December 17 birthdays and deaths:

Pope Francis

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church. He's known for his humility, progressive stances on social issues, and commitment to environmentalism, earning him a reputation as a champion of the poor and vulnerable.

Birthyear: 1936

Sarah Paulson

Sarah Paulson is a talented American actress known for her versatile performances in TV and film. She's renowned for her roles in "American Horror Story," "The People v. O.J. Simpson," and "Ocean's 8," earning numerous award nominations, including multiple Emmy nods.

Birthyear: 1974

Milla Jovovich

Milla Jovovich is a Ukrainian-American actress, model, and musician born on December 17, 1975. She gained fame with her breakout role in the 1997 film "The Fifth Element" and has since appeared in numerous films, including the "Resident Evil" franchise, showcasing her versatility and talent.

Birthyear: 1975

Chelsea Manning

Chelsea Manning, born Bradley Manning, is a former US Army intelligence analyst who leaked classified documents to WikiLeaks, revealing war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan, leading to a 35-year prison sentence, later commuted by President Obama in 2017.

Birthyear: 1987

Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao is a Filipino professional boxer and politician. He is an eight-division world champion, winning 12 major world titles. Pacquiao is a Senator of the Philippines and has been involved in politics since 2010, serving as a Congressman from 2010 to 2016.

Birthyear: 1978

Bill Pullman

Bill Pullman is a talented American actor, born on December 17, 1953, known for his iconic roles in "Independence Day," "While You Were Sleeping," and "Casino Royale." He has a distinctive voice and a knack for playing likable, everyman characters.

Birthyear: 1953

Eugene Levy

Eugene Levy is a renowned Canadian actor, director, and screenwriter, best known for his comedic genius in films like "American Pie" and TV shows like "Schitt's Creek," earning multiple awards and nominations for his outstanding work.

Birthyear: 1946

John Abraham

John Abraham is a renowned Indian actor and producer, known for his rugged charm and versatility in films like "Dhoom," "Garam Masala," and "Vicky Donor." He has won numerous awards, including two Filmfare Awards, and is also a successful entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast.

Birthyear: 1972

Martin Ødegaard

Martin Ødegaard is a Norwegian professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder for Arsenal FC and the Norway national team. He debuted at 15 and has played for Real Madrid, Heerenveen, and Vitesse, known for his creativity, vision, and exceptional dribbling skills.

Birthyear: 1998

Simo Häyhä

Simo Häyhä, known as "The White Death," was a Finnish soldier and sniper who served in the Winter War, credited with over 500 confirmed kills. He was wounded in 1940 and continued to serve until the war's end, earning numerous honors for his bravery and marksmanship skills.

Birthyear: 1905

Katheryn Winnick

Katheryn Winnick is a Canadian actress known for her iconic roles in TV series "Vikings" as Lagertha and "Bones" as Hannah Burley. She has also appeared in films like "Amusement" and "The Art of the Steal". Her versatility and striking looks have made her a fan favorite.

Birthyear: 1977

Giovanni Ribisi

Giovanni Ribisi is an American actor known for his versatility and eclectic film choices. He's appeared in a wide range of films, including "Saving Private Ryan," "SubUrbia," "Gone in Sixty Seconds," and "Avatar," showcasing his chameleon-like ability to adapt to diverse roles.

Birthyear: 1974

Claire Forlani

Claire Forlani is an English actress born on December 17, 1972, in Twickenham, London. She gained fame with her breakout role in the 1995 film "Mallrats" and later starred in "Meet Joe Black" alongside Anthony Hopkins and Brad Pitt.

Birthyear: 1971

Rian Johnson

Rian Johnson is an American director, producer, and screenwriter known for his original and eclectic style. He's directed films like "Looper," "Knives Out," and "Star Wars: The Last Jedi," showcasing his versatility and creative storytelling prowess.

