Will Smith Born in 1968: From West Philadelphia to Worldwide Fame

Willard Carroll Smith Jr., better known as Will Smith, is a name that resonates globally, not just as a successful actor and musician but as a symbol of perseverance, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of greatness. Born on September 25, 1968, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Smith's journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to the heights of Hollywood is a story filled with trials, triumphs, and timeless lessons.

Early Life and Childhood

Will Smith was born to Caroline Bright, a school board administrator, and Willard Carroll Smith Sr., a refrigeration engineer. Growing up in the Wynnefield neighborhood of West Philadelphia, Smith experienced a childhood that was relatively stable, yet not without challenges. He was the second of four children, and his upbringing was deeply influenced by his parents' work ethic and values.

From an early age, Smith showed a talent for entertainment. His parents placed a strong emphasis on education, and he attended the prestigious Overbrook High School. However, it was clear that Smith's heart was set on something different from the traditional academic path. He was a charismatic and quick-witted young man, traits that would later become integral to his success in entertainment.

Smith earned the nickname "Prince" in high school due to his ability to charm his way out of trouble, and it wasn't long before "The Fresh Prince" persona was born. Alongside his childhood friend Jeffrey Townes, better known as DJ Jazzy Jeff, Smith ventured into the world of music. The duo formed DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince, a hip-hop act that quickly gained popularity in the late 1980s.

Breakthrough in Music

In 1986, DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince released their debut album "Rock the House." The album was a success and helped Smith and Townes carve out a niche in the emerging hip-hop scene. However, it was their 1988 album "He's the DJ, I'm the Rapper" that catapulted them to stardom. The album featured the hit single "Parents Just Don't Understand," which won the first-ever Grammy Award for Best Rap Performance in 1989.

Smith's early success in music came at a young age, and with it came financial rewards. However, this newfound wealth was not managed wisely. By the time he was 20, Smith had spent most of his earnings and found himself in financial trouble. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) eventually garnished his income, leaving him in debt. This financial crisis could have derailed Smith's career, but instead, it became a turning point.

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Faced with financial difficulties, Smith was offered a lifeline in the form of a television show that would change his life forever. In 1990, he was cast as the lead in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," a sitcom that would become a cultural phenomenon. The show, which aired on NBC, was a perfect vehicle for Smith's charm, wit, and comedic timing. It told the story of a street-smart teenager from West Philadelphia who moves in with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air, California.

"The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" was an instant hit and ran for six seasons, from 1990 to 1996. The show not only made Smith a household name but also established him as a versatile performer who could seamlessly blend humor with emotional depth. The success of the show provided Smith with the financial stability he had previously lacked and opened doors for him in the entertainment industry.

Transition to Film

As "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" was coming to an end, Smith began to transition into film, a move that would further solidify his status as a global superstar. His first significant film role came in 1993, with the drama "Six Degrees of Separation," where he played a young con artist. The film showcased Smith's acting range and earned him critical acclaim, proving that he was more than just a television actor.

However, it was his role in the 1995 action-comedy "Bad Boys," alongside Martin Lawrence, that marked Smith's arrival as a bona fide movie star. Directed by Michael Bay, "Bad Boys" was a commercial success and established Smith as an action hero. The film's success was followed by a string of box-office hits that would define Smith's career in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

In 1996, Smith starred in the sci-fi blockbuster "Independence Day," one of the highest-grossing films of the year. His role as Captain Steven Hiller made him a global icon and solidified his reputation as a leading man in Hollywood. The following year, he starred in another sci-fi hit, "Men in Black," alongside Tommy Lee Jones. The film was a massive success and spawned several sequels, further establishing Smith's dominance in the genre.

Struggles and Reinvention

Despite his success, Smith's journey in Hollywood was not without challenges. The early 2000s saw a few missteps, including films like "Wild Wild West" (1999), which was a critical failure despite its commercial success. However, Smith demonstrated an ability to learn from these experiences and continually reinvent himself.

In 2001, he took on the role of Muhammad Ali in the biographical film "Ali," directed by Michael Mann. The role was one of the most challenging of his career, requiring intense physical training and a deep understanding of the legendary boxer's life. Smith's portrayal of Ali earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and showcased his ability to tackle complex, dramatic roles.

Smith continued to diversify his filmography, taking on a mix of action, drama, and comedy roles. He starred in films like "The Pursuit of Happyness" (2006), where he played Chris Gardner, a man struggling with homelessness while trying to provide a better life for his son. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning Smith his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Legacy and Impact

Will Smith's career has spanned over three decades, during which he has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the entertainment industry. He has proven himself as a musician, actor, and producer, with a career that has transcended genres and mediums. Smith's influence extends beyond his filmography; he is known for his philanthropy, motivational speaking, and commitment to personal growth.

