April 16 birthdays and deaths:

Anya Taylor-Joy

Anya Taylor-Joy is an Argentine-British actress born on April 16, 1996. She gained recognition for her roles in "The Witch" (2015) and "Split" (2016). Her breakthrough came with the title role in "Emma" (2020) and the critically acclaimed Netflix series "The Queen's Gambit" (2020).

Birthyear: 1996

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, born Lew Alcindor, is a legendary American basketball player and coach. He won six NBA championships, six MVP awards, and holds the record for most points scored in NBA history (38,387). A 19-time All-Star, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995.

Birthyear: 1947

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was a legendary English actor, director, producer, screenwriter, and composer who pioneered silent films. Known for his iconic "Little Tramp" character, he wrote, directed, and starred in over 80 films, earning Academy Award nominations and a legacy as a cinematic genius.

Birthyear: 1889

Selena

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was a beloved American singer-songwriter, actress, and fashion designer, known as the "Queen of Tejano Music." With her iconic voice and style, she won numerous awards and gained a massive following before her tragic death in 1995 at just 23 years old.

Birthyear: 1971

Sadie Sink

Sadie Sink is an American actress, born on April 16, 2002, in Brenham, Texas. She's best known for her role as Max Mayfield in the Netflix series 'Stranger Things' and has also appeared in 'American Odyssey' and 'The Americans'.

Birthyear: 2002

Pope Benedict XVI

Pope Benedict XVI, born Joseph Ratzinger, was the 265th Pope of the Catholic Church, serving from 2005 to 2013. A renowned theologian, he was the first pope to resign in over 600 years, paving the way for Pope Francis.

Birthyear: 1927

Nate Diaz

Nate Diaz is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Known for his unorthodox fighting style, razor-sharp jiu-jitsu skills, and iconic victories over Conor McGregor, Diaz has become a fan favorite in the MMA world.

Birthyear: 1985

Gina Carano

Gina Carano is a renowned American mixed martial artist and actress, known for her skills in the octagon and her breakout role as Crush in the 2011 film "Haywire."

Birthyear: 1982

Ellen Barkin

Ellen Barkin is a renowned American actress known for her intense, brooding performances in films like "Sea of Love" and "Bad Boys." Her rugged, edgy style and versatility have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Birthyear: 1954

Claire Foy

Claire Foy is a talented English actress, born on April 16, 1984. She's best known for her captivating portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in Netflix's "The Crown," earning her a Golden Globe and Emmy Award. Her remarkable performances showcase her impressive range and versatility as an actress.

Birthyear: 1984

Wright brothers

Wilbur Wright, along with his brother Orville, designed, built, and flew the world's first successful airplane, taking to the skies on December 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, revolutionizing aviation and changing the world forever.

Birthyear: 1867

Akon

Akon is a Senegalese-American singer, rapper, and songwriter known for his catchy hooks and soulful voice. Born Aliaume Damala Badara Akon Thiam, he rose to fame with hits like "Lonely" and "Smack That," blending hip-hop, R&B, and pop to create a unique sound.

Birthyear: 1973

Dusty Springfield

Dusty Springfield was a British soul sensation, known for her powerful, emotive voice and iconic hits like 'I Only Want to Be with You' and 'You Don't Have to Say You Love Me.' A trailblazer for women in music, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999.

Birthyear: 1939

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence is a renowned American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, best known for his iconic sitcom "Martin" and blockbuster films like "Bad Boys" and "Big Momma's House". His comedic talent and energetic performances have endeared him to audiences worldwide.

Birthyear: 1965

Jon Cryer

Jon Cryer is an American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, best known for his roles in the TV series "Two and a Half Men" and "Supergirl." He won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his performances. Cryer has also appeared in films like "Pretty in Pink" and "Hot Shots!"

Birthyear: 1965

Chance the Rapper

Chance the Rapper, born Chancelor Bennett, is a Grammy-winning American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He rose to fame with his 2013 mixtape "Acid Rap" and critically acclaimed album "Coloring Book," known for blending hip-hop, jazz, and gospel influences.

