June 23 birthdays and deaths:

Edward VIII

Edward VIII, King of the United Kingdom, reigned for 11 months in 1936 before abdicating to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson, sparking a constitutional crisis, and was later known as the Duke of Windsor.

Birthyear: 1894

Alan Turing

Alan Turing, a British mathematician and computer scientist, made groundbreaking contributions to codebreaking, artificial intelligence, and computer science. He cracked the German Enigma code, developed the Turing Machine, and is considered the father of computer science and artificial intelligence.

Birthyear: 1912

Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane, a French football legend, won the 1998 World Cup and 2002 UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid. A skilled playmaker with exceptional vision and technique, he was named FIFA World Player of the Year three times.

Birthyear: 1972

Clarence Thomas

Clarence Thomas is an American lawyer and jurist, serving as Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States since 1991. Appointed by President George H.W. Bush, Thomas is the second African American to serve on the Court, known for his conservative views and originalist judicial philosophy.

Birthyear: 1948

Selma Blair

Selma Blair is an American actress known for her versatility, playing diverse roles in films like "Cruel Intentions," "Legally Blonde," and "Hellboy." She has received critical acclaim for her performances, showcasing her range from dark dramas to comedic roles.

Birthyear: 1972

Melissa Rauch

Melissa Rauch is an American actress and comedian, best known for her role as Dr. Bernadette Rostenkowski in the CBS sitcom "The Big Bang Theory" and as Summer in the HBO comedy series "How I Met Your Mother".

Birthyear: 1980

Joel Edgerton

Joel Edgerton is a talented Australian actor, writer, and director, known for his versatility in films like "Animal Kingdom," "Warrior," "The Great Gatsby," and "Exodus: Gods and Kings." He's also shown his range in dramas, comedies, and action movies.

Birthyear: 1974

Joséphine de Beauharnais

Joséphine de Beauharnais, a member of the French nobility, was Napoleon Bonaparte's first wife and Empress of the French from 1804 until her death in 1814. She was known for her elegance, fashion sense, and strong character, earning her the title "Queen of the French."

Birthyear: 1763

Frances McDormand

Frances McDormand is a highly acclaimed American actress, renowned for her versatility and range. She is a rare winner of the Triple Crown of Acting, having won an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, and a Tony Award.

Birthyear: 1957

June Carter Cash

June Carter Cash was a country music icon, known for her harmonies with Johnny Cash, her husband. A talented singer-songwriter, musician, and actress, she wrote "Ring of Fire" and appeared in TV shows and films, receiving a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.

Birthyear: 1929

Joss Whedon

Joss Whedon is a renowned American director, producer, and screenwriter, best known for creating critically acclaimed TV series "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Angel," as well as directing Marvel's "The Avengers" and its sequel "Avengers: Age of Ultron."

Birthyear: 1964

Oda Nobunaga

Oda Nobunaga, a powerful Japanese warlord, played a crucial role in unifying Japan during the Sengoku period. He introduced firearms, promoted Christianity, and encouraged cultural exchange, modernizing Japan. His innovative tactics and alliances shaped Japan's future, earning him a legendary status in Japanese history.

Birthyear: 1534

Patrick Vieira

Patrick Vieira is a French former footballer and current manager, renowned for his successful playing career with Arsenal and the French national team, winning three Premier League titles and the 1998 World Cup.

Birthyear: 1976

Randy Jackson

Randy Jackson is an American bassist, singer, songwriter, and record producer. As a member of Journey, he co-wrote hits like "Don't Stop Believin'" and "Any Way You Want It." He has also worked with notable artists such as Madonna, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion.

Birthyear: 1956

KT Tunstall

KT Tunstall, born Kate Victoria Tunstall, is a Scottish singer-songwriter and musician known for her powerful vocals and catchy hooks. Her debut album "Eye to the Telescope" (2004) spawned hits like "Black Horse and the Cherry Tree" and "Suddenly I See".

Birthyear: 1975

Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz is a Grammy-winning American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his soulful, laid-back pop-rock sound and inspiring lyrics. His hits include "I'm Yours," "93 Million Miles," and "The Remedy (I Won't Worry)," showcasing his uplifting and eclectic style.

