Celebrity Birthdays - May

Ray Stevenson was one of those actors who made every role bigger just by walking into the frame — a true scene-stealer with a commanding presence. Whether he was swinging a sword as Titus Pullo in Rome, wielding a hammer in Thor, or playing the Punisher with a glare that could stop traffic, Stevenson brought a rare mix of grit and charm to the screen. He had that old-school tough-guy energy, the kind that made you believe he could lead a legion into battle or drink you under the table — possibly both on the same day. His passing in 2023 was a real loss for fans of powerhouse performances, but his work lives on, larger than life, just like he was.

May 25, 1964, in Lisburn, Northern Ireland

May 21, 2023, in Ischia, Italy

Trivia

• Ray Stevenson initially pursued a career in interior design before deciding to become an actor in his late twenties.
• He was a graduate of the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, one of the most prestigious drama schools in the UK.
• Stevenson voiced the character of Gar Saxon in the animated series "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" and "Star Wars Rebels."
• He was known for his distinctive deep voice, which added gravitas to his performances.
• Stevenson was an advocate for animal rights and often supported related charities and initiatives.

Robert Pattinson went from sparkly vampire heartthrob in Twilight to brooding superhero in The Batman — proving he’s got more range than most of us gave him credit for. He’s done indie films, big-budget blockbusters, and just enough weird roles to keep critics guessing what he’ll do next. Whether he’s smoldering in a love triangle or glowering from behind the Bat-mask, Pattinson has perfected the art of looking like he hasn’t slept in three days… and somehow making it work.

May 13, 1986, in London, England

Trivia

• Robert Pattinson first gained major attention as Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.
• He learned to play piano and guitar, and even contributed songs to the Twilight soundtrack.
• Pattinson once worked as a model before his acting career took off.
• His performance in Good Time was widely praised and helped redefine his career.
• He became the ninth actor to play Batman in a major live-action film.

Melanie Lynskey is the queen of quietly stealing the show — and she’s been doing it since her breakout in Heavenly Creatures as a teenager. Over the years, she’s built a career playing complex, relatable, and often delightfully deadpan characters, from sitcoms like Two and a Half Men to scene-stealing roles in indie films and prestige TV. Most recently, she’s been blowing audiences away in Yellowjackets, proving that she can do dark, twisty drama just as well as comedy. Melanie has that rare ability to make you laugh, cry, and squirm — sometimes all in the same scene. Her birthday deserves cake, cozy pajamas, and maybe a suspiciously intense wilderness story or two.

May 16, 1977, in New Plymouth, New Zealand

Trivia

• Melanie Lynskey has maintained a close friendship with her "Heavenly Creatures" co-star Kate Winslet since they filmed together as teenagers.
• She is married to actor Jason Ritter, and they have a daughter together. The couple is known for their low-key, private lifestyle.
• Lynskey is a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and body positivity, using her platform to support and encourage others.

He’s the kind of guy who can whisper a love song, snap his fingers, and suddenly you’re either slow dancing in your kitchen or questioning your life choices on a crowded dance floor. Enrique Iglesias didn’t just build a career—he built a mood. One minute it’s romance, the next it’s a full-blown party, and somehow he makes both feel like the natural order of things. Not many artists can convincingly say, “I will serenade you… and then immediately hand you off to the DJ version of me,” but Enrique has been pulling that off for decades.

May 8, 1975, in Madrid, Spain

Trivia

• Son of legendary singer Julio Iglesias.
• Released his debut album in 1995.
• Has sold over 100 million records worldwide.
• Known for hits like “Hero,” “Escape,” and “Bailamos.”
• Holds the record for most No. 1 songs on Billboard’s Hot Latin chart.
• Won numerous awards, including Grammy and Latin Grammy honors.
• Began his career using a pseudonym to avoid family influence.
• Longtime partner of Anna Kournikova since 2001.
• Successfully records in both English and Spanish.

