May 17 birthdays and deaths:

Bob Saget

Bob Saget was an American comedian, actor, and TV host, best known for his roles on 'Full House' and 'America's Funniest Home Videos.' He also had a successful stand-up comedy career, showcasing his raunchy humor. Saget died on January 9, 2022, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment.

Birthyear: 1956

Bill Paxton

Bill Paxton was a talented American actor and director, starring in iconic films like "Apollo 13," "Twister," and "Titanic." He received three Golden Globe nominations and an Emmy nomination for his work.

Birthyear: 1955

Dennis Hopper

Dennis Hopper was a rebellious American actor and director, iconic for his roles in 'Easy Rider' and 'Apocalypse Now.' He directed 'Colors' and appeared in over 150 films, earning two Academy Award nominations before his passing in 2010.

Birthyear: 1936

Enya

Enya, born Eithne Pádraigín Ní Bhraonáin, is a renowned Irish singer-songwriter and producer. Known for her ethereal, new-age sound, she has sold over 75 million records worldwide, with hits like "Orinoco Flow" and "Caribbean Blue," earning four Grammy Awards and an Academy Award nomination.

Birthyear: 1961

Nikki Reed

Nikki Reed is an American actress, singer, and screenwriter. Born in 1988, she gained fame with her debut film "Thirteen" (2003), earning her an Independent Spirit Award nomination. She's also known for her role as Rosalie Hale in the "Twilight Saga" series.

Birthyear: 1988

Trent Reznor

Trent Reznor is a renowned American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, best known as the founder and lead vocalist of the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails, celebrated for his dark, introspective lyrics and sonic experimentation.

Birthyear: 1965

Tony Parker

Tony Parker, a French-American basketball player, is a four-time NBA champion and six-time NBA All-Star with the San Antonio Spurs. He's a two-time NBA Finals MVP and was named to the All-NBA Second Team three times during his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1982

Craig Ferguson

Craig Ferguson is a Scottish-American comedian, actor, and talk show host, best known for hosting CBS's "The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson" and voicing Gobber in the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise, showcasing his wit, humor, and versatility in the entertainment industry.

Birthyear: 1962

Matt Ryan (American football)

Matt Ryan is an American football quarterback who plays for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL). A four-time Pro Bowl selection, Ryan was the NFL MVP in 2016 and led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI.

Birthyear: 1985

Sugar Ray Leonard

Sugar Ray Leonard, a legendary American boxer, won world titles in five weight classes (welterweight, light middleweight, middleweight, super middleweight, and light heavyweight) from 1979 to 1988, earning a 36-3-1 record, and was crowned Olympic gold medalist in 1976.

Birthyear: 1956

Josh Homme

Josh Homme is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, best known as the founder and frontman of the rock bands Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss, and Eagles of Death Metal, praised for his distinctive vocal style and heavy riffs.

Birthyear: 1973

Alistair Overeem

Alistair Overeem is a Dutch mixed martial artist and kickboxer, born on May 17, 1980. He has competed in numerous organizations, including the UFC, Strikeforce, and K-1, earning multiple championships and accolades in both MMA and kickboxing.

Birthyear: 1980

Derek Hough

Derek Hough is a triple threat: actor, singer, and dancer. He's a six-time winner of ABC's Dancing with the Stars and has appeared in TV shows and films, including Nashville and Hairspray Live!. Hough has also toured with his sister Julianne, sharing their Moves Live on Tour.

Birthyear: 1985

Kandi Burruss

Kandi Burruss is an American singer-songwriter, producer, and actress. As a member of R&B group Xscape, she won a Grammy for "No Scrubs" (co-written for TLC). She also appears on Bravo's "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" and runs a successful songwriting and production company.

Birthyear: 1976

Taj Mahal (musician)

Taj Mahal is an American blues singer-songwriter and musician known for his soulful, rootsy style. With a career spanning over 50 years, he's released numerous albums, blending blues, folk, and world music, earning two Grammy Awards and inspiring generations of musicians.

Birthyear: 1942

Erik Satie

Erik Satie, a pioneering French composer and pianist, was a key figure in the development of minimalism and surrealism. He rejected romanticism, instead embracing simplicity and wit, influencing generations of artists, including Claude Debussy and John Cage.

Birthyear: 1866

Marshall Applewhite

Marshall Applewhite, a charismatic American cult leader, founded Heaven's Gate, a doomsday cult that believed in UFOs and extraterrestrial life. He led 38 followers to a mass suicide in 1997, believing they would reach a spaceship following the Haley's Comet.

