May 9 birthdays and deaths:

Billy Joel

Billy Joel is a legendary American singer-songwriter and pianist known for his soulful voice, catchy melodies, and iconic hits like "Piano Man," "Uptown Girl," and "We Didn't Start the Fire," with a music career spanning over five decades.

Birthyear: 1949

Rosario Dawson

Rosario Dawson is an American actress known for her versatility in films like 'Men in Black II', 'Sin City', and 'Jane the Virgin'. She's also an activist, advocating for social justice, education, and women's empowerment.

Birthyear: 1979

John Brown (abolitionist)

John Brown, a radical American abolitionist, sought to end slavery through violent means. His raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859 sparked national debate, leading to his execution, but cementing his legacy as a martyr for the anti-slavery movement.

Birthyear: 1800

John Corbett

John Corbett is an American actor and musician, best known for his roles as Chris Stevens on the TV series "Northern Exposure" and Aidan Shaw on the hit HBO series "Sex and the City".

Birthyear: 1961

Candice Bergen

Candice Bergen is a renowned American actress and producer, best known for her iconic role as Murphy Brown, earning her five Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.

Birthyear: 1946

Maharana Pratap

Maharana Pratap, the legendary ruler of Mewar, fought valiantly against the Mughal Empire, particularly Akbar, to maintain his kingdom's independence. His bravery and courage in the famous Battle of Haldighati in 1576 have become a symbol of Indian resistance against foreign rule.

Birthyear: 1540

Dave Gahan

Dave Gahan is the iconic lead vocalist of Depeche Mode, a trailblazing English singer-songwriter known for his distinctive baritone voice, emotive performances, and influential hits like "Personal Jesus" and "Enjoy the Silence."

Birthyear: 1962

Glenda Jackson

Glenda Jackson was a renowned English actress and politician. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress for "Women in Love" (1970) and "A Touch of Class" (1973). Jackson later served as a Labour Party MP from 1992 to 2015.

Birthyear: 1936

Albert Finney

Albert Finney was a renowned English actor celebrated for his powerful, nuanced performances. He starred in films like "Tom Jones" and "Scrooge," earning five Academy Award nominations and a BAFTA Fellowship for his contributions to British cinema.

Birthyear: 1936

Ghostface Killah

Ghostface Killah, born Dennis Coles, is a renowned American rapper and actor. As a member of the Wu-Tang Clan, he has released numerous critically acclaimed albums, showcasing his lyrical dexterity and vivid storytelling.

Birthyear: 1970

Beth Mead

Beth Mead is an English footballer playing as a forward for Arsenal Women and the England national team. Born on May 9, 1995, she has won several awards, including the 2021-22 PFA Players' Player of the Year and the 2022 UEFA Women's Euro Golden Boot.

Birthyear: 1995

Tony Gwynn

Tony Gwynn, "Mr. Padre," was a legendary baseball player and coach who played 20 seasons with the San Diego Padres, earning 8 National League batting titles and a .338 career average, earning him a Hall of Fame induction in 2007.

Birthyear: 1960

Dan Burn

Dan Burn is an English professional footballer who plays as a center-back for Newcastle United and the England national team. Born on May 9, 1992, in Bournemouth, he began his career at Darlington before moving to Fulham and then Wigan Athletic, earning a reputation as a dominant defender.

Birthyear: 1992

J. M. Barrie

J.M. Barrie, a Scottish novelist and playwright, is best known for creating the iconic character Peter Pan. His works, including "Peter and Wendy" (1911), have captivated audiences for generations, earning him a lasting legacy in children's literature and theatre.

Birthyear: 1860

Ellen White (footballer)

Ellen White is an English professional footballer who plays as a striker for Manchester City and the England national team. She won the Bronze Boot at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup and was named the FA Women's Footballer of the Year in 2018.

Birthyear: 1989

Wendy Crewson

Wendy Crewson is a renowned Canadian actress and producer, known for her versatility in film, television, and theater. With a career spanning over three decades, she has appeared in notable projects like "ReGenesis" and "Saving Hope," earning multiple award nominations for her performances.

Birthyear: 1956

James L. Brooks

James L. Brooks is a renowned American director, producer, and screenwriter, known for his work on TV's "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and films like "Terms of Endearment" and "As Good as It Gets," earning him multiple Emmys and Oscars.

