But how many did you get to see on their visit to Wearside.
Here are 11 well known figures who were in the picture in our neighbourhood. Some were here for photocalls and others were opening shops or just meeting their adoring fans.
Take a look and see how many you spotted in town.
1. Were you ready to meet this Gladiator in 1998?
Gladiator star "Rocket" made an appearance at TY McGurk sports store in Sunderland to promote a new range of leisure products in 1998. Were you in the picture? Photo: Sunderland Echo
2. Back in 2005
These Byker Grove stars were all set to take part in the 2005 Race for Grace. Does this bring back happy memories? Photo: MM
3. Getting ready to rhumble in 2009
Echo prize winner, Kayleigh Lindstedt got to meet P J and Duncan when they came to the Sunderland Empire in 1995. Photo: SE
4. Sharing a story in 2010
Over The Rainbow star Jessica Robinson was pictured reading Oliver Twist to children at Sunderland City Library in 2010. Photo: TC