Birthyear: 1931

Alfonso XIII

Alfonso XIII, King of Spain from 1886 to 1931, ruled during a tumultuous period of political unrest, dictatorships, and ultimately, the abolition of the monarchy. He went into exile in 1931 and died in 1941 in Rome, Italy.

Birthyear: 1886

Jordan Knight

Jordan Knight, a American singer-songwriter and actor, rose to fame in the 1980s as a member of the boy band New Kids on the Block. He also pursued a successful solo music career, releasing multiple albums and starring in various TV shows and films.

Birthyear: 1970

Hubert Davis

Hubert Davis, a renowned American basketball player and coach, played in the NBA from 1992 to 2004. He later transitioned to coaching, becoming the first African American head coach at the University of North Carolina in 2021, leading the Tar Heels to the 2022 NCAA Tournament.

Birthyear: 1970

Tessa Virtue

Tessa Virtue is a Canadian ice dancer who, along with partner Scott Moir, won Olympic gold in 2010 and 2018, as well as three World Championship titles. She is known for her artistic expression, technical excellence, and iconic collaborations with Moir.

Birthyear: 1989

Maureen O'Sullivan

Maureen O'Sullivan was a renowned Irish-American actress, best known for her iconic role as Jane in the Tarzan film series (1932-1942). Her 50-year career spanned film, television, and Broadway, earning her a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Birthyear: 1911

Qusay Hussein

Qusay Hussein, the younger son of Saddam Hussein, was a high-ranking Iraqi soldier and politician. He was the commander of the Special Republican Guard and the supervisor of the Iraqi Special Security Organization.

Birthyear: 1966

Edward Jenner

Edward Jenner, an English physician and microbiologist, developed the smallpox vaccine in 1796, revolutionizing medicine and saving countless lives. His groundbreaking work led to the global eradication of smallpox in 1980, earning him the title 'Father of Immunology'.

Birthyear: 1749

Simon Fuller

Simon Fuller is a renowned English talent manager and producer, best known for creating the Idols franchise, which has spawned numerous global adaptations, including American Idol. He has also managed successful artists like the Spice Girls and Annie Lennox.

Birthyear: 1960

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands

Queen Máxima of the Netherlands is the wife of King Willem-Alexander. Born in Argentina, she worked in finance before marrying the king in 2002. Known for her elegance and philanthropic work, she's beloved in the Netherlands for her kindness, humility, and advocacy for education and women's empowerment.

Birthyear: 1971

Ronald Wayne

Ronald Wayne, a visionary computer scientist, co-founded Apple Computer with Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak in 1976. He designed Apple's first logo and wrote the company's original partnership agreement, playing a pivotal role in shaping the tech giant's early days.

Birthyear: 1934

Caroline of Brunswick

Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales, was the wife of King George IV of the United Kingdom. A controversy surrounding her marriage and divorce led to a public scandal, causing tension between the royal couple and damaging the British monarchy's reputation.

Birthyear: 1768

Chris Henry (wide receiver)

Chris Henry was an American football wide receiver who played in the NFL from 2005 to 2008, primarily with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was known for his athleticism and playmaking ability. Tragically, Henry's life was cut short in a fatal car accident on December 17, 2009, at the age of 26.

Birthyear: 1983

Gina Raimondo

Gina Raimondo is the 75th Governor of Rhode Island, serving since 2015. A Democrat, she's the first woman to hold the office. Prior to her governorship, she served as State Treasurer, reforming the pension system and improving the state's credit rating.

Birthyear: 1971

Andrea Corr

Andrea Corr is an Irish singer-songwriter, pianist, and actress, best known as the lead vocalist of the Celtic pop-rock band The Corrs. With her siblings, she has released several successful albums, showcasing her powerful vocals and songwriting skills.

Birthyear: 1974

Passenger (singer)

Passenger, aka Michael David Rosenberg, is a British singer-songwriter and musician known for his poignant, acoustic-driven folk-pop music and soulful, raspy vocals, with hits like "Let Her Go" and "Holes" showcasing his emotive storytelling and soaring melodies.

Birthyear: 1984

Howard Ashman

Howard Ashman was a visionary playwright and composer, best known for his iconic Disney collaborations, including "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast." His innovative storytelling and catchy lyrics left a lasting impact on Broadway and animation.

Birthyear: 1950

Bill Bruford

Bill Bruford is a renowned English drummer, songwriter, and producer, best known for his work with Yes and King Crimson. He's celebrated for his technical precision, jazz-influenced style, and contributions to progressive rock.