Pierce Brosnan has been the gold standard for suave ever since he first ordered a martini shaken, not stirred, as James Bond. With his perfectly tailored suits, charming smile, and knack for action, he carried the Bond franchise through the ‘90s with style to spare. But Brosnan isn’t just about spy games — he’s also shown off his romantic side in films like Mamma Mia! (yes, we forgive the singing) and his dramatic chops in everything from thrillers to indie films. He’s the rare actor who can save the world, crack a joke, and make it all look effortless. His birthday deserves a celebration with tuxedos, cocktails, and maybe a dramatic slow walk away from an explosion — just for old times’ sake.

May 16, 1953, in Drogheda, Ireland

Trivia

• Pierce Brosnan was trained as a commercial artist before pursuing acting, a skill he still practices today.
• He received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003 for his outstanding contribution to the British film industry.
• Brosnan lost his first wife, Cassandra Harris, to ovarian cancer in 1991 and has been a vocal advocate for cancer research since.
• He is the father of five children and has blended his family with his second wife, journalist Keely Shaye Smith, whom he married in 2001.

Some musicians need elaborate stage setups, backup dancers, and a small army of production staff. Billy Joel can sit down at a piano, crack a smile, and suddenly you’re part of a singalong whether you planned it or not. He’s the kind of performer who makes it look easy—like writing timeless hits and filling arenas is just something you do between lunch and dinner. And let’s be honest, if there’s a piano in the room and Billy Joel’s nearby, everyone’s secretly hoping he’ll wander over, sit down, and turn the night into a concert.

Born May 9, 1949, in New York City

Trivia

• Known as “The Piano Man” after his hit song from Piano Man
• Released the classic album The Stranger
• Won multiple Grammy Awards throughout his career
• Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1999
• Known for hits like “Uptown Girl” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire”
• Held a long-running residency at Madison Square Garden
• Stopped releasing pop albums after 1993 but continues to perform live

There are comedians who gently stroll into Hollywood, and then there’s Jamie Kennedy — a man who arrived like somebody who drank three energy drinks, memorized every horror movie ever made, and decided embarrassment was merely a suggestion. Whether he’s dodging masked killers in Scream, pulling outrageous pranks on unsuspecting people, or proudly leaning into over-the-top comedy, Kennedy built a career on being loud, fearless, and just unpredictable enough to keep audiences wondering what he’ll do next. Somewhere between stand-up comedy, sketch shows, and cult comedy films, Jamie Kennedy became one of those instantly recognizable faces from late-1990s and early-2000s entertainment. And honestly, once you’ve heard Randy Meeks explain the rules of horror movies, you never quite forget it.

May 25, 1970, in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania

Trivia

• Jamie Kennedy became famous playing Randy Meeks in the Scream films.
• Kennedy hosted The Jamie Kennedy Experiment from 2002 to 2004.
• He briefly dated actress Jennifer Love Hewitt.
• He appeared as an extra in Dead Poets Society early in his career.
• Malibu’s Most Wanted became a cult comedy favorite.
• Kennedy has worked as an actor, producer, writer, and stand-up comedian.
• He released a rap album titled Blowin’ Up in 2006.
• He continues touring as a stand-up comedian.

Sean Gunn is one of those actors who seems to pop up everywhere — and somehow steals every scene he’s in. Fans first fell for him as the delightfully oddball Kirk on Gilmore Girls, where he managed to have about 62 different jobs in a single small town. More recently, he’s become a key player in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, both as Kraglin and the on-set performer behind Rocket Raccoon — yes, that means he helped bring everyone’s favorite trash panda to life. Sean’s mix of humor, heart, and just a touch of weirdness makes him one of Hollywood’s most lovable chameleons. His birthday should be celebrated with confetti, cake, and maybe a surprise job change halfway through the party — Kirk-style.

