Iconic movie and TV star spotted at Alabama bar: ‘Thanks for stopping by’

The Magic City recently hosted a major dose of Hollywood star power. Actor Glenn Howerton, best known for his iconic role on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, was spotted enjoying a night out at Mom’s Basement in Avondale this past weekend.

A Sunny Night in Avondale

The Birmingham bar, located at 4411 Third Ave. South, confirmed the celebrity encounter through its social media channels. In a photo posted to Facebook and Instagram, the 50-year-old actor was seen grinning in front of the bar’s signature wall of vintage imagery. The staff welcomed the visit, stating, “It’s Always Sunny in Mom’s Basement! Thanks Glenn Howerton for stopping by.”

Filming "The Girlfriend"

Howerton’s appearance follows a month-long residency in the Birmingham area to film the movie The Girlfriend. The project, which wrapped production on August 1, is directed by Natalie Morales. Howerton stars in and produces the film alongside his wife, Jill Howerton, and co-writer Richard Appel.

According to reports by Deadline, the film centers on a woman who relocates to Alabama for her husband’s dream job, only for the husband—played by Howerton—to secretly hire an escort to be her best friend. Casting efforts, managed by Goleman Casting, brought stand-ins and background actors to various metro locations throughout July.

A Familiar Face

Though Howerton has an extensive resume—including his award-winning work in Blackberry and appearances in shows like A.P. Bio and Fargo—he is no stranger to Alabama. The actor spent part of his youth living in Montgomery and is a graduate of Jefferson Davis High School. During his recent time in Birmingham, he was also seen dining at Chez Fonfon in Five Points South.

Local fans who missed the chance to spot the actor at Mom's Basement took to social media to share their humorous, "devastated" reactions, with many jokingly referring to him by his famous Always Sunny moniker, the "Golden God."

Star Power in the 205

Howerton is the latest in a string of Hollywood stars to grace local establishments. In August 2025, Jaime Pressly made a memorable visit to The Margaret following her own time filming in the state, proving that Alabama continues to be a destination for top-tier entertainment talent.