April 17 birthdays and deaths:

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner is a talented American actress known for her iconic roles in TV's "Alias" and films like "13 Going on 30" and "Juno." She's also a devoted mom and philanthropist, advocating for children's education and women's empowerment.

Birthyear: 1972

Victoria Beckham

Victoria Beckham, aka Posh Spice, rose to fame with the Spice Girls. Post-pop stardom, she became a successful fashion designer, launching her eponymous luxury brand in 2008, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards for her chic, sophisticated designs.

Birthyear: 1974

Rooney Mara

Rooney Mara is a talented American actress known for her versatility and range. Born on April 17, 1985, she has starred in films like "The Social Network," "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," and "Carol," earning Academy Award nominations for her powerful performances.

Birthyear: 1985

Vikram (actor)

Vikram is a renowned Indian actor and singer, known for his stunning performances in Tamil cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, he has won numerous awards, including a National Film Award and multiple Filmfare Awards, showcasing his versatility and talent.

Birthyear: 1966

Sean Bean

Sean Bean is a renowned English actor born on April 17, 1959. He's known for his rugged, brooding performances in films like "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, "GoldenEye," and "Game of Thrones," as well as his iconic roles in British TV dramas like "Sharpe" and "Accused."

Birthyear: 1959

J. P. Morgan

John Pierpont Morgan was a dominant figure in American finance, founding J.P. Morgan & Co. in 1871. He revolutionized corporate finance, reorganized railroads, and bailout the U.S. government in 1907, earning the nickname "Jupiter" for his unwavering confidence and influence.

Birthyear: 1837

Roddy Piper

Roddy Piper, aka "Rowdy" Roddy Piper, was a Canadian professional wrestler and actor. Born Roderick George Toombs, he was a WWE Hall of Famer, known for his charismatic persona, rugged wrestling style, and iconic film roles in "They Live" and "Hell Comes to Frogtown."

Birthyear: 1954

William Holden

William Holden was a legendary American actor, known for his rugged charm and versatility. He starred in iconic films like "Sunset Boulevard," "Stalag 17," and "Network," earning two Academy Award nominations and one win.

Birthyear: 1918

Olivia Hussey

Olivia Hussey is a talented Argentinian-English actress, best known for her iconic role as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 film adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. Born on April 17, 1951, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Hussey has had a successful career spanning over five decades.

Birthyear: 1951

Maynard James Keenan

Maynard James Keenan is an American singer-songwriter and producer, best known as the vocalist of progressive metal bands Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer. His distinctive, introspective lyrics and soaring vocals have earned him a devoted cult following and widespread critical acclaim.

Birthyear: 1964

Romain Grosjean

Romain Grosjean is a French racing driver who has competed in Formula One for teams like Renault, Lotus, and Haas. Born on April 17, 1986, he has achieved 10 podiums and 1 pole position in his F1 career, showcasing his skill and perseverance in the sport.

Birthyear: 1986

Tyron Woodley

Tyron Woodley is a renowned American mixed martial artist who competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He held the Welterweight Championship title from 2016 to 2019, successfully defending it four times, and was known for his knockout power and wrestling background.

Birthyear: 1982

Muttiah Muralitharan

Muttiah Muralitharan, a Sri Lankan cricket legend, is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in history. He holds the record for most wickets in both Tests (800) and One-Day Internationals (534), with an extraordinary career spanning over two decades.

Birthyear: 1972

Boomer Esiason

Boomer Esiason is a former NFL quarterback and sportscaster, playing 14 seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals. He was the 1988 NFL MVP and is currently a CBS Sports analyst and radio host.

Birthyear: 1961

Redman (rapper)

Redman, born Reginald Noble, is an American rapper, producer, and actor from Newark, New Jersey. He's known for his energetic live performances and hit singles like "Da Rockwilder" and "Let's Get Dirty." With a career spanning over two decades, he's a successful hip-hop artist and actor, featured in films like "Scary Movie 3" and " Seed of Chucky."

Birthyear: 1970

Börje Salming

Börje Salming, "The King", was a Swedish ice hockey legend and businessman. He played 16 NHL seasons, mainly with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1996. His #21 jersey was honored by the Leafs in 1996.

Birthyear: 1951

Lindsay Hartley

Lindsay Hartley is an American actress born on April 17, 1978, in Palm Springs, California. She's known for her roles in soap operas such as "All My Children," "Days of Our Lives," and "General Hospital."