May 22, 1974, in St. Louis, MO

Trivia

• Sean Gunn's life is filled with interesting trivia. Did you know he is the youngest of six siblings, all of whom have pursued creative careers? Another fun fact is that Sean initially pursued a career in theater, studying at The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago, where he honed his acting skills before transitioning to television and film.
• Sean is also known for his improvisational skills, which he often showcased on "Gilmore Girls." His ability to think on his feet and bring spontaneous humor to his roles has endeared him to fans and colleagues alike.
• In addition to his acting career, Sean is an advocate for mental health awareness and often speaks about the importance of mental well-being. His openness about his own experiences has helped to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage others to seek support.

Brec Bassinger is living proof that superheroes don’t always wear capes — sometimes they rock cosmic staffs and teenage sass. Best known for leading the charge in DC’s Stargirl, Brec brought Courtney Whitmore to life with just the right mix of optimism, humor, and “don’t-mess-with-me” attitude. She’s also popped up in plenty of other shows, but it’s her turn as the star-spangled hero that made her a favorite for fans of teen heroes and nostalgic comic book lovers alike. Off-screen, Brec is as bubbly and approachable as her character, sharing glimpses of her life with fans and proving that you can be both a superhero and someone you’d want to hang out with at a diner. If birthdays are about shining bright, Brec’s is practically a firework display.

May 25, 1999, in Saginaw, Texas

Trivia

• Brec Bassinger's middle name is Marie.
• She initially moved to Los Angeles with her mother to pursue her acting career, while her father and brothers stayed in Texas.
• Bassinger is a big fan of Harry Potter and often references the series in her social media posts.
• She has two older brothers, Beric and Brice, and is very close to her family.

Some actors ease into Hollywood. Alexander Ludwig showed up swinging—literally. Whether he’s charging into battle, surviving dystopian chaos, or just looking like he was born to wear armor in slow motion, Ludwig has built a career out of playing characters who don’t exactly tiptoe through life. Subtle? Not always. Memorable? Every time.

May 7, 1992, in Vancouver, Canada

Trivia

• Played Cato in The Hunger Games (2012)
• Starred as Bjorn Ironside in Vikings
• Appeared in Lone Survivor (2013)
• Began acting as a child
• Also a country music artist
• Studied at the University of Southern California
• Known for physically demanding roles

If growing up on television were a sport, Jamie-Lynn Sigler would’ve been drafted straight into the big leagues and told, “Good luck, kid—your TV dad is a mob boss.” While most teens were worrying about homework and curfews, she was navigating family dinners where one wrong sentence might get you that look from Tony. And somehow, through all the tension, drama, and emotionally charged standoffs, she managed to make Meadow feel like the most normal person in the room—which, considering the company, is about as impressive as defusing a bomb while arguing about college tuition.

May 15, 1981, in Jericho, New York

Trivia

• She played Meadow Soprano for the show’s entire six-season run.
• She trained in musical theater before transitioning to television.
• She released a pop album titled Here to Heaven in 2001.
• She revealed her diagnosis with Multiple Sclerosis in 2016.
• She has appeared in shows like Entourage and Ugly Betty.
• She has co-hosted a podcast revisiting The Sopranos.
• She has performed on stage in addition to film and TV work.

If honesty were a competitive sport, Lily Allen would have a trophy cabinet the size of Buckingham Palace—and she’d probably write a cheeky song about how she got it. Armed with sharp wit, zero filter, and a knack for turning life’s messiest moments into catchy tunes, she’s the kind of artist who says what everyone else is thinking… but with better rhymes and a proper London accent.

May 2, 1985, in London, England

Trivia

• She first gained fame by posting music on MySpace.
• Her debut single “Smile” hit number one in the UK.
• She has released five studio albums across her career.
• She has won multiple awards, including BRIT and Ivor Novello awards.
• She wrote a candid memoir titled My Thoughts Exactly.
• She earned an Olivier Award nomination for her stage acting.
• Her music blends pop with ska and reggae influences.

Engelbert Humperdinck sounds less like a pop star and more like a man who owns a castle and insists on proper table manners—but then he opens his mouth to sing, and suddenly the room melts. He’s been charming audiences for decades with a voice smoother than a well-aged Scotch and a name you don’t forget, even if you can’t quite believe it’s real.

