Famous Entrepreneurs from the United States
- Mark Elliot Zuckerberg (; born May 14, 1984) is an American technology entrepreneur and philanthropist. Zuckerberg is known for co-founding and leading Facebook as its chairman and chief executive officer. He also co-founded and is a board member of the solar sail spacecraft development project Breakthrough Starshot.Born in White Plains, New York, Zuckerberg attended Harvard University, where he launched Facebook from his dormitory room on February 4, 2004, with college roommates Eduardo Saverin, Andrew McCollum, Dustin Moskovitz, and Chris Hughes. Originally launched to select college campuses, the site expanded rapidly and eventually beyond colleges, reaching one billion users by 2012. Zuckerberg took the company public in May 2012 with majority shares. His net worth is estimated to be $55.0 billion as of November 30, 2018, declining over the last year with Facebook stock as a whole. In 2007 at age 23 he became the world's youngest self-made billionaire. As of 2018, he is the only person under 50 in the Forbes ten richest people list, and the only one under 40 in the Top 20 Billionaires list.Since 2010, Time magazine has named Zuckerberg among the 100 wealthiest and most influential people in the world as a part of its Person of the Year award. In December 2016, Zuckerberg was ranked 10th on Forbes list of The World's Most Powerful People.
- Birthplace: White Plains, New York
- Howard D. Schultz (born July 19, 1953) is an American businessman and multi-billionaire. He was Chairman and Chief Executive of Starbucks from 1986 to 2000 and again from 2008 to 2017, as well as its Executive Chairman from 2017 to 2018. He is a former owner of the Seattle SuperSonics, and was a member of the Board of Directors at Square, Inc. In 1998 Schultz co-founded Maveron, an investment group, with Dan Levitan. He was named by Forbes in 2016 as the 232nd richest person in the United States, with a net worth of $3.7 billion as of April 2019.Schultz resigned as the Chief Executive of Starbucks and became Executive Chairman in April 2017. He was succeeded as CEO by Kevin Johnson. Schultz retired as executive chairman in June 2018, then becoming Chairman Emeritus of the company. Long known for his outspoken political views, Schultz announced in January 2019 that he was exploring a run in the 2020 United States presidential election as an independent candidate. However, in June 2019, he announced he was temporarily suspending his presidential bid, citing health concerns.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
- Jeffrey Preston Bezos (; né Jorgensen; January 12, 1964) is an American technology entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. He is the founder, CEO, and president of Amazon.com, Inc. Bezos was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and raised in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Princeton University in 1986 with degrees in electrical engineering and computer science. He worked on Wall Street in a variety of related fields from 1986 to early 1994. He founded Amazon in late 1994 on a cross-country road trip from New York City to Seattle. The company began as an online bookstore and has since expanded to a wide variety of other e-commerce products and services, including video and audio streaming, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. It is currently the world's largest online sales company, the largest internet company by revenue, as well as the world's largest provider of AI assistance and cloud infrastructure services via its Amazon Web Services arm. Bezos added to his business interests when he founded the aerospace manufacturer and sub-orbital spaceflight services company Blue Origin in 2000. A Blue Origin test flight successfully first reached space in 2015, and the company has plans to begin commercial suborbital human spaceflight in 2019. He purchased major American daily newspaper The Washington Post in 2013 for US$250 million in cash, and manages other business investments through his venture capital fund, Bezos Expeditions. On July 27, 2017, Bezos momentarily became the world's wealthiest person when his estimated net worth increased to just over $90 billion. His wealth surpassed $100 billion for the first time on November 24, 2017, and he was formally designated the wealthiest person in the world by Forbes on March 6, 2018, with a net worth of $112 billion. The first centi-billionaire on the Forbes wealth index, he was named the "richest man in modern history" after his net worth increased to $150 billion in July 2018. In September 2018, Forbes described Bezos as "far richer than anyone else on the planet" as he added $1.8 billion to his worth when Amazon's market cap briefly reached $1 trillion.
- Birthplace: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
- George Westinghouse Jr. (October 6, 1846 – March 12, 1914) was an American entrepreneur and engineer based in Pennsylvania who invented the railway air brake and was a pioneer of the electrical industry, gaining his first patent at the age of 19. Westinghouse saw the potential in alternating current as an electricity distribution system in the early 1880s and put all his resources into developing and marketing it, a move that put his business in direct competition with the Edison direct current system. In 1911 Westinghouse received the AIEE's Edison Medal "For meritorious achievement in connection with the development of the alternating current system. He was portrayed by Michael Shannon in the 2017 film The Current War.
- Birthplace: Schoharie, New York
- Lawrence Edward Page (born March 26, 1973) is an American computer scientist and Internet entrepreneur who co-founded Google with Sergey Brin.Page is the chief executive officer of Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company). After stepping aside as Google CEO in August 2001, in favor of Eric Schmidt, he re-assumed the role in April 2011. He announced his intention to step aside a second time in July 2015, to become CEO of Alphabet, under which Google's assets would be reorganized. Under Page, Alphabet is seeking to deliver major advancements in a variety of industries.As of June 2019, Page is the 12th-richest person in the world, with a net worth of $51.1 billion. Forbes placed him 10th in the list "Billionaires 2019". Page is the co-inventor of PageRank, a well-known search ranking algorithm for Google, which he wrote with Brin. Page received the Marconi Prize in 2004 with Brin.
- Birthplace: East Lansing, Michigan
- Henry Ford (July 30, 1863 – April 7, 1947) was an American industrialist and a business magnate, the founder of the Ford Motor Company, and the sponsor of the development of the assembly line technique of mass production. Although Ford did not invent the automobile or the assembly line, he developed and manufactured the first automobile that many middle-class Americans could afford. In doing so, Ford converted the automobile from an expensive curiosity into a practical conveyance that would profoundly impact the landscape of the 20th century. His introduction of the Model T automobile revolutionized transportation and American industry. As the owner of the Ford Motor Company, he became one of the richest and best-known people in the world. He is credited with "Fordism": mass production of inexpensive goods coupled with high wages for workers. Ford had a global vision, with consumerism as the key to peace. His intense commitment to systematically lowering costs resulted in many technical and business innovations, including a franchise system that put dealerships throughout most of North America and in major cities on six continents. Ford left most of his vast wealth to the Ford Foundation and arranged for his family to control the company permanently. Ford was also widely known for his pacifism during the first years of World War I, and for promoting antisemitic content, including The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, through his newspaper The Dearborn Independent and the book The International Jew, having an influence on the development of Nazism and Adolf Hitler.
- Birthplace: Greenfield Township, Wayne County, Michigan
- George Soros, born on August 12, 1930, in Budapest, Hungary, is a renowned financier, philanthropist, and political activist. His journey to fame and fortune began when he fled Hungary during the Second World War and resettled in England. There, he attended the London School of Economics, where he was deeply influenced by philosopher Karl Popper's ideas about open societies. Upon his graduation in 1952, he entered the world of finance and started carving out an illustrious career in investment banking. Soros, often dubbed as "The Man Who Broke the Bank of England," made headlines in 1992, when he bet against the British pound and generated a profit of $1 billion overnight in an event known as Black Wednesday. This audacious move solidified Soros's status as one of the world's most astute currency traders. In 1973, he founded the hedge fund company, Soros Fund Management, which went on to become one of the most successful firms in the industry, pushing his net worth into the billions. However, Soros's impact extends beyond the realm of finance. He channelled a significant portion of his wealth into philanthropic endeavours, primarily through the Open Society Foundations. These organizations support projects in education, public health, and civil liberties in more than 120 countries worldwide. As a political activist, Soros has been a vocal critic of various international policies and has used his influence to advocate for changes. He has also authored several books on topics such as global capitalism, geopolitics, and open societies, further demonstrating his multifaceted persona.
- Birthplace: Budapest, Hungary
- Ralph Lauren, KBE (né Lifshitz; born October 14, 1939) is an American fashion designer, philanthropist, and business executive, best known for the Ralph Lauren Corporation, a global multibillion-dollar enterprise. He has also become well known for his collection of rare automobiles, some of which have been displayed in museum exhibits. Lauren stepped down as CEO of the company in September 2015 but remains executive chairman and chief creative officer. As of 2018, Forbes estimates his wealth at $7.2 billion, which makes Ralph Lauren the 91st richest person in America.
- Birthplace: Minsk, Russian Empire
- Paul Newman, a name that resonates with the golden age of Hollywood, was a man who wore many hats - actor, director, producer, race car driver, and philanthropist. Born on January 26, 1925, in Shaker Heights, Ohio, Newman's interest in theater began at a young age. After serving in the Navy during World War II, he embarked on his acting journey, enrolling at the Yale School of Drama and later studying under Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio in New York City. Newman's career took a monumental turn when he starred in the film Somebody Up There Likes Me in 1956. His piercing blue eyes and natural acting talent quickly made him one of Hollywood's leading men. Throughout his career, Newman's performances were lauded, earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in The Color of Money in 1986. He also directed several films, showcasing his knack for storytelling from behind the camera. Beyond the world of entertainment, Newman had a passion for auto racing, a hobby he picked up while filming the 1969 movie Winning. Proving his prowess on the racetrack, Newman won several national championships as a driver in the Sports Car Club of America. He combined his love for racing with his dedication to giving back, co-founding the nonprofit Newman's Own, which donates all post-tax profits to charity.
- Birthplace: Shaker Heights, Ohio, USA
All Of Paul Newman's Movies, RankedSee all
- 1Cool Hand Luke729 Votes
- 2Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid657 Votes
- 3Cat on a Hot Tin Roof491 Votes
- Kathy Ireland, born Kathleen Marie Ireland in 1963, is an American model and actress turned entrepreneur and businesswoman. Raised in Santa Barbara, California, Ireland's journey into fame began in high school when she was discovered by an agent from the Elite Model Management at the age of 16. Subsequently, she appeared on covers of numerous renowned magazines, including the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue for a record-breaking three consecutive years (1989-1991). Her modeling career spanned more than a decade, gracing the runways for top fashion houses and appearing in a variety of television commercials. In addition to her successful modeling career, Ireland demonstrated her versatility by venturing into acting. She made appearances in a number of television series and films, including Melrose Place and National Lampoon's Loaded Weapon 1. Despite her success in front of the camera, Ireland's ambitions extended beyond the entertainment industry. In the mid-90s, she founded Kathy Ireland Worldwide (KIWW), a brand marketing company, which expanded into various industries such as fashion, home furnishings, and even publishing. Ireland's entrepreneurial journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Under her leadership, KIWW became a global powerhouse, with products selling in over 50 countries. Her business acumen and dedication have earned her recognition as one of the 50 most powerful women in U.S. business by Forbes Magazine. Furthermore, Ireland is a noted philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable causes, including the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and Feed the Children. A dynamic personality, Kathy Ireland's life story is a testament to her resilience, entrepreneurship, and a relentless pursuit of diverse interests.
- Birthplace: Glendale, California, USA
- Kenny Rogers, born on August 21, 1938, in Houston, Texas, was a renowned American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and entrepreneur. His music career spanned six decades, during which he became one of the most successful country artists of all time. With his distinctive raspy voice and unique storytelling ability, Rogers carved out a niche for himself in the country and pop music industry. Rogers began his musical journey in the mid-1950s with a rockabilly band called The Scholars. However, it wasn't until the late 1960s and early 1970s that he gained significant recognition as a member of the country-rock group, The First Edition. After the group disbanded in 1976, Rogers embarked on a solo career, achieving unprecedented success with hits such as "The Gambler," "Lucille," and "Coward of the County." His music reached across genres and generations, making him a household name not only in America but also around the world. Despite his success in music, Rogers did not limit himself to one field. He ventured into acting, starring in several movies and television series, most notably a series of TV movies based on his hit song, "The Gambler." Moreover, he was an accomplished photographer, with several published books of his work. In addition, he found success as an entrepreneur with his chain of 'Kenny Rogers Roasters' chicken restaurants. A man of many talents, Kenny Rogers left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry before his death on March 20, 2020. His legacy continues to inspire upcoming artists and entertain countless fans worldwide.
- Birthplace: Houston, Texas, USA
The Best Kenny Rogers Movies, RankedSee all- 1Kenny Rogers: Coward of the County39 Votes
- 2Six Pack62 Votes
- 3Kenny Rogers as The Gambler31 Votes
- George Lucas, a pioneering figure in the world of cinema, is best known as the creator of two groundbreaking film franchises: Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Born on May 14, 1944, in Modesto, California, Lucas developed a passion for cars and motor racing which would eventually lead him to attend the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts. There, he made several short films, including an award-winning student film titled THX-1138, which later became his debut feature film. Lucas rose to prominence with the release of American Graffiti in 1973, a nostalgic view of teenage life in the 1960s that was both critically acclaimed and commercially successful. However, it was the release of Star Wars in 1977 that catapulted Lucas to legendary status. The space opera became a worldwide pop-culture phenomenon and established Lucasfilm as a leading force in the film industry. With its sequel, The Empire Strikes Back, Lucas further demonstrated his storytelling prowess and innovative use of special effects. Beyond his directorial successes, Lucas is renowned for his significant contributions to the field of film technology. He founded Industrial Light & Magic (ILM) in 1975, a company that has since set new standards for creating visual effects. Additionally, Lucas played a key role in the development of the THX sound system, named after his first film, which aimed to maintain the highest quality sound reproduction in movie theaters. Despite his retirement from Lucasfilm in 2012, George Lucas's influence continues to resonate within the world of cinema.