Birthyear: 1978

Avi Kaplan

Avi Kaplan, a singer and songwriter, gained fame as a bass vocalist for the Grammy-winning a cappella group Pentatonix. His rich, soulful voice and introspective songwriting skills have captivated audiences, earning him a devoted solo fan base.

Birthyear: 1989

Claire Sweeney

Claire Sweeney is a renowned English actress, television presenter, and singer. She rose to fame playing the role of Lindsey Corkhill in the Channel 4 soap opera "Brookside". She has also appeared in various other TV shows, stage productions, and reality TV programs, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Birthyear: 1971

Henry Ian Cusick

Henry Ian Cusick is a Peruvian-Scottish actor, best known for his roles as Desmond Hume in the TV series "Lost" and Stephen Finch in the TV series "Scandal." Born on April 17, 1967, in Trujillo, Peru, Cusick has also appeared in various film and television productions.

Birthyear: 1967

Arkan

Željko Ražnatović, aka "Arkan," was a notorious Serbian commander and founder of the paramilitary group "Tigers." He was infamous for his role in the Yugoslav Wars and was accused of war crimes before his assassination in 2000.

Birthyear: 1952

Kimberly Elise

Kimberly Elise is an American actress, born on April 17, 1967, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Known for her powerful performances, she has appeared in films like "Beloved" and " Diary of a Mad Black Woman," earning multiple award nominations for her work.

Birthyear: 1967

Lela Rochon

Lela Rochon is an American actress, born on April 17, 1964, in Los Angeles, California. She gained fame for her roles in films like 'Waiting to Exhale' (1995) and 'Harlem Nights' (1989), showcasing her talent in both drama and comedy genres.

Birthyear: 1964

Liz Phair

Liz Phair is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for her introspective and provocative indie rock music. Her debut album "Exile in Guyville" (1993) is a critically acclaimed feminist masterpiece, praised for its candid lyrics and lo-fi production.

Birthyear: 1967

Afrika Bambaataa

Afrika Bambaataa is a legendary American DJ, rapper, and activist, known as the "Godfather of Hip Hop." He founded the Zulu Nation, a group that promoted hip-hop culture, and released influential singles like "Planet Rock" and "Looking for the Perfect Beat."

Birthyear: 1957

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga is a French professional tennis player, known for his powerful serves and energetic playing style. Born on April 17, 1985, he has won 18 ATP titles, including the 2008 Australian Open final, and has been ranked as high as world No. 5.

Birthyear: 1985

Luke Mitchell

Luke Mitchell is an Australian actor and model, best known for his roles in TV series such as "Home and Away," "Neighbours," and "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." With his chiseled good looks and undeniable charm, Mitchell has captivated audiences worldwide with his talent and versatility.

Birthyear: 1985

Sirimavo Bandaranaike

Sirimavo Bandaranaike, a pioneering stateswoman, became the world's first female Prime Minister of Sri Lanka in 1960, leading the country through a tumultuous period of economic and social change, holding office three times until her passing in 2000.

Birthyear: 1916

Nick Hornby

Nick Hornby is a renowned English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter, known for his witty, relatable, and humor-infused works, such as "High Fidelity," "About a Boy," and "Fever Pitch," which have been adapted into successful films and praised for their insightful exploration of human relationships and pop culture.

Birthyear: 1957

Dwane Casey

Dwane Casey is an American basketball coach, currently leading the Detroit Pistons in the NBA. With a long and successful coaching career, he has also led the Toronto Raptors and Minnesota Timberwolves, known for his defensive expertise and player development skills.

Birthyear: 1957

Billy Fury

Billy Fury, born Ronald Wycherley, was a British singer-songwriter and rock and roll pioneer. Known for his charismatic stage presence and hits like "Wondrous Place" and "Halfway to Paradise," Fury was a major UK star in the 1960s, often compared to Elvis Presley.

Birthyear: 1940

Tony Boselli

Tony Boselli, a legendary offensive tackle, played 7 seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars (1995-2001). A 5-time Pro Bowl selection, he was inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars and Jacksonville Jaguars Ring of Honor. Post-football, he became a respected sportscaster and analyst.