May 2, 1936, in Madras (now Chennai), India

Trivia

• His hit “Release Me” famously outsold The Beatles in the UK charts in 1967.
• He is known for romantic ballads and a smooth vocal style.
• He has sold tens of millions of records worldwide.
• He has performed extensively in Las Vegas.
• He represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012.
• His stage name comes from a German composer.

Not every actor gets to glide from period dramas to political intrigue with the ease of someone changing coats, but Polly Walker makes it look suspiciously simple. One moment she’s commanding attention in a corseted drawing room, the next she’s navigating power plays with a raised eyebrow and a perfectly timed line. It’s the kind of career that quietly says, “Yes, I know exactly what I’m doing,” and then proves it over and over again.

May 19, 1966, in Warrington, England

Trivia

• Studied at the Drama Centre London
• Appeared in Patriot Games with Harrison Ford
• Earned a Golden Globe nomination for Rome
• Played Atia of the Julii, one of television’s most memorable historical characters
• Stars as Portia Featherington in Bridgerton
• Has worked extensively in both film and television

While most teenagers are busy figuring out how to tune one guitar and maybe impress someone at a school dance, Mike Oldfield was off in a corner quietly assembling a full-blown musical universe like a man building a cathedral out of sound. No lyrics, no flashy gimmicks—just layer after layer of instruments, all played by the same fellow who probably didn’t even look up when history knocked on the door. Somewhere out there, a drummer is still waiting for his cue… and Mike already recorded the whole album without him.

May 15, 1953, in Reading, England

Trivia

• He recorded Tubular Bells at just 19 years old.
• He played over 20 different instruments on that album.
• The album was the first release on Virgin Records.
• Its theme became famous through The Exorcist.
• Tubular Bells has sold roughly 15 million copies worldwide.
• He began composing the album as a teenager (around age 17).
• The original album is one continuous piece split into two parts.
• He has worked across genres including rock, folk, ambient, and new age.

Tom Berenger is the kind of actor who can make you believe he’s a battle-hardened sergeant, a grizzled sniper, or the guy next door who grills the perfect steak—and you’d never question it. He’s got the rugged good looks of a man who’s wrestled a bear (and probably won), paired with the calm confidence of someone who could defuse a bomb while quoting Hemingway. If Hollywood ever needs someone to stare down danger without blinking, Berenger’s the guy… as long as it doesn’t cut into his fishing time.

May 31, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois

Trivia

• Real Name: Tom Berenger was born Thomas Michael Moore. He changed his last name to Berenger to avoid confusion with another actor named Tom Moore.
• Military Connection: Berenger’s portrayal of military characters, particularly in “Platoon” and the “Sniper” series, has earned him a special place in the hearts of many veterans and military enthusiasts.
• Producer and Writer: In addition to acting, Berenger has ventured into producing and writing. He co-wrote and produced the film “The Last of the Dogmen” (1995), showcasing his talents behind the camera.

Bill Paxton was one of those rare actors who felt like a friend every time he showed up on screen. Whether he was battling aliens in Aliens, chasing twisters in Twister, or panicking in Titanic, Paxton brought humor, heart, and a touch of everyman charm to every role. He could make even the wildest situations feel believable — and fun — which is why fans loved him so much. His passing in 2017 was a huge loss to Hollywood, but his legacy lives on through an incredible filmography that still entertains and inspires. His birthday should be celebrated with popcorn, a double feature, and maybe a loud “Game over, man!” in his honor.

May 17, 1955, in Fort Worth, Texas

February 25, 2017, in Los Angeles, California

Trivia

• Bill Paxton appeared in the music video for "Fish Heads" by Barnes & Barnes, which he also directed.
• He was one of the few actors to be killed by an alien, a predator, and a terminator in the films "Aliens," "Predator 2," and "The Terminator," respectively.
• Paxton was a close friend of fellow actor and director James Cameron, with whom he collaborated on several projects, including "Aliens," "Titanic," and "True Lies."
• He received an Emmy nomination for his role in the mini-series "Hatfields & McCoys," which also starred Kevin Costner.