Birthyear: 1940

Sophie Scholl

Sophie Scholl was a courageous German activist who actively opposed the Nazi regime. Alongside her brother Hans, she co-founded the White Rose resistance movement, distributing anti-war leaflets that criticized the Nazi regime, ultimately leading to her tragic execution at the age of 21.

Birthyear: 1921

Hank Snow

Hank Snow (1914-1999) was a Canadian country music singer-songwriter and guitarist. Known for his distinctive voice and dynamic stage presence, Snow had huge success with hits like "I'm Movin' On" and "The Rhumba Boogie". He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1979.

Birthyear: 1914

Howard Carter

Howard Carter was a renowned English archaeologist and historian who discovered the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun in 1922. His meticulous excavation and documentation of the treasure-filled tomb made him an international sensation, earning him a lasting legacy in the field of Egyptology.

Birthyear: 1874

Mike Wallace

Mike Wallace was a renowned American journalist and CBS News correspondent, best known for his investigative reporting and iconic TV program "60 Minutes," where he interviewed newsmakers and celebrities, earning 21 Emmy Awards during his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1918

Paul Heaton

Paul Heaton is an English singer-songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of The Housemartins and The Beautiful South. His witty, observational lyrics and soulful voice have made him a beloved figure in British music, with hits like "Caravan of Love" and "A Little Time".

Birthyear: 1962

Alan Bennett

Alan Bennett is a renowned English screenwriter, playwright, and novelist known for his witty, insightful works. His iconic plays, such as "Beyond the Fringe" and "The History Boys," have won numerous awards, cementing his status as a British literary treasures.

Birthyear: 1934

Steve Yzerman

Steve Yzerman, 'The Captain,' is a Canadian ice hockey legend. A 20-year Detroit Red Wings veteran, he won three Stanley Cups, an Olympic gold, and the Conn Smythe Trophy. He's now the Tampa Bay Lightning's GM, guiding them to a Stanley Cup title in 2020.

Birthyear: 1965

Geraldine McEwan

Geraldine McEwan was a renowned English actress who excelled on stage, screen, and television. She played iconic characters, including Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, and received numerous award nominations for her remarkable performances.

Birthyear: 1932

Prince Fielder

Prince Fielder is a former American baseball player who played for 12 seasons, primarily with the Milwaukee Brewers and Texas Rangers. A six-time All-Star, Fielder hit 319 home runs and drove in over 1,000 runs during his career.

Birthyear: 1984

Alley Mills

Alley Mills is an American actress, best known for her roles as Norma Arnold on the CBS sitcom "Wonder Years" and Pamela Douglas on the CBS soap opera "The Bold and the Beautiful".

Birthyear: 1951

Joan Sims

Joan Sims was a beloved English actress, best known for her comedic roles in the "Carry On" film series. With a career spanning over 40 years, she endeared audiences with her warm, vibrant personality and unforgettable performances on screen and stage.

Birthyear: 1930

Jupp Heynckes

Jupp Heynckes is a German football legend, renowned for his successful playing and managing career. As a player, he won the European Golden Shoe in 1956. Later, he managed Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Borussia Mönchengladbach, winning multiple titles, including the Champions League, Bundesliga, and La Liga.

Birthyear: 1945

Tamia

Tamia, a six-time Grammy nominee, is a celebrated Canadian singer-songwriter, producer, and actress. Known for her powerful, soulful voice and hit singles like 'So Into You' and 'Stranger in My House', Tamia has collaborated with artists like Brandy and Gladys Knight.

Birthyear: 1975

William Moulton Marston

William Moulton Marston, American psychologist and author, is best known for creating the iconic comic book character Wonder Woman. A pioneer in the field of psychology, Marston also invented the systolic blood pressure test, precursor to the modern polygraph machine.

Birthyear: 1893

Benjamin Graham

Benjamin Graham, a British-American economist, professor, and investor, is renowned for developing the concept of value investing. His influential book "Security Analysis" (1934) and "The Intelligent Investor" (1949) remain seminal works, shaping modern investment philosophy and inspiring Warren Buffett.

