May 26 birthdays and deaths:

Helena Bonham Carter

Helena Bonham Carter is a renowned English actress known for her eccentricity and versatility, starring in iconic films like "Harry Potter" and "Sweeney Todd," while earning multiple award nominations for her unique and captivating performances.

Birthyear: 1966

Stevie Nicks

Stevie Nicks, a rock icon, is best known for her enchanting vocals and mystical stage presence as a member of Fleetwood Mac and as a solo artist, weaving a legacy of timeless hits like "Landslide," "Rhiannon," and "Edge of Seventeen."

Birthyear: 1948

John Wayne

John Wayne, nicknamed "The Duke," was a legendary American actor, director, and producer who epitomized masculinity in iconic Westerns and war movies. His rugged, larger-than-life persona and distinctive voice made him a beloved cinematic icon, earning him a permanent place in Hollywood history.

Birthyear: 1907

Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz is a versatile artist known for his retro-style fusion of rock, funk, and R&B. With hits like 'Are You Gonna Go My Way' and 'Fly Away', he has won four Grammy Awards and become a global music icon.

Birthyear: 1964

Mary of Teck

Mary of Teck, born Victoria Mary Augusta Louise Olga Pauline Claudine Agnes, was the queen consort of King George V of the United Kingdom from 1910 until his death in 1936.

Birthyear: 1867

Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill is a critically acclaimed American singer-songwriter, producer, and actress. As a member of the Fugees and a solo artist, she has won numerous Grammys and has been named one of the greatest MCs of all time, known for her powerful lyrics and soulful voice.

Birthyear: 1975

Miles Davis

Miles Davis, a legendary trumpeter and bandleader, revolutionized jazz with his improvisational style and iconic albums like "Kind of Blue" and "Birth of the Cool." His influence extends beyond jazz to rock, funk, and hip-hop, cementing his legacy as a musical innovator.

Birthyear: 1926

Jeremy Corbyn

Jeremy Corbyn is a British politician who served as Labour Party leader from 2015 to 2020. A socialist and democrat, he advocates for workers' rights, public ownership, and social justice, earning him a loyal following and criticism from opponents.

Birthyear: 1949

Pam Grier

Pam Grier is a renowned American actress, known for her iconic roles in blaxploitation films such as "Coffy" and "Foxy Brown." She has also appeared in numerous TV shows, including "The L Word" and "Smallville," earning multiple award nominations for her performances.

Birthyear: 1949

Hank Williams Jr.

Hank Williams Jr., known as Hank Jr., is a renowned American singer-songwriter and guitarist. He's a country music icon, blending traditional and southern rock styles, with hits like "All My Rowdy Friends" and "A Country Boy Can Survive."

Birthyear: 1949

James Arness

James Arness was a beloved American actor, best known for his iconic role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the long-running TV series "Gunsmoke" (1955-1975), which earned him a legion of fans and a spot in the Western hero hall of fame.

Birthyear: 1923

Sally Ride

Sally Ride, a trailblazing American physicist and astronaut, became the first American woman in space in 1983. She flew on two Space Shuttle missions and founded Sally Ride Science, promoting STEM education for young people, particularly girls and women.

Birthyear: 1951

Micah Parsons

Micah Parsons is an American football linebacker who plays for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). A first-round draft pick in 2021, Parsons was a standout player at Penn State University, earning consensus All-American honors and winning the Butkus Award in 2019.

Birthyear: 1999

Bobcat Goldthwait

"Bobcat Goldthwait is a comedic genius, known for his outrageous performances in films like 'Police Academy' and 'Scrooged.' He's also an acclaimed director and screenwriter, creating offbeat comedies like 'Shakes the Clown' and 'God Bless America.'"

Birthyear: 1962

Michael Portillo

Michael Portillo is a renowned English journalist, politician, and TV presenter. As a former Conservative MP and Cabinet member, he's known for his incisive political analysis and charismatic on-screen presence, hosting popular documentaries like "Great Railway Journeys" and "Portillo's State of the Nation".

Birthyear: 1953

Matt Stone

Matt Stone, born May 26, 1971, is an American actor, animator, screenwriter, producer, and composer, best known for co-creating South Park with Trey Parker, as well as films like Team America: World Police and The Book of Mormon.