Birthyear: 1973

Riteish Deshmukh

Riteish Deshmukh is a renowned Indian film actor, producer, and architect. He debuted in 2003 with "Tujhe Meri Kasam" and has since appeared in over 30 films, including "Masti," "Grand Masti," and "Housefull." He's known for his comic timing and has won several awards for his performances.

Birthyear: 1978

Bernard Hill

Bernard Hill, a renowned English actor, born on December 17, 1944, best known for his roles as Yosser Hughes in the BBC series "Boys from the Blackstuff" and King Théoden in the "Lord of the Rings" film trilogy.

Birthyear: 1944

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson is an American actor known for his iconic roles in "Ghostbusters" and "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle." With a career spanning over 40 years, Hudson has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, earning multiple award nominations for his performances.

Birthyear: 1945

Wes Studi

Wes Studi is a renowned American actor and producer of Cherokee descent. He's known for his iconic roles in "Dances with Wolves," "The Last of the Mohicans," and "Avatar," earning him a decorated career with numerous awards and nominations.

Birthyear: 1947

Muhammadu Buhari

Muhammadu Buhari is a Nigerian politician and retired general who served as the 7th Head of State of Nigeria from 1983 to 1985 and again as President from 2015 to 2023, known for his anti-corruption efforts and strong leadership.

Birthyear: 1942

Nat Wolff

Nat Wolff is an American singer-songwriter, keyboard player, and actor, best known as one half of the pop-rock duo Nat & Alex Wolff. He has appeared in films like "The Naked Brothers Band" and "Paper Towns," showcasing his multifaceted talent in music and acting.

Birthyear: 1994

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons is an American actress known for her roles in TV shows like "Dope" and "Angie Tribeca," as well as films like "Hearts Beat Loud" and "Spider-Man: Homecoming." She has been praised for her unique style and charismatic on-screen presence.

Birthyear: 1993

Laurie Holden

Laurie Holden is an American actress and model, best known for her roles as Andrea in the AMC horror-drama series "The Walking Dead" and Marita Covarrubias in the TV series "The X-Files".

Birthyear: 1969

Chuck Liddell

Chuck Liddell, also known as "The Iceman," is a legendary American mixed martial artist and kickboxer. With a storied UFC career, he held the Light Heavyweight Championship on multiple occasions, earning a place in the UFC Hall of Fame in 2009.

Birthyear: 1969

Quinton de Kock

Quinton de Kock is a South African cricketer known for his aggressive batting style and exceptional wicket-keeping skills. He has played for South Africa in all formats, earning a reputation as one of the world's top wicket-keeper batsmen.

Birthyear: 1992

Paul Rodgers

Paul Rodgers is a legendary English singer-songwriter and producer, best known as the lead vocalist of iconic rock bands Free and Bad Company. His soulful, bluesy voice has captivated audiences for decades, earning him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Birthyear: 1949

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu

Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu is a Turkish economist and politician who served as the leader of the Republican People's Party (CHP) from 2010 to 2023. He is known for his strong opposition to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and his advocacy for democracy and human rights in Turkey.

Birthyear: 1948

Tommy Steele

Tommy Steele, born Thomas Hicks on December 17, 1936, is an English singer, guitarist, and actor. He was one of the UK's first rock and roll stars, known for hits like "Rock Around the Clock" and "Singing the Blues."

Birthyear: 1936

Marissa Ribisi

Marissa Ribisi is an American actress known for her versatility in film and television. Born on December 17, 1974, she has appeared in popular shows like "Dads" and "Glee," as well as movies like "Pleasantville" and "True Crime."

Birthyear: 1974

Eddie Kendricks

Eddie Kendricks was a legendary American R&B singer-songwriter, best known as a founding member of The Temptations. His soaring falsetto and smooth harmonies helped shape the Motown sound, and his solo hits like "Keep On Truckin'" remain timeless classics.

Birthyear: 1939

Buddy Hield

Buddy Hield is a Bahamian professional basketball player who plays as a shooting guard for the Sacramento Kings of the NBA. He was drafted 6th overall in the 2016 NBA draft and won the 2017 NBA All-Rookie First Team honors.

