Famous people and celebrities born on January 2
Welcome to our celebration of remarkable individuals born on January 2! On this day, we recognize the birth of various influential celebrities who have left their mark on the world. From acclaimed actors and musicians to groundbreaking athletes and leaders, explore the lives and achievements of those who share this special birthday. Join us in honoring these stars and discovering the impact they've made across diverse fields.
- 1886 Florence Lawrence
Silent screen actress (confidence) dies at 48
- 1900 William Haines
William Haines was a prominent American actor during the silent film era who later became a successful interior designer after leaving Hollywood. He was known for his distinctive personality and was one of the first openly gay actors in Hollywood.
- 1904 Sally Rand
Famous burlesque performer known for her provocative fan dance, Sally Rand was an iconic American entertainer who became a sensation during the Great Depression era.
- 1909 Barry Goldwater
Barry Goldwater was a prominent American conservative politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Arizona and was the Republican Party's presidential nominee in 1964. He was a key figure in the modern conservative movement and an influential voice in American politics during the mid-20th century.
- 1914 Kenny Clarke
Pioneering American jazz drummer who was a key figure in the development of bebop and modern jazz. He was a founding member of the influential Modern Jazz Quartet.
- 1915 John Hope Franklin
Renowned African American historian who significantly contributed to the understanding of African American history and was a pivotal scholar in the field of race relations in the United States.
- 1920 Isaac Asimov
Renowned Russian-American biochemist and science fiction author who wrote over 400 books and significantly influenced science communication and sci-fi literature. He was a prolific writer known for his Foundation series and pioneering works on robotics and artificial intelligence.
- 1922 Renata Tebaldi
Legendary Italian lyric soprano from Pesaro, widely considered one of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century.
- 1925 William J Crowe Jr
Distinguished American military leader who served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, playing a crucial role in US military strategy during the late Cold War era.
- 1927 Gino Marchetti NFL defensive end (Dallas Texans
Legendary NFL defensive end who played for the Baltimore Colts, known as one of the greatest players in the franchise's history and a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee.
- 1935 Giovanna Ralli
Renowned Italian actress who began her career at age seven and became a prominent leading lady in cinema, appearing in over 75 films and television shows, known for her versatility in dramatic roles.
- 1936 Roger Miller
Renowned American country music singer-songwriter, known for iconic hits like 'King of the Road' and 'Dang Me'. A Grammy Award winner who significantly influenced country and pop music in the 1960s.
- 1938 Ian Brady
Infamous Scottish serial killer who, along with Myra Hindley, committed horrific child murders in the 1960s, known as the Moors Murderers. Their sadistic crimes shocked the United Kingdom and became a symbol of pure evil.
- 1957 Joanna Pacula
Polish actress known for her roles in Hollywood films like 'Gorky Park' and 'Kiss', who gained international recognition in the 1980s and 1990s.
- 1959 Kirti Azad
Former Indian cricket player who transitioned into sports journalism, known for his insightful commentary and analysis of cricket.
- 1963 Edgar Martínez
Edgar Martínez is a legendary MLB designated hitter who spent his entire 18-year career with the Seattle Mariners, known for his exceptional batting skills and significant contribution to baseball history.
- 1964 Pernell Whitaker
Pernell Whitaker was an exceptional boxer widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive boxers in history. He won world titles in multiple weight classes and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006.
- 1965 Diane Lane in New York City
Acclaimed Hollywood actress known for her roles in films like 'Streets of Fire', 'Lonesome Dove', and numerous other critically acclaimed movies.
- 1967 Tia Carrere
Tia Carrere is a Hawaiian-born actress and singer known for her roles in 'Wayne's World' and 'True Lies', who has also won a Grammy Award for her music.
- 1967 Jón Gnarr
Jón Gnarr is an Icelandic comedian, writer, and former politician who served as the mayor of Reykjavik from 2010 to 2014, known for his unconventional political approach.
- 1968 Cuba Gooding, Jr.
Cuba Gooding Jr. is an Oscar-winning American actor known for his powerful performances in iconic films like Jerry Maguire and Boyz n the Hood, which established him as a prominent Hollywood talent.
- 1969 Patrick Huard
Canadian actor and screenwriter known for his comedic roles in Quebec cinema and television.
- 1969 Christy Turlington
Renowned American supermodel and humanitarian, famous for her work with major fashion brands and global maternal health advocacy.
- 1971 Taye Diggs
Taye Diggs is a prominent African American actor known for his versatile roles in film, television, and theater, including notable performances in 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back' and the Broadway musical 'Rent'.
- 1971 Renee Elise Goldsberry
Renee Elise Goldsberry is an acclaimed Broadway and television actress, best known for her Tony Award-winning role as Angelica Schuyler in the groundbreaking musical 'Hamilton'.
- 1973 Lucy Davis
English actress known for her roles in comedy series and films, particularly famous for her performance in the original British version of 'The Office' and the movie 'Shaun of the Dead'.
- 1975 Dax Shepard
Dax Shepard is an American actor, comedian, and podcast host known for his comedic roles in television and film, including the TV series Parenthood and movies like Without a Paddle and Employee of the Month.
- 1982 Dustin Clare
Dustin Clare is an Australian actor known for his prominent roles in television series like Spartacus: Gods of the Arena and McLeod's Daughters, establishing himself in the Australian entertainment industry.
- 1983 Kate Bosworth
Kate Bosworth is an accomplished American actress known for her roles in films like 'Blue Crush' and 'Superman Returns'. She gained early recognition for her performances in 'Remember the Titans' and 'Wonderland', establishing herself as a versatile Hollywood talent.
- 1991 Jasmine Tookes
Jasmine Tookes is a prominent American fashion model who has walked for major brands and was a Victoria's Secret Angel from 2015 to 2021, representing one of the most prestigious modeling platforms globally.
What Is special about January 2?
Discover what makes January 2 a memorable date