- Birthplace: Modesto, California, USA
- Bethenny Frankel, an accomplished American television personality, author, and entrepreneur, has carved a unique niche for herself in the entertainment and business world. Born on November 4, 1970, in New York City, her journey from a challenging childhood to stardom is nothing short of remarkable. Raised by her mother, Frankel faced many hardships early in life, but these experiences only served to strengthen her resolve to achieve success. Frankel first gained public attention as a contestant on NBC's reality show The Apprentice: Martha Stewart in 2005. However, it was her appearance on Bravo's The Real Housewives of New York City that truly catapulted her into the limelight. The authenticity she brought to the screen was refreshing, making her a fan favourite and paving the way for her spin-off shows, Bethenny Getting Married? and Bethenny Ever After. Aside from her television career, Frankel is also a successful businesswoman and author. She created the Skinnygirl lifestyle brand, which started with low-calorie cocktails and expanded into a wide range of products including non-alcoholic beverages, food, and kitchenware. In addition to building her empire, Frankel has penned several self-help books and cookbooks, further solidifying her status as a multi-faceted entrepreneur. Despite her bustling professional life, Frankel is also known for her philanthropic efforts, notably through her B Strong initiative, which provides disaster relief to those in need.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Orville Clarence Redenbacher (July 16, 1907 – September 19, 1995) was an American businessman most often associated with the brand of popcorn that bears his name. The New York Times described him as "the agricultural visionary who all but single-handedly revolutionized the American popcorn industry."
- Birthplace: Brazil, Indiana
- Jimmy Ray Dean (August 10, 1928 – June 13, 2010) was an American country music singer, television host, actor, and businessman. He was the creator of the Jimmy Dean sausage brand as well as the spokesman for its TV commercials. He became a national television personality starting on CBS in 1957. He rose to fame for his 1961 country music crossover hit into rock and roll with "Big Bad John" and his 1963 television series The Jimmy Dean Show, which gave puppeteer Jim Henson his first national media exposure. His acting career included appearing in the early seasons in the Daniel Boone TV series as the sidekick of the famous frontiersman played by star Fess Parker. Later he was on the big screen in a supporting role as billionaire Willard Whyte in the James Bond movie Diamonds Are Forever (1971). He lived near Richmond, Virginia, and was nominated for the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010, although he was inducted posthumously at age 81.
- Birthplace: Plainview, Texas, USA
- Lindsay Lohan, an American actress, singer, and entrepreneur, first captured the public's attention as a child model. Born in New York City on July 2nd, 1986 to Dina and Michael Lohan, she began her career at age three by modeling. She appeared in over sixty television commercials before making her acting debut in the soap opera Another World when she was ten years old. In 1998 Lindsay earned widespread recognition with Disney's remake of The Parent Trap, which showcased her talent for comedy and drama. This success paved way for other notable roles including those in Freaky Friday, another Disney production; Mean Girls, a critical and commercial success that became a pop culture phenomenon; and independent movie A Prairie Home Companion. Despite her promising start however, Lohan faced challenges with several legal issues and stints in rehabilitation facilities that affected her career progression. Aside from acting, Lindsay also ventured into music releasing two studio albums - Speak (2004) and A Little More Personal (Raw) (2005), both of which were certified platinum. In addition to this musical endeavor, Lindsay has also tried her hand at business, launching a fashion line called 6126 named after Marilyn Monroe's birth date. Her entrepreneurial spirit extended further when she opened up nightclub ventures overseas under the brand name Lohan. Throughout all these personal or professional highs or lows – one thing remains constant: Lindsay Lohan is undeniably an enduring figure within popular culture.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
All Of Lindsay Lohan's Movies, Ranked By FansSee all- 1The Parent Trap543 Votes
- 2Freaky Friday498 Votes
- 3Mean Girls646 Votes
- Andrew James Breitbart (; February 1, 1969 – March 1, 2012) was an American conservative publisher, writer and commentator. After helping in the early stages of The Huffington Post and the Drudge Report, Breitbart created Breitbart News, a news and right-wing opinion website, along with multiple other "BIG" sites - BIGHollywood, BIGGovernment, BIGJournalism. He played central roles in the Anthony Weiner sexting scandal, the firing of Shirley Sherrod, and the ACORN 2009 undercover videos controversy. Commenters such as Nick Gillespie and Conor Friedersdorf have credited Breitbart with changing how people wrote about politics by "show[ing] how the Internet could be used to route around information bottlenecks imposed by official spokesmen and legacy news outlets" and "wield[ing] a rhetorical flamethrower in the culture wars" by using his own personal experiences and opinions as the basis for his media career.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, USA, California
- Kim Kardashian, birth name Kimberly Noel Kardashian, is a multifaceted personality who has left an indelible impact in various domains such as reality television, fashion, and business. Born on October 21st, 1980 in Los Angeles, California to Robert and Kris Kardashian, Kim was thrust into the limelight at an early age due to her father's high-profile career as an attorney. Her rise to fame began with the reality show Keeping Up With The Kardashians, which featured Kim alongside her family members. The success of this show not only established Kim as a household name but also paved the way for several spin-offs further solidifying her status in popular culture. In addition to her television endeavors, she made headlines with ventures in the world of fashion and beauty. She launched KKW Beauty and Skims - both brands resonating with consumers worldwide due their emphasis on inclusivity. Despite being primarily known for her appearances on screen and entrepreneurial pursuits within the beauty industry, Kim's influence extends beyond these realms. Always one to use her platform for greater causes, she took up law studies inspired by issues close to heart such as prison reform – following footsteps of her late father Robert Kardashian who was a well-known lawyer himself. Her passion towards social justice combined with relentless determination showcases another side of this iconic personality that continues inspiring millions across globe.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jennifer Lopez, often known by her moniker J.Lo, is an American singer, actress and dancer who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. Born on July 24, 1969, in The Bronx, New York City to Puerto Rican parents Guadalupe Rodríguez and David López, Jennifer started her career as a dancer on the television show In Living Color before venturing into acting. Lopez gained recognition for her portrayal of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez in the biographical film Selena which earned her widespread acclaim. This success paved the way for more prominent roles such as those in Maid In Manhattan, Out Of Sight and The Wedding Planner. Concurrently with her acting career, she pursued music, releasing several chart-topping albums including On The 6, J.Lo, and This Is Me...Then, which featured hit singles like “If You Had My Love”, “Love Don't Cost A Thing” and “Jenny From The Block”. Apart from entertainment, Jennifer Lopez's influence extends to business ventures such as fragrances lines Glow by JLo & Still Jennifer Lopez; clothing lines Sweetface & JustSweet; and production company Nuyorican Productions. Her philanthropic efforts have also been noted with involvement in charities like Children's Hospital Los Angeles and Amnesty International. Throughout her career spanning decades, Jennifer's multi-faceted talents combined with relentless work ethic have established herself as one of Hollywood's leading ladies.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York, Castle Hill
The 30+ Best Jennifer Lopez MoviesSee all- 1Selena709 Votes
- 2Enough672 Votes
- 3The Wedding Planner646 Votes
- Paris Hilton, born in New York City in 1981, is a multifaceted personality renowned for her contributions to multiple fields such as business, entertainment, and philanthropy. Born into the affluent Hilton family, known for their eponymous hotel chain, she leveraged her privilege not just to bask in fame but to carve out her own distinct identity. She attended the Dwight School in New York City, but it was her ventures beyond academia that truly defined her. In the realm of entertainment, Hilton became an iconic figure in reality television with her stint on The Simple Life, a show that ingeniously juxtaposed her high-society upbringing against a backdrop of everyday, middle-class scenarios. Beyond television, her pursuits in music yielded a self-titled album, Paris‚ which received a mixed critical response but resonated with listeners, particularly the hit single Stars Are Blind. Her endeavors in modeling saw her grace numerous campaigns, runway shows, and magazine covers, further solidifying her status as an international fashion figure. Hilton's business acumen is evident in her successful line of perfumes, among other ventures. As a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, she has launched 25 fragrances over the years, generating over $3 billion in revenue globally. Not one to rest on her laurels, she also delved into the tech space, becoming a DJ and launching a virtual reality world called Paris World. Despite her glamorous lifestyle, Hilton is also recognized for her philanthropic efforts, contributing to various charitable causes, particularly those related to animal rights and children's hospitals.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Madonna Louise Ciccone, known universally as Madonna, revolutionized the global pop culture landscape through her music, fashion, and boldness. Born on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, she moved to New York City in 1978 to pursue a career in modern dance. However, destiny had other plans, and Madonna soon found herself drawn towards the vibrant music scene of the city. Her debut album, Madonna, released in 1983, marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would span several decades. Her journey has not been without controversy, but Madonna's ability to reinvent herself time and again kept her at the pinnacle of the entertainment industry. She is best known for her iconic hits such as "Like a Virgin," "Material Girl," "Papa Don't Preach," and "Vogue," among many others. These songs not only topped charts worldwide but also redefined pop music, influencing generations of artists. Beyond music, Madonna made significant contributions to various social causes. She founded the charity Raising Malawi in 2006, designed to combat extreme poverty and hardship endured by Malawi's one million orphans, primarily due to HIV/AIDS. A hallmark of Madonna's career is her unflinching commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, which, along with her immense talent, solidifies her place as a pop culture icon.
- Birthplace: Michigan, USA, Bay City
All Madonna Movies (80s 'Til Now), RankedSee all- 1A League of Their Own393 Votes
- 2Desperately Seeking Susan390 Votes
- 3Evita400 Votes
- Donald John Trump, born on June 14, 1946 in Queens, New York, is a prominent figure who has left an indelible mark in the spheres of business and politics. The fourth of five children of Frederick C. and Mary MacLeod Trump, he was introduced to the world of real estate development at a young age through his father's company, Elizabeth Trump & Son. His early years were marked by a combination of rigorous education and hands-on business experience, which laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Trump's entrepreneurial journey began in earnest when he took control of his father's company in 1971, renaming it The Trump Organization. Over the decades, his ventures spanned a diverse range of industries, from real estate to hospitality, television production to beauty pageants. His knack for branding and marketing, coupled with an unyielding spirit, has seen him through periods of financial downturns and back to prosperity. Notable projects such as the transformation of the Commodore Hotel into the Grand Hyatt and the creation of Trump Tower in Manhattan have solidified his reputation as a formidable business magnate. In 2015, Trump took a decisive leap into the political arena, running as a Republican candidate for the Presidency of the United States. Despite having no prior political experience, his campaign, characterized by its populist rhetoric and media-savvy tactics, resonated with many, leading to his election as the 45th President of the United States in 2016. His tenure was marked by significant controversy and polarization, yet also by major policy shifts in areas such as immigration, tax reform, and foreign policy. Regardless of one's perspective, Donald Trump's impact on American society and its political landscape is undeniable.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
All Of Donald Trump's Nicknames For People, Ranked By How Inappropriate They AreSee all- 1Elizabeth Warren645 Votes
- 2Kim Jong-un535 Votes
- 3Hillary Clinton560 Votes
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, born in Thal, Styria, Austria, in 1947, began his journey towards global prominence as a professional bodybuilder. His dedication and discipline led him to win the Mr. Universe title at the age of 20, making him the youngest champion in history. His passion for bodybuilding didn't stop there; he went on to win the prestigious Mr. Olympia contest seven times, setting a record that was unbroken for several years. His muscular physique and charismatic persona made him a beloved figure in the bodybuilding world, inspiring many future athletes. Schwarzenegger's success extended beyond the bodybuilding stage when he plunged into Hollywood in the late 1970s. His breakout role in the film Conan the Barbarian catapulted him to stardom, but it was his portrayal of the relentless cyborg in James Cameron's The Terminator that truly cemented his place in cinematic history. Despite initial skepticism due to his thick Austrian accent and unconventional Hollywood look, Schwarzenegger proved his critics wrong, becoming one of the most recognizable action stars globally. He starred in numerous box office hits, demonstrating his versatility by seamlessly transitioning between action-packed thrillers and comedic roles. In an unexpected turn of events, Schwarzenegger took a detour from acting and entered the political arena. In 2003, he was elected Governor of California, serving two consecutive terms until 2011. His tenure was marked by efforts to combat climate change, improve the state's education system, and address fiscal issues. Despite the challenges of political life, Schwarzenegger's popularity remained high, reflecting his ability to connect with people across different spheres. This multifaceted man's journey from bodybuilding icon to Hollywood superstar to political leader is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unyielding determination.