Birthyear: 1992

Taylor York

Taylor York is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the lead guitarist of the rock band Paramore. He joined the band in 2007 and has since co-written many of their hit songs, including "Ain't It Fun" and "Hard Times".

Birthyear: 1989

Peter Farrelly

Peter Farrelly is an American director, producer, and screenwriter, best known for his outrageous comedies. With his brother Bobby, he co-directed hits like "Dumb and Dumber" and "There's Something About Mary," showcasing his unique blend of humor and heart.

Birthyear: 1956

Sean Patrick Thomas

Sean Patrick Thomas is an American actor born on December 17, 1970, in Washington, D.C. He's known for his roles in "Save the Last Dance," "Barbershop," and "Ringer." Thomas has appeared in numerous TV shows and films, earning a NAACP Image Award and Teen Choice Award nominations.

Birthyear: 1970

Shannon Woodward

Shannon Woodward is an American actress born on December 17, 1984. She is best known for her roles as Di Di Malloy on the FOX sitcom "Raising Hope" and Elsie Hughes on the HBO series "Westworld." Her performances have garnered her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.

Birthyear: 1984

Sara Dallin

Sara Dallin is an English singer and songwriter, best known as one half of the 1980s pop duo Bananarama. Alongside Keren Woodall, they topped charts with hits like "Venus" and "Love in the First Degree", enjoying a successful career spanning over three decades.

Birthyear: 1961

Richard Long (actor)

Richard Long was an American actor and director, born on December 29, 1927, and passed away on December 21, 1974. He is best known for his roles in the TV series "77 Sunset Strip" and "Nanny and the Professor."

Birthyear: 1927

William Lyon Mackenzie King

William Lyon Mackenzie King, a renowned Canadian economist and politician, served as the tenth Prime Minister of Canada from 1921 to 1930 and again from 1935 to 1948. He implemented key social reforms and played a crucial role in shaping Canada's economy during World War II.

Birthyear: 1874

Bob Guccione

Bob Guccione was an American photographer and publisher who founded Penthouse magazine in 1965, known for its explicit content and centerfolds. He was a pioneer of men's lifestyle publications, sparking controversy and legal battles throughout his career.

Birthyear: 1930

Prince Rupert of the Rhine

Prince Rupert of the Rhine was a renowned German-British prince, military commander, and art collector. He served as a Royalist commander during the English Civil War and later became a successful pirate hunter and privateer in the Caribbean.

Birthyear: 1619

Kerry Packer

Kerry Packer was a renowned Australian businessman and media mogul who founded World Series Cricket in 1977, revolutionizing the sport with night games and colorful uniforms. He also owned the Nine Network and published Australian Consolidated Press.

Birthyear: 1937

Chase Utley

Chase Utley is a retired American baseball player who played 16 MLB seasons, primarily with the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers. A 6-time All-Star, he won 4 Silver Slugger Awards and helped the Phillies win the 2008 World Series.

Birthyear: 1978

Humphry Davy

Humphry Davy, a pioneering English chemist and physicist, made groundbreaking discoveries in electrolysis, isolating potassium and sodium, and inventing the Davy lamp, a safety lamp for miners.

Birthyear: 1778

Craig Berube

Craig Berube is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player and current head coach of the St. Louis Blues of the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, he played 1,054 games over 17 seasons. Coaching the Blues, he won the Stanley Cup in 2019.

Birthyear: 1965

Paula Radcliffe

Paula Radcliffe is a renowned English long-distance runner, holding the Women's World Marathon record since 2003. A three-time London Marathon winner, she's a multiple World Champion and Olympic medalist, known for her exceptional endurance and determination.

Birthyear: 1973

Mike Mills

Mike Mills is the esteemed bassist and songwriter of the iconic rock band R.E.M. Known for his melodic bass lines and harmony vocals, Mills co-wrote many of the band's hit songs, including "Man on the Moon" and "Shiny Happy People".

