June 28 has seen the birth of many notable individuals across various fields including entertainment, business, politics, and academia. This article highlights the lives and achievements of celebrities born on this date, providing an in-depth look at their contributions to their respective industries and their impact on the world. From legendary entertainers like Mel Brooks to influential business figures like Elon Musk, June 28 has given us a diverse array of talent.
23 Famous People Born on June 28
1. Mel Brooks (1926)
Born Melvin Kaminsky on June 28, 1926, Mel Brooks is a legendary American filmmaker, actor, comedian, and composer. He is best known for his satirical comedies such as Blazing Saddles (1974), Young Frankenstein (1974), and The Producers (1967). Brooks’ unique blend of slapstick and parody has made him one of the most influential figures in comedy.
Brooks’ career began in television, where he co-created the hit series Get Smart (1965-1970). His transition to film was marked by a series of groundbreaking comedies that often pushed the boundaries of taste and humor. Brooks has won multiple awards, including an Academy Award, Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, and Tony Awards, making him one of the few entertainers to achieve the EGOT status.
2. Elon Musk (1971)
Elon Musk, born on June 28, 1971, in Pretoria, South Africa, is a billionaire entrepreneur and engineer known for founding and leading several high-profile technology companies. As the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Musk has been at the forefront of innovation in space exploration and electric vehicles. He also co-founded Neuralink, The Boring Company, and was instrumental in the development of PayPal.
Musk’s vision for the future includes ambitious goals such as colonizing Mars, creating sustainable energy solutions, and developing human-AI integration. His achievements have earned him numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the most influential and controversial figures in technology and business.
3. John Cusack (1966)
John Cusack, born on June 28, 1966, in Evanston, Illinois, is an American actor, producer, and screenwriter. He gained prominence in the 1980s with roles in films like Say Anything… (1989) and Better Off Dead (1985). Cusack has since built a diverse career with performances in movies such as Grosse Pointe Blank (1997), Being John Malkovich (1999), and High Fidelity (2000).
Cusack is known for his versatile acting skills and his ability to portray complex characters. His work spans a wide range of genres, from romantic comedies to psychological thrillers, showcasing his breadth as an actor.
4. Kathy Bates (1948)
Kathy Bates, born on June 28, 1948, in Memphis, Tennessee, is an acclaimed American actress and director. She is best known for her role as Annie Wilkes in Misery (1990), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. Bates has also delivered memorable performances in films such as Fried Green Tomatoes (1991), Titanic (1997), and About Schmidt (2002).
In addition to her film work, Bates has had a successful career in television, earning multiple Emmy Awards for her roles in series like American Horror Story and Harry’s Law. She is celebrated for her powerful performances and her contributions to both film and television.
5. Kellie Pickler (1986)
Kellie Pickler, born on June 28, 1986, in Albemarle, North Carolina, is an American country music artist and television personality. She first gained fame as a contestant on the fifth season of American Idol in 2006, where she finished in sixth place. Pickler’s debut album, Small Town Girl (2006), was certified gold and produced several hit singles.
Pickler has released multiple albums and has won numerous awards for her music, including three CMT Music Awards. She has also ventured into television, co-hosting the talk show Pickler & Ben and winning the sixteenth season of Dancing with the Stars.
6. Alessandro Nivola (1972)
Alessandro Nivola, born on June 28, 1972, in Boston, Massachusetts, is an American actor and producer. He has appeared in numerous films, including Face/Off (1997), American Hustle (2013), and Disobedience (2017). Nivola’s performances have earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations.
Nivola is known for his ability to bring depth and nuance to his roles, whether playing a villain or a sympathetic character. His work in both independent and mainstream films has showcased his versatility and talent as an actor.
7. Camille Guaty (1978)
Camille Guaty, born on June 28, 1978, in Sunnyvale, California, is an American actress known for her roles in television series such as Prison Break, Las Vegas, and Scorpion. She has also appeared in films like Ghosts of Girlfriends Past (2009) and Gotta Kick It Up! (2002).
