Famous people born on April 24th
April 24 brings together a striking range of innovators and crowd-pleasers, from world-changing musicians and actors to influential writers and visual artists. The day also features major figures in politics, sport, and intellectual life, reflecting how creativity and leadership can take many forms. Whether your interests lean toward galleries, stadiums, or the stage, this date offers plenty to explore.
Notable highlights
- Barbra Streisand (1942) - A rare EGOT winner whose singing, acting, and directing helped redefine what a pop superstar could be.
- Shirley MacLaine (1934) - An Oscar-winning actor celebrated for balancing sharp comedy with emotionally fearless performances.
- Bridget Riley (1931) - A leading figure in Op Art, known for optical illusions that make color and geometry seem to vibrate.
- Sachin Tendulkar (1973) - Revered as one of cricket's greatest batters, carrying India’s expectations across a record-setting career.
- Anthony Trollope (1815) - A Victorian master of the social novel, famed for richly observed characters and institutional satire.
- Willem de Kooning (1904) - A pivotal Abstract Expressionist whose energetic brushwork bridged figuration and abstraction.
- Tony Visconti (1944) - A producer and musician closely associated with David Bowie, shaping the sound of multiple rock eras.
- Kelly Clarkson (1982) - A powerhouse vocalist whose pop hits and live performances showcased her versatility and range.
- Benjamin Whorf (1897) - A linguist known for the idea that language influences habitual thought, often discussed as linguistic relativity.
- Richard Donner (1930) - A blockbuster director behind landmark crowd-pleasers, helping set the modern template for superhero and action films.
On this day
- 1800 - The Library of Congress is established by an act of the U.S. Congress, laying the foundation for a national research library.
- 1916 - The Easter Rising begins in Dublin, a pivotal rebellion that accelerated Ireland's push toward independence.
- 1990 - NASA launches the Hubble Space Telescope, transforming astronomy with unprecedented images and discoveries.
- 2005 - Joseph Ratzinger is inaugurated as Pope Benedict XVI, beginning a papacy marked by theological focus and global attention.