Birthyear: 1958

Jacqueline Wilson

Jacqueline Wilson, a renowned English author and academic, is best known for her popular children's novels, including 'The Story of Tracy Beaker' and 'The Illustrated Mum', which explore themes of family, friendship, and growing up, earning her numerous awards and a loyal readership.

Birthyear: 1945

Armin Mueller-Stahl

Armin Mueller-Stahl is a renowned German actor and painter, known for his versatility in film and television. With a career spanning over 40 years, he has appeared in notable films like "Jesus of Nazareth" and "Avenue Montaigne", and has received numerous awards for his performances.

Birthyear: 1930

Shoma Uno

Shoma Uno is a Japanese figure skater known for his technical mastery and artistic expression. The 2018 Olympic silver medalist and 2022 World Champion has captured hearts with his elegant style and breathtaking jumps, solidifying his status as one of the world's top figure skaters.

Birthyear: 1997

Paul Butterfield

Paul Butterfield was a renowned American singer and harmonica virtuoso who blended blues, rock, and folk, leading the Paul Butterfield Blues Band to critical acclaim in the 1960s and influencing many notable musicians.

Birthyear: 1942

Chris Matthews

Chris Matthews is an American journalist and author, best known for hosting MSNBC's "Hardball with Chris Matthews" since 1999. He's a veteran reporter and columnist, covering politics and presidential elections, and has written several books on American history and politics.

Birthyear: 1945

Stephen Lewis (actor)

Stephen Lewis was a renowned English actor, director, screenwriter, and playwright. Best known for his iconic character, Smiler in the BBC series "On the Buses," Lewis had a prolific career in television, film, and theater, leaving a lasting impact on the British entertainment industry.

Birthyear: 1926

Gigi D'Agostino

Gigi D'Agostino is a renowned Italian musician, singer, and DJ, known for his energetic and catchy tunes. Born on December 17, 1967, he rose to fame in the late 1990s with hits like "L'Amour Toujours" and "I'll Fly with You."

Birthyear: 1967

Takeo Spikes

Takeo Spikes is a former American football linebacker who played 15 seasons in the NFL, earning two Pro Bowl selections. After retiring, he transitioned to a successful sportscasting career, currently serving as an analyst for NFL Network and FOX Sports.

Birthyear: 1976

Mohammad Hidayatullah

Mohammad Hidayatullah was a distinguished Indian jurist and politician who served as the 11th Chief Justice of India (1968-1970) and the 6th Vice President of India (1979-1984). He was a renowned expert in constitutional law and a strong advocate for social justice.

Birthyear: 1905

Maria I of Portugal

Maria I of Portugal, also known as Maria the Pious, reigned from 1777 to 1816. She was the first undisputed queen of Portugal, known for her piety and strong Catholic faith. During her reign, the Portuguese royal family fled to Brazil, escaping Napoleon's invasion.

Birthyear: 1734

Eugene (wrestler)

Nick Dinsmore, aka Eugene, is a renowned American professional wrestler and trainer. Born on December 17, 1975, he's best known for his WWE career, where he portrayed a wrestling persona with a developmental disability, raising awareness and promoting inclusion.

Birthyear: 1975

John Kennedy Toole

John Kennedy Toole was an American novelist best known for his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "A Confederacy of Dunces," which was published posthumously in 1980, 11 years after his tragic death at age 31.

Birthyear: 1937

Emma Bell

Emma Bell is an American actress known for her roles in TV series such as "The Walking Dead" and "Z Nation", as well as films like "Final Destination 5" and "See No Evil 2".

Birthyear: 1986

Sébastien Ogier

Sébastien Ogier is a French rally driver, 7-time World Rally Championship (WRC) winner, and one of the most successful drivers in WRC history, known for his exceptional skills and consistency behind the wheel.

Birthyear: 1983

Prince Joachim of Prussia

Prince Joachim of Prussia (1890-1920) was the youngest son of Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. He served in World War I, was wounded, and later suffered from depression. He took his life in 1920, at the age of 29.