Birthyear: 1971

Peter Cushing

Peter Cushing, a renowned English actor, starred in numerous horror films, including the iconic Hammer Films productions. His distinctive voice and commanding presence brought characters to life, earning him a cult following and a lasting legacy in the world of horror cinema.

Birthyear: 1913

Levon Helm

Levon Helm, a member of The Band, was a legendary singer-songwriter, drummer, producer, and actor. He's known for his distinctive voice and iconic songs like "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek." Helm's earthy, rootsy style and Americana legacy continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

Birthyear: 1940

Aldrich Ames

Aldrich Ames was a CIA officer who betrayed his country by spying for the Soviet Union and Russia from 1985 to 1994, leading to the execution of at least 10 CIA assets and compromising numerous operations.

Birthyear: 1941

Ashley Massaro

Ashley Massaro was an American wrestler, model, and reality TV contestant. She was a WWE Diva, winner of the 2005 WWE Raw Diva Search, and appeared on Survivor: China. Massaro also modeled for numerous publications, including the cover of Playboy magazine.

Birthyear: 1979

The Guess Who

Garry Peterson is a renowned Canadian-American drummer, best known as a founding member of the jazz-rock band The Guess Who and later, Bachman-Turner Overdrive. With a career spanning over 50 years, Peterson has had a profound impact on Canadian rock music.

Birthyear: 1945

Jack Kevorkian

Jack Kevorkian, a controversial figure, advocated for assisted suicide, helping over 130 terminally ill patients end their lives. Known as "Dr. Death," he sparked heated debates on euthanasia, serving eight years in prison for second-degree murder.

Birthyear: 1928

Vilasrao Deshmukh

Vilasrao Deshmukh was a prominent Indian lawyer and politician who served as the 17th Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2004 to 2008. He was a key figure in the Indian National Congress and played a crucial role in shaping Maharashtra's development.

Birthyear: 1945

Peggy Lee

Peggy Lee was a sultry-voiced singer-songwriter and actress known for her smooth, jazzy style and hit songs like "Fever" and "Why Don't You Do Right." With a career spanning six decades, she won 13 Grammy nominations and an Academy Award nomination for her work in "Pete Kelly's Blues."

Birthyear: 1920

Al Jolson

Al Jolson, "The World's Greatest Entertainer," was a legendary singer, actor, and comedian. Born Asa Yoelson, he rose to fame in the 1920s-30s with hits like "Swanee" and "Mammy." He starred in the first talking film, "The Jazz Singer" (1927), and was one of the most popular entertainers of his time.

Birthyear: 1886

Mick Ronson

Mick Ronson was a renowned English guitarist, songwriter, and producer. As David Bowie's guitarist, he contributed to iconic albums like "The Man Who Sold the World" and "Hunky Dory". Ronson's virtuosic style and collaborations with Bowie, Ian Hunter, and others solidified his legend in rock history.

Birthyear: 1946

Philip Michael Thomas

Philip Michael Thomas is an American actor, best known for his iconic role as Ricardo "Rico" Tubbs in the popular 1980s TV series "Miami Vice." Thomas' charismatic performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination and a lasting impact on 80s pop culture.

Birthyear: 1949

Genie Francis

Genie Francis is a Canadian-American actress, best known for her iconic role as Laura Spencer on the ABC daytime soap opera "General Hospital." Her portrayal earned her a Daytime Emmy Award and a lifelong fan base.

Birthyear: 1962

Mehmed III

Mehmed III, Ottoman Sultan from 1595 to 1603, was a controversial ruler known for his lavish spending, oppression of elites, and military campaigns. He executed many nobles, including his brothers, to secure power and faced rebellions during his tumultuous reign.

Birthyear: 1566

Pope Clement VII

Pope Clement VII (1478-1534) was a powerful and influential pope of the Catholic Church. As a member of the wealthy Medici family, he played a crucial role in the Italian Renaissance and was a strong supporter of the arts, commissioning works from Michelangelo and Raphael.

Birthyear: 1478

Matt Busby

Matt Busby was a Scottish footballer and manager, best known for managing Manchester United from 1945 to 1969 and 1970 to 1971, leading the team to European Cup victory in 1968 and earning a knighthood in 1969.

