Famous people and celebrities born on May 8
Welcome to our celebration of remarkable individuals born on May 8! 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.
- 1753 Phillis Wheatley
Phillis Wheatley was the first African-American woman to publish a book of poetry.
- 1901 Gary Cooper
Iconic Hollywood actor of the Golden Age, known for his roles in classic Western films and winning two Academy Awards. He was one of the most popular actors of the mid-20th century.
- 1903 Fernandel
Fernandel was a renowned French actor and comedian famous for his distinctive horse-like facial expressions and memorable performances in the Don Camillo film series. He was one of France's most popular comedic actors during the mid-20th century, entertaining audiences for over four decades.
- 1908 Arturo de Córdova
Arturo de Córdova was a prominent Mexican actor who starred in numerous classic films during the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema, known for his charismatic screen presence and versatile acting skills.
- 1919 Lex Barker
American actor famous for portraying Tarzan in multiple films and starring in German Western adaptations of Karl May's novels. He was a prominent Hollywood actor during the 1940s and 1950s.
- 1921 Saul Bass
Legendary graphic designer and film title sequence pioneer who revolutionized visual communication in cinema and created iconic movie posters for directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Martin Scorsese.
- 1926 David Attenborough
A world-renowned British naturalist, broadcaster, and documentary filmmaker who has significantly contributed to public understanding of natural history and environmental conservation.
- 1926 Don Rickles
Don Rickles was a legendary American comedian renowned for his sharp, insult-based comedy style, who became an iconic figure in stand-up comedy and entertainment.
- 1932 Sonny Liston
Legendary heavyweight boxer known for his intimidating style and powerful punches, who was world heavyweight champion from 1962 to 1964.
- 1935 Salome Jens
American actress known for her work in film and television, with a career spanning several decades.
- 1938 Jean Giraud
Jean Giraud, also known as Moebius, was a legendary French comic book artist and illustrator who revolutionized the graphic novel and science fiction art. He co-founded the influential magazine Métal Hurlant and created iconic works like 'Blueberry' and 'The Incal'. His innovative style influenced generations of artists across comics, animation, and film design.
- 1940 Ricky Nelson
Iconic American rock and roll singer, actor, and musician who rose to fame through the TV show 'The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet' and later became a successful rock musician.
- 1941 James Mitchum
Robert Mitchum's elder son, an American actor known for continuing the family's acting legacy.
- 1944 Gary Glitter
Gary Glitter is a controversial British rock singer known for his glam rock hits in the 1970s, particularly 'Rock and Roll (Part 2)', but later infamous for serious criminal convictions.
- 1951 Chris Frantz
Influential American drummer and producer, founding member of the iconic bands Talking Heads and Tom Tom Club.
- 1951 Philip Bailey
Renowned American singer and musician, famous as a key member of the legendary funk and R&B band Earth, Wind & Fire.
- 1954 David Keith
David Keith is an accomplished American actor and director, best known for his memorable roles in 'An Officer and a Gentleman' and the Stephen King adaptation 'Firestarter'.
- 1959 Ronnie Lott
Hall of Fame NFL player who played as a defensive back for the San Francisco 49ers. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership, he was a key player in the team's success during the 1980s.
- 1963 Anthony Field
Australian actor and musician, best known as a member of The Wiggles children's music group.
- 1964 Melissa Gilbert
Melissa Gilbert is an iconic American actress best known for her role as Laura Ingalls Wilder in the beloved TV series 'Little House on the Prairie', which aired from 1974 to 1983. She was a child star who later became a television director and political activist.
- 1970 Luis Enrique
Legendary Spanish footballer who played for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, known for his exceptional technical skills and versatility on the field.
- 1975 Enrique Iglesias
Internationally renowned Spanish pop singer and heartthrob, son of legendary singer Julio Iglesias, who has achieved global success with multiple hit songs across multiple languages and genres.
- 1978 Josie Maran
Josie Maran is an American model and entrepreneur known for her eco-friendly beauty brand and sustainable cosmetics. She has been a prominent figure in the modeling industry and environmental advocacy.
- 1982 Christina Cole
Christina Cole is a prominent English actress known for her roles in television series and films, with notable performances in British productions.
- 1983 Elyes Gabel
British actor known for prominent roles in TV series 'Scorpion' and 'Game of Thrones', with a diverse acting career.
- 1983 Matt Willis
British singer and member of the pop rock band Busted, known for hit songs in the early 2000s.
- 1984 Martin Compston
Scottish actor known for his roles in 'Line of Duty' and 'The Nest', who also previously played professional football before focusing on acting.
- 1987 Aneurin Barnard
Welsh actor and singer known for roles in historical dramas and musicals, with notable performances in film and television.
- 1989 Nora Arnezeder
French singer and actress known for her multicultural background and debut in the film 'Paris 36' directed by Christophe Barratier. She studied dance and singing in Bali and has a unique heritage with Catholic, Austrian, and Jewish Egyptian roots.
What Is special about May 8?
Discover what makes May 8 a memorable date