Wood Harris
American actor with notable roles
An actor recognized for performances in film and television. Gained prominence for the portrayal of Avon Barksdale in the television series The Wire. Featured in the film Paid in Full, earning acclaim for a compelling depiction of a drug dealer. Later starred in the series The Breaks, which highlighted the hip-hop industry. Also appeared in films such as Remember the Titans, playing a significant role in a high school football team based on real events.
Portrayed Avon Barksdale in The Wire
Starred in Paid in Full
Appeared in Remember the Titans
Other People Born on October 17th
Alan Jackson
Country music singer-songwriter
Born
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago
This American singer-songwriter began a career in music in the late 1980s. Influenced by traditional country music, the artist gained success with a blend of honky-tonk and mainstream country sounds. The debut album, 'Here in the Real World,' released in 1990, achieved significant commercial success. Followed by a series of chart-topping albums and singles throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the artist played a crucial role in the resurgence of traditional country music during that era. The artist has won numerous awards, including multiple Country Music Association (CMA) Awards and Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards.
Continue ReadingRichard Roeper
American journalist and film critic
Born
October 17th, 1959 66 years ago
A prominent journalist and film critic, this individual gained recognition for contributions to the field of entertainment journalism. Most notably, served as the film critic for the Chicago Sun-Times and co-hosted the television series 'Siskel & Ebert.' Additionally, hosted 'At the Movies' and contributed to various other media outlets, providing insights and reviews on films. Authored several books related to film and popular culture.
Continue ReadingAravinda de Silva
Sri Lankan cricketer and 1996 World Cup winner
Born
October 17th, 1965 60 years ago
Played international cricket for Sri Lanka from 1984 to 2002. Contributed significantly to the national team's success, particularly during the 1996 Cricket World Cup, where Sri Lanka won their first title. Gained recognition for exceptional batting skills and tactical acumen on the field. Excelled in various formats of the game, including Tests and One Day Internationals (ODIs). After retiring from professional cricket, took on coaching and administrative roles within the sport.
Continue ReadingToby Young
Journalist and academic commentator
Born
October 17th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in 1963, a journalist and academic commentator has written for various publications in the UK. This individual has also contributed to discussions on education reforms and free speech, often presenting controversial views. The role as director of the West London Free School, an initiative aimed at promoting educational choice, marked a significant engagement in educational policy. Additionally, the individual has authored several books that provide insights into contemporary education and public life in Britain.
Continue ReadingWilliam Anders
Astronaut, Apollo 8 Lunar Module Pilot
Born
October 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
June 7th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1933, a general and astronaut with significant contributions to space exploration. Participated in Apollo 8, the first crewed mission to orbit the Moon. The mission provided critical information for future lunar landings and included a televised Christmas Eve broadcast from lunar orbit. Held various leadership roles in the United States Air Force, retiring as a major general. Also served as an executive in the private sector after leaving NASA.
Continue ReadingGlenn Braggs
Baseball player, World Series champion
Born
October 17th, 1962 63 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as an outfielder. Debuted in 1987 with the Milwaukee Brewers, where achieved significant success. Contributed to the team's performance in the postseason. Played a critical role in the 1990s with the Cincinnati Reds, including participation in the team's 1990 World Series victory. Also played for the Kansas City Royals and had stints in minor league baseball over a career spanning multiple years.
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