Birthyear: 1977

Caesarion

Caesarion, last pharaoh of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, ruled Egypt from 44 BC until his death in 30 BC. Son of Cleopatra VII and Julius Caesar, he was captured by Octavian (later Augustus Caesar) and executed at the age of 17.

Birthyear: -47

Raj Babbar

Raj Babbar is a renowned Indian actor and politician, born on June 23, 1952, in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. With a career spanning over 40 years, he has appeared in over 150 films, including Bollywood and Punjabi cinema, and has served as a member of the Indian National Congress party.

Birthyear: 1952

Bryan Brown

Bryan Brown is a renowned Australian actor and producer, known for his rugged charm and versatility in films like "Gorillas in the Mist" and "Australia," as well as TV hits like "F/X" and "The Good Wife."

Birthyear: 1947

Glenn Danzig

Glenn Danzig is an American singer-songwriter and producer, best known as the founder of the horror punk band Misfits and the heavy metal band Danzig. He's celebrated for his dark, poetic lyrics and brooding stage presence, influencing countless metal and punk bands.

Birthyear: 1955

Bob Fosse

Bob Fosse was a renowned American actor, dancer, choreographer, and director. Known for his distinctive style, he won eight Tonys and an Oscar for "Cabaret." His innovative choreography and direction transformed the world of musical theater and film.

Birthyear: 1927

Duffy (singer)

Duffy is a Welsh singer-songwriter and actress born Amie Ann Duffy on June 23, 1984. She rose to fame with her soulful, bluesy voice and hit singles "Mercy" and "Warwick Avenue," winning a Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Album in 2009.

Birthyear: 1984

LaDainian Tomlinson

LaDainian Tomlinson is a retired American football running back who played 11 seasons in the NFL, earning five Pro Bowl selections and winning the NFL MVP award in 2006 with the San Diego Chargers.

Birthyear: 1979

Emmanuelle Vaugier

Emmanuelle Vaugier is a Canadian actress and singer, known for her roles in TV shows like "Smallville" and "Two and a Half Men," as well as films like "Saw II" and "House of the Dead II."

Birthyear: 1976

Alfred Kinsey

Alfred Kinsey was a renowned American entomologist and sexologist who pioneered sex research. His 1948 book "Sexual Behavior in the Human Male" sparked controversy and revolutionized the study of human sexuality, earning him both acclaim and criticism for his groundbreaking work.

Birthyear: 1894

Stuart Sutcliffe

Stuart Sutcliffe was a Scottish painter and musician, one of the Beatles' original members. A talented artist, he balanced music with art, exhibiting his work in Liverpool. Tragically, he died in 1962 at 21, leaving behind a promising legacy in both art and music.

Birthyear: 1940

Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph, "The Tornado," was an American sprinter who overcame childhood illnesses to become an Olympic champion. She won three gold medals at the 1960 Rome Olympics, setting world records in the 100m and 4x100m relay, becoming an iconic figure in track and field history.

Birthyear: 1940

Brooks Laich

Brooks Laich is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player who played in the NHL for 13 seasons, suiting up for the Ottawa Senators, Washington Capitals, and Toronto Maple Leafs, known for his two-way forward skills and physical play.

Birthyear: 1983

Tim Anderson (baseball)

Tim Anderson is an American professional baseball shortstop for the Chicago White Sox of Major League Baseball (MLB). A 2013 first-round draft pick, Anderson is a two-time MLB All-Star, winning the American League batting title in 2019 with a .335 average.

Birthyear: 1993

Martin Klebba

Martin Klebba is an American actor, producer, and stuntman, known for his dwarfism. He has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Scary Movie," and "Mirror Mirror," showcasing his versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.

Birthyear: 1969

Yann Tiersen

Yann Tiersen is a French singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his emotive, minimalist compositions. His music often features a mix of acoustic guitar, piano, and orchestral elements, evoking a sense of nostalgia and intimacy. His scores for films like "Amélie" further cemented his reputation as a versatile artist.

Birthyear: 1970

Adam Faith

Adam Faith, born Terence Nelhams-Wright, was a British singer and actor popular in the 1950s and 1960s. With hits like "What Do You Want?" and "Poor Me", Faith's distinctive voice and teen idol status made him a household name, with over 10 million records sold worldwide.

