Born This Day September 27th

There’s something a little magical about sharing a birthday with someone famous, right? Maybe you and that legendary scientist both blew out candles on the same day—except they were making groundbreaking discoveries while you were just hoping your cake had extra frosting. Or perhaps some world-changing leader entered the world on your special day, and now you get to claim a tiny slice of their greatness by association (totally counts). Every day on the calendar has its roster of icons, geniuses, rebels, and artists—proof that whatever day you were born, you’re in pretty interesting company.

Meat Loaf

Singer and actor, Bat Out of Hell
Born
September 27th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2022 4 years ago — 74 years old

Renowned for a powerful vocal style and theatrical live performances, a unique blend of rock and opera defined the musical career. Released the album 'Bat Out of Hell' in 1977, which became one of the best-selling albums of all time. Transitioned into acting with memorable roles in films and television series, particularly in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' and 'Fight Club'. Frequently collaborated with songwriter Jim Steinman, creating numerous hits and musical projects throughout the career.

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Denis Lawson

Scottish actor and director, known for Star Wars
Born
September 27th, 1947 78 years ago

A Scottish actor, director, and screenwriter. Achieved prominence in the 1970s through a role in the 'Star Wars' series as Wedge Antilles. Transitioned to television with a significant role in the long-running series 'Ballykissangel'. Also directed and contributed to various theatrical productions and television dramas. Throughout a versatile career, worked in film, television, and stage, gaining recognition for both performance and direction.

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Dick Advocaat

Football manager and former player
Born
September 27th, 1947 78 years ago

Born in the Netherlands, a career in football began as a player, primarily as a midfielder. Transitioned into management after retiring from playing. Managed several clubs and national teams, with notable tenures at PSV Eindhoven and the Dutch national team. Achieved significant success, including leading clubs to league titles and European competition victories. His coaching style emphasized discipline and tactical organization.

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Duncan Fletcher

Cricket coach, led England to Ashes victory
Born
September 27th, 1948 77 years ago

A former cricketer and influential coach, achieved significant success in cricket coaching. Guided England to a remarkable 2005 Ashes series victory against Australia, which ended a long period without winning the series. Served as head coach for the England national team from 1999 to 2007, focusing on developing young talent and strategic gameplay. Also coached various international teams, including India and South Africa, and contributed to modern coaching techniques within the sport.

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Graham Richardson

Australian politician and journalist
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago

Served as the 39th Australian Minister for Health from 1983 to 1984. Contributed to Australia's political landscape primarily as a member of the Australian Labor Party. Worked in various journalism roles, providing insights into political developments. Played a significant role in health policy during tenure as Minister.

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Mike Schmidt

Baseball player, 3-time MVP
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago

Played third base for the Philadelphia Phillies from 1972 to 1989. Contributed to the team's success by leading them to a World Series championship in 1980. Recognized as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history, he recorded over 500 career home runs. Accumulated three Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards during his career, showcasing exceptional performance during multiple seasons. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995.

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Jahn Teigen

Norwegian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 27th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Norway, this individual gained prominence in the music scene during the 1970s and 1980s. A significant figure in pop music, created numerous hits that showcased a distinctive style blending rock and pop elements. Represented Norway twice in the Eurovision Song Contest, achieving notable success with songs that resonated with audiences. In addition to a successful solo career, collaborated with various artists and produced several albums that contributed to the Scandinavian music landscape.

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Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Actor and martial artist in media
Born
September 27th, 1950 75 years ago

Born in 1950, gained prominence as an actor and martial artist. Achieved recognition for roles in films and television, particularly in 'Mortal Kombat' as Shang Tsung and 'The Last Emperor' as the Minister of War. Extensive work in television includes appearances in series such as 'Star Trek: Voyager' and 'The Man in the High Castle'. In addition to acting, contributed to martial arts as a black belt in multiple disciplines, showcasing skills in various cinematic roles.

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Jim Shooter

Comic book writer and editor
Born
September 27th, 1951 74 years ago

A significant figure in the comic book industry, this individual contributed extensively as a writer and editor. From 1978 to 1987, served as the editor-in-chief at Marvel Comics, overseeing the publishing of numerous acclaimed series. Authored popular storylines in titles such as 'The Avengers' and 'X-Men'. Later established a successful career as a writer for Valiant Comics and co-created characters like Bloodshot and X-O Manowar. The individual has also ventured into writing novels and graphic novels, expanding influence beyond traditional comics.

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Geoff Gallop

Australian Premier of Western Australia
Born
September 27th, 1951 74 years ago

Served as the 27th Premier of Western Australia from 2001 to 2006. Represented the Australian Labor Party and was the member for the electoral district of Victoria Park. Implemented significant reforms in the education and health sectors during tenure. Resigned from premiership in 2006, citing health reasons. After leaving politics, became a prominent academic and served as a professor and director at the University of Sydney.

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Michel Rivard

Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 27th, 1951 74 years ago

Born in 1951, this Canadian performer gained prominence in the music scene through a combination of poignant lyrics and melodic compositions. Early in the career, involvement with the folk music movement laid the groundwork for further exploration into various musical styles. A notable contribution was the hit song "L'Affaire Christine", which became emblematic of the artist's unique sound. The artist's work has often featured themes of love and social commentary, resonating with a broad audience across Canada and beyond.

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Dumitru Prunariu

Romanian engineer and cosmonaut
Born
September 27th, 1952 73 years ago

Born in 1952, contributions in aerospace engineering include participation in the Soyuz 40 mission, which took place in 1981. As a cosmonaut, completed a record 7 days, 20 hours, and 42 minutes in space aboard the Salyut 7 space station. In addition to a successful spaceflight, held various roles in the Romanian aerospace sector after returning to Earth, working on projects related to satellite development and space research.

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