Before social media told us what to think and reality TV showed us far too much, Melissa Gilbert was out there proving that a well-timed tear, a determined stare, and a stubborn streak could carry an entire episode. She didn’t just play Laura Ingalls—she made you feel like you’d just tracked mud across the cabin floor and were about to learn a life lesson whether you liked it or not. And somehow, between chores, schoolbooks, and frontier drama, she made growing up look both tougher… and a whole lot more meaningful.

May 8, 1964, in Los Angeles, California

Trivia

• Best known for playing Laura Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie.
• Began acting in commercials as a child.
• Worked closely with Michael Landon, who mentored her career.
• Starred in numerous television movies in the 1980s and 1990s.
• Served as president of the Screen Actors Guild from 2001 to 2005.
• Was married to actor Bruce Boxleitner.
• Has authored memoirs about her life and career.
• Competed on Dancing with the Stars in 2012.
• Later embraced a quieter lifestyle focused on writing and advocacy.

At this point, Kenan Thompson isn’t just on Saturday Night Live—he might actually be part of the building. There’s probably a backstage hallway named after him, and if there isn’t, there should be. New cast members come and go, writers rotate, sets change… and Kenan is still there, calmly delivering punchlines like a seasoned pro who’s seen it all—and probably has. If comedy had a “reliable as your morning coffee” category, he’d be the gold standard… and somehow still make it funny.

May 10, 1978, in Atlanta, Georgia

Trivia

• Got his start on Nickelodeon’s All That.
• Starred alongside Kel Mitchell in Kenan & Kel.
• Appeared in the film Good Burger.
• Joined Saturday Night Live in 2003.
• Holds the record as the longest-tenured SNL cast member.
• Known for playing a wide variety of comedic characters.
• Starred in his own sitcom, Kenan.
• Has done voice acting in animated projects.
• Considered one of the most reliable performers in sketch comedy.

André the Giant was exactly what his name promised — a true giant, not just in size but in personality and legacy. Standing over seven feet tall, he became a wrestling legend, a pop culture icon, and eventually, a beloved movie star thanks to his unforgettable turn as Fezzik in The Princess Bride. Despite his towering frame, André was famously gentle and had a sense of humor as big as he was, charming fans both inside and outside the ring. His birthday should be celebrated with a feast worthy of a fairy tale — and maybe a few rhymes in true Fezzik fashion.

May 19, 1946, in Grenoble, France

Paris, on January 27 or 28, 1993

Trivia

• André the Giant was featured in the Guinness World Records for being the highest-paid wrestler in history, earning $400,000 in one year during the early 1970s.
• He had a profound friendship with actor and director Billy Crystal, who often spoke fondly of André's humor and kindness.
• André's immense size made travel difficult, particularly air travel. He often had to take long bus rides or use specially arranged transportation to accommodate his size.
• He was an avid farm owner and enjoyed spending time on his North Carolina ranch, finding peace and solace away from the spotlight.

Tune up the guitar and dust off the blue suede shoes — it’s Riley Keough’s birthday! The actress, model, and granddaughter of Elvis Presley has built a career that proves talent runs in the family, starring in everything from indie dramas to the high-octane chaos of Mad Max: Fury Road. Whether she’s playing a rock star in Daisy Jones & The Six or stealing scenes on the big screen, Keough keeps finding ways to surprise audiences — and today she’s got one more reason to shine brighter than a Vegas marquee.

May 29, 1989, in Los Angeles, California.

Trivia

• Riley Keough is an accomplished model and has worked with high-profile brands such as Dior and Dolce & Gabbana.
• She is married to stuntman Ben Smith-Petersen, whom she met while filming “Mad Max: Fury Road.”
• Keough has a tattoo in memory of her brother Benjamin Keough, who tragically passed away in 2020.