Birthyear: 1949

Jeremy Vine

Jeremy Vine is a renowned English journalist and author, best known for presenting the BBC Radio 2 lunchtime show, as well as Panorama and Points of View. He's also a popular author, writing novels and non-fiction books on a range of topics, including politics and social issues.

Birthyear: 1965

Matt Cassel

Matt Cassel, born May 17, 1982, is a retired American football quarterback who played in the NFL from 2005 to 2014, playing for teams like New England Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, and Minnesota Vikings.

Birthyear: 1982

Bartholomew Roberts

Bartholomew Roberts, also known as "Black Bart," was a notorious Welsh pirate who plundered over 400 ships from 1719 to 1722. His reign of terror ended when he was killed in battle by the British Royal Navy off the coast of Cape Lopez, Gabon.

Birthyear: 1682

Paul Di'Anno

Paul Di'Anno is a renowned English rock singer-songwriter, best known as the first vocalist of Iron Maiden, performing on their debut album and iconic singles like "Running Free" and "Iron Maiden".

Birthyear: 1958

Carlos Peña

Carlos Peña is a Dominican-American baseball player who played 14 seasons in MLB, primarily as a first baseman. He's a 2-time Gold Glove winner and played for teams like the Texas Rangers, Tampa Bay Rays, and Chicago Cubs.

Birthyear: 1978

Danny Manning

Danny Manning is a renowned American basketball player and coach. A two-time NBA All-Star, he won the 1988 NCAA championship with Kansas, earning Naismith Award honors. Manning has coached at Tulsa and Wake Forest, leading the Demon Deacons to the 2010 ACC Tournament title.

Birthyear: 1966

Jesse Winchester

Jesse Winchester was a renowned American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer known for his gentle, soothing voice and poignant lyrics. With a distinctive folk-pop style, he released several critically acclaimed albums, influencing many notable artists, before his passing in 2014.

Birthyear: 1944

Julie Anne San Jose

Julie Anne San Jose is a Filipino singer-songwriter and actress known for her powerful vocals and hit songs like 'Forever' and 'Right Where You Belong'. She rose to fame after winning the Pinoy Pop Superstar singing competition in 2005.

Birthyear: 1994

Johanna Konta

Johanna Konta is an Australian-born British professional tennis player. Born on May 17, 1991, in Sydney, Australia, Konta moved to England in 2005 and represented Great Britain in international competitions, reaching a career-high singles ranking of world No. 4 in 2017.

Birthyear: 1991

Antonio Aguilar

Antonio Aguilar was a renowned Mexican singer-songwriter, producer, actor, and screenwriter. With a career spanning over 50 years, he recorded over 150 albums, starred in 167 films, and wrote scripts for numerous movies and TV shows, earning him the nickname "El Idaho" (The Idol).

Birthyear: 1919

Gary Paulsen

Gary Paulsen was a renowned American author of young adult literature, best known for his award-winning novels "Dogsong", "Hatchet", and "Brian's Winter". His works often explored wilderness survival, self-reliance, and the human connection with nature.

Birthyear: 1939

Wang Leehom

Wang Leehom is a multi-talented American-Taiwanese singer-songwriter, producer, actor, and director. Known for blending pop, R&B, jazz, and traditional Chinese music, he has released 15 albums, starring in films like "Lust, Caution" and winning numerous awards, including four Golden Melody Awards.

Birthyear: 1976

Dan Hardy

Dan Hardy, aka "The Outlaw," is a British mixed martial artist who fought in the UFC's Welterweight division. With a black belt in Taekwondo, he's known for his aggressive style, earning him Fight of the Night honors multiple times during his 12-year professional career.

Birthyear: 1982

Dave Abbruzzese

Dave Abbruzzese is an American rock drummer and songwriter, best known as the drummer for Pearl Jam from 1991 to 1994. He played on the band's debut album "Ten" and "Vs." before being replaced by Jack Irons. Abbruzzese's dynamic drumming style and powerful live performances earned him a loyal fan base.

Birthyear: 1968

Alan Kay

Alan Kay, a pioneer in computer science, is renowned for his work on object-oriented programming, Smalltalk, and the Dynabook concept. He's a Turing Award winner, known for his visionary ideas and influence on modern computing.

Birthyear: 1940

Earl Morrall

Earl Morrall was a standout American football player and coach, playing 21 seasons in the NFL, including a Super Bowl V championship with the Baltimore Colts, and later coaching at several colleges and in the Canadian Football League.

Birthyear: 1934

Alan Johnson

Alan Johnson is a British Labour politician who served as Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer from 2010 to 2011. A former Postman, he held various cabinet positions, including Health Secretary and Home Secretary, and was a key figure in the Labour government from 2005 to 2010.

