Today's Famous People's Birthday: April 17.

On Today’s Famous People’s Birthday: April 17, we celebrate the lives and legacies of Famous People born on this special day. This diverse group includes Nikita Khrushchev, a prominent politician; William Holden, a celebrated actor; and Michael Jordan, a legendary athlete. These individuals, along with others like James Last, Chris Barber, Sean Bean, Victoria Adams Beckham, Olivia Hussey, Henry Kelly, Billy Fur, Riccardo Patrese, and more, have left an indelible mark worldwide in their respective fields, continuing to inspire us today.

Contents

Who Are The Famous People’s Born Today, April 17?
Nikita Khrushchev will have been 130 years old today.
- Quick Fact About Nikita Khrushchev
William Holden will have been 106 years old today.
- Quick Fact About William Holden
James Last will have been 95 years old today.
- Quick Fact About James Last
Michael Jordan is 61 years old today.
- Quick Fact About Michael Jordan
Chris Barber will have been 94 years old today.
- Quick Fact About Chris Barber
More Famous People’s with Birthday Today, April 17.
Billy Fur will have been 84 years old today.
Clare Francis is 78 years old today.
Henry Kelly is 78 years old today.
Olivia Hussey is 73 years old today.
Riccardo Patrese is 70 years old today.
Sean Bean is 65 years old today.
Victoria Adams Beckham is 50 years old today.
Jennifer Garner is 52 years old today.
Phoebe Dynevor is 29 years old today.
Liz Phair is 57 years old today.
Rooney Mara is 39 years old today.
Devan Key is 26 years old today.
De’arra Taylor is 29 years old today.

Join The News God Team as we celebrate the birthdays of those who have shaped our world and continue to inspire us with their extraordinary talents and accomplishments.

Who Are The Famous People’s Born Today, April 17?

Please scroll down to discover and learn more about the famous people born today, April 17:

Nikita Khrushchev will have been 130 years old today.

Nikita Khrushchev was a renowned political figure in Soviet politics. It became the first secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and chairman of the Council of Ministers. He was born on April 17, 1894 in Kalinovka, Kursk Governorate, Russian Empire, and died at 77 on September 11, 1971.

Khrushchev’s early years were a testament to his resilience, growing up in a humble peasant family in rural Russia. He toiled in various jobs, from herdsboy to apprentice metal fitter, showcasing his determination and work ethic.

His political career began when he became a member of the worker’s council and later its chairman. In 1918, he joined the Bolsheviks. In 1921, Khrushchev became the assistant director for political affairs for the Rutchenkovo mine. A significant milestone in his career was when Nikita Khrushchev was appointed head of the Communist Party in Ukraine by Stalin in 1937.

Khrushchev’s ascent in the Communist Party was a testament to his leadership and dedication. From serving in various administrative and party positions to becoming the First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, he proved his mettle.

Khrushchev’s leadership was not without controversy, however. His handling of the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 brought the world to the brink of nuclear war and damaged his reputation on the international stage. Domestically, his reforms faced resistance from conservative elements within the Communist Party, leading to his ousting from power in 1964. This was a result of a power struggle within the party, with some members criticizing his policies and leadership style.

Nikita Khrushchev married twice, first to Yefrosinia Pisareva in 1914; they divorced in 1919, and later married Nina Kukharchuk in1965. He had five children.

Quick Fact About Nikita Khrushchev

Nikita Khrushchev held several top government positions in the Soviet Union, including first secretary of the Communist Party and chairman of the Council of Ministers.
He was deposed from office in 1964
Khrushchev died at the age of 77 and had five children.

William Holden will have been 106 years old today.

William Holden was a celebrated American actor and one of the influential actors during Hollywood’s Golden Age. He was born in O’Fallon, Illinois, U.S., on April 17, 1918, and died on November 12, 1981, at the age of 63.

Holden’s journey into the world of acting began during his time as a student at Pasadena Junior College. His path took a turn when he served as a second and then a first lieutenant in the United States Army Air Force during the Second World War, a period that would shape his life and career.

Holden’s filmography is a testament to his talent and versatility. He made his debut in 1939 with small roles in “Prison Farm” and “Million Dollar Legs”, but it was his breakout performance in “Golden Boy” that catapulted him to stardom. From there, he continued to impress with his leading roles in iconic films such as “Sunset Boulevard”, “The Wild Bunch”, “Stalag 17”, “Network”, “The Blue Knight”, and “The Bridge on the River Kwai”.

Holden’s personal life was not without its share of ups and downs. He married actress Brenda Marshall in 1941, but their union ended in divorce in 1971. He then entered into a relationship with actress Stefanie Powers, which lasted until his death in 1981. Holden was a father to four children. However, he also battled alcoholism, a struggle that often had a negative impact on his career and personal relationships, including his relationship with French actress Capucine.