Birthyear: 1993

Rafael Benítez

Rafael Benítez is a renowned Spanish footballer-turned-manager. He won two La Liga titles with Valencia, the UEFA Champions League with Liverpool, and the Europa League with Chelsea. Benítez is known for his tactical acumen and ability to improve teams.

Birthyear: 1960

Peter Ustinov

Peter Ustinov was a renowned English actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor and was nominated for several Golden Globes. Ustinov was also a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and wrote several books, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.

Birthyear: 1921

Gerry Rafferty

Gerry Rafferty was a Scottish singer-songwriter behind hits like "Stuck in the Middle with You" and "Baker Street." With his soulful voice and poignant lyrics, he captivated audiences worldwide, leaving a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Birthyear: 1947

Margrethe II

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, born April 16, 1940, is the country's first female monarch. Known for her artistic talents, she's an accomplished painter, illustrator, and translator. She has reigned since 1972, making her Denmark's longest-reigning monarch, respected for her dedication to her people and nation.

Birthyear: 1940

Lukas Haas

Lukas Haas is an American actor and musician, known for his roles in films like "Witness" (1985) and "Mars Attacks!" (1996). He's also a talented musician, playing drums and piano, and has composed music for film and television soundtracks.

Birthyear: 1976

Vickie Guerrero

Vickie Guerrero, widow of Eddie Guerrero, is a renowned American professional wrestler and manager. Known for her fiery personality, Guerrero has managed several WWE Superstars, including Edge and Dolph Ziggler, earning the moniker "The Cougar." She's a two-time WWE Divas Champion and a WWE Hall of Famer.

Birthyear: 1968

Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg

Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg is the head of state of Luxembourg, reigning since 2000. Born on April 16, 1955, he is the son of Grand Duke Jean and Princess Joséphine-Charlotte of Belgium. He is married to Grand Duchess Maria Teresa and has five children.

Birthyear: 1955

Spike Milligan

Spike Milligan, a pioneering Irish comedian, actor, and writer, is best known for creating the surreal BBC radio series "The Goon Show" and his absurdist humor, influencing generations of British comedians and writers.

Birthyear: 1918

Henry Mancini

Henry Mancini was a renowned American composer and conductor, best known for his iconic film scores, including "Moon River" from "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "The Pink Panther Theme", winning four Oscars and twenty Grammy Awards during his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1924

Nolan Arenado

Nolan Arenado is a 7-time MLB All-Star and 5-time Gold Glove-winning third baseman, known for his exceptional defense and powerful hitting. He played for the Colorado Rockies from 2013 to 2020, before joining the St. Louis Cardinals in 2021.

Birthyear: 1991

Reggie Jackson (basketball, born 1990)

Reggie Jackson is not a famous basketball player. You may be thinking of Reggie Jackson, the Hall of Fame baseball player, nicknamed "Mr. October" for his clutch postseason performances. However, if you meant to ask about Reggie Jackson the basketball player, he's an NBA point guard who has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Detroit Pistons, and Los Angeles Clippers.

Birthyear: 1990

David Graf

David Graf, an American actor, was best known for his comedic roles, particularly as Sergeant T.J. Lambert in the "Police Academy" film series. He also appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, showcasing his versatility as a character actor.

Birthyear: 1950

Freddie Ljungberg

Freddie Ljungberg is a Swedish former professional footballer who played as a winger for Arsenal, West Ham United, and the Swedish national team. He won two Premier League titles and three FA Cups with Arsenal, earning 75 caps for Sweden.

Birthyear: 1977

Bobby Vinton

Bobby Vinton, born April 16, 1935, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor known for his smooth, soulful voice and hit songs like "Roses Are Red (My Love)" and "Blue on Blue". He was a teen idol in the 1960s and 1970s, with over 30 top 40 hits.

Birthyear: 1935

Aaron Lennon

Aaron Lennon is a retired English professional footballer who played as a winger. He made his debut for Leeds United at 16 and went on to play for Tottenham Hotspur, Everton, and Burnley, earning 21 caps for the English national team between 2006 and 2013.

Birthyear: 1987

Frank Williams (Formula One)

Sir Frank Williams, founder of the esteemed Williams F1 Racing Team, was a visionary entrepreneur and Formula One icon. Under his leadership, the team won nine constructors' championships and seven drivers' titles, cementing his legacy in motorsport history.

