Famous people and celebrities born on June 17

Welcome to our celebration of remarkable individuals born on June 17! 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.

• 1890 Stan Laurel

  Stan laurel was a comedic actor best known for being one half of the famous duo laurel and hardy, known for their slapstick comedy films.

• 1904 Ralph Bellamy

  Renowned American actor with an extraordinary career spanning eight decades, performing in over 400 stage roles and 100 movies. He was a versatile performer who received an honorary Oscar in 1987 for his significant contributions to cinema.

• 1907 Charles Eames

  Iconic American designer who revolutionized mid-20th century architecture and furniture design, creating groundbreaking pieces that blended functionality, innovation, and aesthetic beauty.

• 1914 John Hersey

  John Hersey was a renowned American journalist and author, best known for his groundbreaking book 'Hiroshima', which provided a powerful and intimate account of the atomic bombing's human impact. He won the Pulitzer Prize and is considered a significant literary figure of the 20th century.

• 1929 James Shigeta

  American actor and singer of Asian descent, known for pioneering roles in Hollywood during the mid-20th century.

• 1932 Peter Lupus

  American actor and bodybuilder known for his role in the classic TV series 'Mission: Impossible' as Willy Armitage.

• 1936 Ken Loach

  Renowned British film director known for powerful social and political documentaries that critique societal inequalities. He has won numerous international awards, including the Palme d'Or at Cannes Film Festival.

• 1943 Newt Gingrich

  Prominent American politician who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives, known for his confrontational political style and significant role in Republican Party leadership during the 1990s.

• 1943 Barry Manilow

  Iconic American pop singer and songwriter who dominated the 1970s music scene, selling over 58 million records worldwide and achieving 25 consecutive Top 40 Billboard hits.

• 1945 Eddy Merckx

  Belgian professional cyclist widely considered the greatest cyclist of all time, who dominated road cycling in the late 1960s and early 1970s, winning multiple Tour de France titles and setting numerous records.

• 1951 Joe Piscopo

  American comedian and actor famous for his memorable Saturday Night Live performances in the 1980s, particularly his iconic impressions of Frank Sinatra and other celebrities. He was a prominent cast member during the show's golden era and also appeared in comedy films.

• 1954 Mark Linn-Baker

  American actor best known for his role as Larry Appleton in the popular sitcom 'Perfect Strangers' which aired from 1986 to 1993. He has also worked extensively in theater and as a director.

• 1957 Beth Moore

  Beth Moore is a prominent Christian author, speaker, and Bible teacher who has significantly influenced evangelical Christianity through her bestselling books and dynamic teaching ministry.

• 1957 Jon Gries

  Jon Gries is an accomplished American actor and producer known for his roles in films like 'Napoleon Dynamite' and television series such as 'Lost'.

• 1960 Thomas Haden Church

  Thomas Haden Church is an acclaimed American actor known for his versatile roles in critically acclaimed films like 'Sideways' and blockbuster movies like 'Spider-Man 3'.

• 1963 Greg Kinnear

  Greg Kinnear is an accomplished American actor known for his versatile roles in film and television. He gained popularity as the host of 'Talk Soup' and later transitioned to successful movie careers, earning Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for his performance in 'As Good as It Gets'.

• 1964 Michael Gross

  Legendary German Olympic swimmer known as 'the albatross' for his extraordinary physique. He won three Olympic gold medals in butterfly and freestyle events in 1984 and 1988, and two world championship titles in 1986 and 1991. Standing 201 cm tall with remarkable arm length, he was a dominant force in competitive swimming.

• 1964 Erin Murphy

  American actress best known for her childhood role in a popular television series. Her specific contributions and notable works would require further research.

• 1966 Jason Patric

  Jason Patric is an American actor known for his memorable roles in cult films like 'The Lost Boys' and the critically acclaimed drama 'Sleepers'.

• 1970 Will Forte

  Renowned American comedian, actor, and writer known for Saturday Night Live and comedic films like MacGruber.

• 1972 Thekla Reuten

  Thekla Reuten is a versatile Dutch actress known for her work in film and television, with a unique background as a former professional basketball player.

• 1973 Louis Leterrier

  French film director known for directing blockbuster action movies like 'The Incredible Hulk' and 'Clash of the Titans', with a significant career in Hollywood.

• 1975 Joshua Leonard

  American independent film actor, director, and screenwriter known for his work in documentary and indie films like 'The Blair Witch Project'.

• 1976 Scott Adkins

  Scott Adkins is a renowned English martial artist and action movie actor, famous for his incredible stunt work and roles in films like 'Undisputed' and 'The Expendables' series. He is widely recognized for his exceptional martial arts skills and dynamic on-screen performances.

• 1980 Venus Williams

  Venus Williams is a legendary American tennis player who revolutionized women's tennis with her powerful playing style and remarkable early success. She was a prodigy who defeated top players like Martina Hingis in her late teens, becoming a dominant force in professional tennis. Her powerful serve and athletic prowess made her one of the most influential athletes of her generation.

• 1983 Kazunari Ninomiya

  Kazunari Ninomiya is a prominent Japanese actor and singer, best known as a member of the popular boy band Arashi. He has successfully transitioned between music and acting, appearing in numerous films and television dramas.

• 1987 Kendrick Lamar

  Kendrick Lamar is a Grammy-winning rapper and songwriter from Compton, California, known for critically acclaimed albums like 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' and 'DAMN.', which explore complex social issues and personal experiences.

• 1991 Bresha Webb

  Bresha Webb is an accomplished American actress known for her comedic roles in television shows like 'Marlon' and 'Run the World', establishing herself in the entertainment industry.

• 1997 K.J. Apa

  New Zealand actor best known for his lead role as Archie Andrews in the popular teen drama series Riverdale, which significantly boosted his international recognition.

• 2010 Cristiano Ronaldo

  Professional footballer widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, playing for clubs like Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United. Five-time Ballon d'Or winner and global sports icon.