Birthyear: 1950

Dorothy Gibson

Dorothy Gibson was a pioneering American actress and singer, starring in over 100 films during the silent era. Born in 1889, she was a popular figure in Hollywood's early days, known for her charming on-screen presence and sweet singing voice.

Birthyear: 1889

Chloe Smith

Chloe Smith is a British politician who has served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Norwich North since 2009. She held various parliamentary roles, including Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Disabled People.

Birthyear: 1982

Channing Frye

Channing Frye is a retired American professional basketball player who played 13 seasons in the NBA, known for his three-point shooting and defensive skills, playing for teams like the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers.

Birthyear: 1983

Jason Bernard

Jason Bernard was a renowned American actor, best known for his roles in TV series "Hart to Hart" and "The White Shadow". He appeared in numerous films and television shows during his illustrious career, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as a performer.

Birthyear: 1938

Alex Wright

Alex Wright, a German professional wrestler, born on December 17, 1975, in Nuremberg, Germany. He gained fame in the 1990s with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), known for his high-flying moves and charismatic persona, earning him a loyal fan base.

Birthyear: 1975

Dennis Potter

Dennis Potter was a renowned English playwright, screenwriter, and director. Best known for his innovative TV dramas, such as 'The Singing Detective' and 'Pennies from Heaven', his work often explored themes of identity, memory, and the human condition.

Birthyear: 1935

David Ogilvy, 13th Earl of Airlie

David Ogilvy, 13th Earl of Airlie, was a distinguished English-Scottish soldier and politician. He served as Lord Chamberlain to Queen Elizabeth II from 1984 to 2000, earning great respect for his dedication and professionalism.

Birthyear: 1926

Mohamed Nasheed

Mohamed Nasheed is a Maldivian lawyer and politician who served as the 4th President of the Maldives from 2008 to 2012. A human rights advocate, he was a vocal critic of corruption and climate change, and was ousted in a coup in 2012, later becoming a prominent democracy activist.

Birthyear: 1967

Leon Osman

Leon Osman is a retired English footballer who played as a midfielder, spending most of his career at Everton FC, making over 400 appearances and scoring 57 goals. He earned two England caps between 2012 and 2013.

Birthyear: 1981

Chris Skidmore

Chris Skidmore is a British historian and politician who served as Minister of State for Universities, Science, Research, and Innovation from 2018 to 2019. A renowned historian, he has written several books on Tudor England and the English monarchy.

Birthyear: 1981

Frederick McKinley Jones

Frederick McKinley Jones was a prolific African American inventor and entrepreneur who developed innovative solutions in refrigeration, air conditioning, and sound engineering. He held over 60 patents and co-founded Thermo King, a leading refrigeration company.

Birthyear: 1893

Jane Moore

Jane Moore is a renowned English journalist and author, best known for her columns in The Sun and Daily Telegraph. She has also written several novels, including romantic comedies and thrillers, showcasing her versatility as a writer.

Birthyear: 1962

Christine Ohuruogu

Christine Ohuruogu is a renowned British sprinter, specializing in the 400 meters. She won gold at the 2007 World Championships and silver at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Ohuruogu holds the British record in the 400m and is a multiple-time European and Commonwealth champion.

Birthyear: 1984

Archibald Cox

Archibald Cox, a renowned American lawyer and politician, served as the 31st United States Solicitor General from 1961 to 1965. He played a pivotal role in shaping US labor law and was a prominent figure in the Watergate scandal, ultimately leading to President Nixon's resignation.

Birthyear: 1912

Paddy Kenny

Paddy Kenny is a former English professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper, best known for his time at Sheffield United, Queens Park Rangers, and Leeds United, earning over 450 appearances throughout his 20-year career.

Birthyear: 1978

Cool Papa Bell

Cool Papa Bell was a legendary baseball player and manager, playing from 1922 to 1946. A speedster, he was known for his incredible base-running, earning him the nickname "Cool Papa". Bell played for the St. Louis Stars and Homestead Grays, and later managed the Kansas City Monarchs.

Birthyear: 1903

Mary Kenner

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner, an African American inventor, patented several innovative designs, including a sanitary pad and a flexible, adjustable toilet seat cover. Her groundbreaking work improved daily life and promoted hygiene, leaving a lasting legacy.

Birthyear: 1912

Horace Elgin Dodge

Horace Elgin Dodge was a pioneering American businessman who, along with his brother John, co-founded the Dodge Brothers Company in 1900, manufacturing automotive parts and eventually, the iconic Dodge automobiles.

