Every day of the year marks the birth of remarkable individuals who have made significant impacts in various fields. August 15 is no exception. From entertainment to sports, technology to politics, several notable figures celebrate their birthdays on this day. Here’s a look at 17 celebrities born on August 15 that you may not know, highlighting their contributions and achievements.
17 Famous People Born on August 15
1. Stieg Larsson (August 15, 1954, Skelleftehamn, Sweden)
Stieg Larsson was born in Skelleftehamn, Sweden, and is best known as the author of the internationally acclaimed “Millennium” series, which includes “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” Larsson was also an investigative journalist who co-founded the anti-racist magazine Expo. His work often focused on exposing right-wing extremism, and though his life was cut short at 50, his literary legacy continues to thrive, with over 80 million copies of his books sold worldwide. Larsson’s work has been adapted into multiple films, further cementing his influence in popular culture.
2. Željko Ivanek (August 15, 1957, Ljubljana, Slovenia)
Željko Ivanek was born in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and is a talented actor known for his versatile roles in film, television, and theater. Ivanek has appeared in popular TV shows like Damages, The Mentalist, and Suits. His portrayal of Ray Fiske in Damages earned him an Emmy Award, showcasing his ability to bring complex characters to life. Ivanek’s work extends to the stage, where he has performed in numerous Broadway productions, earning critical acclaim for his dramatic roles.
3. Rondell Sheridan (August 15, 1958, Chicago, Illinois, USA)
Rondell Sheridan was born in Chicago, Illinois, and is a comedian, actor, and director best known for his role as Victor Baxter in the Disney Channel’s That’s So Raven and its spin-off Cory in the House. Sheridan’s comedic timing and fatherly charm made him a beloved figure among young audiences. Beyond his work on television, Sheridan is also an accomplished stand-up comedian, performing across the United States and making appearances on various talk shows.
4. Scott D. Altman (August 15, 1959, Lincoln, Illinois, USA)
Scott D. Altman was born in Lincoln, Illinois, and is a former NASA astronaut and retired United States Navy captain. Altman has flown on four Space Shuttle missions, including as the commander of STS-125, the final servicing mission to the Hubble Space Telescope. His contributions to space exploration are significant, with over 51 days spent in space. Altman’s achievements extend beyond his astronaut career; he is also a test pilot and engineer, recognized for his dedication to advancing aerospace technology.
5. Gary Kubiak (August 15, 1961, Houston, Texas, USA)
Gary Kubiak
Gary Kubiak was born in Houston, Texas, and is a former NFL player and coach. Kubiak served as the head coach of the Denver Broncos, leading the team to victory in Super Bowl 50. His coaching career is marked by his offensive expertise and ability to develop strong, winning teams. Before coaching, Kubiak was a quarterback for the Broncos, spending his entire playing career with the team. His transition from player to coach has been seamless, earning him respect throughout the NFL.
6. Bubby Brister (August 15, 1962, Alexandria, Louisiana, USA)
Bubby Brister was born in Alexandria, Louisiana, and is a former NFL quarterback. Brister played for several teams during his career, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Denver Broncos. Known for his strong arm and leadership on the field, Brister contributed to the Broncos’ Super Bowl victories in the late 1990s. After retiring from football, Brister became a successful sports commentator, sharing his insights and experiences with fans.
7. Melinda Gates (August 15, 1964, Dallas, Texas, USA)
Melinda Gates was born in Dallas, Texas, and is a philanthropist, businesswoman, and global advocate for women and girls. As the co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation’s global health and education initiatives. Gates is also an outspoken advocate for gender equality, focusing on empowering women through education and economic opportunities. Her book, The Moment of Lift, discusses the importance of elevating women to change the world.
8. Ben Affleck (August 15, 1972, Berkeley, California, USA)
Ben Affleck was born in Berkeley, California, and is an acclaimed actor, director, and screenwriter. Affleck gained widespread recognition for his roles in Good Will Hunting, Argo, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. He won two Academy Awards—Best Original Screenplay for Good Will Hunting and Best Picture for Argo. Beyond his acting career, Affleck is also known for his humanitarian work, particularly his efforts to help those affected by the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
9. Marcus Jones (August 15, 1973, Jacksonville, North Carolina, USA)
Marcus Jones was born in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and is a former NFL defensive end and current professional mixed martial artist. Jones played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he was known for his strength and agility on the field. After retiring from football, Jones transitioned to mixed martial arts, competing in The Ultimate Fighter reality show. His unique journey from NFL player to MMA fighter showcases his versatility and determination in the world of sports.
