December 22 birthdays and deaths:

Ralph Fiennes

Ralph Fiennes is a renowned English actor born on December 22, 1962. He is known for his intense portrayals in films like "Schindler's List," "The English Patient," and the Harry Potter franchise, where he played Lord Voldemort.

Birthyear: 1962

Vanessa Paradis

Vanessa Paradis is a French singer-songwriter and actress, known for her soothing voice and captivating stage presence. Discovered by French singer Florent Pagny at 14, she has released several successful albums and appeared in films like 'Noce Blanche' and 'Heartbreaker'.

Birthyear: 1972

Srinivasa Ramanujan

Srinivasa Ramanujan was a self-taught Indian mathematician who made significant contributions to number theory, elliptic curves, and infinite series. Despite lacking formal education, he collaborated with G.H. Hardy, publishing groundbreaking papers before his tragic death at 32. His legacy has inspired generations of mathematicians.

Birthyear: 1887

Jean-Michel Basquiat

Jean-Michel Basquiat was a pioneering American artist who merged graffiti, abstract expressionism, and Neoclassicism. His vibrant, emotionally charged paintings often explored themes of race, identity, and social justice, earning him international acclaim before his tragic death at 27.

Birthyear: 1960

Meghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor is a Grammy-winning American singer-songwriter and producer known for her pop-R&B sound and empowering lyrics. Her debut single "All About That Bass" topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, launching her successful music career.

Birthyear: 1993

Robin Gibb

Robin Gibb, a talented Manx-English singer-songwriter and producer, rose to fame with his brothers as the Bee Gees, creating iconic disco hits like 'Stayin' Alive' and 'How Deep Is Your Love.' His distinctive vocal style and songwriting prowess left an indelible mark on music history.

Birthyear: 1949

Maurice Gibb

Maurice Gibb, a talented Manx-English singer-songwriter and producer, was a key figure in the Bee Gees, creating iconic disco and pop hits like "Stayin' Alive" and "How Deep Is Your Love" with his brothers Barry and Robin.

Birthyear: 1949

Casper Ruud

Casper Ruud is a Norwegian professional tennis player born on December 22, 1998, in Oslo. He has won several ATP titles, including the 2022 Geneva Open, and has been ranked as high as world No. 2 in singles.

Birthyear: 1998

Ted Cruz

Ted Cruz is a Canadian-American lawyer and politician serving as the senior U.S. Senator from Texas since 2013. Born in Calgary, Alberta, he's a Tea Party favorite known for his conservative views and presidential bids in 2016 and 2020.

Birthyear: 1970

DaBaby

DaBaby, born Jonathan Lyndale Kirk, is a chart-topping American rapper from North Carolina. Known for his energetic flow and streetwise lyrics, he has collaborated with top artists and released several successful albums, including "Kirk" and "Blame It on Baby", earning multiple Grammy nominations.

Birthyear: 1991

Guru Gobind Singh

Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, was a poet, warrior, and spiritual leader who founded the Khalsa, a Sikh military order, and wrote the Dasam Granth, a collection of sacred hymns and poems, advocating for courage, justice, and devotion.

Birthyear: 1666

Jordin Sparks

Jordin Sparks is a talented American singer-songwriter and actress who rose to fame after winning Season 6 of American Idol in 2007. She has released several successful albums, including "Jordin Sparks" and "Right Here Right Now," and has acted in films like "Sparkle" and "Left Behind."

Birthyear: 1989

Dina Meyer

Dina Meyer is an American actress known for her versatility in film and television. Born on December 22, 1968, she has appeared in notable roles in "Starship Troopers," "Saw," and "Beverly Hills, 90210," showcasing her range in horror, sci-fi, and drama genres.

Birthyear: 1968

Diocletian

Diocletian, born around 244 AD, was a Roman Emperor who ruled from 284 to 305 AD. He implemented significant reforms, including the Tetrarchy, a system of four co-emperors, and reorganized the empire's administration, military, and economy, marking the end of the Crisis of the Third Century.

Birthyear: 244

Héctor Elizondo

Héctor Elizondo is a renowned American actor and director, known for his versatility in film and television. With a career spanning over five decades, he has appeared in notable films like "Runaway Bride" and "Chicago," earning an Academy Award for the latter.