In recent years, Smith has embraced social media, using platforms like YouTube and Instagram to connect with fans and share insights into his life and career. His openness and willingness to share his experiences, both successes and failures, have endeared him to a new generation of fans.

Smith's ability to evolve with the times while staying true to his values has made him one of the most respected figures in the entertainment industry. His journey from the streets of West Philadelphia to global stardom is a testament to his talent, hard work, and unyielding determination.

As of today, Will Smith continues to be a dominant force in Hollywood, with a career that shows no signs of slowing down. He remains a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and a symbol of what can be achieved with perseverance, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Brendan Fraser born December 1968

Brendan Fraser is a Canadian-American actor who was born on December 3, 1968, in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. He is the youngest of four children born to Canadian parents, Peter and Carol Fraser. His father was a former journalist and travel executive while his mother worked as a sales counselor. The family moved frequently during Fraser's childhood due to his father's job, living in several cities across the United States and Canada.

Fraser attended several schools growing up, including Upper Canada College, a private school in Toronto, Ontario, where he excelled in sports and drama. He later enrolled at Seattle's Cornish College of the Arts, where he studied acting and graduated with a bachelor's degree in fine arts.

Fraser started his acting career in the early 1990s with small roles in films like "Dogfight" and "Encino Man." However, it was his breakout role as the titular character in "George of the Jungle" in 1997 that catapulted him to stardom. This led to more leading roles in big-budget movies, including "The Mummy" franchise, which was a commercial and critical success. In addition to his film work, Fraser has also appeared in several television shows, including the critically acclaimed series "The Affair" and "Doom Patrol."

Aside from his acting talents, Fraser is also known for his philanthropic work. He has served as a board member for several charitable organizations, including the World Wildlife Fund and the Film Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring classic films.

Despite his success, Fraser has faced some personal and professional challenges over the years. In 2003, he underwent a partial knee replacement surgery after sustaining an injury while filming "The Quiet American." He also went through a highly publicized divorce from his first wife, actress Afton Smith, in 2007, which was reportedly a major setback for him.

However, Fraser has bounced back and continued to work steadily in the entertainment industry. He has been recognized for his acting talents with numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in "Gods and Monsters." His fans appreciate his friendly demeanor and down-to-earth personality, and he continues to be a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Fraser has been married twice and has three children. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, photography, and playing various sports, including tennis and golf. He is also an avid reader and has been known to recommend books to his fans on social media. 

Kelly Rutherford Actress born November 1968

Kelly Rutherford was born on November 6, 1968, in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, USA, and grew up in both Virginia and California. Her parents divorced when she was a child, and she was raised primarily by her mother, who worked as a model and actress.

Rutherford attended Beverly Hills High School and later went on to study at the University of Southern California. While in college, she began to pursue acting and landed her first professional role in the 1989 movie "Phantom of the Mall: Eric's Revenge".

In the early 1990s, Rutherford appeared in several popular television shows, including "The Adventures of Brisco County Jr.", "The Great Defender", and "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventures". She also had recurring roles in the soap operas "Generations" and "Loving".

In 1996, Rutherford was cast as Megan Lewis in the hit series "Melrose Place". Her character was involved in some of the show's most dramatic storylines, and she quickly became a fan favorite. Rutherford remained on the show until its cancellation in 1999.

Following the end of "Melrose Place", Rutherford continued to work in television and film. She had a recurring role in the NBC drama "The District" and appeared in movies such as "Scream 3" and "Swimming Upstream". In 2006, she joined the cast of the CBS military drama "E-Ring", where she played Samantha "Sonny" Liston for one season.

In 2007, Rutherford was cast as Lily van der Woodsen in the CW series "Gossip Girl". Her performance as the sophisticated and wealthy mother of two was widely praised, and the show became a cultural phenomenon. Rutherford remained on "Gossip Girl" for the show's six seasons, which ended in 2012.

Outside of her acting career, Rutherford has been an active humanitarian. She has supported a number of organizations, including the Children's Defense Fund, the International Rescue Committee, and the Step Up Women's Network. In 2010, she was honored with the Global Promise Award by the International Medical Corps for her work on behalf of children's health and welfare.

In addition to her philanthropic work, Rutherford has also been an outspoken advocate for family court reform. In 2009, she went through a highly publicized divorce and custody battle with her ex-husband, Daniel Giersch, which resulted in her losing custody of their two children. Since then, Rutherford has become a vocal advocate for children's rights and has worked to raise awareness of the flaws in the family court system.

Despite her personal struggles, Rutherford has remained active in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in several television shows, including "Reckless" and "Quantico", and has had recurring roles on "Dynasty" and "Riverdale". She has also continued to pursue her passion for philanthropy, serving as an ambassador for the World Children's Day organization and working with the United Nations on issues related to women and children.