Birthyear: 1940

Michèle Mouton

Michèle Mouton is a pioneering French rally driver and manager, known for being the first woman to win a World Rally Championship event (Rallye Sanremo, 1981). She competed in the WRC from 1978 to 1986, achieving four wins and 11 podiums, earning the respect of her peers and fans.

Birthyear: 1951

Virbhadra Singh

Virbhadra Singh was an Indian politician who served as the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh from 1983 to 1990, 1993 to 1998, and 2012 to 2017. He was a six-time Chief Minister and a Member of Parliament.

Birthyear: 1934

Paul Arthurs

Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs, born May 23, 1965, is an English guitarist and songwriter, best known as a founding member of the iconic Britpop band Oasis, contributing to their early success and debut album "Definitely Maybe".

Birthyear: 1965

Nampalys Mendy

Nampalys Mendy is a French professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for Nice and the France national team. Born on June 23, 1992, in Meulan-en-Yvelines, France, Mendy has also played for Monaco and Leicester City, earning 6 caps for France.

Birthyear: 1992

Art Modell

Art Modell was an American businessman and former NFL team owner. He owned the Cleveland Browns from 1961 to 1995 and the Baltimore Ravens from 1996 to 2004, winning a Super Bowl in 2001.

Birthyear: 1925

Anna Akhmatova

Anna Akhmatova was a renowned Ukrainian-Russian poet and author. Born in 1889, she was a leading figure in Russian poetry, known for her emotional and introspective works, which often explored themes of love, loss, and Soviet oppression.

Birthyear: 1889

Robert Hunter (lyricist)

Robert Hunter was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known for his work as the lyricist for the Grateful Dead. He penned iconic songs like "Dark Star" and "Uncle John's Band," and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.

Birthyear: 1941

Colin Montgomerie

Colin Montgomerie is a Scottish professional golfer known for his impressive career, winning 31 European Tour titles and being a stalwart of the European Ryder Cup team, earning him the nickname "Monty."

Birthyear: 1963

Antony Costa

Antony Costa is an English singer-songwriter, best known as a member of the British boy band Blue. Born on June 23, 1981, he rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like "All Rise" and "Too Close."

Birthyear: 1981

Richard Bach

Richard Bach is a renowned American novelist and essayist, best known for his iconic 1970 novel 'Jonathan Livingston Seagull', a fable about a seagull's quest for enlightenment, which has sold over 40 million copies worldwide.

Birthyear: 1936

Gordon B. Hinckley

Gordon B. Hinckley, the 15th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, led the church from 1995 to 2008. He was a charismatic leader, known for his vision, wit, and warmth, who expanded the church's global presence and encouraged community service and harmony.

Birthyear: 1910

Martti Ahtisaari

Martti Ahtisaari, a Finnish politician, served as the 10th President of Finland (1994-2000). He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2008 for his efforts to resolve international conflicts.

Birthyear: 1937

Memphis Bleek

Memphis Bleek is an American rapper, producer, and actor born Malik Cox on June 23, 1978, in Brooklyn, New York. He rose to fame in the late 1990s as a protégé of Jay-Z, collaborating on several Roc-A-Fella Records projects and releasing solo albums like "Coming of Age" and "M.A.D.E.".

Birthyear: 1978

John Garang

John Garang was a Sudanese colonel and politician who played a key role in the Second Sudanese Civil War. He became the first president of the autonomous region of Southern Sudan in 2005, but tragically died in a helicopter crash just six months into his term.

Birthyear: 1945

Giambattista Vico

Giambattista Vico, a pioneering Italian thinker, made significant contributions to philosophy, history, and jurisprudence. In his groundbreaking work "Scienza Nuova," he developed a cyclical theory of history, anticipating modern sociological thought and influencing Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu and Rousseau.

Birthyear: 1668

Derek Boogaard

Derek Boogaard, a Canadian-American ice hockey player, played for the Minnesota Wild and New York Rangers from 2005 to 2011. A fierce enforcer, he was known for his physical play and intimidating presence on the ice, earning him the nickname "The Boogeyman."