Guaty’s diverse acting portfolio spans various genres, from drama to comedy, and she is recognized for her engaging and dynamic performances. Her work in television has made her a familiar face to audiences and a respected actress in the industry.
See also: 20 Famous People Born May 28 You May Not Know
8. John Albert Elway Jr. (1960)
John Albert Elway Jr., born on June 28, 1960, in Port Angeles, Washington, is a former professional American football quarterback and executive. He played his entire 16-year career with the Denver Broncos in the NFL, leading the team to two Super Bowl victories in 1998 and 1999.
Elway is regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, known for his powerful arm and clutch performances. After retiring as a player, he became an executive with the Broncos, helping to build the team that won Super Bowl 50. Elway’s legacy in football is marked by his achievements on and off the field.
9. Mary Stuart Masterson (1966)
Mary Stuart Masterson, born on June 28, 1966, in New York City, is an American actress and director. She is best known for her roles in films like Some Kind of Wonderful (1987), Fried Green Tomatoes (1991), and Benny & Joon (1993). Masterson has received critical acclaim for her performances and has been nominated for multiple awards.
In addition to her acting career, Masterson has directed several films and television episodes. She is celebrated for her talent and versatility, both in front of and behind the camera.
10. Bruce Davison (1946)
Bruce Davison, born on June 28, 1946, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an American actor and director. He gained recognition for his role in Longtime Companion (1989), for which he received an Academy Award nomination. Davison has also appeared in films such as X-Men (2000) and Runaway Jury (2003).
Davison’s career spans over five decades, and he is known for his ability to portray a wide range of characters. His work in film, television, and theater has earned him numerous awards and accolades.
11. Felicia Day (1979)
Felicia Day, born on June 28, 1979, in Huntsville, Alabama, is an American actress, writer, and web series creator. She is best known for her work in the web series The Guild (2007-2013), which she created, wrote, and starred in. Day has also appeared in television series such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural.
Day is a pioneer in the digital entertainment space, and her work has been influential in the growth of web series and online content. She is also an advocate for geek culture and has written several books on the subject.
12. Jessica Hecht (1965)
Jessica Hecht, born on June 28, 1965, in Princeton, New Jersey, is an American actress known for her roles in television, film, and theater. She is best known for her recurring role as Susan Bunch on the hit sitcom Friends and for her performances in films such as Dan in Real Life (2007) and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019).
Hecht’s work in theater has also been highly acclaimed, earning her Tony Award nominations for her performances in A View from the Bridge and The Price. She is celebrated for her versatility and depth as an actress.
13. Richard Rodgers (1902)
Richard Rodgers, born on June 28, 1902, in New York City, was an American composer known for his significant contributions to musical theater. He is best remembered for his partnerships with lyricists Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein II. Together with Hammerstein, he created some of the most beloved musicals of all time, including Oklahoma! (1943), The Sound of Music (1959), and South Pacific (1949).
Rodgers’ work has had a profound impact on the world of musical theater, and his compositions continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide. He was the first person to achieve the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards), solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest composers in American history.
14. Aileen Quinn (1971)
Aileen Quinn, born on June 28, 1971, in Yardley, Pennsylvania, is an American actress, singer, and dancer best known for her role as Annie in the 1982 film adaptation of the Broadway musical Annie. Her performance as the red-haired orphan won her widespread acclaim and made her a household name.
Quinn’s portrayal of Annie remains iconic, and she has continued to work in theater and film over the years. She also pursued a career in music, releasing albums and performing in various musical productions.
15. Carl Levin (1934)
Carl Levin, born on June 28, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, was an American politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Michigan from 1979 to 2015. As a member of the Democratic Party, Levin was known for his work on defense and military issues, serving as the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee.
Levin’s long and distinguished career in public service was marked by his commitment to transparency, accountability, and bipartisanship. He was widely respected for his integrity and dedication to his constituents.