Birthyear: 1936

Lady Bird Johnson

Lady Bird Johnson, wife of President Lyndon B. Johnson, was a renowned beautification activist and 38th First Lady of the United States. She championed environmental and conservation efforts, famously promoting the 'Highway Beautification Act' and preserving America's natural beauty.

Birthyear: 1912

Steve Garvey

Steve Garvey is a legendary American baseball player and sportscaster, playing 17 seasons with the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers. A 10-time All-Star and two-time National League batting champion, Garvey was known for his consistent hitting and Gold Glove defense at first base.

Birthyear: 1948

Joshua Bassett

Joshua Bassett is an American actor and singer, best known for his lead role as Ricky Bowen in the Disney+ original series "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series." He has also released several popular singles, showcasing his soulful voice and captivating stage presence.

Birthyear: 2000

Barbara Billingsley

Barbara Billingsley was an American actress, best known for her iconic role as June Cleaver, the quintessential 1950s mom, in the popular TV sitcom "Leave It to Beaver" (1957-1963).

Birthyear: 1915

Diane Sawyer

Diane Sawyer is a renowned American journalist and former ABC News anchor, known for her in-depth reporting and interviews with world leaders, including Fidel Castro, Saddam Hussein, and Barack Obama, earning her numerous Emmy and Peabody Awards.

Birthyear: 1945

Chris Carmack

Chris Carmack is an American actor, singer, and model, born on December 22, 1981. He's known for his roles in TV shows like "The O.C." and "Grey's Anatomy", as well as his country music albums, showcasing his multi-talented artistic range.

Birthyear: 1980

Giacomo Puccini

Giacomo Puccini, renowned Italian composer and educator, created iconic operas like La Bohème, Tosca, and Madama Butterfly. His works are celebrated for their lyricism, drama, and romantic flair, leaving an indelible mark on the world of classical music.

Birthyear: 1858

Richey Edwards

Richey Edwards was a Welsh singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known for his work with the Manic Street Preachers. A charismatic stage presence, he co-wrote many of the band's early hits, infusing lyrics with poetic angst and rebellious spirit before his mysterious disappearance in 1995.

Birthyear: 1967

Gene Rayburn

Gene Rayburn was a beloved American game show host and actor, best known for hosting the popular game show "Match Game" from 1962 to 1982, showcasing his witty humor and charming personality to millions of viewers.

Birthyear: 1917

David S. Goyer

David S. Goyer is a renowned American screenwriter and producer, known for his work on superhero films like 'Blade' and 'The Dark Knight' trilogy, as well as TV shows like 'Da Vinci's Demons' and 'Constantine'.

Birthyear: 1965

Raphaël Guerreiro

Raphaël Guerreiro is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a left-back for Borussia Dortmund and the Portugal national team. He won the 2016 European Championship with Portugal and was named to the UEFA Euro 2016 Team of the Tournament.

Birthyear: 1993

Lynne Thigpen

Lynne Thigpen was a Tony Award-winning actress and singer, known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. She appeared in films like "Bicentennial Man" and "Shaft," and TV shows like "Law & Order" and "Homicide: Life on the Street."

Birthyear: 1948

Mark Robins

Mark Robins is a former English footballer and current manager, born on December 22, 1969. He played as a striker for clubs like Manchester United, Norwich City, and Leicester City. Robins managed Rotherham United, Barnsley, and Coventry City, leading the latter to promotion to the Championship in 2020.

Birthyear: 1969

Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster

Gerald Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster, was a renowned British landowner, businessman, and philanthropist. He inherited the dukedom in 1979 and managed the Grosvenor Estate, one of the UK's largest private landowners, while supporting various charitable causes until his passing in 2016.

Birthyear: 1951

Basshunter

Basshunter, born Jonas Erik Altberg, is a Swedish singer, record producer, and DJ. He's best known for his chart-topping hits "Boten Anna" and "Now You're Gone," which topped charts in several countries, including the UK Singles Chart.

Birthyear: 1984

Gary Anderson (darts player)

Gary Anderson is a Scottish professional darts player, nicknamed "The Flying Scotsman." He's a two-time PDC World Darts Champion (2015, 2016) and two-time Premier League champion (2011, 2015).

Birthyear: 1970

Ray Guy

Ray Guy, a legendary American football punter, played for the Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders (1973-1986). He was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time Super Bowl champion, and inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014. Guy is widely regarded as one of the greatest punters in NFL history.