10. Abiy Ahmed (August 15, 1976, Beshasha, Ethiopia)
Abiy Ahmed
Abiy Ahmed was born in Beshasha, Ethiopia, and is the current Prime Minister of Ethiopia. Ahmed is credited with implementing significant political and economic reforms in Ethiopia, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for his efforts to resolve the border conflict with Eritrea. Ahmed’s leadership has been characterized by his commitment to modernizing Ethiopia, promoting peace, and enhancing the country’s role in regional and international affairs.
11. Kerri Walsh Jennings (August 15, 1978, Santa Clara, California, USA)
Kerri Walsh Jennings was born in Santa Clara, California, and is a professional beach volleyball player. Walsh Jennings is a three-time Olympic gold medalist, winning her titles in 2004, 2008, and 2012 alongside her partner Misty May-Treanor. Known for her dominance on the sand, Walsh Jennings is considered one of the greatest beach volleyball players of all time. Her athletic achievements have made her a role model for aspiring athletes around the world.
12. Ailyn Pérez (August 15, 1979, Chicago, Illinois, USA)
Ailyn Pérez was born in Chicago, Illinois, and is an internationally renowned operatic soprano. Pérez has performed at some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House, and La Scala. Her powerful voice and emotional performances have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Pérez’s commitment to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences have made her a standout figure in the world of opera.
13. Nathalie Press (August 15, 1980, London, England, UK)
Nathalie Press was born in London, England, and is an award-winning actress known for her work in film and television. Press gained recognition for her role in My Summer of Love, for which she won several awards, including a BAFTA. Her performances are often marked by their depth and authenticity, making her a sought-after talent in the industry. Press continues to take on challenging roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
14. Brendan Hansen (August 15, 1981, Haverford Township, Pennsylvania, USA)
Brendan Hansen was born in Haverford Township, Pennsylvania, and is a former competitive swimmer and six-time Olympic medalist. Hansen specialized in breaststroke events, setting multiple world records during his career. His dedication to the sport and his ability to perform under pressure made him a key member of the U.S. swimming team. After retiring from competitive swimming, Hansen became a coach, helping to develop the next generation of swimmers.
15. Anita Sarkeesian (August 15, 1983, Ontario, Canada)
Anita Sarkeesian
Anita Sarkeesian was born in Ontario, Canada, and is a media critic, public speaker, and feminist activist. Sarkeesian is the founder of Feminist Frequency, a non-profit organization that critiques the portrayal of women in media and pop culture. Her work has sparked important conversations about gender representation in video games, film, and television. Sarkeesian’s activism has earned her numerous accolades, as well as a significant following among those advocating for gender equality.
16. Jennifer Lawrence (August 15, 1990, Indian Hills, Kentucky, USA)
Jennifer Lawrence was born in Indian Hills, Kentucky, and is one of Hollywood’s most acclaimed actresses. Lawrence gained fame for her roles in The Hunger Games series, Silver Linings Playbook, and American Hustle. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in Silver Linings Playbook, making her one of the youngest to achieve this honor. Lawrence is known for her down-to-earth personality and her commitment to various charitable causes, including advocating for equal pay in Hollywood.
see also: 21 Famous People Who Died on August 14 That You May Not Know
17. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (August 15, 1993, Portsmouth, England, UK)
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was born in Portsmouth, England, and is a professional footballer who has played for top clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and the England national team. Known for his speed, versatility, and technical skills, Oxlade-Chamberlain has contributed to his teams’ successes, including winning the UEFA Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool. His athleticism and dedication to the sport have made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in football.
Conclusion
August 15 marks the birth of many influential individuals across various fields, from literature and entertainment to sports and politics. These 17 celebrities, each with their unique contributions, highlight the diversity of talent and achievement that this day represents. Their accomplishments continue to inspire and impact people around the world, making August 15 a day to celebrate not only their birthdays but also their lasting legacies.
FAQs:
What is the birthday flower for August 15?
The birthday flower for August 15 is the Gladiolus, symbolizing strength of character, integrity, and sincerity.
What sign is August 15?
People born on August 15 fall under the zodiac sign of Leo.
What is the lucky number for birthdays on August 15?
The lucky number for those born on August 15 is 6.
What is the personality of August 15?
Individuals born on August 15 are often charismatic, confident, and natural leaders, with a strong sense of determination and a passion for creativity.