The year 1946 brought us many influential figures who would go on to make indelible marks on the worlds of film, music, television, and beyond. As a year that produced an impressive list of cultural icons, 1946 continues to be celebrated for its contribution to shaping pop culture. These celebrities, who have had long and illustrious careers, helped to define entertainment during their time and still remain relevant to this day.
In this blog post, we will highlight some of the most well-known celebrities born in 1946, exploring their careers, achievements, and how they influenced the industries they were part of.
1. Tom Hanks – The Beloved Actor
Tom Hanks, born July 9, 1946, is one of the most recognizable actors in Hollywood. With his everyman charm and incredible versatility, Hanks has cemented himself as a beloved figure in the film industry. Known for his roles in classics like “Forrest Gump”, “Cast Away”, and “Saving Private Ryan”, Hanks has won two Academy Awards for Best Actor and earned numerous other accolades, including Golden Globe Awards and Emmy Awards.
Hanks is also well known for his work as a producer and director, with a significant impact on film history. His involvement in popular projects such as “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific” has added to his legacy as a storyteller. With his extensive body of work, Tom Hanks remains a household name and a symbol of acting excellence.
2. Billy Joel – The Piano Man
Born on May 9, 1946, Billy Joel is one of the most successful musicians of the 20th century. Known for his piano-driven rock and pop hits, Joel became an iconic figure in the music world with songs like “Piano Man”, “Uptown Girl”, and “We Didn’t Start the Fire”. His extensive career spans decades, and he has sold over 150 million records worldwide.
Billy Joel’s unique ability to blend various genres, from pop to rock to classical, earned him several Grammy Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, making him one of the most influential songwriters and performers of his generation.
3. Julie Andrews – The Timeless Actress
Julie Andrews, born on October 1, 1946, is a legendary actress, singer, and author whose career has spanned more than six decades. She is perhaps best known for her iconic roles in “Mary Poppins” (1964) and “The Sound of Music” (1965), both of which have become classics in the world of cinema. Andrews’ graceful presence, powerful voice, and ability to bring warmth to every character she plays made her a beloved figure in Hollywood.
In addition to her film career, Andrews is also a talented stage performer and author of several children’s books. Over the years, she has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress, Golden Globe Awards, and Emmy Awards. Her contributions to both film and literature continue to inspire fans of all ages.
4. Diana Ross – The Supremes Star
Born on March 26, 1946, Diana Ross is one of the most influential figures in Motown history. As the lead singer of The Supremes, Ross helped define the 1960s Motown sound, leading the group to become one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. With hits like “Stop! In the Name of Love” and “You Can’t Hurry Love”, The Supremes became the most successful Motown group, and Ross’s iconic voice became a symbol of elegance and empowerment.
As a solo artist, Ross continued to enjoy massive success with hits like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “I’m Coming Out”. Throughout her career, Diana Ross has received multiple Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and she remains a trailblazer in the music industry.
5. Gene Hackman – The Acclaimed Actor
Gene Hackman, born on January 30, 1946, is an Academy Award-winning actor known for his remarkable versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Hackman’s career includes standout performances in films such as “The French Connection” (1971), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, “Unforgiven” (1992), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001).
Hackman’s ability to portray both heroes and villains, often with a tough yet relatable edge, made him one of the most respected actors of his time. His storied career also includes roles in films like “Superman” (1978), where he portrayed the iconic villain Lex Luthor, solidifying his status as a Hollywood legend.
6. Jerry Lee Lewis – The Wild Rock and Roll Pioneer
Jerry Lee Lewis, born on September 29, 1946, is one of the most influential figures in the history of rock and roll. Known for his electrifying performances and his ability to fuse rockabilly, blues, and country, Lewis was a true pioneer of the genre. He is famous for his wild stage antics, including playing the piano while standing, kicking the keys, and even setting his instruments on fire.
Hits like “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” made him a sensation in the 1950s. Despite controversies in his personal life, Jerry Lee Lewis’ impact on the music world is undeniable. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986 and continues to be remembered as one of the most influential rock stars of all time.
7. Sally Field – The Versatile Actress
Born on November 6, 1946, Sally Field is an actress known for her incredible versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters, from comedic roles to deeply dramatic performances. She first gained recognition for her work on the television series “Gidget” (1965-1966) and later “The Flying Nun” (1967-1970), but it was her performances in films like “Norma Rae” (1979) and “Places in the Heart” (1984) that earned her Academy Awards for Best Actress.
Field’s career has spanned across both film and television, with notable roles in movies like “Steel Magnolias” (1989) and the “Spider-Man” films (2002-2007), where she portrayed Aunt May. Field’s talent and emotional depth as an actress have made her a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades.
8. Donald Sutherland – The Legendary Actor
Donald Sutherland, born on July 17, 1946, is a highly respected Canadian actor with a career spanning more than six decades. Known for his roles in films such as “MAS*H” (1970), “The Hunger Games” (2012), and “Ordinary People” (1980), Sutherland’s career has been defined by his ability to play a wide range of characters, from the heroic to the villainous.
With a career that includes Academy Award nominations, Golden Globe wins, and an enduring presence in both film and television, Donald Sutherland is one of the most accomplished actors of his generation. His ability to bring gravitas and nuance to every role ensures his place as one of the most respected names in Hollywood.
9. Kris Kristofferson – The Country Music Legend
Kris Kristofferson, born on June 22, 1946, is a renowned singer, songwriter, and actor, known for his contributions to country music and his performances in iconic films. Kristofferson’s hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night” have solidified his place as a country legend.
His career also extends to acting, where he starred in films such as “A Star is Born” (1976) alongside Barbra Streisand and “Blade” (1998). Kristofferson’s songwriting and acting talent earned him multiple Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
A Year of Legends
1946 was undoubtedly a year that gave birth to some of the most talented and influential individuals in entertainment history. From Tom Hanks‘s heartfelt performances to Diana Ross’s timeless music, the celebrities born in 1946 have shaped the entertainment industry in profound ways. Their contributions continue to resonate with fans across the world, and their legacies will undoubtedly endure for generations to come. Whether through film, music, or television, these icons have not only made their mark—they’ve defined the very fabric of popular culture.