Birthyear: 1890

Dave Madden

Dave Madden was a Canadian-American actor best known for his role as Reuben Kincaid, the lovable but oft-exasperated band manager on the popular 1970s sitcom "The Partridge Family."

Birthyear: 1931

Émilie du Châtelet

Émilie du Châtelet was a pioneering French mathematician and physicist who made significant contributions to the fields of calculus and kinetic energy. Her translation of Newton's "Principia" remained a standard for centuries, solidifying her legacy as a brilliant and groundbreaking scientist of the 18th century.

Birthyear: 1706

Guerschon Yabusele

Guerschon Yabusele is a French professional basketball player who currently plays for Real Madrid of the Liga ACB. Born on December 28, 1995, in Dreux, France, he was selected 16th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2016 NBA draft.

Birthyear: 1995

María Elena Velasco

María Elena Velasco, aka "La India María," was a beloved Mexican actress, singer, director, and screenwriter. With a career spanning over 60 years, she entertained audiences in films, TV, and stage, earning numerous awards and the adoration of her fans.

Birthyear: 1940

Abdul Rahim Khan-i-Khanan

Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana was a renowned Mughal poet, scholar, and statesman who served as Chief Mentor to Prince Khurram, later Emperor Shah Jahan. His literary works, including "Nazr-e-Sultani" and "Khazana-e-Rahimi", showcase his mastery of Persian and Arabic languages, earning him a revered place in Mughal literature.

Birthyear: 1556

Erik Christensen

Erik Christensen is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played 393 NHL games with teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins, Atlanta Thrashers, and New York Rangers from 2005 to 2012, known for his versatility and scoring ability.

Birthyear: 1983

Ford Madox Ford

Ford Madox Ford, a renowned English novelist, poet, and critic, is best known for his influential modernist novels, particularly "The Good Soldier" (1915) and "Parade's End" (1924-1928), which explored the complexities of human relationships and the decline of the aristocracy.

Birthyear: 1873

Graham Rogers (actor)

Graham Rogers is an American actor, born on December 17, 1990, in West Chester, Pennsylvania. He is known for his roles in TV series such as "Quantico" and "Atypical", as well as films like "Love and Mercy" and "1 Mile to You".

Birthyear: 1990

David Rudisha

David Rudisha is a Kenyan middle-distance runner and Olympic champion, known for his exceptional 800m performances. He holds the world record (1:40.91) and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, winning in 2012 and 2016. Rudisha is considered one of the greatest 800m runners of all time.

Birthyear: 1988

Dominic Lawson

Dominic Lawson is a renowned English journalist and author, formerly editing The Spectator magazine and writing for The Sunday Times. His sharp commentary on politics and finance has made him a prominent voice in British journalism.

Birthyear: 1956

Tracy Byrd

Tracy Byrd is a renowned American singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his unique blend of traditional country and Texas honky-tonk music. With hits like "Holdin' Heaven" and "Watermelon Crawl," Byrd has had a successful career, earning multiple Academy of Country Music awards and nominations.

Birthyear: 1966

Cal Ripken Sr.

Cal Ripken Sr. was a decorated baseball figure, playing professionally from 1957 to 1967, then coaching and managing, including stints with the Baltimore Orioles. He's also the patriarch of the Ripken baseball family, father to Cal Jr. and Bill Ripken.

Birthyear: 1935

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva

Elizaveta Tuktamysheva is a Russian figure skater, born on December 17, 1996. She is a 2015 World Champion, two-time European Champion, and three-time Russian National Champion, known for her technical prowess and artistic expression on the ice.

Birthyear: 1996

Vanessa Zima

Vanessa Zima is an American actress born on December 17, 1982, in Phillipsburg, New Jersey. She's known for her roles in TV shows like "Murder One" and films like "Ulee's Gold" and "Zoe, Duncan, Jack and Jane."

Birthyear: 1986

Ray Wilson (English footballer)

Ray Wilson, a legendary English footballer and manager, played for Everton and Huddersfield Town, winning the 1966 World Cup with England. He later managed teams like Bradford City and earned 63 international caps.

