpected presence of their distinguished guest.
Cooper was seen in a photo with Bucky Holmes, a classmate whose name he had always admired. When questioned if his stardom caused a commotion at the reunion, Cooper modestly downplayed the notion, stating that the ambiance was relaxed and pleasant.
Bradley Cooper Reflects on Attending His 30-Year High School Reunion in Philadelphia: 'It Was Awesome' https://t.co/AdntIVm6F0
— People (@people) December 20, 2023
This wasn’t Cooper’s maiden reunion; he had previously graced the 25-year reunion and had revisited Germantown Academy in November 2013 to commemorate 20 years since graduation.
During these visits, he reconnected with old friends and cherished teachers, expressing his enduring support for the school.
At the recent reunion, Cooper spent quality time with his former history teacher, Kendall Mattern, and toured the school’s new infrastructure.
Cooper’s high school reunion experience underscores his down-to-earth personality, notwithstanding his fame and success. His latest project, “Maestro”, is currently streaming on Netflix.
From ‘Brad’ to ‘Bradley’: Cooper’s Reflections on the Germantown Academy Reunion
Cooper donned a nametag that read “Bradley” and greeted his classmates with a smile. Brad reunited with his best friend and fellow ’93 classmate Brian Klugman, who stars on the Fox series Bones.
He attended the reunion party at MaGerk’s Pub & Grill, where he mingled with friends and had a good time. He cheered on Germantown Academy’s football team against arch rival Penn Charter, which had lost for 12 straight years.
Brews, Smiles, and Old Friends: Inside Bradley Cooper’s Class of ’93 Reunion
Students humorously suggested that it was Cooper’s presence that helped break the losing streak. Some emotions or sentiments that Bradley Cooper expressed when reflecting on his high school reunion experience are:
He said he had a wonderful time casually attending his high school reunion and demonstrated that he was not just a movie star, but a regular guy who was personable and friendly.
He said he enjoyed seeing everyone and learning about their lives. There was a lot of laughter and banter. Brad truly loved being back at the school. He said he felt nostalgic for his high school days and how things have evolved since then.
View this post on Instagram
He also appreciated how much some of his old teachers still remembered him and supported him. Some aspects of Bradley Cooper’s high school years that he described in the reflection are:
He said he was not “the smartest person” or “the coolest kid” and “really didn’t have anything going on” when he attended Germantown Academy. He said he attended Villanova University before transferring to Georgetown University.
His first film role was the indie comedy Wet Hot American Summer, and from there his career skyrocketed, leading to numerous starring roles, nine Academy Award nominations, and even two Grammy Awards.
He said he returned to Germantown Academy several times to talk to students, especially during football season.
Bradley also visited his favorite teachers and enjoyed reminiscing with them.