- Birthplace: Thal, Styria, Austria
The Greatest Arnold Schwarzenegger MoviesSee all- 1Terminator 2: Judgment Day2,362 Votes
- 2The Terminator2,099 Votes
- 3Predator2,254 Votes
- Shawn Corey Carter, widely recognized by his stage name JAY-Z, is an American rapper and entrepreneur who has made his mark on both the music and business landscapes. Born on December 4, 1969 in Brooklyn, New York City, he was raised in Marcy Houses public housing complex which shaped his early life experiences and later influenced his vivid lyrics. JAY-Z's musical journey began with the release of his debut album Reasonable Doubt under Roc-A-Fella Records label that he co-founded. The album quickly gained critical acclaim for its raw storytelling about urban life. His subsequent works including The Blueprint, The Black Album, among others not only established him as a significant figure in the hip hop industry but also made him one of the world's best-selling music artists with over 50 million albums and 75 million singles sold worldwide. Beyond music, JAY-Z's entrepreneurial pursuits have marked him as a successful businessman. He co-created the clothing line Rocawear, founded entertainment company Roc Nation and launched sports agency Roc Nation Sports. Moreover, he is known for investing in various other business ventures like tech companies, further amplifying his wealth and making him one of the few entertainers to become a billionaire. Despite these achievements, JAY-Z remains committed to social activism addressing issues such as criminal justice reform.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York
Every Athlete Signed To Jay-Z's Roc Nation Sports, RankedSee all- 1Kyrie Irving213 Votes
- 2Kevin De Bruyne146 Votes
- 3Saquon Barkley177 Votes
- William Henry Gates III, popularly known as Bill Gates, was born on October 28, 1955, in Seattle, Washington. Raised in an upper-middle-class family with a deep emphasis on education, Gates was an outstanding student and showed early signs of competitiveness and innovative thinking. His fascination with computers began at Lakeside School when he was just 13, and it was here that he met Paul Allen, his future business partner. The duo spent much of their time exploring the potential of these machines, fostering a passion that would shape their future. In 1975, Gates dropped out of Harvard University to co-found Microsoft with Allen. This decision marked the beginning of a new chapter in the history of technology. Microsoft's first product was a version of the programming language BASIC for the Altair 8800, an early personal computer. However, it was the development of the MS-DOS operating system in the early 1980s, commissioned by IBM for its personal computer, that catapulted Microsoft to global prominence. Under Gates' leadership, Microsoft became synonymous with personal computing and set the standard for user-friendly software. In addition to his technological prowess, Gates is also known for his philanthropic work. In 2000, he and his ex-wife, Melinda Gates, established the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which has since become one of the world's most influential charitable organizations. The foundation focuses on improving people's health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. Despite stepping down from his active role at Microsoft, Gates continues to inspire millions with his vision for a better world and his relentless pursuit of innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing challenges.
- Birthplace: Seattle, Washington, USA
- Born on February 7, 1978, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Christopher Ashton Kutcher is an American actor and entrepreneur known for his versatility both on and off the screen. Raised in a humble family environment, he experienced a challenging upbringing which included his parents' divorce and his brother's cerebral palsy diagnosis. Despite these hardships, Kutcher's resilient spirit propelled him from sweeping cereal dust at a General Mills factory to becoming a recognizable face in Hollywood. Ashton Kutcher's acting career began as a model before landing a breakout role in the hit TV series That '70s Show. His portrayal of Michael Kelso quickly made him a household name. His success in television paved the way for a flourishing film career, where he starred in a variety of roles ranging from romantic comedies like No Strings Attached to psychological thrillers such as The Butterfly Effect. His talent was further showcased when he replaced Charlie Sheen in the successful sitcom Two and a Half Men, demonstrating his ability to step into established roles with ease. However, Kutcher's accomplishments extend beyond acting. He is also a savvy businessman and philanthropist. Co-founding the venture capital firm A-Grade Investments, he has invested in several high-profile technology startups, including Spotify, Airbnb, and Uber. Moreover, his commitment to making a difference is evident through his co-creation of the DNA Foundation, later renamed Thorn, which aims to combat child sexual exploitation. In summary, Ashton Kutcher's journey from a humble Midwestern upbringing to Hollywood fame and entrepreneurial success is a testament to his resilience, versatility, and tenacity.
- Birthplace: Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA
The 25+ Best Ashton Kutcher MoviesSee all- 1The Butterfly Effect191 Votes
- 2No Strings Attached169 Votes
- 3The Guardian100 Votes
- Kourtney Mary Kardashian, born on April 18, 1979, in Los Angeles, California, is most recognized for her role in the reality television series Keeping Up with the Kardashians. The eldest of the Kardashian clan, Kourtney comes from a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. Her father, Robert Kardashian, was a prominent attorney who gained national attention during the O.J. Simpson trial, and her mother, Kris Jenner, is a successful television personality and businesswoman. Kourtney's media career began when she starred in the reality show Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive in 2005. However, it was in 2007 with the launch of Keeping Up with the Kardashians that she became a household name. The show, which also features her sisters Kim and Khloé, brother Rob, half-sisters Kendall and Kylie Jenner, and mother Kris, has enjoyed immense popularity. This success led to several spin-offs like Kourtney and Kim Take New York and Kourtney and Khloé Take Miami, further solidifying Kourtney's place in pop culture. Beyond her television career, Kourtney is a savvy entrepreneur. She co-owned and operated DASH, a chain of boutique clothing stores, with her sisters Kim and Khloé. In addition, she launched Poosh, a lifestyle website, in 2019, where she shares tips on health, wellness, beauty, and home decor. As a mother of three, she often emphasizes the importance of natural and holistic living, a philosophy that heavily influences her brand.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Khloé Kardashian, born on June 27, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent figure in the world of television and social media, renowned for her role in the reality TV show, Keeping Up with the Kardashians. The daughter of Robert and Kris Kardashian, Khloé grew up in the spotlight, surrounded by fame and fortune. Her father was a well-known attorney who catapulted to national prominence during O.J. Simpson's trial. Her mother, on the other hand, is a successful businesswoman and television personality. She has two sisters, Kim and Kourtney, and one brother, Rob. After her parents' divorce, she also gained step-siblings through her mother's marriage to Caitlyn Jenner. Khloé Kardashian's rise to fame began when she starred in 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians,' a reality show focused on the personal and professional lives of the Kardashian-Jenner clan. The show, which first aired in 2007, became an instant hit and has spawned several spin-offs. In addition to her appearances on this show, Khloé has also co-hosted 'The X Factor' alongside Mario Lopez and had her own radio show 'The Mix Up With Khloé Kardashian Odom.' Furthermore, she launched her own clothing line, Good American, which focuses on inclusivity and caters to all body types. Beside her entrepreneurial ventures and television appearances, Khloé Kardashian has been open about her struggles with weight and body image, making her relatable to many women around the world. She authored a book titled 'Strong Looks Better Naked,' where she shared her fitness journey and tips for a healthy lifestyle. She also hosted a reality TV show called 'Revenge Body with Khloé Kardashian,' where participants undergo physical transformations to prove themselves and face their detractors.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Born as Curtis James Jackson III, the artist known globally as 50 Cent, emerged from the tough streets of South Jamaica in Queens, New York. From a life filled with adversity, he rose to become one of the most influential figures in the music industry. His journey began in the late 1990s when he was discovered by Eminem and signed to Shady Records, Aftermath Entertainment, and Interscope Records. It was these collaborations that catapulted his career and made him a household name. 50 Cent's debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin' released in 2003, topped the Billboard 200 and was certified eight times platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album produced the number-one hit singles In Da Club and 21 Questions, proving that 50 Cent was not a one-hit-wonder. His second album, The Massacre, also achieved commercial success, selling over one million copies in its first week. His music is celebrated for its gritty narrative style, capturing the essence of street life and the struggle to rise above it. But 50 Cent's influence extends beyond the realm of music. He has successfully ventured into acting, with roles in films like Get Rich or Die Tryin', Righteous Kill, and Southpaw. He is also a shrewd businessman with investments in industries ranging from fashion to beverages, and he has even dabbled in video game development. His story is one of resilience and tenacity, embodying the spirit of a man who refused to be defined by his circumstances, and instead chose to redefine himself on his own terms.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York
The Best 50 Cent Movies, RankedSee all- 1Get Rich or Die Tryin'426 Votes
- 2Before I Self Destruct287 Votes
- 3Freelancers176 Votes
- Jaclyn Smith, a household name in both the television and fashion industry, was born on October 26, 1945, in Houston, Texas. She developed her love for entertainment and performance at an early age, participating in ballet during her childhood. Graduating from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, with a degree in Psychology, she initially had plans to teach dance before deciding to pursue acting. Her career catapulted to stardom when she landed a role in the iconic television series Charlie's Angels, where she played Kelly Garrett from 1976 until the show ended in 1981. Smith's performance in Charlie's Angels garnered widespread recognition, leading to numerous opportunities in film and television. She starred in several high-profile TV movies such as Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. In 1985, Smith ventured into the business world, launching her own clothing line for Kmart, becoming one of the first celebrities to do so. This venture proved successful, expanding over time to include a range of products including apparel, accessories, and home decor. In addition to her acting and business pursuits, Smith has been an active advocate for health causes, particularly breast cancer awareness, following her own battle with the disease in 2003. Her resilience and dedication to raising awareness about the disease have made her a beacon of hope and inspiration for many. Despite the ups and downs, Jaclyn Smith has proven herself to be a versatile and enduring figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.
- Birthplace: Houston, Texas, USA
- A multi-faceted personality with an impressive career spanning over six decades, Cher rose from humble beginnings to become a global superstar. She was born as Cherilyn Sarkisian on May 20, 1946, in El Centro, California. Her early life was marked by financial struggles and frequent moves, but these hardships did not deter her from pursuing her dreams. Cher ventured into the entertainment industry in the 1960s as a backup singer before hitting the limelight as one-half of the folk-rock husband-wife duo Sonny & Cher. Cher's music career is characterized by a series of reinventions that kept her relevant across different generations. While the 70s saw her transition from folk-rock to pop with hits like "Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves", the 80s witnessed a shift towards rock music. In the 90s, Cher made another successful transition, this time to dance-pop. Her song "Believe" became a massive hit and is credited for popularizing the use of Auto-Tune in music. Cher's versatility is not limited to music alone. She has also demonstrated commendable acting skills, winning an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the film Moonstruck. In addition to her professional achievements, Cher's personal life and style have also been subjects of public fascination. Known for her distinctive contralto voice and flamboyant fashion choices, Cher has often been referred to as the 'Goddess of Pop'. Her romantic relationships, most notably with Sonny Bono and Gregg Allman, have made headlines, as has her advocacy for various causes, including LGBT rights and HIV/AIDS research.
- Birthplace: USA, California, El Centro
The Best Cher Albums of All TimeSee all- 1Heart of Stone327 Votes
- 2Cher286 Votes
- 3Believe307 Votes
- Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz on August 25, 1949, rose to prominence as the bassist and co-lead singer of the legendary rock band, Kiss. Born in Haifa, Israel, Simmons immigrated to the United States with his mother at the tender age of eight. His passion for music was ignited during his teenage years, and his fascination with comic book superheroes and theatrics would later become a significant influence in his career. Simmons co-founded Kiss in the early 1970s alongside Paul Stanley. With their face paint and extravagant stage outfits, the band quickly gained a reputation for their flamboyant image and energetic performances. Their breakthrough came in 1975 with the release of the live album Alive!. Simmons, known for his demon persona, became famous for his fire-breathing and blood-spitting stage antics. He contributed significantly to the band's repertoire, penning many of their greatest hits, including "Rock and Roll All Nite" and "God of Thunder". Beyond his musical career, Simmons has been involved in various entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors. A savvy businessman, he has invested in a range of ventures from real estate to entertainment companies. He also established the Gene Simmons Axe Company, which manufactures bass guitars. Additionally, he is an active philanthropist, supporting numerous charitable organizations such as ChildFund and Mending Kids International. Despite his larger-than-life persona, Simmons remains grounded, attributing his success to his strong work ethic and determination, qualities he inherited from his mother, a Holocaust survivor.