William Holden won an Academy Award for Best Actor and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor.

Quick Fact About William Holden

William Holden served in the United States Army Air Force during the Second World War.
William’s first film was in 1939 in Prison Farm.”
He won an Academy Award for Best Actor.
William died at the age of 63.

James Last will have been 95 years old today.

James Last was a legendary German composer and Musician. He was born in Bremen, Germany, on April 17, 1929, and died on June 6, 2015, at 86.

James embarked on his musical journey at a tender age, mastering the piano by age 10. His passion for music led him to the prestigious Military Music School of the German Wehrmacht at 14, where he developed his piano, bass, and tuba skills. This early training laid the foundation for his future success with the Radio Bremen Dance Orchestra after the Second World War.

He performed as a bassist in various European jazz ensembles and orchestras. However, his transition to bandleader in the 1960s with the formation of the James Last Orchestra elevated him to international fame.

James Last’s talent knew no bounds, as he continued to captivate audiences with his music throughout the 1960s, 1970s, and beyond. His discography boasts over 65 albums and several chart-topping singles, a testament to his global appeal that sold over 200 million copies worldwide.

James Last’s personal life was as rich as his musical career. He was married twice, first to Waltraud in 1955. Their marriage lasted an impressive 42 years, until her passing in 1997. In 1979, he found love again and married Christine Grundner. Together, they had two children, a testament to the joy and love that filled his life.

Quick Fact About James Last

James Last won the best bassist in Germany for three consecutive years
James sold over 200 million records globally.
Last’s album, “This Is James Last,” was the best-selling album in the UK for 48 weeks.
He was the founder and leader of the James Last Orchestra.
James died at the age of 86.
He started playing the piano at the age of 10.

Michael Jordan is 61 years old today.

Michael Jordan is a celebrated American businessman and former professional basketball player. He is renowned as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Jordan was born to James R. Jordan Sr. and Deloris in 1963 in Brooklyn, New York, on February 17.

Jordan’s passion for basketball ignited at a tender age, propelling him to the forefront of Laney’s junior varsity team. His exceptional talent quickly distinguished him in high school and earned him a scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Here, he led the Tar Heels to a national championship in 1982, a testament to his stellar performance and unwavering dedication.

In 1984, Jordan entered the NBA draft and was selected by the Chicago Bulls as the third overall pick after Hakeem Olajuwon (Houston Rockets) and Sam Bowie (Portland Trail Blazers). His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, with Jordan averaging an impressive 28.2 points per game. This was just the beginning of his illustrious career, which saw him win six NBA championships and earn five MVP awards.

He led the Bulls team to six NBA championships and earned five MVP awards. Jordan’s impact extended far beyond basketball. He became a global icon and one of the world’s most influential and famous figures. His endorsement deals with Nike, McDonald’s, Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, Wheaties, Franks, Ball Park, Rayovac, and Gatorade not only helped him become one of the wealthiest athletes ever but also showcased his business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.

Jordan’s impact extends far beyond the basketball court. His philanthropic efforts show his commitment to social causes. Through generous donations to several charity events, the provision of educational scholarships, and the establishment of health and medical facilities, he has made a significant difference in the lives of many.

Michael Jordan has had a rich personal life. In 1989, he married Juanita Vanoy and they had three children together. However, they divorced in 2006, with Vanoy receiving a $168 million settlement. In 2013, Jordan married Yvette Prieto, and they have twin daughters together, adding to Jordan’s family of five children.

Quick Fact About Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan won six NBA championships.
Jordan has been the most valuable player in the NBA five times and six times the NBA Finals MVP.
His net worth is $3 billion
He won two Olympic gold medals with Team USA

Chris Barber will have been 94 years old today.

Chris Barber, a renowned English jazz and blues musician, was born on April 17, 1930, in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, England, and died at 90 on March 2, 2021.

Barber’s musical journey began at the tender age of seven when he first picked up the violin. His passion for jazz was ignited at the age of 15, a love that he would later pursue at the Guildhall School of Music. This early dedication and love for music are truly admirable.

Barber formed the New Orleans Jazz Band in 1959, which consisted of 8 musicians. He then formed the Chris Barber Jazz Band with Donegan, Jim Bray, and Ron Bowden. The band’s first recording was LP New Orleans Joys in 1954. Their groundbreaking recordings include hits like “Petite Fleur” in 1958.

Chris Barber married four times, including his famous marriage to dancer and singer Naida Lane and blues singer and band member Ottilie Patterson. He had two children.