In her personal life, Rutherford has two children with her ex-husband, whom she has continued to fight for custody of over the years. She has been vocal about the toll that the custody battle has taken on her and her family, but has remained committed to fighting for what she believes is right.

Kelly Rutherford's career and personal life have been marked by highs and lows, but she has remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry and an inspiration to many for her resilience and commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Eula Valdez born in December 1968

Julia "Eula" Amorsolo Valdez - born on December 11, 1968 is a highly acclaimed Filipina actress and is well known in her screen name Eula Valdez. Valdez has been active in the entertainment industry since the late 1970s and has since become one of the most recognizable faces on Philippine television.

Eula Valdez started her acting career on stage, performing in various theater productions before transitioning to television and film. Her breakout role came in the 1984 film "Bagets," where she played the role of Janice, a character that endeared her to audiences and helped establish her as a leading lady in Philippine cinema.

Throughout her career, Valdez has become known for her versatility as an actress, taking on a wide range of characters and delivering powerful performances in both comedic and dramatic roles. She has appeared in numerous television dramas and films, and her work has earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

In 2000, Valdez was cast in the role of Amor Powers in the original version of the hit television drama "Pangako Sa 'Yo." The role earned her widespread recognition and cemented her status as a leading actress in the Philippines. The show was highly successful, running for more than a year, and has since become a classic in Philippine television history.

Aside from her acting career, Valdez is also known for her activism and support for various causes, including women's rights and environmental protection. She is a dedicated advocate for these issues and uses her platform to raise awareness and inspire others to take action.

With her talent, dedication, and passion for her craft, Eula Valdez has become one of the most respected actresses in the Philippines. Her contribution to Philippine television and film has made her a beloved figure among fans and peers, and her impact on the industry continues to be felt today. Over the course of her career, Valdez has established herself as a versatile and talented performer, and her contributions to the Philippine entertainment industry will not soon be forgotten.

Aaron Eckhart born in March 1968

 

Aaron Eckhart is an accomplished American actor, known for his versatility and range in the roles he plays on screen. He was born on March 12, 1968 in Cupertino, California, the son of Mary Martha Lawrence, a writer, artist, and poet, and James Conrad Eckhart, a computer executive. He is the youngest of three brothers and has a diverse ancestry, with his father being of German-Russian descent and his mother having English, German, Scots-Irish, and Scottish ancestry.

Eckhart was raised as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served a two-year mission in France and Switzerland. This experience, where he learned to speak French fluently, would later serve him well in his acting career. In 1981, his family moved to the United Kingdom, where they lived in various towns in Surrey, England. This move allowed Eckhart to experience different cultures and gain a broader perspective on life.

Eckhart attended American Community School, where he was first introduced to acting, starring in a school production as Charlie Brown. However, it wasn't until he moved to Australia and settled in Sydney that he fully developed his acting skills. He attended the American International School of Sydney for his high school senior year and starred in productions like Waiting for Godot, where he admits that he gave a "terrible" performance. Despite this, the experience ignited a passion for acting in Eckhart and he knew that this is what he wanted to do with his life.

In the autumn of his senior year, Eckhart left school to take a job at the Warringah Mall movie theater. He eventually earned his diploma through an adult education course. This also allowed Eckhart time to enjoy a year of surfing in Hawaii and France, as well as skiing in the Alps. He believes that these experiences helped him become more well-rounded and gave him a deeper understanding of the world and people around him.

In 1988, Eckhart returned to the United States and enrolled as a film major at Brigham Young University–Hawaii, but later transferred to Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo, Utah. He graduated in 1994 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He also studied acting at the William Esper Studio, where he honed his craft under the tutelage of renowned acting coach, William Esper.

After graduation, Eckhart moved to New York City to pursue his acting career. He worked hard and made a name for himself in the theater scene, before making his way to Hollywood. Since then, he has appeared in a wide range of films, including drama, comedy, and action films, earning critical acclaim and a loyal fan base along the way. He is known for his ability to disappear into a role and make it his own, and his performances have been praised for their depth and nuance.

Eckhart's talent, dedication, and hard work have resulted in a successful and enduring career in the entertainment industry. He continues to work on exciting and challenging projects, and is considered one of the most talented actors of his generation.

Daniel Craig born March 1968

Daniel Wroughton Craig is an English actor, best known for his portrayal of James Bond in the eponymous film series. Born on March 2, 1968 in Chester, England, Craig began his acting career on stage after training at the National Youth Theatre and graduating from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 1991.

Craig made his film debut in the drama The Power of One (1992) and attracted attention with appearances in the historical television war drama Sharpe's Eagle (1993) and the family film A Kid in King Arthur's Court (1995). He received widespread recognition for his breakthrough role in the drama serial Our Friends in the North (1996), which followed the lives of four friends in Newcastle, England over several decades.