- Birthplace: Tirat Carmel, Israel
- George Herbert Walker Bush, born on June 12, 1924, in Milton, Massachusetts, was the 41st President of the United States, serving one term from 1989 to 1993. Prior to his presidency, Bush showcased a life dedicated to public service. His political career spanned decades and included various roles such as the Director of Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and Vice President under Ronald Reagan. However, his contribution to society extended beyond the political sphere. His legacy is marked by his military service during World War II, his commitment to volunteerism, and his role in leading a humanitarian response to natural disasters. Born into a politically active family, Bush's early life was characterized by academic excellence and athletic prowess. He graduated from Phillips Academy in Andover before enlisting in the U.S. Navy on his 18th birthday, becoming the youngest pilot in the Navy during World War II. After the war, he pursued his education at Yale University, where he excelled in both academics and sports, notably baseball. Bush's political career began with his election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1966. He served two terms before being appointed to several high-ranking positions, including Ambassador to the United Nations, Chairman of the Republican National Committee, Chief of the U.S. Liaison Office in China, and Director of the CIA. In 1980, he ran for president but lost the Republican nomination to Ronald Reagan. Subsequently, he served as Vice President for eight years under Reagan's administration. In 1988, he successfully won the presidency and served one term. During his presidency, he navigated the end of the Cold War, led a successful military operation in the Gulf War, and signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. Despite these accomplishments, economic issues at home led to his defeat in the 1992 presidential election. Post-presidency, Bush engaged in various philanthropic activities and humanitarian efforts, particularly in response to natural disasters. He passed away on November 30, 2018, leaving a legacy of service, dedication, and leadership.
- Birthplace: USA, Massachusetts, Milton
- Kimora Lee Simmons is a prominent figure in the fashion industry, celebrated for her entrepreneurial spirit and innovative designs. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on May 4, 1975, to a Japanese mother and African-American father, she grew up in an environment that cultivated her unique sense of style. At the tender age of 14, she was scouted by Karl Lagerfeld, the creative director of the prestigious brand Chanel, who swiftly made her his muse. This early exposure introduced Simmons to the glamorous world of fashion, sparking a passion that would shape her professional journey. Simmons's ascendency in the fashion industry continued with her joining Baby Phat, a subsidiary of Phat Fashions, as the Creative Director in 2000. Under her leadership, Baby Phat blossomed into a highly sought-after brand, appealing to women seeking to flaunt their individuality with confidence. Her contribution to the industry goes beyond designing; she also pioneered the inclusion of diverse models on the runway, reinforcing the notion that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The impact of her work resonated beyond the confines of fashion, rippling into the realms of body positivity and inclusivity. Outside of her career in fashion, Simmons has shown a strong commitment to philanthropy. She founded the Kimora Lee Simmons Scholarship Fund at her high school alma mater in St. Louis. Simmons also established the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation with her then-husband, Russell Simmons.
- Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in a one-room cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, is an iconic figure in the world of music. The fourth of twelve children, her family was impoverished, but rich in music and love. Her talent for singing and songwriting emerged at a very young age. By the age of 10, she was performing on local television and radio shows in Knoxville, Tennessee. At 13, she made her debut at the Grand Ole Opry, where country music star Johnny Cash encouraged her to follow her dreams. Parton's career took off when she paired with Porter Wagoner on his popular television show in the late 1960s. Their duets became immensely popular, leading to a successful musical partnership that lasted for seven years. In 1974, Parton decided to pursue a solo career. Her decision was met with great success as she produced numerous hits such as "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You," the latter being later covered by Whitney Houston, becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Parton has made significant contributions to literacy through her non-profit organization, the Imagination Library. Founded in 1995, the program mails free books to children around the world to foster a love of reading. Never one to shy away from acting, Parton has also starred in several successful films including 9 to 5 and Steel Magnolias. Despite her fame and success, Parton remains grounded, always cherishing her humble beginnings, which continue to inspire her music and philanthropy.
- Birthplace: Sevierville, Tennessee, USA
The Best Dolly Parton Albums of All TimeSee all- 1Jolene176 Votes
- 2Coat of Many Colors150 Votes
- 3Here You Come Again145 Votes
- Hugh Hefner was widely recognized as the founder and editor-in-chief of Playboy magazine. Born on April 9, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, he spearheaded a cultural revolution with the launch of Playboy in 1953. With an initial investment gathered from various sources, including a loan from his mother, Hefner introduced a publication that would redefine adult entertainment and ignite conversations on sexuality and freedom of expression. Hefner earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Illinois in 1949, following which he worked at various publications including Esquire. However, it was his desire for editorial freedom and his vision for a magazine that catered to a more sophisticated audience that led him to create Playboy. The inaugural issue, featuring the iconic nude photos of Marilyn Monroe, became an instant sensation, solidifying Playboy's place in popular culture. Beyond his publishing success, Hefner was also known for his advocacy of First Amendment rights, sexual liberation, and personal freedom. His lifestyle mirrored the ethos of his brand, with the Playboy Mansion becoming the symbol of Hefner's hedonistic and lavish lifestyle. Despite facing criticism and legal battles, Hefner remained steadfast in his belief in personal freedoms until his death in 2017. Hugh Hefner's influence extends beyond his magazine, leaving a lasting impact on the discourse surrounding sexuality and freedom of expression in American culture.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Michael Bloomberg is a name synonymous with business acumen, philanthropy and political leadership. Born in 1942 in Boston, Massachusetts, Bloomberg climbed the ranks from a middle-class upbringing to become one of the world's most influential billionaires. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in electrical engineering, and later pursued an MBA from Harvard Business School, laying a strong foundation for his illustrious career. Bloomberg embarked on his financial career at Salomon Brothers, a Wall Street Investment Bank. After being let go from the company in 1981, he utilized his severance package to start Innovative Market Systems, later renamed Bloomberg LP. This company revolutionized the financial industry by providing high-quality data, news, and analytics to professionals via the Bloomberg Terminal. His entrepreneurial success catapulted him into the ranks of the world's wealthiest individuals. However, Bloomberg's ambitions extended beyond the realm of business. In 2001, defying skeptics, he was elected as the Mayor of New York City. Over three terms, he implemented policies that aimed to improve public health, education and sustainability, leaving a lasting impact on the city. Beyond his mayoral roles, Bloomberg showcased his commitment to global issues through his philanthropic efforts. Through Bloomberg Philanthropies, he donated generously to various causes including climate change, public health and education.
- Birthplace: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Jesse Woodson James was a legendary outlaw, bank and train robber in the American Old West. Born on September 5, 1847 in Kearney, Missouri, he became one of the most infamous men of his era. Raised in a fiercely pro-slavery household, he was exposed to guerrilla warfare while growing up during the tumultuous period of the Civil War. James began his notorious career as an outlaw alongside his older brother, Frank. As part of the "James-Younger Gang", they executed daring robberies across the state lines. His criminal exploits were often glamorized by the media of that time, painting him as a Robin Hood-like figure who stole from the rich and gave to the poor, even though there's little evidence to support such claims. The gang's audacious crimes and their ability to evade law enforcement made them objects of public fascination. The sudden end to Jesse James's life on April 3, 1882, further immortalized him in American folklore. Betrayed by Robert Ford, a new recruit to the gang, James was shot in the back of his head at his own home in St. Joseph, Missouri. The death of Jesse James captured nationwide attention. His storied life and violent death have been the inspiration for countless movies, books, and songs, ensuring his place as one of the most iconic figures from America's Wild West era.
- Birthplace: USA, Long Beach, California
- Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr., born on August 14, 1959, in Lansing, Michigan, is an iconic figure in the world of basketball, renowned for his remarkable career as a professional player and his subsequent ventures as a successful entrepreneur. The son of a General Motors assembly worker and a school janitor, Johnson's passion for basketball was evident from an early age, leading him to become one of the most celebrated athletes in the sport's history. Johnson's basketball journey began at Everett High School before he gained national attention at Michigan State University. He led the Spartans to the NCAA championship in 1979, a victory that set the stage for his exceptional career in the NBA. Drafted by the Los Angeles Lakers, Johnson achieved enormous success over his 13-season tenure, winning five NBA championships and earning three MVP awards. His unique playing style and infectious charisma earned him the nickname "Magic," captivating audiences worldwide. However, his career took a dramatic turn in 1991 when he announced his HIV diagnosis, becoming one of the first high-profile cases in sports. Retiring from basketball, he transitioned into the business world, leveraging his fame and acumen to build Magic Johnson Enterprises, a conglomerate valued at over $1 billion. His ventures span across industries including real estate, entertainment, and sports franchises. Additionally, Johnson has been an outspoken advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, using his platform to educate millions about the disease. His life is a testament to resilience, proving that even in the face of adversity, greatness can be achieved.
- Birthplace: Lansing, Michigan, USA
Magic Johnson's Best Teammates Throughout His NBA CareerSee all- 1Kareem Abdul-Jabbar101 Votes
- 2James Worthy62 Votes
- 3Jamaal Wilkes43 Votes
- Alexander Graham Bell ('Graham' pronounced ) (March 3, 1847 – August 2, 1922) was a Scottish-born American inventor, scientist, and engineer who is credited with inventing and patenting the first practical telephone. He also founded the American Telephone and Telegraph Company (AT&T) in 1885.Bell's father, grandfather, and brother had all been associated with work on elocution and speech and both his mother and wife were deaf, profoundly influencing Bell's life's work. His research on hearing and speech further led him to experiment with hearing devices which eventually culminated in Bell being awarded the first U.S. patent for the telephone in 1876. Bell considered his invention an intrusion on his real work as a scientist and refused to have a telephone in his study.Many other inventions marked Bell's later life, including groundbreaking work in optical telecommunications, hydrofoils, and aeronautics. Although Bell was not one of the 33 founders of the National Geographic Society, he had a strong influence on the magazine while serving as the second president from January 7, 1898, until 1903.
- Birthplace: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Howard Hughes, a name that resonates with aviation, filmmaking, and business, was born on December 24, 1905, in Houston, Texas. The son of a successful inventor, Hughes was nurtured amidst a backdrop of affluence and industry innovation, which ultimately paved the way for his own grand endeavors. A gifted student, he dropped out of Rice University to take the reins of his family's substantial fortune at the age of 18 following the untimely demise of his parents. This marked the inception of a career characterized by unprecedented achievements, accompanied by a fair share of controversy. Highly ambitious, Hughes dabbled in multiple industries. His initial endeavors were in the film industry where his work demonstrated an audacious flair. His most popular films include Hell's Angels and Scarface, both of which attracted great attention for their unconventional themes during the conservative era of the 1930s. A parallel passion for aviation led him to establish the Hughes Aircraft Company. Hughes, an accomplished aviator himself, set several world air speed records. His success in these diverse domains underscored his risk-taking spirit and innovative mindset. However, Hughes's life was not devoid of struggle. In later years, he was known for his eccentric behavior, reclusiveness, and health issues, widely speculated to be symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Despite these challenges, Hughes never ceased to astound the world with his ventures. He purchased and expanded Trans World Airlines (TWA) making it one of the leading airlines of its time. He also invested in real estate, notably in Las Vegas, contributing to its transformation into a major leisure and entertainment center. A life as intriguing as his ended on April 5, 1976, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and fascinate.
- Birthplace: Texas, USA, Humble
- Bryan Christopher Williams (born Bryan Christopher Brooks; February 15, 1969), known by his stage name Birdman (also known as Baby), is an American rapper, record executive and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder and public face of Cash Money Records which he founded with his older brother Ronald "Slim" Williams in 1992. Birdman released his eponymous debut album in 2002, and has gone on to release four solo studio albums in total. Aside from his solo career, he is also a member of the hip-hop duo Big Tymers, along with producer Mannie Fresh. Along with his solo work and numerous releases with the Big Tymers, Birdman has released a collaboration album and numerous tracks with fellow rapper and ward Lil Wayne, whom he discovered and took under his wing at age nine. Birdman has also made his name by contributing to the making of YMCMB (Young Money Cash Money Billionaires), a combination of the former's "Cash Money" and Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment imprint under the label. Birdman has also founded the project and hip hop supergroup Rich Gang, bringing attention to artists such as Young Thug and Rich Homie Quan.
- Birthplace: USA, New Orleans, Louisiana
- Lawrence Joseph Ellison (born August 17, 1944) is an American businessman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist who is a co-founder and the executive chairman and chief technology officer (CTO) of Oracle Corporation. As of March 2019, he was listed by Forbes magazine as the fourth-wealthiest person in the United States, and as the seventh-wealthiest in the world, with a fortune of $66.1 billion, increased from $54.5 billion in 2018.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York, Lower East Side
- Dr. Dre, whose real name is Andre Romelle Young, is a legendary figure in the world of hip-hop and music production. Born on February 18, 1965, in Compton, California, he has etched his name into the annals of music history through his groundbreaking work as a rapper, music producer, and entrepreneur. His tumultuous early life in a neighborhood plagued with violence and crime significantly influenced his music style, providing a raw, gritty edge that resonated with audiences worldwide. In the mid-1980s, Dr. Dre co-founded N.W.A., a pioneering group known for its explicit lyrics and themes addressing the harsh realities of street life. His innovative production techniques, combined with his superb lyrical skills, helped the group achieve massive success. However, internal disagreements led to his departure from N.W.A. in 1991, paving the way for an illustrious solo career. His debut solo album, The Chronic, released in 1992, revolutionized the hip-hop genre with its unique blend of funk influences and gangsta rap. The album was a critical and commercial success, establishing Dr. Dre as a leading figure in the industry. Beyond his own music, Dr. Dre has played a pivotal role in shaping several successful artists' careers, including Eminem and 50 Cent, through his record label, Aftermath Entertainment. His keen eye for talent and knack for producing chart-topping hits have earned him widespread acclaim. In addition, Dr. Dre's entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of Beats Electronics, a premium audio products company, which was later sold to Apple Inc. for $3 billion, further solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in the music industry. Despite facing numerous personal and professional challenges, Dr. Dre's unwavering dedication to his craft, combined with his remarkable business acumen, continues to inspire generations of artists and entrepreneurs.