Birthyear: 1982

Tribhuvan of Nepal

Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah (1903-1955) was the King of Nepal from 1911 to 1955. He played a key role in Nepal's transition from a feudal state to a modern nation, introducing democratic reforms and ending the Rana dynasty's autocratic rule. He is revered as a national hero in Nepal.

Birthyear: 1906

James Levine

James Levine was a renowned American pianist and conductor, known for his 40-year tenure as Music Director of the Metropolitan Opera. He was praised for his nuanced interpretations and technical mastery, earning him multiple Grammy Awards and a Kennedy Center Honor.

Birthyear: 1943

Martin Rees

Martin Rees, Baron Rees of Ludlow, is a renowned English cosmologist and astrophysicist. He is a former Astronomer Royal and has made significant contributions to our understanding of black holes, galaxy formation, and the origins of the universe, earning him numerous accolades, including the Templeton Prize.

Birthyear: 1942

Chet Faker

Chet Faker, born Nicholas James Murphy, is an Australian singer-songwriter and electronic music producer. His soulful, bluesy vocals and eclectic sound blend indie, R&B, and electronic elements, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Birthyear: 1988

Elliana Walmsley

Elliana Walmsley is an American dancer and YouTube personality known for her flexibility and technical skills. Born on June 23, 2002, she gained fame as a contestant on the reality TV show "Dance Moms" and has since become a popular social media influencer.

Birthyear: 2007

Ted Shackelford

Ted Shackelford is an American actor, best known for his iconic roles as Gary Ewing in the CBS primetime soap opera "Knots Landing" (1979-1993) and as Doug Donovan on the NBC sitcom "Another World" (1976-1977).

Birthyear: 1946

Chico DeBarge

Chico DeBarge is an American R&B singer, songwriter, and pianist. Born on June 23, 1966, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he is the youngest brother of the DeBarge siblings, a family of renowned musicians.

Birthyear: 1966

Vasek Pospisil

Vasek Pospisil is a Canadian professional tennis player born on June 23, 1990. He reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 25 in 2015 and won the 2015 Wimbledon doubles title with Jack Sock. Pospisil has represented Canada in the Davis Cup and Olympics.

Birthyear: 1990

Lilliana Ketchman

Lilliana Ketchman is a talented American dancer and popular YouTuber. Born in 2004, she rose to fame after appearing on Lifetime's "Dance Moms" and has since garnered millions of followers across her social media platforms, showcasing her impressive dance skills and energetic personality.

Birthyear: 2008

John Hayes (British politician)

John Hayes is a British politician who served as Minister of State at the Department of Energy and Climate Change from 2012 to 2013. He was Conservative MP for South Holland and The Deepings from 1997 to 2019.

Birthyear: 1958

Matt Light

Matt Light is a former American football offensive tackle who played 11 seasons with the New England Patriots, winning three Super Bowls. After retiring, he became a sportscaster, working as an analyst for the Patriots' broadcast team and various media outlets.

Birthyear: 1978

Fred Ewanuick

Fred Ewanuick is a Canadian actor and producer, best known for his role as Hank Yarbo in the sitcom "Corner Gas." He's also appeared in "Corner Gas: The Animated Series," "Dan for Mayor," and "Robson Arms," showcasing his comedic talent and versatility.

Birthyear: 1971

Tara Morice

Tara Morice is an Australian actress and singer, best known for her iconic role as Liz in the 1994 film "Muriel's Wedding". Her distinctive voice and quirky charm have made her a beloved figure in Australian entertainment.

Birthyear: 1964

Jean Tigana

Jean Tigana is a French football legend, playing for Lyon, Bordeaux, and the French national team, winning the 1984 European Championship. He later managed Lyon, Monaco, and Fulham FC, earning a reputation as a tactical innovator and developer of young talent.

Birthyear: 1955

Armen Sarkissian

Armen Sarkissian, a renowned Armenian physicist and politician, served as President of Armenia from 2018 to 2022. Prior to his presidency, he held various high-profile positions, including Prime Minister of Armenia and Ambassador to the United Kingdom.

Birthyear: 1953

William P. Rogers

William P. Rogers was a distinguished American commander, lawyer, and politician who served as the 55th United States Secretary of State from 1969 to 1973, playing a key role in shaping US foreign policy during the Nixon administration.