Birthyear: 1934

Simon Bates

Simon Bates is a renowned English radio host, best known for his iconic "Our Tune" feature on BBC Radio 1's breakfast show in the 1980s. His warm, velvety voice and engaging storytelling style have endeared him to millions of listeners over the decades.

Birthyear: 1946

John Greenleaf Whittier

John Greenleaf Whittier was a renowned American poet and abolitionist who voiced his anti-slavery sentiments through powerful verses, earning him the nickname "The Poet of Freedom". His works advocated for social justice, equality, and human rights, leaving a lasting impact on 19th-century American literature.

Birthyear: 1807

Rocco Mediate

Rocco Mediate is a renowned American golfer and journalist, known for his impressive career spanning over three decades. He has won six PGA Tour events, including the 2010 Frys.com Open, and has been a Golf Channel analyst since 2013.

Birthyear: 1962

Paul Tracy

Paul Tracy is a renowned Canadian former IndyCar driver and current sportscaster, nicknamed "The Thrill from West Hill". He won the CART championship in 2003 and claimed 31 race victories, earning him a spot in the Canadian Motorsport Hall of Fame.

Birthyear: 1968

Joseph Henry

Joseph Henry was a renowned American physicist and engineer who served as the first Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. He made significant contributions to the development of electromagnets and discovered the principle of self-induction, now known as inductance, a fundamental concept in electrical engineering.

Birthyear: 1797

Mikky Ekko

Mikky Ekko is an American singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for his soulful voice and genre-bending style, Ekko has collaborated with Rihanna on the hit single "Stay" and has released several critically acclaimed albums, blending elements of R&B, pop, and indie rock.

Birthyear: 1983

William Safire

William Safire was a renowned American journalist, author, and Pulitzer Prize winner, best known for his New York Times columns and books on politics, language, and history, showcasing his wit, insight, and masterful prose.

Birthyear: 1929

Bob Stinson

Bob Stinson was a renowned American songwriter and guitarist, best known as the founding member and original lead guitarist of the Replacements, a seminal Minneapolis-based alternative rock band.

Birthyear: 1959

Ryan Hunter-Reay

Ryan Hunter-Reay is a renowned American race car driver, best known for winning the 2014 Indianapolis 500 and the 2012 IndyCar Series championship. Born on December 17, 1980, he has competed in various open-wheel racing series, earning 18 IndyCar wins and 43 podiums throughout his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1980

Ken Hitchcock

Ken Hitchcock is a Canadian ice hockey coach and former player, known for his successful 20-season NHL coaching career, leading the Dallas Stars to a Stanley Cup championship in 1999 and holding multiple franchise records.

Birthyear: 1951

Susanthika Jayasinghe

Susanthika Jayasinghe is a renowned Sri Lankan sprinter who won the bronze medal in the 200m event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, becoming the first Sri Lankan to win an Olympic medal since 1952.

Birthyear: 1975

Tim Wiese

Tim Wiese is a German former footballer who played as a goalkeeper, notably for Werder Bremen and 1899 Hoffenheim. He earned 6 caps for the German national team and won the 2011-2012 Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund.

Birthyear: 1981

Penelope Fitzgerald

Penelope Fitzgerald was a renowned English author and poet, known for her concise and evocative style. Her novels, such as "Offshore" and "The Blue Flower", won numerous awards, including the Booker Prize, and are celebrated for their precision, subtlety, and insight into humanity.

Birthyear: 1916

Syed Mushtaq Ali

Mushtaq Ali was an Indian cricketer who played 11 Tests between 1934 and 1952. A right-handed batsman and leg-spinner, he was known for his attacking style and was one of India's earliest cricketing heroes, earning him the nickname "The Master of Sixes."