- Birthplace: Compton, USA, California
- Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., known professionally as Nelly, is an iconic figure in the world of hip hop. Born on November 2, 1974, in Austin, Texas, he was raised in St. Louis, Missouri, where he achieved fame with his music group, St. Lunatics, before embarking on a successful solo career. A Grammy award-winning artist, Nelly's unique blend of rap with pop sensibilities has earned him a significant place in the annals of music history. Nelly's debut album, Country Grammar, released in 2000, skyrocketed him to fame. The album peaked at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, eventually selling over 10 million copies worldwide and earning diamond status. His follow-up albums, Nellyville and Suit, also achieved commercial success, spawning hit singles like "Hot in Herre," "Dilemma," and "Over and Over." These albums cemented Nelly's reputation as a multi-faceted artist, capable of producing party anthems and poignant ballads alike. Beyond music, Nelly has also made significant strides in acting and philanthropy. He starred in the 2005 film The Longest Yard alongside Adam Sandler and has made appearances in several television shows. In terms of philanthropy, Nelly established the Jes Us 4 Jackie campaign, named after his sister who passed away from leukemia. This campaign aims to educate African Americans and other minorities about the need for bone marrow donors.
- Birthplace: Austin, Texas
- Paul Allen was a producer who was known for producing "Step" and "Racing Extinction." Allen was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in 2004 for "The Blues."
- Birthplace: Seattle, Washington, USA
- With his remarkably smooth and velvety baritone voice, Bing Crosby rose from obscurity to become the most popular singer in the world, dominating the record and singles charts for a 20-year stretch and enjoying a more than respectable popularity for the rest of his life. He also became an extremely successful actor, appearing in 70+ films, and charmed moviegoers everywhere with his relaxed performing style. Following a string of early hit singles, Crosby was recruited by Paramount Pictures and enjoyed a long-time partnership with Bob Hope on the highly popular series of "Road" movies, which served up endearing cocktails of humor and song. He was also highly impressive in many of his solo efforts, most notably "Going My Way" (1944), for which Crosby won the Best Actor Academy Award, "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court" (1949) and "The Country Girl" (1954). Crosby's reign as one of the leading pop culture figures in America was dampened somewhat by the rise of rock-n-roll, but he maintained a huge fanbase and songs like "White Christmas," "I'll Be Seeing You" and "Swinging on a Star" were unmistakably his. Crosby's success across multiple mediums was truly remarkable and he was arguably the leading entertainment figure of the 20th century.
- Birthplace: Tacoma, Washington, USA
The Best Bing Crosby Movies, RankedSee all- 1White Christmas233 Votes
- 2Going My Way179 Votes
- 3The Bells of St. Mary's178 Votes
- Pharrell Williams, born on April 5, 1973, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, represents an influential figure in the entertainment industry. His multifaceted talents include singing, songwriting, and producing which have earned him recognition and accolades globally. His journey to fame began in high school where he formed a band called 'The Neptunes' with Chad Hugo, his childhood friend. The duo's unique fusion of hip-hop and pop music significantly influenced the sound of popular music during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Pharrell's relentless creativity led him to co-found Star Trak Entertainment, a record label, in the early 2000s. Around this time, he also created N.E.R.D., a band that explored rock, funk, and hip hop genres. As a producer and artist, Pharrell has collaborated with industry heavyweights including Jay-Z, Britney Spears, and Daft Punk. In 2013, Pharrell's artistry shone brightly as he released the hit single "Happy," a song that not only topped charts worldwide but also earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Beyond music, Pharrell ventured into fashion and design by launching two successful clothing lines: Billionaire Boys Club and Ice Cream. His influence in the fashion world is unmistakable, with his unique style setting trends globally. He's also known for his philanthropic work, notably his establishment of the charity foundation "From One Hand To AnOTHER" (FOHTA), aimed at providing educational support for underserved youth. Undoubtedly, Pharrell Williams embodies the essence of a true artistic powerhouse, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity, while simultaneously inspiring generations with his message of positivity and individuality.
- Birthplace: Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
- Mark Cuban (born July 31, 1958) is an American businessman and investor. He is the owner of the National Basketball Association (NBA)'s Dallas Mavericks, co-owner of 2929 Entertainment and chairman of AXS TV. He is also one of the main "shark" investors on the ABC reality television series, Shark Tank. In 2011, Cuban wrote an e-book, How to Win at the Sport of Business, in which he chronicles his experiences in business and sports.
- Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Marion Gordon "Pat" Robertson (March 22, 1930 – June 8, 2023) was an American media mogul, religious broadcaster, political commentator, presidential candidate, and Southern Baptist minister. Robertson advocated a conservative Christian ideology and was known for his involvement in Republican Party politics. He was associated with the Charismatic movement within Protestant evangelicalism. He served as head of Regent University and of the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN). Spanning over five decades, Robertson was the founder of major organizations, including CBN, Regent University, Operation Blessing International Relief and Development Corporation, the International Family Entertainment Inc. (ABC Family Channel/Freeform), the American Center for Law & Justice (ACLJ), the Founders Inn and Conference Center, and the Christian Coalition.[2][3] Robertson was also a best-selling author and the former host of The 700 Club.
- Birthplace: USA, Virginia
- Jerral Wayne Jones (born October 13, 1942) is an American billionaire businessman and has been the owner of the National Football League (NFL)'s Dallas Cowboys since 1989.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, USA, California
- Percy Robert Miller, prominently known as Master P, was born on April 29th, 1967 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Master P's life story is a testament to the concept of the American dream, evolving from poverty and hardship into one of the wealthiest figures in the entertainment industry. As a teenager, he inherited a small sum of money after the tragic death of his grandfather. Instead of spending it frivolously, he invested in a tiny record store in Richmond, California, which would later transform into No Limit Records, an independent label that significantly impacted the music scene. Master P's business acumen enabled him to uniquely negotiate his contract, allowing him to keep a staggering 85% of his record sales while granting Priority Records only a distribution fee of 15%. This deal was unprecedented at the time and laid the groundwork for other artists to demand more favorable contracts. Master P's debut studio album Get Away Clean was released in 1991. However, it was his fifth studio album, Ice Cream Man‚ that catapulted him to national fame, making him a household name in the hip-hop community. Throughout his career, he has released over fifteen studio albums, many of which have been certified multi-platinum. Besides his musical endeavors, Master P embarked on several other ventures that contributed to his wealth and influence. He ventured into acting, starring in the film I Got the Hook Up and its sequel, along with appearances in numerous TV shows. Moreover, he forayed into sports management, founding No Limit Sports Management, representing several high-profile athletes. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Master P never lost sight of his roots. He established The P. Miller Youth Centers and the P. Miller Food Foundation for the Homeless, exemplifying his commitment to philanthropy. Master P's multifaceted career portrays him not just as an influential artist but also a shrewd businessman and philanthropist, making his life story a source of inspiration for many.
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Jennifer Flavin Stallone (born August 14, 1968) is a former American model and current entrepreneur and business owner. She is married to actor Sylvester Stallone.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Michael Saul Dell (born February 23, 1965) is an American businessman, investor, philanthropist, and author. He is the Founder and CEO of Dell Technologies, one of the world's largest technology infrastructure companies. He is ranked as the 20th richest person in the world by Forbes, with a net worth of $37.6 billion as of June 2019.In 2011, his 243.35 million shares of Dell Inc. stock were worth $3.5 billion, giving him 12% ownership of the company. His remaining wealth of roughly $10 billion is invested in other companies and is managed by a firm whose name, MSD Capital, incorporates Dell's initials. On January 5, 2013 it was announced that Dell had bid to take Dell Inc. private for $24.4 billion in the biggest management buyout since the Great Recession. Dell Inc. officially went private on October 29, 2013. The company once again went public in December 2018.
- Birthplace: Houston, Texas
- Donata Melina Nicolette "Dina" Lohan () née Sullivan (born September 15, 1962) is an American television personality who rose to fame as the mother and manager of actress Lindsay Lohan. She is also the mother of Michael Jr., Aliana and Dakota Lohan.
- Birthplace: New York, New York, USA
- Born Concetta Rosalie Ann Ingoglia in Brooklyn, New York, Connie Stevens made a name for herself as a versatile talent in the entertainment industry. Known for her remarkable performances as an actress, singer, director, and screenwriter, Stevens is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. Her career began in the late 1950s when she made her mark in Hollywood with Warner Bros, starring in the popular television series Hawaiian Eye. This opportunity helped carve her path towards stardom and established her place within the industry. Stevens's acting portfolio extends beyond television as she made significant appearances in numerous films. Some of her noteworthy roles include the comedy film Palm Springs Weekend and the drama Susan Slade, both enhancing her reputation as a versatile actress. However, her talents were not confined to acting alone. As a singer, she released several successful albums, including the hit single "Sixteen Reasons", which climbed the Billboard Top Ten chart, further cementing her status as a multi-talented artist. Aside from her accomplishments in acting and singing, Stevens also demonstrated her aptitude in other facets of the entertainment industry. She directed and wrote the film Saving Grace B. Jones, showcasing her ability to wield a compelling narrative. Furthermore, she founded the skincare line "Forever Spring," displaying her entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout her life, Connie Stevens has continually reinvented herself, proving that her talents extend far beyond the screen.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- George Michael Steinbrenner III (July 4, 1930 – July 13, 2010) was an American businessman who was the principal owner and managing partner of Major League Baseball's New York Yankees. During Steinbrenner's 37-year ownership from 1973 to his death in July 2010, the longest in club history, the Yankees earned seven World Series titles and 11 pennants. His outspokenness and role in driving up player salaries made him one of the sport's most controversial figures. Steinbrenner was also involved in the Great Lakes and Gulf Coast shipping industry. Known as a hands-on baseball executive, Steinbrenner earned the nickname "The Boss". He had a tendency to meddle in daily on-field decisions, and to hire and fire (and sometimes re-hire) managers. Former Yankees manager Dallas Green gave him the derisive nickname "Manager George". He died after suffering a heart attack in his Tampa home on the morning of July 13, 2010, the day of the 81st All-Star Game.
- Birthplace: Rocky River, USA, Ohio
- Abigail Pierrepont Johnson (born December 19, 1961) is an American billionaire businesswoman. Since 2014, Johnson has been president and chief executive officer of American investment firm Fidelity Investments (FMR), and chairman of its international sister company Fidelity International (FIL). Fidelity was founded by her grandfather Edward C. Johnson II. Her father Edward C. "Ned" Johnson III remains chairman emeritus of FMR. As of March 2013, the Johnson family owned a 49% stake in the company, with Johnson herself holding an estimated 24.5%.In November 2016, Johnson was named chairman and will remain CEO and president, giving her full control of Fidelity with 45,000 employees worldwide. Johnson's wealth is approximately $16 billion, making her one of the world's wealthiest women.
- Birthplace: Boston, Massachusetts
- George Foreman, born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, carved a path for himself that spanned various domains. From being an Olympic gold medalist and two-time world heavyweight champion in boxing to becoming an ordained minister and successful entrepreneur, Foreman's life is a testament to determination, adaptability, and resilience. His humble beginnings, marked by hardship and adversity, served as the stepping stones to his illustrious career, where he made his mark not only in the sports arena but also in business and philanthropy. Competition and victory defined Foreman's early years, with a notable highlight being his triumph at the 1968 Mexico City Summer Olympics, where he won a gold medal in heavyweight boxing. This achievement catapulted him into the professional boxing realm, where he emerged as a two-time heavyweight champion. His victories against formidable opponents like Joe Frazier and Michael Moorer solidified his reputation as a fearsome boxer. However, Foreman's boxing career was punctuated with a temporary retirement during which he became an ordained minister and dedicated his life to helping others. Foreman's entrepreneurial venture began with the endorsement of a distinctive kitchen grill, which later came to be known widely as the "George Foreman Grill." This endeavor turned out to be a phenomenal success, selling millions of units worldwide and transforming Foreman into a household name. He proved his mettle as an astute businessman, demonstrating his ability to transition from one career to another seamlessly. In addition to his business pursuits, Foreman's commitment to community service has been commendable. He established the George Foreman Youth Center in Houston, Texas, underscoring his dedication to giving back to society.
- Birthplace: Marshall, Texas, USA
- The founder and president of one of America's most successful and influential record labels, Berry Gordy, Jr. created Motown Records, which from the 1960s through the late 1980s was one of the most important labels in American popular music. A boxer-turned-songwriter, Gordy realized the importance of ownership when it came to artistic endeavors like music, and in 1959, he launched Motown in suburban Detroit. With its roster of stellar artists that included such legends as Smokey Robinson, the Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye and Diana Ross and the Supremes, Motown epitomized the ebullience of youth - both black and white - and the hopefulness of the future in song after hit song. Changing times reduced Motown's standing in the music field, but Gordy's vision, determination and leadership helped to make it one of the most enduring and important companies in the history of American music.