Birthyear: 1942

Luol Deng

Luol Deng is a Sudanese-English former professional basketball player who played in the NBA from 2004 to 2017. Born in Wau, Sudan, he was drafted 7th overall by the Phoenix Suns and played for the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Miami Heat, earning two NBA All-Star selections.

Birthyear: 1985

Guy Burgess

Guy Burgess, a charismatic and flamboyant Englishman, was a Cambridge Five member who defected to the Soviet Union in 1951, passing classified information to the KGB, leading a double life as a spy until his death in 1963.

Birthyear: 1911

Jimmy Osmond

Jimmy Osmond is an American singer, actor, and performer. As the youngest of the Osmond brothers, he rose to fame as a child star with hits like "Long-Haired Lover from Liverpool" and has since continued to perform and produce music.

Birthyear: 1963

Taylor Townsend

Taylor Townsend is an American tennis player known for her powerful serve and volley game. Born on April 16, 1996, she won the 2012 Australian Open girls' doubles title and has represented the US in the Fed Cup and Olympics.

Birthyear: 1996

John Franklin

Sir John Franklin, a distinguished English admiral and politician, served as the fourth Lieutenant Governor of Van Diemen's Land (now Tasmania) from 1837 to 1843. He implemented various reforms and developed the colony's infrastructure.

Birthyear: 1786

George Steele

George "The Animal" Steele was a legendary American wrestler and actor, known for his wild, hairy persona and iconic green tongue. He entertained fans in the WWE (then WWF) from 1967 to 1988, and appeared in several films and TV shows, including "Ed Wood" (1994).

Birthyear: 1937

Shinji Okazaki

Shinji Okazaki is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as a striker for Spanish club Málaga CF. Known for his pace and movement, Okazaki has earned over 100 caps for Japan and participated in three World Cups, scoring crucial goals in the 2010 and 2018 tournaments.

Birthyear: 1986

Edie Adams

Edie Adams was a Tony Award-winning actress and singer, best known for her iconic TV commercials for Muriel Cigars and her starring role as Daisy Mae in the Broadway production of "Li'l Abner."

Birthyear: 1927

Kingsley Amis

Kingsley Amis was a renowned English novelist, poet, and critic, best known for his humorous and satirical literary works, including the iconic novel "Lucky Jim". He was a prominent figure in post-war British literature, celebrated for his witty style and biting social commentary.

Birthyear: 1922

Peter Garrett

Peter Garrett is an Australian singer-songwriter and politician, best known as the lead vocalist of Midnight Oil. He was a member of the Australian House of Representatives from 2004 to 2013, serving as Minister for Environment Protection, Heritage and the Arts.

Birthyear: 1953

Ernst Thälmann

Ernst Thälmann was a German politician and leader of the Communist Party of Germany during the Weimar Republic. A charismatic figure, he ran for president against Paul von Hindenburg in 1932. Thälmann was arrested by the Nazis in 1933 and eventually murdered in Buchenwald concentration camp in 1944.

Birthyear: 1886

Kelli O'Hara

Kelli O'Hara is a Tony Award-winning American actress and singer, renowned for her versatility on Broadway and television. She has starred in hits like "The Light in the Piazza" and "The King and I," earning critical acclaim and numerous award nominations.

Birthyear: 1976

Joan Bakewell

Joan Bakewell is a renowned English journalist, author, and broadcaster, known for her insightful interviews and in-depth reporting. With a career spanning over 50 years, she has presented various BBC programs, including "Late Night Line-Up" and "Heart of the Matter."

Birthyear: 1933

Jonathan Vilma

Jonathan Vilma is a former American football linebacker who played in the NFL from 2005 to 2013. He played for the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints, winning Super Bowl XLIV with the Saints.

Birthyear: 1982

Dora Richter

Dora Richter, a German transgender woman, made history by undergoing the first documented complete male-to-female gender-affirming surgery in 1931. Her courageous journey pioneered the path for future generations of transgender individuals seeking gender confirmation.

Birthyear: 1892

Boris Diaw

Boris Diaw is a retired French professional basketball player who played 14 seasons in the NBA, winning an NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. He's a versatile player known for his all-around skills, athleticism, and clutch performances.