Birthyear: 1913

Shaun O'Hara

Shaun O'Hara is a former American football center who played in the NFL for 11 seasons, primarily with the New York Giants. A three-time Pro Bowl selection, he currently serves as a sportscaster and analyst for the NFL Network.

Birthyear: 1977

Brandon Stokley

Brandon Stokley, a renowned American football wide receiver, played 15 seasons in the NFL (1999-2013) for the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants, earning a Super Bowl ring with the Colts in 2006.

Birthyear: 1976

Mike James (basketball, born 1975)

Mike James is an American professional basketball player who has played for several teams in the NBA, EuroLeague, and globally. Known for his scoring ability, he's had stints with the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and CSKA Moscow, earning multiple All-Star selections and awards.

Birthyear: 1975

Miriam Karlin

Miriam Karlin was a renowned English actress, best known for her iconic role as the lovable busybody, Elsie Toms, in the BBC sitcom "The Rag Trade" (1961-1963). Her extensive career spanned film, television, and theater, earning her a British Comedy Award in 2006.

Birthyear: 1925

Frédéric Leclercq

Frederic Leclercq is a French heavy metal musician, best known as the bassist of the power metal band DragonForce. He's also played with Maladaptive, Elegy, and Sinsaenum, showcasing his versatility and technical prowess on the bass guitar.

Birthyear: 1978

Margaret of Denmark, Queen of Scotland

Margaret of Denmark, Queen of Scotland (1456-1486), was a Danish princess who married King James III of Scotland, becoming queen consort. She played a significant role in Scottish politics, often acting as regent during her husband's absences, and was known for her intelligence, diplomacy, and strong character.

Birthyear: 1456

Shah Shuja (Mughal prince)

Shah Shuja was a Mughal prince and the son of Emperor Shah Jahan. He was a claimant to the throne and briefly declared himself emperor in 1658, but was defeated by his brother Aurangzeb and eventually killed in 1661.

Birthyear: 1616

Anna Chennault

Anna Chennault was a Chinese-American widow of Lieutenant General Claire Lee Chennault, founder of the Flying Tigers. A influential diplomat and philanthropist, she promoted US-China relations and supported various charitable causes until her passing in 2018.

Birthyear: 1925

Francesca Schiavone

Francesca Schiavone is a retired Italian tennis player who won the 2010 French Open, becoming the first Italian woman to capture a Grand Slam singles title. She was ranked as high as world No. 4 and won eight WTA singles titles during her career.

Birthyear: 1980

Jordan Nolan

Jordan Nolan is a Canadian professional ice hockey forward who has played in the NHL for the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, and Buffalo Sabres. He won the Stanley Cup with the Kings in 2012 and 2014.

Birthyear: 1989

Jean Anouilh

Jean Anouilh was a renowned French playwright and screenwriter known for his witty, poignant, and often provocative works, including "Antigone" and "Becket," which explored the human condition, morality, and the complexities of relationships.

Birthyear: 1910

Len Hutton

Len Hutton, a cricket legend, played for England from 1937 to 1955, scoring 6,971 runs at an average of 56.67. He was a talented opening batsman, known for his defensive style and strong partnerships with Cyril Washbrook.

Birthyear: 1916

Donn F. Eisele

Donn F. Eisele, an American colonel, pilot, and astronaut, flew on Apollo 7 in 1968, conducting the first manned Apollo mission. He spent 260 hours in space, orbited the Earth 163 times, and retired from NASA in 1972, leaving behind a legacy in space exploration.

Birthyear: 1930

Christy Altomare

Christy Altomare is an American actress and singer-songwriter, best known for originating the title role in the Broadway musical "Anastasia." Her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence have earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Birthyear: 1986

Sylvia Mathews Burwell

Sylvia Mathews Burwell is an American government and non-profit executive. She served as the 22nd United States Secretary of Health and Human Services from 2014 to 2017, and currently serves as the President of American University in Washington, D.C.

Birthyear: 1965

Mohamed Boudiaf

Mohamed Boudiaf was an Algerian politician who served as President of Algeria from February to June 1992. A founding member of the National Liberation Front, he played a crucial role in Algeria's struggle for independence from France.

Birthyear: 1919