- Birthplace: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Joseph R. Francis (born April 1, 1973) is an American entrepreneur, film producer and was the founder and creator of the Girls Gone Wild entertainment brand. Francis worked as a production assistant on the syndicated program Real TV before releasing the direct-to-video film Banned from Television in 1998.Francis has, at various times, been convicted of tax evasion, bribery, false imprisonment, assault causing great bodily injury, dissuading a witness, and record-keeping violations; and has pleaded no contest to child abuse and prostitution.
- Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- MC Hammer, born Stanley Kirk Burrell on March 30, 1962, is an American entertainer who rose to fame as a rapper during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Known for his energetic performances, unique dance moves, and catchy hits, he played an instrumental role in popularizing rap music. Born in Oakland, California, Hammer's early life was marked by hardship. He was one of eight children and his family lived in a small apartment in East Oakland. Despite these challenges, he found solace in music and dance from a young age. His talent was recognized by Charles O. Finley, owner of the Oakland Athletics baseball team, who hired him as a batboy and clubhouse assistant. The nickname "Hammer" was given by the team's players due to his resemblance to "Hammerin'" Hank Aaron. Hammer's music career took off in 1987 with the release of his debut album Feel My Power. His second album, Please Hammer, Don't Hurt 'Em, released in 1990, became a phenomenal success, earning diamond certification with over 10 million copies sold. It featured the iconic track "U Can't Touch This", which is still celebrated as a classic of the genre. Despite his meteoric rise, Hammer faced financial difficulties towards the mid-90s due to lavish spending and dwindling record sales. However, he managed to reinvent himself multiple times, transitioning into a preacher, television host, and entrepreneur.
- Birthplace: Oakland, California, USA
- Raymond Albert "Ray" Kroc (October 5, 1902 – January 14, 1984) was an American fast-food tycoon. He joined the California company McDonald's in 1954, after the McDonald brothers had franchised 6 locations out from their original 1940 operation in San Bernardino. This set the stage for national expansion with the help of Kroc, eventually leading to a global franchise, making it the most successful fast food corporation in the world. Kroc was included in Time 100: The Most Important People of the Century, and amassed a fortune during his lifetime. He owned the San Diego Padres baseball team from 1974 until his death in 1984.
- Birthplace: Oak Park, USA, Illinois
- Pete Wentz was born as Peter Lewis Kingston Wentz III on June 5, 1979, in Wilmette, Illinois. Recognized primarily as the bassist and lyricist for the American rock band Fall Out Boy, Wentz has his roots in a diverse cultural background with an English-German mother and a German-Jamaican father. His early years were steeped in a rich tapestry of socio-cultural influences that would later shape his music. Wentz's foray into the world of music began during his high school years when he played for various punk bands in Chicago. His musical journey was not without challenges, but it was persistence and talent that led him to cross paths with Patrick Stump, Joe Trohman, and Andy Hurley, who together formed the Fall Out Boy in 2001. The band achieved its breakthrough success with their 2005 album From Under the Cork Tree, which sold more than 2.5 million copies in the United States alone. A significant portion of the band's success can be credited to Wentz's profound lyricism, which resonated deeply with fans around the globe. Beyond music, Wentz is also known for his entrepreneurial ventures. He owns a record label, Decaydance Records, which has signed popular bands like Panic! at the Disco and Gym Class Heroes. Wentz also ventured into fashion with his clothing line, Clandestine Industries. He authored a book too, The Boy With the Thorn in His Side, which provides a glimpse into his childhood nightmares. Despite his fame and accomplishments, Pete Wentz remains a dedicated musician at heart, dedicated to creating music that continues to inspire and resonate with his vast fanbase.
- Birthplace: Wilmette, Illinois, USA
- Jerry Chih-Yuan Yang (Chinese: 楊致遠; born November 6, 1968) is a Taiwanese-American Internet entrepreneur and programmer. He is the co-founder and former CEO of Yahoo! Inc.
- Birthplace: Taipei, Taiwan
- Andrew Carnegie kar-NAY-gee (November 25, 1835 – August 11, 1919) was a Scottish-American industrialist, business magnate, and philanthropist. Carnegie led the expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century and became one of the richest Americans in history. He became a leading philanthropist in the United States and in the British Empire. During the last 18 years of his life, he gave away $350 million (conservatively $65 billion in 2019 dollars, based on percentage of GDP) to charities, foundations, and universities – almost 90 percent of his fortune. His 1889 article proclaiming "The Gospel of Wealth" called on the rich to use their wealth to improve society, and stimulated a wave of philanthropy. Carnegie was born in Dunfermline, Scotland, and immigrated to the United States with his parents in 1848 at age 12. Carnegie started work as a telegrapher, and by the 1860s had investments in railroads, railroad sleeping cars, bridges, and oil derricks. He accumulated further wealth as a bond salesman, raising money for American enterprise in Europe. He built Pittsburgh's Carnegie Steel Company, which he sold to J. P. Morgan in 1901 for $303,450,000. It became the U.S. Steel Corporation. After selling Carnegie Steel, he surpassed John D. Rockefeller as the richest American for the next several years. Carnegie devoted the remainder of his life to large-scale philanthropy, with special emphasis on local libraries, world peace, education, and scientific research. With the fortune he made from business, he built Carnegie Hall in New York, NY, and the Peace Palace and founded the Carnegie Corporation of New York, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Carnegie Institution for Science, Carnegie Trust for the Universities of Scotland, Carnegie Hero Fund, Carnegie Mellon University, and the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, among others.
- Birthplace: Dunfermline, United Kingdom
- Robert Stanley Dyrdek (born June 28, 1974) is an American entrepreneur, actor, producer, reality TV personality, and former professional skateboarder. He is best known for his roles in the reality shows Rob & Big, Rob Dyrdek's Fantasy Factory and Ridiculousness. He also is the creator of the animated series Wild Grinders, in which he voices the series' main character, Lil Rob. In 2014, Dyrdek was labeled as one of the "most influential skateboarders of all-time" by FoxWeekly.
- Birthplace: Kettering, Ohio, USA
- Wilmot Reed Hastings Jr. (born October 8, 1960) is an American entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the co-founder, Chairman and CEO of Netflix and serves on the boards of Facebook and a number of non-profit organizations. A former member of the California State Board of Education, Hastings is an advocate for education reform through charter schools.
- Birthplace: Boston, Massachusetts
- George B. Kaiser (born July 29, 1942) is an American businessman. He is the chairman of BOK Financial Corporation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is among the 100 richest people in the world and was, in 2012, one of the top 50 American philanthropists.
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Chael Patrick Sonnen (; born April 3, 1977) is an American retired mixed martial artist and current MMA analyst for ESPN. Beginning his MMA career in 1997, Sonnen competed for the UFC, where he became a top challenger in both the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions and challenged for both the UFC Light Heavyweight and UFC Middleweight Championships. Sonnen has also fought in the WEC, Pancrase, and most recently for Bellator MMA. He holds notable victories over numerous former world champions such as Maurício Rua, Paulo Filho, Michael Bisping, Nate Marquardt, Wanderlei Silva, and Quinton Jackson.
- Birthplace: Milwaukie, Oregon, USA
- Julian Hart Robertson Jr. (born June 25, 1932) is an American investor, hedge fund manager, philanthropist and signatory of The Giving Pledge. Now retired, Robertson invests directly in other hedge funds, most run by former employees of Robertson's defunct hedge fund company. Robertson founded the investment firm Tiger Management Corp., one of the earliest hedge funds. Robertson is credited with turning $8 million in start-up capital in 1980 into over $22 billion in the late 1990s, though that was followed by a fast downward spiral of investor withdrawals that ended with the fund closing in 2000.In 1993, his compensation and share of Tiger's gain exceeded $300 million. His 2003 estimated net worth was over $400 million, and in December 2017 it was estimated by Forbes at $4.1 billion. Robertson said in 2008 that he shorted subprime securities and made money through credit default swaps. The following year, according to Forbes, Robertson's return on his $200 million personal trading account was 150 percent.
- Birthplace: Salisbury, North Carolina
- Patrick Schwarzenegger is an American actor who appeared in "The Staircase," "Daniel Isn't Real," and "Midnight Sun."
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Diane von Furstenberg, formerly Princess Diane of Fürstenberg is a Belgian-born American fashion designer best known for her iconic wrap dress. She initially rose to prominence when she married into the German princely House of Fürstenberg, as the wife of Prince Egon of Fürstenberg. Following their divorce in 1972, she has continued to use his family name, although she is no longer entitled to use the title princess following her divorce and subsequent remarriage in 2001. She re-launched her fashion company, Diane von Furstenberg, in 1997, with the reintroduction of her famous wrap dress. The company is now a global luxury lifestyle brand offering four complete collections a year. DVF is available in over 70 countries and 45 free-standing shops worldwide. The company’s headquarters and flagship boutique are located in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. In 2005, the Council of Fashion Designers of America awarded her the Lifetime Achievement Award and the following year named her as their president, a position she has held since 2006. As of 2014, she is listed as the 68th most powerful woman in the world by Forbes, and her company has 85 stores worldwide.
- Birthplace: Brussels, Belgium
- Known as much for the catchphrases "Bam!" and "Kick it up a notch!" as his Creole-infused recipes, celebrity chef supreme Emeril Lagasse became a major feature on the American culinary landscape with massive exposure on cooking shows such as "Essence of Emeril" (Food Network, 1994-2008). After earning his stripes with a stellar run as the executive chef at the renowned New Orleans eatery Commander's Palace, Lagasse opened the first of several astonishingly successful restaurants of his own in 1990. Within a few short years, he parlayed that success into a slew of awards, best-selling cookbooks and his own cooking show, "Essence of Emeril," named after his ubiquitous retail line of seasonings. More television projects and restaurants followed, as did books - over 15 bestsellers, in addition to a line of children's books. Lagasse appeared regularly on virtually every talk show - both daytime and late night - and even enjoyed a regularly featured character based on him on the animated comedy series "Futurama" (FOX, 1999-2003; Comedy Central, 2009-12). His vast empire grew to include lines of cookware, appliances, and apparel, as well as a philanthropic organization he founded in 2002. As the poster child for the cooking craze that swept America in the late-1990s, Lagasse's appeal sprang largely from an adventurous, intercontinental approach to comfort food, delivered in an unassuming, fun-loving manner by a natural self-promoter.
- Birthplace: Fall River, Massachusetts, USA
- Gordon Earle Moore (born January 3, 1929) is an American businessman, engineer, and the co-founder and chairman emeritus of Intel Corporation. He is also the author of Moore's law. As of April 2019, Moore's net worth is reported to be $10.4 billion.
- Birthplace: USA, California, San Francisco
- Rex David Thomas (July 2, 1932 – January 8, 2002) was an American businessman, philanthropist, and fast-food tycoon. Thomas was the founder and chief executive officer of Wendy's, a fast-food restaurant chain specializing in hamburgers. He is also known for appearing in more than 800 commercial advertisements for the chain from 1989 to 2002, more than any other company founder in television history.
- Birthplace: Atlantic City, New Jersey
- Reid Garrett Hoffman CBE (born August 5, 1967) is an American internet entrepreneur, venture capitalist and author. Hoffman was the co-founder and executive chairman of LinkedIn, a business-oriented social network used primarily for professional networking. He is currently a partner at the venture capital firm Greylock Partners. On the Forbes 2019 list of the world's billionaires, Hoffman was ranked #1349 with a net worth of US$1.8 billion.
- Birthplace: Stanford, California
- Known for his eccentric character portrayals in a career spanning over six decades, Christopher Lloyd remains one of Hollywood's most treasured and versatile actors. Born on October 22, 1938, in Stamford, Connecticut, Lloyd ignited his passion for acting at just 14 when he took summer classes at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City. His journey then led him to Broadway, where he made his debut in the play Red, White and Maddox in 1969. Lloyd's breakthrough performance came in 1975 when he starred as Kesey's mental patient, Taber, in the film adaptation of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. His compelling portrayal won him critical acclaim and paved the way for more significant roles. In 1985, Lloyd etched his name into the annals of cinema history with his unforgettable role as Dr. Emmett Brown in the blockbuster movie Back to the Future. The film's immense success led to two sequels, further cementing Lloyd's status as a beloved and iconic figure in American cinema. Outside of his illustrious acting career, Lloyd has also been known for his philanthropic endeavors. A passionate advocate for preserving film history, he co-founded the nonprofit organization Film Foundation, which is dedicated to film preservation and the exhibition of restored films.