Birthyear: 1868

Albert, Duke of Prussia

Albert of Hohenzollern, Duke of Prussia, was the last Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights, secularizing the Order's assets in 1525. He converted to Lutheranism, established the Duchy of Prussia, and ruled wisely, promoting education and the arts until his death in 1568.

Birthyear: 1490

Henry Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey

Henry Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey, was a renowned English general, politician, and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He led British forces to victory in the Battle of Waterloo, losing a leg in the process.

Birthyear: 1768

Annise Parker

Annise Parker is an American politician who served as the 61st Mayor of Houston, Texas, from 2010 to 2016. She was the first openly LGBTQ+ mayor of a major US city, advocating for equality and progressive policies during her tenure.

Birthyear: 1956

Will Clyburn

Will Clyburn is an American professional basketball player who has played in the NBA and overseas. The 6'7" small forward has had stints with the Utah Jazz, Texas Legends, and CSKA Moscow, earning EuroLeague MVP honors in 2020.

Birthyear: 1990

Ben Nelson

Ben Nelson, a Democrat, served as the 37th Governor of Nebraska from 1991 to 1999, focusing on education and economic development. He later became a U.S. Senator from 2001 to 2013, advocating for healthcare reform and fiscal responsibility.

Birthyear: 1941

Jodie Taylor

Jodie Taylor is an English footballer who plays as a striker for OL Reign in the National Women's Soccer League. A prolific goal-scorer, she has won numerous titles, including the UEFA Women's Championship, and has over 40 caps for the England national team.

Birthyear: 1986

Dave Sim

Dave Sim is a renowned Canadian cartoonist and author, best known for creating the epic fantasy comic book series Cerebus the Aardvark, which spanned 300 issues from 1977 to 2004, earning him a cult following and critical acclaim.

Birthyear: 1956

Lisa Fonssagrives

Lisa Fonssagrives was a pioneering Swedish-American model, considered one of the first supermodels. Born in 1911, she graced over 300 magazine covers, inspiring Irving Penn, who later became her husband. Her elegant, athletic physique and striking features defined 1930s-50s fashion, earning her the title "Queen of the Models."

Birthyear: 1911

Page McConnell

Page McConnell is an American keyboard player and songwriter, best known as a founding member of the iconic jam band Phish. His eclectic style blends rock, jazz, and funk, showcasing his mastery of the keys and synth-heavy soundscapes.

Birthyear: 1963

Birgit Nilsson

Birgit Nilsson was a renowned Swedish operatic soprano, celebrated for her powerful, expressive voice and electrifying stage presence. Nicknamed "La Nilsson," she dominated the operatic world from the 1950s to 1980s, famous for her iconic performances in Wagner's operas.

Birthyear: 1918

Sirajuddin of Perlis

Sirajuddin of Perlis, the 12th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, ruled from 2001 to 2006. Born on May 17, 1943, he is the Raja of Perlis and has played a significant role in promoting Malaysian unity and development.

Birthyear: 1943

Edmund, Earl of Rutland

Edmund, Earl of Rutland (1443-1460), was a younger son of Richard, Duke of York, and a nephew of King Edward IV of England. He was killed at the Battle of Wakefield during the Wars of the Roses.

Birthyear: 1443

Udo Lindenberg

Udo Lindenberg is a renowned German singer-songwriter and drummer, known for his distinctive voice and poetic lyrics. With a career spanning over 50 years, he has released numerous albums, earning him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim in Germany and beyond.

Birthyear: 1946

B. S. Chandrasekhar

Bhagwat Subramanya Chandrasekhar, known as B.S. Chandrasekhar, is a legendary Indian cricketer and leg spinner. He played 58 Tests, taking 242 wickets at 29.74, and was a member of the Indian team that won the 1971 series against England.

Birthyear: 1945

Tony Roche

Tony Roche, an Australian tennis legend, won 15 Grand Slam titles, including five doubles championships with John Newcombe. As a coach, he mentored top players, including Ivan Lendl, Pat Rafter, and Lleyton Hewitt, earning him a reputation as one of the sport's most respected coaches.

Birthyear: 1945

Simon Hughes

Simon Hughes is a British politician and lawyer who served as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats from 2010 to 2014. He was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Bermondsey and Old Southwark from 1983 to 2015, holding various shadow ministerial positions.

Birthyear: 1951

Valeriya Novodvorskaya

Valeriya Novodvorskaya was a Russian journalist and politician known for her scathing critiques of Soviet and Russian politics. A vocal dissident, she founded the Democratic Union party and was a fierce advocate for democracy and human rights until her death in 2014.

Birthyear: 1950