Birthyear: 1909

Margaret Colin

Margaret Colin is an American actress born on May 26, 1958. She is known for her roles in TV shows such as "Gossip Girl" and "Independence Day", as well as films like "The Devil Wears Prada" and "Three Days of Rain".

Birthyear: 1958

Frederik X

Frederik X, King of Denmark, born on May 16, 1968, is the eldest son of Queen Margrethe II. He became king in 2018 and is known for his charming personality, dedication to environmental issues, and support for humanitarian causes, earning him immense popularity among Danes.

Birthyear: 1968

Jason Manford

Jason Manford is a British comedian, actor, and TV presenter, best known for hosting BBC One's "A Question of Sport" and starring in the TV series "Ordinary Lies." He's also appeared in "8 Out of 10 Cats" and "Live at the Apollo."

Birthyear: 1981

John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough

John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, was a renowned English general and politician. He led British forces to multiple victories in the War of the Spanish Succession, earning him great acclaim.

Birthyear: 1650

Luca Toni

Luca Toni is a retired Italian professional footballer who played as a striker. He won the Golden Boot at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, leading Italy to victory. Toni played for several top clubs, including Juventus, Roma, and Bayern Munich, earning numerous titles and individual awards.

Birthyear: 1977

Jay Silverheels

Jay Silverheels was a Canadian-American actor of Mohawkheritage, best known for his iconic role as Tonto, the faithfulcompadre of the Lone Ranger, in the classic 1949-1957 TV series.

Birthyear: 1912

Nobuhiro Watsuki

Nobuhiro Watsuki is a renowned Japanese illustrator and mangaka, best known for creating the iconic samurai manga series "Rurouni Kenshin" (1994-1999), which has sold over 70 million copies worldwide and been adapted into anime, films, and stage plays.

Birthyear: 1970

Dorothea Lange

Dorothea Lange was a renowned American photographer and journalist, best known for her powerful depiction of the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, capturing the struggles of the working class and migrant workers through her poignant images.

Birthyear: 1895

Manorama (Tamil actress)

Manorama, also known as Aachi, was a legendary Indian actress and singer who appeared in over 1,000 films and dramas. She was a pioneering female comedian in Tamil cinema, known for her effortless comedy timing and iconic performances that entertained audiences for decades.

Birthyear: 1937

Elisabeth Harnois

Elisabeth Harnois is an American actress born on March 26, 1979. She is known for her roles in TV series 'CSI: Crime Scene Investigation' and 'One Tree Hill', as well as films like 'Pretty Persuasion' and 'Swimfan'.

Birthyear: 1979

Roy Dotrice

Renowned English actor Roy Dotrice (1923-2017) was a Tony Award winner and Guinness World Record holder for most solo performances. He played Father in the BBC adaptation of 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series, prior to Game of Thrones.

Birthyear: 1923

George Formby

George Formby was a beloved English singer-songwriter and actor, known for his ukulele-playing and cheerful, innocent persona. He starred in 21 films, including "No Limit" and "It's in the Air," and had a string of hits, including "When I'm Cleaning Windows" and "With My Little Stick of Blackpool Rock."

Birthyear: 1904

François Legault

François Legault is a Canadian businessman and politician, serving as the 32nd Premier of Quebec since 2018. He founded Air Transat in 1987 and led the Coalition Avenir Québec party to victory in the 2018 Quebec general election, becoming Premier at age 61.

Birthyear: 1957

Black (singer)

You're referring to Colin Vearncombe, better known by his stage name Black. He was a renowned English singer-songwriter, best known for his 1986 hit "Wonderful Life". Black's soulful voice and poetic lyrics captivated audiences worldwide until his untimely passing in 2016.

Birthyear: 1962

Tarsem Singh

Tarsem Singh is an Indian-American director, producer, and screenwriter known for his visually stunning and often surreal films, such as "The Cell," "The Fall," and "Mirror Mirror." His work is characterized by vibrant colors, elaborate sets, and fantastical storytelling.

Birthyear: 1961

Simon Armitage

Simon Armitage is a renowned English poet, playwright, and novelist known for his accessible and evocative style. He was appointed UK Poet Laureate in 2019, succeeding Carol Ann Duffy. His works often explore the human experience, nature, and the northern English landscape.