Birthyear: 1894

Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a revered Indian economist and politician, played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence. A moderate nationalist, he advocated for gradual reform, believing in British governance, yet sought Indian self-rule. His legacy paved the way for India's future leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi.

Birthyear: 1866

John Ashcroft

John Ashcroft, the 79th US Attorney General, served from 2001 to 2005 under President George W. Bush. A former Missouri Governor and Senator, he was a staunch conservative known for his strong law-and-order stance and support for the USA PATRIOT Act.

Birthyear: 1942

C418

Daniel Rosenfeld, known as DJ and producer ZHU, is a German musician born in 1989. He gained fame with his debut single "Moves Like Ms. Jackson" in 2014, blending indie, electronic, and R&B styles, earning critical acclaim and Grammy nominations.

Birthyear: 1989

Pedro Armendáriz

Pedro Armendáriz was a renowned Mexican-American actor who appeared in over 100 films, including "The Fugitive" and "From Russia with Love." He was known for his distinctive voice and charismatic on-screen presence before his untimely death in 1963.

Birthyear: 1912

Zita of Bourbon-Parma

Zita of Bourbon-Parma, the last Empress of Austria-Hungary, reigned briefly in 1916-1918 alongside her husband, Emperor Charles I. After his death, she lived in exile, dedicating her life to preserving the Habsburg legacy, and passed away in 1989 at the age of 96.

Birthyear: 1892

Baldur von Schirach

Baldur von Schirach was a German politician who served as the leader of the Hitler Youth from 1933 to 1940. He was convicted of war crimes at the Nuremberg Trials and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Birthyear: 1907

Minamoto no Yoritomo

Minamoto no Yoritomo, founder of the Kamakura shogunate, unified Japan's warring factions, establishing a military government that ruled for centuries. He crushed the Taira clan, becoming shōgun in 1192, and established his capital in Kamakura, ushering in a new era of samurai dominance.

Birthyear: 1147

Henry J. Kaiser

Henry J. Kaiser, a pioneering American shipbuilder and businessman, founded Kaiser Shipyards, which played a crucial role in World War II, producing over 1,400 vessels, including the renowned Liberty Ships, cementing his legacy as a visionary industrialist.

Birthyear: 1882

Ion Țiriac

Ion Țiriac, a Romanian tennis legend, won 22 singles titles and was a French Open finalist in 1970. After retiring, he managed top players like Boris Becker and Guillermo Vilas, earning him induction into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2013.

Birthyear: 1939

Doug Christie

Doug Christie is a retired American basketball player and coach who played in the NBA from 1992 to 2007. He played for several teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Toronto Raptors, and New York Knicks, and was a one-time NBA All-Star.

Birthyear: 1970

Carroll Cole

Carroll Cole, an American serial killer, was convicted of murdering 16 people, mostly women, between 1947 and 1980. He was known for his IQ of 137 and was executed in Nevada's gas chamber in 1985 for his brutal crimes.

Birthyear: 1938

Jake Long

Jake Long is a former American football offensive tackle who played in the NFL from 2008 to 2014. He was the first overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft and played for the Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, and Atlanta Falcons.

Birthyear: 1985

Kevin Gameiro

Kevin Gameiro is a French professional footballer who plays as a striker for Spanish club Valencia CF. Born on May 9, 1987, in Fougères, France, he has also played for Paris Saint-Germain, Sevilla, and Atlético Madrid, winning several titles, including the UEFA Europa League.

Birthyear: 1987

Harry Vardon

Harry Vardon was a legendary British golfer who won six Open Championships between 1896 and 1914, dominating the sport during his era. He's renowned for popularizing the modern grip style and is considered one of golf's greatest players of all time.

Birthyear: 1870

Meles Zenawi

Meles Zenawi, Ethiopia's Prime Minister from 1995 until his death in 2012, was a key figure in the country's struggles against communist rule and later implemented reforms that boosted economic growth, making him a prominent African leader.

Birthyear: 1955

Calvin Murphy

Calvin Murphy, the Hall of Famer, played 17 seasons with the Houston Rockets and San Diego Rockets, averaging 17.9 points per game. After retiring, he became a popular radio host, sharing his NBA insights and humor with listeners.