Birthyear: 1982

Night Train Lane

Night Train Lane was a Hall of Fame cornerback who played for the Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Rams, and Pittsburgh Steelers from 1952 to 1969. Known for his speed, agility, and physical play, Lane was a 7-time Pro Bowl selection and recorded 68 interceptions in his 14-year career.

Birthyear: 1928

Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun

Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun was a prominent French painter, known for her exquisite portraits of European aristocracy, including Marie Antoinette. She was one of the few female artists of her time to achieve international recognition and accolades.

Birthyear: 1755

Merce Cunningham

Merce Cunningham was a visionary American dancer and choreographer who revolutionized modern dance with his avant-garde style, collaborating with artists like John Cage and Andy Warhol, and founding the Merce Cunningham Dance Company in 1953.

Birthyear: 1919

John Hodiak

John Hodiak was a renowned American actor who appeared in over 40 films, including "Lifeboat" (1944) and "The Harvey Girls" (1946). He was known for his rugged, masculine screen presence and played opposite iconic actresses like Marilyn Monroe and Judy Garland.

Birthyear: 1914

Jungjong of Joseon

Jungjong of Joseon, the 11th king of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea, reigned from 1506 to 1544. He implemented reforms, strengthened the economy, and promoted culture, earning the title "King of Cultural Renaissance."

Birthyear: 1488

Anatole France

Anatole France, a renowned French journalist, novelist, and poet, was awarded the 1921 Nobel Prize in Literature. His works, marked by irony and skepticism, critique social conventions and explore the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on French literature.

Birthyear: 1844

Mirai Nagasu

Mirai Nagasu is a Japanese-American figure skater, known for being the first American woman to land a triple Axel in Olympic competition (2018). She is a three-time Olympian, winning bronze at the 2018 Winter Olympics in the team event.

Birthyear: 1993

Robert Stigwood

Robert Stigwood, an Australian-born producer and manager, was a key figure in the 1970s music industry. He managed bands like Cream, The Who, and the Bee Gees, and produced iconic films like "Saturday Night Fever" and "Grease."

Birthyear: 1934

Saleem Malik

Saleem Malik, a Pakistani cricketer, played 103 Tests and 263 ODIs between 1982 and 1999. A right-handed batsman, he scored over 7,000 runs in both formats, known for his stylish strokeplay and aggressive batting style, earning him the nickname 'The Master'.

Birthyear: 1963

David M. Brown

David M. Brown was a NASA astronaut, pilot, and captain who tragically died in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster in 2003. A decorated naval aviator, he flew 25 combat missions in Iraq and was selected as an astronaut in 1996, flying on the STS-107 mission.

Birthyear: 1956

Vince Hill

Vince Hill, a renowned English singer-songwriter, thrilled audiences with his smooth, velvety voice and charming stage presence. His iconic hits like "Edelweiss" and "Roses of Picardy" remain timeless classics, showcasing his exceptional vocal talent and enduring popularity.

Birthyear: 1934

Kandukuri Veeresalingam

Kandukuri Veeresalingam (1848-1919) was a pioneering Indian social reformer, writer, and women's rights activist. He advocated for widow remarriage, education, and women's empowerment, influencing the Indian independence movement through his writings and social work.

Birthyear: 1848

Barry Nelson

Barry Nelson, a veteran American actor, starred in Broadway shows and television series, including the titular role in the 1950s TV series "James Bond" and as Mr. Belding in the popular sitcom "Saved by the Bell."

Birthyear: 1917

Kyle Okposo

Kyle Okposo is an American professional ice hockey right winger who currently plays for the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted 7th overall by the Islanders in 2006 and has also played for the Buffalo Sabres, recording over 500 NHL games.

Birthyear: 1988

John Millington Synge

John Millington Synge was a renowned Irish author, poet, and playwright. His works, such as "Riders to the Sea" and "The Playboy of the Western World," showcased his unique lyrical prose, exploring Irish identity and folklore. His contributions greatly influenced 20th-century Irish literature.