Birthyear: 1963

Robert Morley

Robert Morley was a renowned English actor, playwright, and raconteur, known for his distinctive voice and witty humor. He appeared in over 60 films, including "The African Queen" and "Topkapi", and was nominated for three BAFTA Awards.

Birthyear: 1908

Ben Zobrist

Ben Zobrist is a versatile American baseball player who has played for the Tampa Bay Rays, Chicago Cubs, and Kansas City Royals. A two-time World Series champion and two-time All-Star, Zobrist is known for his clutch hitting and defensive flexibility, playing multiple positions.

Birthyear: 1981

Kenny Florian

Kenny Florian is a renowned American mixed martial artist and sportscaster. A three-time UFC title challenger, he's known for his dynamic fighting style and versatility. Post-retirement, he transitioned to commentary, providing insightful analysis for ESPN and other prominent MMA events.

Birthyear: 1976

Stephen Curry (comedian)

Stephen Curry is an Australian comedian and actor, known for films such as The King, The Castle, etc.

Birthyear: 1976

Zola Budd

Zola Budd is a South African-born British former track and field athlete, known for her exceptional middle-distance running skills. She held multiple world records, including the 1984 5000m world record, and won numerous international medals, including a 1986 Commonwealth Games gold.

Birthyear: 1966

Ward Cunningham

Ward Cunningham, an American computer programmer, is best known for developing the first wiki, WikiWikiWeb, in 1995. This pioneering project enabled collaborative editing and spawned the wiki phenomenon, revolutionizing online knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Birthyear: 1949

János Kádár

János Kádár, a Hungarian mechanic and politician, served as the 46th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1956 to 1988. He played a crucial role in stabilizing the country after the 1956 uprising, implementing reforms, and maintaining a delicate balance with Soviet Union.

Birthyear: 1912

Paul Collingwood

Paul Collingwood is a former English cricketer and current coach, known for his exceptional all-round skills. He captained England to World Twenty20 victory in 2010 and scored over 10,000 international runs, earning him a reputation as one of England's greatest all-rounders.

Birthyear: 1976

Mathew Barzal

Mathew Barzal is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who currently plays as a center for the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted 16th overall by the Islanders in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.

Birthyear: 1997

Paul Lukas

Paul Lukas was a Hungarian-American actor and singer who won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in "Watch on the Rhine" (1943). He appeared in over 40 films and TV shows, often playing sophisticated, intellectual characters, earning him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Birthyear: 1895

Jacques Bergerac

Jacques Bergerac was a French actor and businessman who gained fame in Hollywood during the 1950s and 1960s, starring in films like "Les Girls" and "Gigi," alongside Leslie Caron. He later became a successful businessman, creating a popular line of skincare products for men.

Birthyear: 1927

Raina Telgemeier

Raina Telgemeier is a renowned American author and cartoonist, best known for her award-winning graphic novels, including "Smile," "Drama," and "Ghosts." Her relatable stories and humorous illustrations have captivated readers of all ages, making her a beloved figure in the world of graphic literature.

Birthyear: 1977

Mehmet Okur

Mehmet Okur, a Turkish professional basketball player, played 10 seasons in the NBA from 2002 to 2012. He played for the Detroit Pistons and Utah Jazz, averaging 13.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, earning All-Star honors in 2007.

Birthyear: 1979

Robert W. Chambers

Robert W. Chambers was a renowned American author and illustrator, best known for his romantic novels and ghost stories. His 1895 novel "The King in Yellow" is a classic of supernatural fiction, influencing many writers, including H.P. Lovecraft.

Birthyear: 1865

Diomedes Díaz

Diomedes Díaz, known as "El Cacique de la Junta," was a renowned Colombian singer-songwriter. With a career spanning over 40 years, he was a vallenato music icon, releasing numerous hits and winning multiple awards, including several Latin Grammy nominations.

Birthyear: 1957

Bob Fitzsimmons

Bob Fitzsimmons, a British-New Zealand boxer, held the World Heavyweight Championship from 1897 to 1899. He won 66 of 83 fights, earning him a place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

Birthyear: 1863

Alec McCowen

Alec McCowen was a renowned English actor, known for his distinctive voice and versatility on stage and screen. He appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and theater productions, earning a Tony Award nomination for his portrayal of Dr. Martin Dysart in "Equus."

