Famous people born on September 20th

September 20 brings together a notably wide-ranging set of birthdays, spanning literature, film, music, sport, philosophy, and public life. The day features creators who shaped popular culture alongside thinkers and reformers who influenced how people debate society and policy. From early-20th-century arts innovators to contemporary entertainers and activists, the lineup reflects both global reach and genre-bending variety.

Notable highlights

• Upton Sinclair (1878) - His novel The Jungle helped spur major U.S. food-safety reforms by exposing conditions in the meatpacking industry.
• Sophia Loren (1934) - An enduring symbol of Italian cinema, she became one of the most internationally celebrated actors of the postwar era.
• Guy Lafleur (1951) - A hockey icon nicknamed "The Flower", he defined an era of speed and scoring for the Montreal Canadiens.
• Nuno Bettencourt (1966) - The Extreme guitarist is known for technically dazzling riffs, especially the breakout hit "More Than Words".
• Stevie Smith (1902) - Her poem "Not Waving but Drowning" remains a modern classic for its dark wit and emotional clarity.
• Joyce Brothers (1927) - A pioneering media psychologist, she brought mental-health discussions into mainstream American television and radio.
• Namie Amuro (1977) - A defining J-pop superstar whose style and sound influenced a generation of Japanese pop culture.
• Van Jones (1968) - An activist and commentator known for blending climate, criminal-justice, and civic engagement themes in public debate.
• Red Auerbach (1917) - The legendary Boston Celtics coach and executive helped build one of basketball's most dominant dynasties.
• Jelly Roll Morton (1885) - A key early jazz composer and bandleader, he helped codify New Orleans styles for wider audiences.

On this day

• 1870 - Italian forces entered Rome, completing the process that made Rome the capital of a unified Italy.
• 1946 - The first Cannes Film Festival concluded, marking the start of what would become one of cinema's most prestigious annual events.
• 1973 - The "Battle of the Sexes" tennis match saw Billie Jean King defeat Bobby Riggs, becoming a landmark moment for women's sports and gender equality.
• 2001 - In the wake of the September 11 attacks, U.S. President George W. Bush delivered a major address to Congress outlining the response to terrorism.