Berkshire County Native Elizabeth Banks Celebrates 52nd Birthday

The acclaimed actor, director, writer, and producer has deep ties to her hometown of Pittsfield.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Elizabeth Banks, a renowned actor, director, writer, and producer who was born and raised in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is celebrating her 52nd birthday today. Banks, a Pittsfield High School graduate, has starred in numerous films over the years and is also an accomplished director and producer. She recently announced a new project, 'Betas,' a film set in the viral world of sorority rush culture, which will be produced through her production company Brownstone Productions.

Why it matters

Banks' success in the entertainment industry and her continued connection to her Berkshire County roots serve as an inspiration to other aspiring artists and creatives from small-town backgrounds. Her birthday celebration also highlights the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of local talent.

The details

Banks, who graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996, has not forgotten her roots in the Berkshires. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she released a video thanking healthcare workers at Berkshire Health Systems for their hard work. Banks has also been cared for at Berkshire Medical Center throughout her life, along with many members of her family.

  • Elizabeth Banks was born on February 10, 1974.
  • Banks graduated from Pittsfield High School.
  • Banks graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996.

The players

Elizabeth Banks

A renowned actor, director, writer, and producer who was born and raised in Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

Brownstone Productions

Banks' film and television production company, which is producing her latest project, 'Betas.'

Berkshire Health Systems

The healthcare system that Banks thanked during the COVID-19 pandemic for their hard work, as she and her family have been cared for at Berkshire Medical Center.

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What’s next

Banks' new film project, 'Betas,' is currently in development, with the distributor and production timeline still to be determined.

The takeaway

Elizabeth Banks' success and continued connection to her Berkshire County roots serve as an inspiration for aspiring artists and creatives from small-town backgrounds, demonstrating that one can achieve great things while staying true to their local community.