Birthyear: 1949

Doc Gallows

Andrew William Hankinson, aka Doc Gallows, is an American professional wrestler, currently signed to Impact Wrestling. He's a former WWE Tag Team Champion and holds multiple titles across various promotions, known for his dominance and powerhouse style in the ring.

Birthyear: 1983

Rick Nielsen

Rick Nielsen is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known as the lead guitarist of the rock band Cheap Trick. His iconic checkerboard guitar and energetic stage presence have made him a beloved figure in rock music.

Birthyear: 1948

Connie Mack

Connie Mack, nicknamed "The Grand Old Man of Baseball," was a legendary player and manager with a 50-year career. He holds the record for most wins (3,731) and losses (3,948) as a manager, leading the Philadelphia Athletics to five World Series titles from 1894 to 1950.

Birthyear: 1862

Ruth Roman

Ruth Roman was an American actress who gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s for her striking beauty and versatility in films like "Strangers on a Train" (1951) and "Beyond the Forest" (1949), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Birthyear: 1922

Steve Carlton

Steve Carlton, aka "Lefty," was a Hall of Fame pitcher who played from 1965 to 1988. He won 329 games, fourth all-time, and was a four-time Cy Young Award winner, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest left-handed pitchers in MLB history.

Birthyear: 1944

Sarada Devi

Sarada Devi, the spiritual consort of Ramakrishna, was a revered Indian mystic and philosopher. Born in 1853, she embodied selfless love and compassion, inspiring countless devotees with her wisdom, spiritual guidance, and philanthropic work, earning her the title "Holy Mother."

Birthyear: 1853

Moonbyul

Moonbyul is a South Korean rapper, vocalist, and songwriter, best known as a member of the girl group (G)I-DLE. Born on December 22, 1992, she debuted in 2018 and has since become known for her powerful vocals and dynamic rap style.

Birthyear: 1992

Paul Wolfowitz

Paul Wolfowitz, a prominent American banker and politician, served as the 25th United States Deputy Secretary of Defense from 2001 to 2005, playing a key role in shaping the country's defense policies during the Iraq War era.

Birthyear: 1943

Peggy Ashcroft

Dame Peggy Ashcroft was a renowned English actress known for her commanding stage presence and versatile performances. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "A Passage to India" (1984) and was celebrated for her work in theatre, film, and television.

Birthyear: 1907

G Hannelius

G Hannelius, born Genevieve Hannelius, is an American actress and singer. She's best known for her roles on Disney Channel's 'Dog with a Blog' and 'Leo Little's Big Show.' Her sweet vocals have also been featured on several Disney soundtracks and singles.

Birthyear: 1998

José Fonte

José Fonte is a Portuguese footballer who plays as a center-back for Lille OSC and the Portugal national team. He won the UEFA Euro 2016 with Portugal and has played for clubs like Benfica, Crystal Palace, and West Ham United.

Birthyear: 1983

Eder (footballer, born 1987)

Éder Citadin Martins, known as Éder, is a Bissau-Guinean-Portuguese footballer who plays as a striker. Born on December 22, 1987, he has played for clubs like AC Milan and Lille, and represented Portugal in the 2016 European Championship, scoring the winning goal in the final.

Birthyear: 1987

James Burke (science historian)

James Burke, an Irish historian and author, is renowned for his groundbreaking books and documentaries on the history of science and technology. His iconic series "Connections" (1978) explored the intriguing links between inventions and ideas, captivating audiences worldwide with his engaging narrative style.

Birthyear: 1936

Patricia Hayes

Patricia Hayes was a renowned English actress, best known for her comedic timing and numerous television appearances.Born in 1916, she gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s with her distinctive voice and eccentric characters, earning a BAFTA TV Award and a loyal fan base before passing away in 1998.

Birthyear: 1909

Roger II of Sicily

Roger II of Sicily, King of Sicily and Italy from 1130 to 1154, was a powerful Norman ruler. He united Sicily, Apulia, and Calabria, creating a Mediterranean empire. His reign was marked by cultural and architectural achievements, including the construction of the Palatine Chapel in Palermo.

Birthyear: 1095

Victoriano Huerta

Victoriano Huerta, a Mexican general and politician, served as the 35th President of Mexico from 1913 to 1914. He seized power through a coup, inciting a civil war that led to his eventual exile and death in 1916.