Birthyear: 1948

José Ortega y Gasset

José Ortega y Gasset was a prominent Spanish philosopher, author, and critic. Born in 1883, he was a key figure in the Generation of '98 and wrote influential works like "The Revolt of the Masses" and "Man and People." He died in 1955, leaving a lasting impact on 20th-century philosophy.

Birthyear: 1883

Vince Cable

Vince Cable, a British economist and politician, served as Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills from 2010 to 2015. He was the Leader of the Liberal Democrats from 2017 to 2019. Cable is known for his outspoken views on economics, trade, and Brexit.

Birthyear: 1943

Tommy Edman

Tommy Edman is an American professional baseball utility player for the St. Louis Cardinals of Major League Baseball (MLB). A versatile player, he has played every position except pitcher and catcher, and was an All-Star in 2021.

Birthyear: 1995

Anton Cermak

Anton Cermak was a Czech-American captain and politician who served as the 44th Mayor of Chicago from 1931 until his assassination in 1933. A Democrat, he was known for his progressive policies, including infrastructure development and social reform.

Birthyear: 1873

Pancho Gonzales

Pancho Gonzales, a tennis legend, dominated the sport in the 1940s and 1950s, winning 17 Grand Slam titles, including eight US Open singles championships. Known for his powerful serve and volley, he was ranked number one in the world in 1952 and 1953.

Birthyear: 1928

Joy Harjo

Joy Harjo, a member of the Muscogee Nation, is a celebrated American poet, musician, playwright, and author. As the 23rd United States Poet Laureate, she is the first Native American to hold the position, known for her powerful and poignant works that explore identity, culture, and social justice.

Birthyear: 1951

Daniel Berrigan

Daniel Berrigan was a Jesuit priest, poet, and activist who protested the Vietnam War and nuclear proliferation. He was imprisoned for destroying draft records in the "Catonsville Nine" incident, inspiring nonviolent resistance and social justice movements.

Birthyear: 1921

Al-Adid

Al-Adid, the last Fatimid caliph, ruled Egypt from 1160 to 1171. He was a powerless figurehead, overshadowed by powerful viziers, and his reign marked the decline of the Fatimid dynasty, eventually succumbing to Saladin's Ayyubid dynasty.

Birthyear: 1151

Marek Jankulovski

Marek Jankulovski is a retired Czech footballer who played as a left-back or left midfielder. He represented the Czech Republic national team, earning 77 caps, and had a successful club career with clubs like Udinese, AC Milan, and Baník Ostrava.

Birthyear: 1977

Hao Haidong

Hao Haidong is a retired Chinese footballer who played as a striker, scoring 41 goals in 107 appearances for the China national team, making him the country's all-time leading scorer. He won the Asian Football Confederation's Best Player award in 2000.

Birthyear: 1970

Charles Simic

Charles Simić was a celebrated Serbian-American poet, translator, and editor. Born in 1938, he won the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1990 for "The World Doesn't End." Simić's unique blend of surrealism and dark humor earned him a distinctive voice in contemporary poetry, influencing generations of writers.

Birthyear: 1938

Richard Barthelmess

Richard Barthelmess was a renowned American actor, starring in over 40 films during the 1910s and 1920s. He was a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and was nominated for two Academy Awards during his illustrious career.

Birthyear: 1895

Ruth Kelly

Ruth Kelly is a British economist and politician who served as Secretary of State for Transport from 2004 to 2006. She was the first female Secretary of State for Transport and played a key role in shaping the UK's transport policy during her tenure.

Birthyear: 1968

Vance D. Brand

Vance D. Brand is a renowned American pilot, engineer, and astronaut who flew on four NASA missions, including Apollo-Soyuz Test Project, STS-4, STS-41-B, and STS-35. He logged over 746 hours in space and was inducted into the Astronaut Hall of Fame in 1997.

Birthyear: 1931

Nokie Edwards

Nokie Edwards (1935-2018) was an American guitarist and actor, best known as a founding member of The Ventures, a legendary instrumental rock band. His distinctive guitar playing style and arrangements significantly contributed to the band's success and iconic sound.

Birthyear: 1935

Grant Hackett

Grant Hackett is a renowned Australian swimmer, specializing in the individual medley and freestyle events. He is a dual Olympic gold medalist and won seven World Championship titles, earning him the reputation as one of Australia's most successful swimmers.

Birthyear: 1980