Philadelphia has long been synonymous with the underdog spirit immortalized in the iconic ‘Rocky’ movies. The franchise has cemented itself as a cultural touchstone, capturing the grit, resilience, and heart that defines this historic city.
Now, the city is honoring “Real Life Rockys” with a special mural project, as part of the RockyFest 2024 (Dec. 3 to 8). Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation will recognize four remarkable Philadelphians whose stories embody the spirit of the city.
“Our Real Life Rockys remind us of the strength within our own communities,” said Jane Golden, Executive Director at Mural Arts Philadelphia. “Through these mural monuments, we hope to inspire others to celebrate resilience and recognize the everyday heroes among us.”
These mural monuments, created by local muralist and street artist Ash Ryan, will be unveiled near the Rocky statue, at the base of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, during RockyFest on Wednesday, Dec. 4. The portraits will celebrate four Philadelphians who reflect the city’s “underdog” resilience, overcoming obstacles with strength, hope, and humility. Their stories will be presented on 8’ x 8’ walls near the Rocky statue, with mural portraits and biographical details on display to inspired visitors.
Here are the 2024 Real Life Rockys honorees:
Chantay Love
Raised in Germantown, Chantay Love has been a passionate advocate for families impacted by gun violence since the tragic loss of her brother, Emir. Through her organization, EMIR (Every Murder Is Real), Love provides crucial support to those coping with trauma, showing unbreakable resilience and commitment to community healing. Her leadership exemplifies the empathy and strength essential to Philadelphia’s spirit.
Michelle Konkoly
After a spinal cord injury, Michelle Konkoly trained in Philadelphia, transforming into a two-time Paralympic gold medalist in swimming. Today, she continues to inspire as a resident physician at Jefferson, specializing in pediatric rehabilitation. Konkoly’s journey from adversity to achievement is a powerful example of courage and determination, embodying the Rocky spirit in both her athletic and professional life.
Jimmy Young
North Philadelphia’s own Jimmy Young, a posthumous honoree, rose from humble beginnings to become one of boxing’s most respected figures. Known for his strategic skills and resilience, Young faced some of the sport’s greatest legends, including Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, inspiring his community and earning a place in the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame. His legacy continues through the admiration of his son, Jason Young, and the pride he brought to Philadelphia.
Joshua Santiago
Joshua Santiago’s journey began in North Philadelphia, where he faced numerous challenges growing up. Today, through his nonprofit, Empowering Cuts, Santiago travels across the country, offering free haircuts to individuals experiencing homelessness. His dedication to uplifting those in need resonates deeply with Philadelphia’s values of equality and compassion.
“Thousands of visitors come to see the Rocky statue each week, and this project gives visitors a peek into Philadelphia’s real-life champions and creative communities,” added Kathryn Ott Lovell, President & CEO Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation. “The stories of Chantay, Michelle, Jimmy, and Joshua reflect the power of resilience and that we celebrate when we watch Rocky, and that defines us as Philadelphians.”