Birthyear: 1850

Bernd Schuster

Bernd Schuster is a German football legend, winning the 1980 European Championship and 1980 Ballon d'Or. As a manager, he coached successful stints with Leverkusen, Köln, and Real Madrid, earning a La Liga title and UEFA Champions League semifinal appearance.

Birthyear: 1959

Uncle Luke

Luther Campbell, aka Luke Skyywalker, is an American rapper, actor, and record label owner. As a pioneer of Miami bass, he co-founded 2 Live Crew, sparking controversy with explicit lyrics, and later became a solo artist and entrepreneur, earning a place in hip-hop history.

Birthyear: 1960

Chagatai Khan

Chagatai Khan, a son of Genghis Khan, ruled the Chagatai Khanate from 1227 until his death in 1242. He inherited the eastern territories of the Mongol Empire and played a key role in Mongol conquests in Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

Birthyear: 1183

Filippo Tommaso Marinetti

Filippo Tommaso Marinetti was an Egyptian-Italian poet, composer, and founder of the Futurist movement. Born in 1876, he advocated for the destruction of cultural institutions and the glorification of war and technology. His manifestos influenced modern art and literature.

Birthyear: 1876

Edgard Varèse

Edgard Varèse was a pioneering French-American composer who blurred boundaries between classical music and avant-garde experimentation. His innovative and Futurist-inspired works, such as "Amériques" and "Deserts," continue to influence contemporary music and inspire generations of composers.

Birthyear: 1883

James Oglethorpe

James Oglethorpe, a renowned English general and politician, founded the colony of Georgia in 1733 as a haven for British debtors. He served as its first colonial governor, promoting philanthropy, education, and social reform, earning him a revered place in American colonial history.

Birthyear: 1696

Luis Hernández (footballer, born 1968)

Luis Hernández is a Mexican former professional footballer who played as a striker. He is best known for scoring four goals against Bulgaria in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, leading Mexico to a 2-1 victory.

Birthyear: 1968

Dan Petrescu

Dan Petrescu is a Romanian football legend, playing as a defender for clubs like Steaua Bucharest, Chelsea, and Southampton. He also managed teams like Wisła Kraków, Unirea Urziceni, and CFR Cluj, earning a reputation as a shrewd tactician and motivator.

Birthyear: 1967

Jean Racine

Jean Racine, a prominent 17th-century French poet and playwright, is renowned for his tragedies, which explored human passion and drama. His works, such as "Andromaque" and "Phèdre," are still celebrated for their poetic language and psychological depth.

Birthyear: 1639

Leigh Halfpenny

Leigh Halfpenny is a Welsh rugby union player who plays as a full-back for the Wales national team and Scarlets. He's a prolific point-scorer, known for his accuracy with the boot and impressive defensive skills, earning him a reputation as one of the world's best full-backs.

Birthyear: 1988

Destruction (band)

Marcel Schirmer is a German singer-songwriter and bass player, best known as the founding member and frontman of the German gothic rock band Dresden Dolls.

Birthyear: 1966

Jim Wright

Jim Wright, a decorated WWII veteran and lawyer, served as the 56th Speaker of the US House of Representatives from 1987 to 1989. The Texas Democrat was a strong advocate for progressive policies and international cooperation, earning him numerous honors before his passing in 2015.

Birthyear: 1922

Camila Osorio

Camila Osorio is a Colombian tennis player born on December 22, 2001. She won the 2019 US Open girls' singles title and became the first Colombian to win a Grand Slam singles title.

Birthyear: 2001

Heather Donahue

Heather Donahue is an American actress, known for The Blair Witch Project (1999) and Taken (2002). She changed her name legally to Rei Hance in 2020.

Birthyear: 1974

Giuseppe Bergomi

Giuseppe Bergomi is a legendary Italian footballer and coach, known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership. He captained Inter Milan to numerous titles, including the European Cup, and later managed the team. Bergomi earned 81 caps for Italy, participating in three World Cups.

Birthyear: 1963

Mohamed El Shenawy

Mohamed El-Shennawy is an Egyptian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Al-Ahly and the Egypt national team. He was the starting goalkeeper for Egypt in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and is known for his exceptional reflexes and shot-stopping abilities.

Birthyear: 1988

Hawkshaw Hawkins

Hawkshaw Hawkins was a renowned American singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his distinctive baritone voice and hit songs like "Slow Poke" and "Lonesome 7-7203." A country music pioneer, he was a popular performer on the Louisiana Hayride and Grand Ole Opry stages until his tragic death in 1963.