Birthyear: 1871

Taye Taiwo

Taye Taiwo is a Nigerian professional footballer who played as a left-back for clubs like Marseille, Queens Park Rangers, and HJK Helsinki. He earned 54 caps for the Nigerian national team, participating in two World Cups and three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Birthyear: 1985

Yves-François Blanchet

Yves-François Blanchet is a Canadian politician serving as the Leader of the Bloc Québécois since 2019. He has been the Member of Parliament for Beloeil—Chambly since 2015, advocating for Quebec's interests in the Canadian House of Commons.

Birthyear: 1965

Henry Clinton (British Army officer, born 1730)

Sir Henry Clinton was a British general and politician who played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as the Commander-in-Chief of British forces from 1778 to 1782.

Birthyear: 1730

Conchita Martínez

Conchita Martínez, a Spanish tennis icon, won 33 WTA singles titles, including 1994 Wimbledon, and was ranked world No. 2. She won 13 Grand Slam doubles titles and formed a formidable partnership with Arantxa Sánchez Vicario.

Birthyear: 1972

Pierre Littbarski

Pierre Littbarski is a German football legend, known for his creative playmaking and vision on the pitch. A FIFA World Cup winner in 1990, he earned 73 caps for West Germany, scoring 18 goals. After retiring, Littbarski went on to manage several clubs, including MSV Duisburg and Alemannia Aachen.

Birthyear: 1960

Roy Hamilton

Roy Hamilton, the "Golden Boy of Song," was a renowned American singer known for his powerful, soulful voice and hit songs like "You'll Never Walk Alone" and "Unchained Melody." His distinctive style and charismatic stage presence made him a popular performer in the 1950s and 1960s.

Birthyear: 1929

Hans Sloane

Hans Sloane, an esteemed Irish-English physician and academic, made significant contributions to the fields of medicine and botany. He was a prominent figure in the Royal Society, and his extensive collection of natural history specimens formed the foundation of the British Museum.

Birthyear: 1660

Herbie Mann

Herbie Mann was a renowned American flute player and composer who blended jazz, bossa nova, and world music. Known for his virtuosic flute solos, Mann's eclectic style influenced generations of musicians and fans alike.

Birthyear: 1930

Cat Osterman

Cat Osterman, a dominant American softball pitcher, won Olympic gold in 2004 and silver in 2008. A three-time Pan American Games champion, she was a four-time All-American at the University of Texas, holding multiple NCAA records.

Birthyear: 1983

Ford Madox Brown

Ford Madox Brown was a French-English painter and designer, born in 1821 and died in 1893. He was a leading figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, known for his vivid and detailed works, such as "The Last of England" and "Work."

Birthyear: 1821

Polly Adler

Polly Adler, a Russian-American madam and author, was notorious for operating high-end brothels in New York City during the 1920s-1940s. Her 1953 autobiography, "A House Is Not a Home," became a bestseller, offering a candid look at her life and the city's underworld.

Birthyear: 1900

Ove Arup

Ove Arup, a renowned English-Danish engineer and entrepreneur, founded Arup in 1938, a global design and engineering consultancy renowned for iconic projects like the Sydney Opera House, shaping the built environment with innovative and sustainable designs.

Birthyear: 1895

Natasha Zvereva

Natasha Zvereva, a Belarusian tennis legend, won 18 Grand Slam titles, including six women's doubles and 12 mixed doubles championships. She was ranked world No. 1 in doubles and achieved a career Golden Slam in women's doubles.

Birthyear: 1971

Joseph Black

Joseph Black, a French-Scottish physician and chemist, discovered carbon dioxide in 1756, isolated magnesium, and pioneered the field of quantitative chemistry. His work laid the foundation for Lavoisier's oxygen discovery and significantly advanced modern chemistry.

Birthyear: 1728

Paul Waner

Paul Waner, nicknamed "Big Poison," was a Hall of Fame right fielder who played 20 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Brooklyn Dodgers, and Boston Braves from 1926 to 1945, boasting a .333 career batting average and 3,152 hits.

Birthyear: 1903

Arch A. Moore Jr.

Arch A. Moore Jr. was a decorated World War II sergeant, lawyer, and politician who served as the 28th Governor of West Virginia from 1969 to 1977 and again from 1985 to 1989, focusing on economic development and infrastructure growth.

Birthyear: 1923