16. Danielle Brisebois (1969)
Danielle Brisebois, born on June 28, 1969, in Brooklyn, New York, is an American actress, singer, and songwriter. She began her career as a child actress, starring in the television series All in the Family and its spin-off Archie Bunker’s Place. Brisebois later transitioned to a music career, becoming a successful songwriter and producer.
Brisebois co-wrote several hit songs, including “Unwritten” and “Pocketful of Sunshine,” which were performed by Natasha Bedingfield. Her contributions to music have earned her Grammy nominations and widespread recognition.
17. Gil Bellows (1967)
Gil Bellows, born on June 28, 1967, in Vancouver, British Columbia, is a Canadian actor known for his roles in television and film. He is best known for his role as Billy Thomas on the television series Ally McBeal and for his performances in films such as The Shawshank Redemption (1994) and Love and a .45 (1994).
Bellows has had a diverse acting career, appearing in a variety of genres and earning acclaim for his versatility and depth as an actor. He has also worked as a director and producer, contributing to the entertainment industry in multiple capacities.
18. Leon Panetta (1938)
Leon Panetta, born on June 28, 1938, in Monterey, California, is an American politician and government official who has held several high-profile positions, including Secretary of Defense, Director of the CIA, and White House Chief of Staff. Panetta’s career in public service spans over five decades and is marked by his expertise in national security and defense.
Panetta played a crucial role in significant events such as the operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. His leadership and experience have made him a respected figure in American politics and government.
19. Muhammad Yunus (1940)
Muhammad Yunus, born on June 28, 1940, in Chittagong, Bangladesh, is an economist and social entrepreneur best known for founding Grameen Bank and pioneering the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. Yunus’ innovative approach to providing financial services to the poor has helped millions of people lift themselves out of poverty.
Yunus was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts to create economic and social development from below. His work has had a transformative impact on communities around the world and has inspired a global movement for financial inclusion.
20. Tichina Arnold (1969)
Tichina Arnold, born on June 28, 1969, in Queens, New York, is an American actress and singer best known for her roles in television series such as Martin, Everybody Hates Chris, and The Neighborhood. Arnold’s comedic talent and vibrant personality have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
In addition to her acting career, Arnold is also a singer and has performed in various musical productions. Her versatility and talent have earned her numerous awards and accolades.
21. Ayelet Zurer (1969)
Ayelet Zurer, born on June 28, 1969, in Tel Aviv, Israel, is an Israeli actress known for her roles in international films and television series. She has appeared in movies such as Munich (2005), Angels & Demons (2009), and Man of Steel (2013). Zurer’s performances have garnered critical acclaim and established her as a prominent actress in both Israeli and international cinema.
Zurer’s ability to portray complex characters with depth and nuance has earned her recognition and awards in her home country and abroad. She continues to be a significant figure in the entertainment industry.
22. Benito Martinez (1971)
Benito Martinez, born on June 28, 1971, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an American actor best known for his role as David Aceveda on the television series The Shield. Martinez has also appeared in shows such as Sons of Anarchy and 13 Reasons Why, as well as films like Million Dollar Baby (2004).
Martinez’s performances are characterized by his intensity and authenticity, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. His work in both television and film has showcased his range and talent as an actor.
23. Chayanne (1968)
Chayanne, born Elmer Figueroa Arce on June 28, 1968, in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, is a Puerto Rican singer, actor, and composer. He is one of the most popular Latin music artists, known for his romantic ballads and energetic performances. Chayanne has released numerous albums and has sold millions of records worldwide.
In addition to his music career, Chayanne has also acted in telenovelas and films, further cementing his status as a versatile and beloved entertainer. His contributions to Latin music and entertainment have earned him numerous awards and accolades.
Conclusion
June 28 has given us an impressive array of talent across various fields, from entertainment and sports to politics and social entrepreneurship. The individuals born on this date have made significant contributions to their respective industries and have left a lasting impact on the world. Their achievements and legacies continue to inspire and influence future generations. Reflecting on the lives and careers of these notable figures, we can appreciate the diverse talents and accomplishments that have emerged from this single day in history.