Birthyear: 1921

Lori McKenna

Lori McKenna is a Grammy-winning American singer-songwriter known for her poignant, introspective lyrics and soaring melodies. With a distinctive voice and style, she's penned hits for Taylor Swift, Faith Hill, and Little Big Town, while also releasing critically-acclaimed solo albums.

Birthyear: 1968

Cem Sultan

Sultan Cem, also known as Cem Sultan, was an Ottoman prince and politician who lived from 1459 to 1495. He was the son of Sultan Mehmed II and a rival claimant to the throne, leading a futile rebellion against his brother, Sultan Bayezid II.

Birthyear: 1459

Sam Newman

Sam Newman is a former Australian Rules footballer and iconic television personality, known for his charismatic commentary and humorous antics on Channel 9's "The Footy Show." He played for Geelong Football Club from 1964 to 1980, earning induction into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2002.

Birthyear: 1945

Lucien Bouchard

Lucien Bouchard, a prominent Canadian lawyer and politician, served as the 27th Premier of Quebec from 1996 to 2001. He was a key figure in the Quebec sovereignty movement, leading the Bloc Québécois party and advocating for Quebec's independence from Canada.

Birthyear: 1938

Pierre Levegh

Pierre Levegh was a French ice hockey player and racing driver. Born in 1905, Levegh competed in the 1924 Winter Olympics and later turned to auto racing, participating in 10 Grand Prix events before his tragic death in 1955 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Birthyear: 1905

David Pearson (racing driver)

David Pearson, known as the "Silver Fox," was a legendary American race car driver who won 105 NASCAR races, including the 1976 Daytona 500. He was inductee into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2011 and was a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion.

Birthyear: 1934

Mary Archer

Mary Archer is a renowned English chemist and academic. As a professor of chemistry, she has made significant contributions to the field of solar energy conversion. She is also the wife of novelist Jeffrey Archer and has served as the mayor of Cambridge.

Birthyear: 1944

Greg Finley

Greg Finley is an American actor, best known for his roles as Jack Pappas in the ABC Family series "The Secret Life of the American Teenager" and as Drake in the CW series "iZombie".

Birthyear: 1984

Zack Britton

Zack Britton is an American professional baseball pitcher who has played for the Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees, and Chicago Cubs. A three-time All-Star, he's known for his sinkerball and successful career as a closer, earning him multiple awards and accolades.

Birthyear: 1987

Jerry Koosman

Jerry Koosman is a former American baseball player who pitched for 19 seasons in the MLB, winning 222 games with a 3.36 ERA. He played for the New York Mets, Minnesota Twins, Chicago White Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies.

Birthyear: 1942

Danny Ahn

Danny Ahn is a South Korean singer and member of the K-pop group g.o.d (Groove Over Dose). Born on December 22, 1978, Ahn has been active in the music industry since 1999, contributing to g.o.d's success as a prominent first-generation K-pop idol group.

Birthyear: 1978

Frank Gambale

Frank Gambale is a renowned Australian guitarist, songwriter, and producer known for his virtuosic legato technique and sweep picking style. He has released several instrumental albums, collaborating with top artists and earning multiple Grammy nominations for his work.

Birthyear: 1958

Emperor Antoku

Emperor Antoku of Japan (reigned 1180-1185) was the 81st emperor, ruling during the Genpei War. At just six years old, he was enthroned amidst civil war, and tragically drowned in the sea during the Battle of Dan-no-ura, marking the end of the Taira dynasty.

Birthyear: 1178

Gustaf Gründgens

Gustaf Gründgens was a renowned German actor and director, celebrated for his intense performances on stage and screen. He was also known for his striking features and androgynous good looks, earning him the nickname "the Marlene Dietrich of men."

Birthyear: 1899

Emmanuel Olisadebe

Emmanuel Olisadebe is a Nigerian-Polish footballer who played as a striker. Born in 1978, he holds dual citizenship and represented Poland in international competitions, scoring 11 goals in 25 appearances. He played for clubs like Polonia Warsaw and Panathinaikos.

Birthyear: 1978

Frank B. Kellogg

Frank B. Kellogg was a renowned American lawyer, politician, and diplomat who served as the 45th United States Secretary of State from 1925 to 1929. He was a key figure in international relations and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1929 for his role in negotiating the Kellogg-Briand Pact.

Birthyear: 1856