- Birthplace: Stamford, Connecticut, USA
- Philip Hampson "Phil" Knight, whose nickname is "Buck" (born February 24, 1938) is an American business magnate and philanthropist. A native of Oregon, he is the co-founder and current chairman emeritus of Nike, Inc., and previously served as chairman and CEO of the company. As of June 2019, Knight was ranked by Forbes as the 26th richest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of US$31.8 billion. He is also the owner of the stop motion film production company Laika. Knight is a graduate of the University of Oregon and Stanford Graduate School of Business. He ran track under coach Bill Bowerman at the University of Oregon, with whom he would co-found Nike. A noted philanthropist, Knight has donated hundreds of millions of dollars to each of his alma maters, as well as Oregon Health & Science University. In total, he has donated over $2 billion to the three institutions.
- Birthplace: Portland, Oregon
- Sarah Breedlove (December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919), known as Madam C. J. Walker, was an African-American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a political and social activist. Walker was considered the wealthiest African-American businesseswoman and wealthiest self-made woman in America at the time of her death in 1919.Walker made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of cosmetics and hair care products for black women through the business she founded, Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company. Born in a village in Louisiana, she moved North to develop her business. She became known also for her philanthropy and activism. She made financial donations to numerous organizations and became a patron of the arts. Villa Lewaro, Walker's lavish estate in Irvington-on-Hudson, New York, served as a social gathering place for the African-American community. Although she was eulogized as the first female self-made millionaire in the US, her estate was worth an estimated $600,000 upon her death. According to Walker's obituary in The New York Times, "she said herself two years ago [in 1917] that she was not yet a millionaire, but hoped to be some time". Her name, Madam C. J. Walker, came as a result of her marriage to Charles Joseph Walker, who died in 1926.
- Birthplace: Delta, Louisiana
- Francois Henri "Jack" LaLanne (pronounced /lə'leɪn/ "luh-layn" French /lalan/ "lah-lahn"; September 26, 1914 – January 23, 2011) was an American fitness, exercise, and nutrition expert and motivational speaker who is sometimes referred to as the "Godfather of Fitness" and the "First Fitness Superhero". He described himself as being a "sugarholic" and a "junk food junkie" until he was age 15. He also had behavioral problems, but "turned his life around" after listening to a public lecture about the benefits of good nutrition by health food pioneer Paul Bragg. During his career, he came to believe that the country's overall health depended on the health of its population, and referred to physical culture and nutrition as "the salvation of America".Decades before health and fitness began being promoted by celebrities like Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons, LaLanne was already widely recognized for publicly preaching the health benefits of regular exercise and a good diet. He published numerous books on fitness and hosted the fitness television program The Jack LaLanne Show between 1953 and 1985. As early as 1936, at age 21, he opened one of the nation's first fitness gyms in Oakland, California, which became a prototype for dozens of similar gyms bearing his name. One of his 1950s television exercise programs was aimed toward women, whom he also encouraged to join his health clubs. He invented a number of exercise machines, including the pulley and leg extension devices and the Smith machine. Besides producing his own series of videos, he coached the elderly and disabled not to forgo exercise, believing it would enable them to enhance their strength.LaLanne also gained recognition for his success as a bodybuilder, as well as for his prodigious feats of strength. Arnold Schwarzenegger once exclaimed "That Jack LaLanne's an animal!" after a 54-year-old LaLanne beat then 21-year-old Schwarzenegger badly in an informal contest. On the occasion of LaLanne's death, Schwarzenegger credited LaLanne for being "an apostle for fitness" by inspiring "billions all over the world to live healthier lives", and, as governor of California, had earlier placed him on his Governor's Council on Physical Fitness. Steve Reeves credited LaLanne as his inspiration to build his muscular physique while keeping a slim waist. LaLanne was inducted to the California Hall of Fame and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Birthplace: USA, California, San Francisco
- Colonel Harland David Sanders (September 9, 1890 – December 16, 1980) was an American businessman, best known for founding fast food chicken restaurant chain Kentucky Fried Chicken (also known as KFC) and later acting as the company's brand ambassador and symbol. His name and image are still symbols of the company. The title 'colonel' was honorary – a Kentucky Colonel – not the military rank. Sanders held a number of jobs in his early life, such as steam engine stoker, insurance salesman and filling station operator. He began selling fried chicken from his roadside restaurant in North Corbin, Kentucky, during the Great Depression. During that time Sanders developed his "secret recipe" and his patented method of cooking chicken in a pressure fryer. Sanders recognized the potential of the restaurant franchising concept, and the first KFC franchise opened in South Salt Lake, Utah in 1952. When his original restaurant closed, he devoted himself full-time to franchising his fried chicken throughout the country. The company's rapid expansion across the United States and overseas became overwhelming for Sanders. In 1964, then 73 years old, he sold the company to a group of investors led by John Y. Brown Jr. and Jack C. Massey for $2 million ($16.2 million today). However, he retained control of operations in Canada, and he became a salaried brand ambassador for Kentucky Fried Chicken. In his later years, he became highly critical of the food served by KFC restaurants, as he believed they had cut costs and allowed quality to deteriorate.
- Birthplace: Henryville, Indiana
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- William Rancic (; born May 16, 1971) is an American entrepreneur who was the first candidate hired by The Trump Organization at the conclusion of the first season of Donald Trump's reality television show, The Apprentice. He is married to E! News host Giuliana Rancic.
- Birthplace: Orland Park, Illinois, USA
- Nikki Sixx (born Frank Carlton Serafino Feranna, Jr.; December 11, 1958) is an American musician, songwriter, radio host, and photographer, best known as the co-founder, bassist, and primary songwriter of the band Mötley Crüe. Prior to forming Mötley Crüe, Sixx was a member of Sister before going on to form London with his Sister bandmate Lizzie Grey. In 2000 he formed side project group 58 with Dave Darling, Steve Gibb and Bucket Baker issuing one album, titled Diet for a New America, the same year while in 2002 he formed the hard rock supergroup Brides of Destruction with L.A. Guns guitarist Tracii Guns. Formed in 2006, initially to record an audio accompaniment to Sixx's autobiography The Heroin Diaries: A Year in the Life of a Shattered Rock Star, his side band Sixx:A.M. features songwriter, producer, and vocalist James Michael and guitarist DJ Ashba.Sixx has also worked with a number of artists and groups, co-writing and/or producing songs, such as Sex Pistols's guitarist Steve Jones, Lita Ford, Alice Cooper, Meat Loaf, Marion Raven, Drowning Pool, Saliva and The Last Vegas, among others. Sixx launched the clothing line "Royal Underground" in 2006 with Kelly Gray, formerly the co-president and house model of St. John. Initially the label concentrated on men's clothing before expanding into women's while in 2010, Premiere Radio Networks launched nationally syndicated Rock/alternative music radio programs "Sixx Sense" and "The Side Show Countdown" with both based in Dallas, Texas and hosted by Sixx and co-hosted by Jenn Marino.
- Birthplace: San Jose, California, USA
- Henry Samueli (born September 20, 1954) is an American businessman, engineer, and philanthropist. He is the co-founder of Broadcom Corporation, owner of the National Hockey League's Anaheim Ducks, and a prominent philanthropist in the Orange County, California community. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Broadcom Inc. He is also a Professor (on leave of absence) in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at UCLA, and a Distinguished Adjunct Professor in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department at UC Irvine. He holds honorary doctorate degrees from the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology and the National Chiao Tung University in Taiwan.He is a named inventor in 75 U.S. patents. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS) and a Member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE). In 2012 Samueli won the Marconi Prize and Fellowship for "pioneering advances in the development and commercialization of analog and mixed signal circuits for modern communication systems, in particular the cable modem.As of February 2018, Forbes estimates Samueli's net worth at $3.8 billion.He currently resides with his wife Susan in Newport Beach, California.
- Birthplace: Buffalo, New York
- Frankie Avalon (born Francis Thomas Avallone; September 18, 1940) is an American actor, singer, and former teen idol. Avalon had 31 charted U.S. Billboard singles from 1958 to late 1962, including the number one hits "Venus" and "Why" in 1959.
- Birthplace: USA, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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- Charles Simonyi (; Hungarian: Simonyi Károly, pronounced [ˈʃimoɲi ˈkaːroj]; born September 10, 1948) is a Hungarian-born American software architect. He started and led Microsoft's applications group, where he built the first versions of Microsoft Office suite of applications. He founded and led Intentional Software (acquired by Microsoft in 2017), with the aim of developing and marketing his concept of intentional programming. In April 2007, aboard Soyuz TMA-10, he became the fifth space tourist and the second Hungarian in space. In March 2009, aboard Soyuz TMA-14, he made a second trip to the International Space Station. His estimated net worth is US$3.3 billion.
- Birthplace: Budapest, Hungary
- Stefan Kendal Gordy, better known by his stage name Redfoo, is an American singer, dancer, record producer, DJ and rapper best known as part of the musical duo LMFAO. He formed the duo with his nephew Sky Blu in 2006 and they released two studio albums before going solo in 2013. He is the youngest son of Motown Record Company founder Berry Gordy, Jr. In 1998, at the Hollywood Athletic Club, Eminem opened up for Redfoo and Dre Kroon before Eminem had even gotten together with Dr. Dre. Redfoo and Dre Kroon are the real ones who discovered Eminem. Redfoo said in an interview that he had given him the demo first.
- Birthplace: Los Angeles, California
- Damon "Dame" Anthony Dash (born May 3, 1971), is an American entrepreneur, record executive, film producer, director and actor. Dash is best known as co-founder of Roc-A-Fella along with Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter and Kareem "Biggs" Burke.
- Birthplace: New York City, USA, New York, Harlem
- Sir Leonard "Len" Blavatnik (Ukrainian: Леонід Валентинович Блаватнік, Russian: Леонид Валентинович Блаватник, Leonid Valentinovich Blavatnik; born June 14, 1957) is a Soviet-born British-American businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He made his fortune through business via diversified investments in myriad companies through his conglomerate company, Access Industries. As of January 2018, Blavatnik was the wealthiest man in the United Kingdom, and the 50th wealthiest in the world, with a net worth of US$21.2 billion. In 2017, Blavatnik received a knighthood for services to philanthropy.
- Birthplace: Odessa, Ukraine
- Daniel Marc Snyder (born November 23, 1964) is an American businessman who is the majority owner of the Washington Redskins American football team, founder of Snyder Communications and primary investor in Red Zebra Broadcasting, which is home to the Redskins Radio ESPN.
- Birthplace: Silver Spring, Maryland
- Dean Lawrence Kamen (born April 5, 1951) is an American engineer, inventor, and businessman. He is known for his invention of the Segway, as well as founding the non-profit organization FIRST with Woodie Flowers. Born to a Jewish family in Long Island, New York, he attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, but dropped out before graduating after five years of private advanced research for the insulin pump AutoSyringe. He is the son of Jack Kamen, an illustrator for Mad, Weird Science and other EC Comics publications.
- Birthplace: Rockville Centre, New York, USA
- Marc Lowell Andreessen ( ann-DREE-sən; born July 9, 1971) is an American entrepreneur, investor, and software engineer. He is the co-author of Mosaic, the first widely used Web browser; co-founder of Netscape; and co-founder and general partner of Silicon Valley venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. He founded and later sold the software company Opsware to Hewlett-Packard. Andreessen is also a co-founder of Ning, a company that provides a platform for social networking websites. He sits on the board of directors of Facebook, eBay, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, among others. Andreessen was one of six inductees in the World Wide Web Hall of Fame announced at the First International Conference on the World-Wide Web in 1994..
- Birthplace: Cedar Falls, Iowa
- Henry R. Kravis (born January 6, 1944) is an American businessman, investor, and philanthropist. He is the co-founder of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., a global investment firm with a market cap of approximately $16.5 billion as of October 2017. He has an estimated net worth of $5.8 billion as of July 2018, ranked by Forbes as the 365th richest person in the world.
- Birthplace: Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Claudia Alta "Lady Bird" Johnson (née Taylor; December 22, 1912 – July 11, 2007) was an American socialite and the First Lady of the United States (1963–1969) as the wife of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. She also served as the Second Lady of the United States from 1961 until President John F. Kennedy's assassination in 1963. Notably well-educated for a woman of her era, she proved a capable manager and a successful investor. After marrying Lyndon B. Johnson in 1934 when he was a political hopeful in Austin, Texas, she used a modest inheritance to bankroll his congressional campaign, and then ran his office while he served in the Navy. She bought a radio station, and, later, a television station which generated revenues that made the Johnsons into millionaires. As First Lady, she broke new ground by interacting directly with Congress, employing her own press secretary, and making a solo electioneering tour. Johnson was an advocate for beautifying the nation's cities and highways ("Where flowers bloom, so does hope"). The Highway Beautification Act was informally known as "Lady Bird's Bill." She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest honors bestowed upon a US civilian.
- Birthplace: Karnack, Texas, USA
- Kimberley Dawn Locke (born January 3, 1978) is an American singer-songwriter and model. She has recorded in the dance and pop genres, and has targeted the adult contemporary radio format. Locke gained fame with her participation in the 2003 American Idol television series in which she placed third. In 2007 she garnered media attention for her participation in Celebrity Fit Club.