Birthyear: 1972

Wheein

Jung Whee-in is a South Korean singer and songwriter, best known as a member of the K-pop girl group MAMAMOO. Born on April 17, 1995, she debuted in 2014 and has since released solo music, showcasing her powerful vocals and emotive performances.

Birthyear: 1995

Takahiro Moriuchi

Takahiro Moriuchi, also known as Miyavi, is a Japanese singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer. He's known for his flamboyant and androgynous fashion sense, as well as his genre-bending music, which blends elements of rock, pop, and electronic dance music.

Birthyear: 1988

Barnaby Joyce

Barnaby Joyce, Australian politician, served as the 17th Deputy Prime Minister of Australia from 2016 to 2018. Leader of the National Party, he held various ministerial positions, including Agriculture, Water, and Infrastructure. Known for his strong opinions on rural development and conservative values.

Birthyear: 1967

Rachel Notley

Rachel Notley is a Canadian politician who served as the 17th Premier of Alberta from 2015 to 2019. She is the leader of the Alberta New Democratic Party (NDP) and was the first woman to hold the position of Premier of Alberta.

Birthyear: 1964

Pete Shelley

Pete Shelley, co-founder of influential punk rock band Buzzcocks, was a pioneering English singer-songwriter and guitarist. His witty, introspective lyrics and catchy melodies in hits like "Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've)" remain iconic in the punk and new wave movements.

Birthyear: 1955

Jan Hammer

Jan Hammer, a Czech pianist, composer, and producer, is renowned for his fusion of rock, jazz, and electronic music. His iconic theme for the TV series "Miami Vice" earned him a Grammy, cementing his status as a master of synthesizer-driven soundscapes.

Birthyear: 1948

Mikael Åkerfeldt

Mikael Åkerfeldt, born April 17, 1974, is a Swedish singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer. As the founder of Opeth, he's known for his versatile vocals, blending death metal growls with soft, melodic tones, and his intricate guitar work in the progressive death metal genre.

Birthyear: 1974

Thornton Wilder

Thornton Wilder was a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist and playwright known for his thought-provoking works, including "Our Town" and "The Bridge of San Luis Rey." His writing often explored humanity, morality, and the American experience.

Birthyear: 1897

Joe Alaskey

Joe Alaskey was a renowned American voice actor, best known for his iconic roles as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and other Looney Tunes characters. His impressive career spanned over three decades, earning him multiple Annie and Emmy nominations.

Birthyear: 1952

Riccardo Patrese

Riccardo Patrese, an Italian former racing driver, competed in Formula One from 1977 to 1993, scoring 6 wins and 37 podiums. He drove for top teams like Brabham, Williams, and Benetton, earning 257 Grands Prix starts, a record at the time of his retirement.

Birthyear: 1954

James Last

James Last, a renowned German-American bassist, composer, and bandleader, delighted audiences with his unique big band sound, blending jazz, swing, and easy listening. With over 100 albums, he remains a beloved music legend, entertaining generations with his iconic arrangements and charismatic stage presence.

Birthyear: 1929

Nisargadatta Maharaj

Nisargadatta Maharaj was a renowned Indian philosopher and educator who advocated for the pursuit of self-knowledge and inner freedom. His teachings, as recorded in "I Am That," emphasized the importance of self-inquiry and the transcendence of the ego.

Birthyear: 1897

Helenio Herrera

Helenio Herrera, also known as "HH" or "El Mago" (The Magician), was a French footballer and manager who coached top European clubs, including Atlético Madrid and Inter Milan, winning numerous titles, including two European Cups.

Birthyear: 1910

Michael Sembello

Michael Sembello is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known for his 1983 hit single "Maniac" from the Flashdance soundtrack, which topped the charts and earned him a Grammy nomination.

Birthyear: 1954

John McCririck

John McCririck, a flamboyant and outspoken English journalist, was a popular face on British television, best known for his provocative opinions and flamboyant attire as a racing pundit on Channel 4 Racing from 1981 to 2013.

Birthyear: 1940

Chavela Vargas

Chavela Vargas, a Costa Rican-Mexican icon, mesmerized audiences with her powerful voice, bold style, and unapologetic attitude. A legendary ranchera singer, she defied conventions, inspiring generations with her music, film roles, and unwavering authenticity, earning her a revered place in Latin American cultural heritage.