Birthyear: 1914

Neil Sanderson

Neil Sanderson is the drummer and primary songwriter for the Canadian rock band Three Days Grace. Born on December 11, 1978, in Peterborough, Ontario, Sanderson has been instrumental in crafting the band's platinum-selling albums and hit singles, including "I Hate Everything About You" and "Pain".

Birthyear: 1978

Art Neville

Art Neville, a pioneering American singer and keyboard player, co-founded The Meters and the Neville Brothers. Known for his soulful vocals and funky keyboard riffs, Neville blending jazz, funk, and R&B, earning him a Grammy nomination and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Birthyear: 1937

Dave Dee

Dave Dee, born David John Harman, was an English singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known as the lead vocalist of the 1960s pop-rock band Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich.

Birthyear: 1941

Eknath Easwaran

Eknath Easwaran was an Indian-American educator, author, and spiritual teacher who founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation. His writings on spirituality, meditation, and Indian classics like the Bhagavad Gita have inspired millions worldwide.

Birthyear: 1910

Brad Davis (basketball)

Brad Davis is a renowned American basketball personality, having played professionally from 1977 to 1992, coaching in the NBA and WNBA, and serving as a sportscaster for ESPN and CBS.

Birthyear: 1955

Erskine Caldwell

Erskine Caldwell was a renowned American novelist and short story writer, known for his vivid portrayals of rural Southern life. His notable works include "Tobacco Road" and "God's Little Acre," which explored themes of poverty, morality, and social justice.

Birthyear: 1903

Claudio Suárez

Claudio Suárez is a retired Mexican footballer who played as a striker, earning 179 caps for Mexico's national team, scoring 62 goals. He won the 1999 Confederations Cup and played in three World Cups, including the 1994, 1998, and 2002 tournaments.

Birthyear: 1968

Donovan Solano

Donovan Solano is a Colombian professional baseball infielder who has played for the Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants. He made his MLB debut in 2012 and has also represented Colombia in the World Baseball Classic.

Birthyear: 1987

Craig Kielburger

Craig Kielburger, a Canadian activist and author, co-founded Free The Children and Me to We, empowering youth to create positive change globally. His advocacy focuses on children's rights, education, and global citizenship, inspiring millions to take action.

Birthyear: 1982

Willard Libby

Willard Libby, an American chemist and Nobel laureate, pioneered radiocarbon dating, a groundbreaking method to determine ages of organic materials. His work revolutionized archaeology, geology, and climate science, earning him the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1960.

Birthyear: 1908

Matt Murley

Matt Murley is a retired American ice hockey forward who played in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota Wild, and Phoenix Coyotes. He also had a successful stint in the AHL and European leagues during his 12-year professional career.

Birthyear: 1979

Arthur Fiedler

Arthur Fiedler, a renowned American conductor, led the Boston Pops Orchestra for 50 years, popularizing classical music through his iconic performances and innovative programming, introducing classical music to a broader audience.

Birthyear: 1894

Joel Brooks

I think you meant Mel Brooks, not Joel Brooks! Mel Brooks is a legendary American actor, filmmaker, and comedian, known for his parody films such as "Blazing Saddles," "Young Frankenstein," and "Silent Movie." He's a master of comedic genius and satire.

Birthyear: 1949

Burt Baskin

Burt Baskin was a pioneering entrepreneur who co-founded Baskin-Robbins, the iconic ice cream chain, with Irv Robbins in 1953. He introduced the "31 Flavors" concept, revolutionizing the ice cream industry. His innovative approach and commitment to quality helped establish Baskin-Robbins as a beloved global brand.

Birthyear: 1913

James Booker

James Booker, aka "The Black Liberace," was a New Orleans pianist known for his virtuosic, genre-bending style, blending jazz, blues, and R&B. His eccentric performances and local legend status inspired artists like Dr. John and Harry Connick Jr.

Birthyear: 1939

Bo Guagua

Bo Guagua, son of former Chinese Politburo member Bo Xilai, is a businessman and Harvard University graduate. His lavish lifestyle and alleged corruption sparked controversy, leading to his father's downfall in 2013.

Birthyear: 1987