Birthyear: 1925

Imi Lichtenfeld

Imi Lichtenfeld, also known as "Imi", was a Hungarian-Israeli martial artist, boxer, and gymnast. He developed Krav Maga, a self-defense system used by Israeli military and civilians. Lichtenfeld's combat skills helped him survive the Holocaust and later became a legendary instructor in Israel.

Birthyear: 1910

Kay Hagan

Kay Hagan, a North Carolina Democrat, served as a US Senator from 2009 to 2015. A lawyer and politician, she was known for her work on healthcare, education, and military issues, earning a reputation as a moderate and effective leader during her tenure.

Birthyear: 1953

Abraham de Moivre

Abraham de Moivre, a renowned French-English mathematician, made significant contributions to probability theory, number theory, and algebra. His work on the normal distribution and development of the formula for raising a complex number to a power remain influential in mathematics and statistics.

Birthyear: 1667

Cliff Drysdale

Cliff Drysdale, a South African tennis legend, won 35 singles titles, including the 1972 US Open doubles title. After retiring, he became a renowned sportscaster, entertaining audiences with his insightful commentary and witty humor, covering Grand Slam tournaments and ATP events.

Birthyear: 1941

Anthony Ervin

Anthony Ervin is a renowned American swimmer, Olympic champion, and world record holder. Born on May 26, 1981, he won gold in the 50m freestyle at the 2000 and 2016 Summer Olympics, becoming the oldest swimmer to win an individual gold medal at 35.

Birthyear: 1981

Adolfo López Mateos

Adolfo López Mateos was a prominent Mexican politician who served as the 48th President of Mexico from 1958 to 1964. He implemented significant reforms, including the nationalization of the electric industry and the expansion of social security benefits, improving the lives of many Mexicans during his tenure.

Birthyear: 1909

Fiona Shackleton

Fiona Shackleton is a renowned English lawyer and Queen's Counsel specializing in family law. She has represented numerous high-profile clients, including Princess Diana, Paul McCartney, and Madonna, earning her the nickname "the duchess of divorce."

Birthyear: 1956

Adolfo de la Huerta

Adolfo de la Huerta was a Mexican politician who served as provisional president in 1920. A key figure in the Mexican Revolution, he played a crucial role in stabilizing the country after the ousting of Venustiano Carranza and paved the way for Álvaro Obregón's presidency.

Birthyear: 1881

Philip Treacy

Philip Treacy is a renowned Irish milliner and hat designer known for his exquisite, avant-garde creations. He has collaborated with top fashion designers and has designed hats for royal weddings and high-profile events.

Birthyear: 1967

Mamie Smith

Mamie Smith was a pioneering African American singer, actress, dancer, and pianist. Known for her powerful voice and energetic performances, she was one of the first African American women to make phonograph records, releasing "Crazy Blues" in 1920, which sold over 1 million copies.

Birthyear: 1883

Nicolaus Zinzendorf

Nicolaus Zinzendorf, a German bishop and saint, played a pivotal role in the Moravian Church, advocating for ecumenism and mission work. He founded Herrnhut, a Christian community in Saxony, and was a prominent figure in the 18th-century Protestant Revival movement.

Birthyear: 1700

Alan Hollinghurst

Alan Hollinghurst is a renowned British novelist, poet, and translator known for his lyrical prose and exploration of human relationships. His novel "The Line of Beauty" won the 2004 Man Booker Prize, cementing his reputation as a master of literary fiction.

Birthyear: 1954

William Petty

William Petty, a renowned English economist and philosopher, contributed significantly to the development of modern economics. He served as Surveyor-General of Ireland and coined the term "political arithmetic," emphasizing empirical observation in economic analysis. His works, including "Treatise of Taxes," remain influential in the field.

Birthyear: 1623

Ramón Calderón

Ramón Calderón is a Spanish lawyer and businessman, best known for serving as the president of Real Madrid, one of the world's most prestigious football clubs, from 2006 to 2009.

Birthyear: 1951