Birthyear: 1919

Ferdinand Piëch

Ferdinand Piëch, an Austrian-German engineer and businessman, was a former Chairman of the Volkswagen Group and a key figure in its expansion. He played a crucial role in shaping the company's growth and success, earning him the nickname "Ferry the Great."

Birthyear: 1937

Taksin

King Taksin, also known as the Great, ruled Thailand from 1767 to 1782, reunifying the kingdom after the Burmese invasion. He was a skilled military leader, conquering several neighboring kingdoms, and promoted Buddhism, trade, and agriculture, earning him a revered place in Thai history.

Birthyear: 1734

Cap Anson

Adrian Constantine "Cap" Anson was a pioneering American baseball player and manager. A nine-time batting champion, Anson played for the Chicago White Stockings from 1876 to 1897, leading the team to five National League pennants. He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

Birthyear: 1852

Samuel Chase

Samuel Chase was an American lawyer and jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1796 until his death in 1811. He played a key role in shaping the nation's early judiciary and was a signatory to the Declaration of Independence.

Birthyear: 1741

George Adamski

George Adamski was a Polish-American ufologist and author who claimed to have contacted extraterrestrial beings and traveled in their spaceships. His 1953 book "Flying Saucers Have Landed" popularized the concept of peaceful alien encounters, sparking widespread interest in UFOs.

Birthyear: 1891

Lindsay Anderson

Lindsay Anderson was a renowned English actor, director, and screenwriter, known for his provocative and innovative filmmaking style. His notable works include "This Sporting Life" and "If....", which showcased his unique blend of drama and satire.

Birthyear: 1923

Harry Reasoner

Harry Reasoner was a renowned American journalist and former soldier. He co-anchored the popular CBS news program "60 Minutes" with Mike Wallace, bringing his distinctive voice and style to in-depth reporting, earning multiple Emmy Awards for his contributions.

Birthyear: 1923

Suppapong Udomkaewkanjana

Suppapong Udomkaewkanjana, known as Saint, is a Thai heartthrob and multi-talented artist. Born on April 24, 1994, he gained fame for his roles in dramas like "Friend Zone" and "Theory of Love". He's also a singer, releasing hit singles like "It's Okay" and "Love Equation".

Birthyear: 1998

Richard Epstein

Richard Allen Epstein is a renowned American lawyer, author, and academic. He's a senior lecturer at the University of Chicago Law School, known for his work on constitutional law, intellectual property, and economics.

Birthyear: 1943

Marquis Grissom

Marquis Grissom, a talented American baseball player and coach, played 17 seasons in MLB, earning 2 Gold Glove Awards and a World Series ring with the Atlanta Braves in 1995. He later coached for the Washington Nationals and Arizona Diamondbacks.

Birthyear: 1967

Ryujin (rapper)

Shin Ryujin, better known as I.N of TREASURE, is a talented South Korean rapper, singer, and dancer. Born on February 9, 2001, he's a member of the popular K-pop group TREASURE, known for his energetic performances and impressive rapping skills.

Birthyear: 2001

Don Kirshner

Don Kirshner, the "Man with the Golden Ear," was a renowned American songwriter, producer, and TV host. He discovering talented acts like Neil Diamond, Carole King, and The Monkees, and hosted the popular music show "Don Kirshner's Rock Concert" from 1973 to 1981.

Birthyear: 1934

Bella Freud

Bella Freud, daughter of Lucian Freud, is a renowned English fashion designer and founder of her eponymous label. Known for her whimsical, bohemian style, she has dressed celebrities and royalty, and is celebrated for her iconic 1970s-inspired designs and punk-infused aesthetic.

Birthyear: 1961

Arthur Lake (actor)

Arthur Lake was an American actor, best known for playing Dagwood Bumstead in the 1940s-1950s film series based on the popular comic strip "Blondie." He appeared in over 28 films, alongside his wife, Penny Singleton, who played Blondie.

Birthyear: 1905

Hongseok

Yang Hongseok is a South Korean singer and actor, best known as a member of the boy group Seventeen. Born on April 17, 1997, he is the main vocalist and dancer of the group, showcasing his talents through numerous hits and musical theater performances.

Birthyear: 1994

Margot Honecker

Margot Honecker was a prominent East German politician and First Lady, wife of Erich Honecker, serving as Minister of National Education from 1963 to 1989. Her strict policies and loyalty to the communist regime remain controversial, reflecting the complexities of East Germany's turbulent history.