- Birthplace: Tennessee, USA, Hartsville
- Pierre Morad Omidyar (Persian: پیر مراد امیدیار, Persian pronunciation: [piːjeɾ moɾɑːd omiːdjɑːɾ] born June 21, 1967) is an American billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the founder of eBay where he served as chairman from 1998 to 2015. He became a billionaire at the age of 31 with eBay's 1998 initial public offering (IPO). Omidyar and his wife Pamela are well-known philanthropists who founded Omidyar Network in 2004 in order to expand their efforts beyond non-profits to include for-profits and public policy. Since 2010, Omidyar has been involved in online journalism as the head of investigative reporting and public affairs news service Honolulu Civil Beat. In 2013, he announced that he would create and finance First Look Media, a journalism venture to include Glenn Greenwald, Laura Poitras, and Jeremy Scahill.
- Birthplace: Paris, France
- Jack Patrick Dorsey (born November 19, 1976) is an American computer programmer and Internet entrepreneur who is co-founder and CEO of Twitter, and the founder and CEO of Square, a mobile payments company.
- Birthplace: St. Louis, Missouri
- James Henry Clark (born March 23, 1944) is an American entrepreneur and computer scientist. He founded several notable Silicon Valley technology companies, including Silicon Graphics, Inc., Netscape Communications Corporation, myCFO, and Healtheon. His research work in computer graphics led to the development of systems for the fast rendering of three-dimensional computer images.
- Birthplace: Plainview, Texas
- Peter Andreas Thiel (; born October 11, 1967) is an American entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He is a co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies and Founders Fund. He was ranked No. 4 on the Forbes Midas List of 2014, with a net worth of $2.2 billion, and No. 328 on the Forbes 400 in 2018, with a net worth of $2.5 billion.Thiel was born in Frankfurt. He moved with his family to the United States as an infant, and spent a portion of his upbringing in Southern Africa before returning to the United States. He studied philosophy at Stanford University, graduating with a B.A. in 1989. He then went on to the Stanford Law School, and received his J.D. in 1992. After graduation, he worked as a judicial clerk for Judge James Larry Edmondson, a securities lawyer for Sullivan & Cromwell, a speechwriter for former-U.S. Secretary of Education William Bennett and as a derivatives trader at Credit Suisse prior to founding Thiel Capital in 1996. He co-founded PayPal in 1999, serving as chief executive officer until its sale to eBay in 2002 for $1.5 billion. After the sale of PayPal, he founded Clarium Capital, a global macro hedge fund. He launched Palantir Technologies, a big data analysis company, in 2004 and continues to serve as its chairman as of 2018. His Founders Fund, a venture capital firm, was launched in 2005 along with PayPal partners Ken Howery and Luke Nosek. Earlier, Thiel became Facebook's first outside investor when he acquired a 10.2% stake for $500,000 in August 2004. He sold the majority of his shares in Facebook for over $1 billion in 2012, but remains on the board of directors. He also co-founded Valar Ventures in 2010, co-founded Mithril Capital, of which he is investment committee chair, in 2012, and served as a partner at Y Combinator from 2015 to 2017.Through the Thiel Foundation, Thiel governs the grant-making bodies Breakout Labs and Thiel Fellowship, and funds nonprofit research into artificial intelligence, life extension and seasteading. A co-founder of The Stanford Review, he is a conservative libertarian who is critical of high government spending, high debt levels, and foreign wars. He has donated to numerous political figures. In 2016, Thiel revealed that he had funded Hulk Hogan in the Bollea v. Gawker lawsuit, which ultimately led to the bankruptcy of Gawker.
- Birthplace: Frankfurt, Germany
Martine Rothblatt
Age: 71Martine Aliana Rothblatt (born 1954) is an American lawyer, author, and entrepreneur. Rothblatt graduated from University of California, Los Angeles with a combined law and MBA degree in 1981, then began to work in Washington, D.C., first in the field of communications satellite law, and eventually in life sciences projects like the Human Genome Project. She is the founder and Chairwoman of the Board of United Therapeutics. She was also the CEO of GeoStar and the creator of SiriusXM Satellite Radio. She was the top earning CEO in biopharmaceutical industry in 2018.- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois
- David Mark Rubenstein (born August 11, 1949) is an American financier and philanthropist. He is a Co-Founder and Co-Executive Chairman of The Carlyle Group, a global private equity investment company based in Washington, D.C. He also currently serves as Chairman of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Chairman of the Smithsonian Institution, Chairman of the Council on Foreign Relations, and President of The Economic Club of Washington, D.C. According to the Forbes ranking of the wealthiest people in the world, Rubenstein has a net worth of $3 billion.
- Birthplace: Baltimore, Maryland
- Kevin A. Plank (born August 13, 1972) is an American billionaire businessman and philanthropist. Plank is the founder, CEO and chairman of Under Armour, a manufacturer of sportswear, footwear and accessories, based in Baltimore, Maryland.
- Birthplace: Kensington, Maryland
- Gregory Hammond "Greg" Olsen (born April 20, 1945) is an American entrepreneur, engineer and scientist who, in October 2005, became the third private citizen to make a self-funded trip to the International Space Station with the company Space Adventures. Olsen was the co-founder and chairman of Sensors Unlimited Inc., a company developing optoelectronic devices such as sensitive near-infrared (NIR) and shortwave-infrared (SWIR) cameras. One of Sensors Unlimited's major customers is NASA. Currently, Olsen is President of GHO Ventures, LLC, in Princeton, New Jersey, where he manages his angel investments, South African winery, Montana ranch, and performs numerous speaking engagements to encourage children – especially minority and female children – to consider careers in science or engineering. He also is a physics professor at Rider University.
- Birthplace: New York City, New York
- Jason McCabe Calacanis (born November 28, 1970) is an American Internet entrepreneur, angel investor, author and podcaster.His first company was part of the dot-com era in New York, and his second venture, Weblogs, Inc., a publishing company that he co-founded together with Brian Alvey, capitalized on the growth of blogs before being sold to AOL. In addition to being an angel investor in various technology startups, Calacanis also presents at industry conferences worldwide.
- Birthplace: Bay Ridge, New York City, New York
- Anthony James Barr (born September 24, 1940), aka Tony Barr or Jim Barr, is an American programming language designer, software engineer and inventor. Among his notable contributions are the Statistical Analysis System (SAS), automated lumber yield optimization, and the Automated Classification of Medical Entities (ACME).
- Birthplace: New York
- Mark Jonathan Pincus (born February 13, 1966) is an American Internet entrepreneur known as the founder of Zynga, a mobile social gaming company. Pincus also founded the startups Freeloader, Inc., Tribe Networks, and Support.com; founded and launched an incubator, SuperLabs, later acquired by Zynga; and co-founded the political movement, Win the Future. Pincus served as the CEO of Zynga until July 2013, then again from 2015 to 2016.Pincus was named 2009 "CEO of the Year" at The Crunchies technology awards and a year later was named Founder of the Year at the 2010 ceremony. Zynga is considered to be the pioneer of the social gaming industry. In 2011, Zynga went public with a $1 billion IPO.
- Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois
- Avram Joel Spolsky (born 1965) is a software engineer and writer. He is the author of Joel on Software, a blog on software development, and the creator of the project management software Trello. He was a Program Manager on the Microsoft Excel team between 1991 and 1994. He later founded Fog Creek Software in 2000 and launched the Joel on Software blog. In 2008, he launched the Stack Overflow programmer Q&A site in collaboration with Jeff Atwood. Using the Stack Exchange software product which powers Stack Overflow, the Stack Exchange Network now hosts over 170 Q&A sites.
- Birthplace: Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Richard Allen Garriott de Cayeux (né Garriott; July 4, 1961) is an English-American video-game developer and entrepreneur. He is also known by his alter egos "Lord British" in the game series Ultima and "General British" in Tabula Rasa. Garriott, who is the son of NASA astronaut Owen Garriott, was originally a game designer and programmer, and is now involved in a number of aspects of computer-game development. On October 12, 2008, Richard flew aboard the Soyuz TMA-13 mission to the International Space Station as a private astronaut, returning 12 days later aboard Soyuz TMA-12. He became the second astronaut, and first from the U.S., to have a parent who was also a space traveler. Garriott founded a new video-game-development company in 2009, called Portalarium. His current project is Shroud of the Avatar: Forsaken Virtues where his primary role is as CEO and Creative Director. In 2011, Garriott married Laetitia de Cayeux. Both changed their last names to Garriott de Cayeux.
- Birthplace: England, Cambridge
- Colin Andrew Wilkie Cowie (born 3 January 1962) is an African-born American lifestyle guru, television personality, author, interior designer and party planner.
- Birthplace: Kitwe, Zambia
- Daniel Kottke () was a college friend of Steve Jobs and one of the first employees of Apple Inc.
- Birthplace: Bronxville, New York
- Kenneth Cordele Griffin (born October 15, 1968) is an American investor, hedge fund manager, and philanthropist. He is the founder and chief executive of the global investment firm Citadel, founded in 1990. As of March 2015, Citadel is one of the world's largest alternative investment management firms with an estimated $25 billion in investment capital. Forbes identified Griffin as one of 2012's highest earning hedge fund managers as well as one of the Forbes 400.As of January 2019 Griffin had an estimated net worth of US$9.9 billion, making him the richest person in Illinois and the 45th richest person in America. At the beginning of 2014, Griffin made a $150 million donation to the financial aid program at Harvard University, his alma mater, the largest single donation ever made to the institution at the time, and his donations to various organizations and causes have totaled about $700 million. In the same year, 2014, Griffin reportedly earned $1.3 billion including a share of his firm's management and performance fees, cash compensation and stock and option awards.Griffin became an Advisory Board Member for the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in 2019.
- Birthplace: Daytona Beach, Florida
- Brendan Synnott is scheduled to appear on Survivor: Tocantins, the eighteenth season of reality show Survivor.
- Birthplace: Connecticut
- J. Michael Arrington (born March 13, 1970) is the American founder and former co-editor of TechCrunch, a blog covering the Silicon Valley technology start-up communities and the wider technology field in America and elsewhere. Magazines such as Wired and Forbes have named Arrington one of the most powerful people on the Internet. In 2008, he was selected by TIME Magazine as one of the most influential people in the world.
- Birthplace: Orange, California
- Jeffrey Robert Lurie (born September 8, 1951) is an American motion picture producer and businessman, and the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL).
- Birthplace: Boston, USA, Massachusetts
David Sarnoff
Dec. at 80 (1891-1971)David Sarnoff (February 27, 1891 – December 12, 1971) was an American businessman and pioneer of American radio and television. Throughout most of his career he led the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) in various capacities from shortly after its founding in 1919 until his retirement in 1970. He ruled over an ever-growing telecommunications and media empire that included both RCA and NBC, and became one of the largest companies in the world. Named a Reserve Brigadier General of the Signal Corps in 1945, Sarnoff thereafter was widely known as "The General."Sarnoff is credited with Sarnoff's law, which states that the value of a broadcast network is proportional to the number of viewers.- Birthplace: Uzlyany, Belarus
- The man behind films ranging from "Nashville" through the recent "Ocean's Eleven" series - not to mention countless Broadway shows and concerts, including a history-making nationwide tour by Elvis Presley - Jerry Weintraub fit the bill of "producer" in the most classically recognized sense. He was silver-haired, lightly tanned, and perennially optimistic, yet incredibly superstitious, carefully avoiding talking too much about the past or the future - a lamentable choice considering the stories he could have told. Perhaps knowing all too well how easily the best assembled plans could suddenly fall apart, Weintraub often referred to himself as simply very lucky in his Hollywood success. He was however, being modest, as his sheer output of quality projects through the years more than backed up his standing as one of the best producers in town. His death from a heart attack on July 6, 2015 ended the reign of one of Hollywood's most beloved producers.
- Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Joichi "Joi" Ito (伊藤 穰一, Itō Jōichi, born June 19, 1966) is a Japanese activist, entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and director of the MIT Media Lab. Ito is a professor of the practice of media arts and sciences at MIT and a visiting professor of law from practice at the Harvard Law School.Ito has received recognition for his role as an entrepreneur focused on Internet and technology companies and has founded, among other companies, PSINet Japan, Digital Garage and Infoseek Japan. Ito is the chairman of the board of PureTech Health. Ito is a strategic advisor to Sony Corporation, and a board member of The New York Times Company, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and General Partner of Neoteny Labs. Ito writes a monthly column in the Ideas section of Wired.
- Birthplace: Kyoto, Keihanshin, Japan
- Herbert Henry Dow (February 26, 1866 – October 15, 1930) was a Canadian-born American chemical industrialist, best known as the founder of the American multinational conglomerate Dow Chemical. He was a graduate of Case School of Applied Science in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a prolific inventor of chemical processes, compounds, and products, and was a successful businessman.
- Birthplace: Belleville, Canada