Birthyear: 1927

Dheeran Chinnamalai

Dheeran Chinnamalai was an Indian commander who fought against the British East India Company in the Polygar Wars. A loyal ally of Tipu Sultan, he expertly employed guerrilla warfare tactics, earning him a revered place in Indian history as a brave freedom fighter.

Birthyear: 1756

Theo Ratliff

Theo Ratliff is a retired American basketball player who played 16 seasons in the NBA from 1995 to 2011. A dominant defensive center, he was a one-time NBA All-Star and holds the record for most blocks per game in a single season.

Birthyear: 1973

Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria

Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria, ruled from 1597 to 1651, skillfully navigating the treacherous landscape of the Thirty Years' War. He maintained Bavaria's independence, strengthened its economy, and founded the University of Ingolstadt, earning him renown as a wise and pragmatic leader.

Birthyear: 1573

Chris Barber

Chris Barber, a renowned English trombonist and bandleader, was a key figure in British traditional jazz. He led the Chris Barber Jazz Band, performing with celebrities like Lonnie Donegan and Ottilie Patterson. Barber's distinctive trombone style and commitment to classic jazz earned him a lasting legacy.

Birthyear: 1930

Raffaele Palladino

Raffaele Palladino is a retired Italian footballer who played as a midfielder. Born on April 17, 1984, he represented clubs like Juventus, Liverpool, and Genoa, earning 42 caps for the Italian national team between 2007 and 2011.

Birthyear: 1984

Joe Foss

Joe Foss, a Medal of Honor recipient, was a renowned American general and politician. Serving as the 20th Governor of South Dakota from 1955 to 1959, he championed conservative values and supported veterans' interests throughout his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1915

Malcolm Browne

Malcolm Browne was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American journalist and photographer. He's renowned for his iconic 1963 photo of a Buddhist monk's self-immolation in South Vietnam, which drew global attention to the Vietnam War.

Birthyear: 1931

Pedro de Valdivia

Pedro de Valdivia, a renowned Spanish conquistador, led the successful expedition to conquer northern Chile in the 16th century. He founded Santiago de Chile in 1541 and served as its first governor, playing a pivotal role in shaping the region's history.

Birthyear: 1497

Herms Niel

Hermes Niel, a German soldier, trombonist, and composer, lived an extraordinary life. His unique blend of music and military service made him a fascinating figure. Unfortunately, his life came to an end in 1954, leaving behind a legacy of harmony and valor.

Birthyear: 1888

Curtis Woodhouse

Curtis Woodhouse is a remarkable figure in British sport, transitioning from a professional footballer to a successful boxer, and eventually, a football manager. Born in 1980, Woodhouse played football for clubs like Birmingham City and Hull City before venturing into boxing, winning the British light-welterweight title in 2006.

Birthyear: 1980

Kerry Wendell Thornley

Kerry Wendell Thornley was an American theorist and author, best known for co-creating the Discordian religion with Greg Hill. He wrote the novel "The Illuminatus! Trilogy" and was a key figure in the development of conspiracy theory fiction. His works often blurred the lines between reality and satire.

Birthyear: 1938

Cynthia Ozick

Cynthia Ozick is a celebrated American writer known for her intricate, lyrical prose and exploration of Jewish identity, morality, and the human condition. Her works, such as 'The Shawl' and 'Heir to the Glimmering World', have garnered numerous awards and acclaim.

Birthyear: 1928

Travis Roy

Travis Roy, an American ice hockey player, tragically paralyzed from the neck down just 11 seconds into his Boston University hockey debut in 1995. He became an inspirational motivational speaker and advocate for spinal cord injury awareness, passing away in 2020.

Birthyear: 1975

Jenny Meadows

Jenny Meadows is a renowned English middle-distance runner, specializing in the 800 meters. Born on July 17, 1981, she has represented Great Britain in numerous international competitions, including the Olympics, World Championships, and European Championships, earning multiple medals and accolades throughout her illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1981

Jinho

Jo Jin-ho, also known as Jinho, is a South Korean K-pop artist who is a member of the boy group Pentagon.

Birthyear: 1992

Ken Daneyko

Ken Daneyko is a Canadian former ice hockey defenseman who played 20 seasons in the NHL, winning three Stanley Cups with the New Jersey Devils. After retiring, he became a TV analyst and radio host, providing insightful commentary on the sport he loves.

Birthyear: 1964