Craig's career continued to gain momentum with roles in the biographical film Elizabeth (1998), the action film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001), and the crime thrillers Road to Perdition (2002) and Layer Cake (2004). But it was his portrayal of James Bond in Casino Royale (2006) that brought him international fame and critical acclaim. The film was well-received by critics and earned Craig a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Craig went on to star in three more James Bond films, Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), which is the series' highest-grossing film, and Spectre (2015) and No Time to Die (2021) which is the last of his tenure as Bond. His portrayal of the iconic character has brought him further international attention and cemented his status as one of the most talented actors of his generation.

In addition to his work as James Bond, Craig has also starred in other notable films such as the fantasy film The Golden Compass (2007), the historical drama Defiance (2008), the science fiction Western Cowboys & Aliens (2011), the heist film Logan Lucky (2017), and the mystery-comedy Knives Out (2019), which earned him a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy. Craig continues to be one of the most sought-after actors in the industry, known for his dedication, talent and versatility.

Hugh Jackman born October 1968

Hugh Jackman was born 12 October 1968 in Sydney, New South Wales, the son of Grace McNeil (née Greenwood) and Christopher John Jackman, a Cambridge-trained accountant. His parents were English-born, and had come to Australia, in 1967, as part of the "Ten Pound Poms" immigration. One of Jackman's paternal great-grandfathers was Greek. His parents were devout Christians, having been converted by Evangelist Billy Graham after their marriage. Jackman has four older siblings, and was the second of his parents' children to be born in Australia. He also has a younger half-sister, from his mother's re-marriage. His parents divorced when he was eight, and Jackman remained in Australia with his father and Jackman's two brothers, while his mother moved back to England with Jackman's two sisters. 

 As a child, Jackman liked the outdoors, spending a lot of time at the beach and on camping trips and vacations all over Australia. He wanted to see the world: "I used to spend nights looking at atlases. I decided I wanted to be a chef on a plane. Because I'd been on a plane and there was food on board, I presumed there was a chef. I thought that would be an ideal job."

Jackman went to primary school at Pymble Public School and later attended the all-boys Knox Grammar School on Sydney's Upper North Shore, where he starred in its production of My Fair Lady in 1985, and became the captain of the school in 1986. Following graduation, he spent a gap year working at Uppingham School in England. On his return, he studied at the University of Technology, Sydney, graduating in 1991 with a BA in Communications. In his final year of university, he took a drama course to make up additional credits. The class did Václav Havel's The Memorandum with Jackman as the lead. He later commented, "In that week I felt more at home with those people than I did in the entire three years [at university]".

After obtaining his BA, Jackman completed the one-year course "The Journey" at the Actors' Centre in Sydney. About studying acting full-time, he stated, "It wasn't until I was 22 that I ever thought about my hobby being something I could make a living out of. As a boy, I'd always had an interest in theater. But the idea at my school was that drama and music were to round out the man. It wasn't what one did for a living. I got over that. I found the courage to stand up and say, 'I want to do it'." After completing "The Journey", he was offered a role on the popular soap opera Neighbours but turned it down to attend the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts of Edith Cowan University in Perth, Western Australia, from which he graduated in 1994.

Jackman has said he "always loved acting but when I started at drama school I was like the dunce of the class. It just wasn’t coming right to me. Everyone was cooler, everyone seemed more likely to succeed, everyone seemed more natural at it and in retrospect I think that is good. I think it is good to come from behind as an actor. I think it is good to go into an audition thinking 'Man I’ve got to be at my best to get this gig.'"

Lisa Marie Presley born February 1968

Lisa Marie Presley - born February 1, 1968 is an American singer–songwriter, also known as the Princess of Rock 'n' Roll. She is the daughter and only child of Elvis Presley and daughter of Priscilla Presley.

Lisa Marie Presley was born in Memphis, Tennessee, exactly nine months after her parents' wedding. She lived at Graceland, Elvis' Memphis estate, until her parents' separated in 1972. Following their separation, and subsequent divorce, she divided her time between living at Graceland with her father and in Beverly Hills with her mother. This arrangement continued until her father died on August 16, 1977, after which she lived exclusively in Beverly Hills.

When her father died, Lisa became joint-heir to his estate with her grandfather, Vernon Presley, and her great grandmother, Minnie Mae Presley. Following the death of both Vernon and Minnie Mae, Lisa became the sole heir and inherited Graceland.

As a teenager, Lisa became a member of the Church of Scientology, where she met her first husband, Danny Keough. Her mother sent her to several boarding schools. She attended the 10th grade at an alternative boarding school in Ojai, California, called Happy Valley School. The last secondary school she attended was the Scientology-affiliated Apple School (later known as Los Feliz Hills School) in Los Angeles.

After the death of her father, Lisa and her mother had serious problems in their relationship. The key reason of this disharmony was her mother’s live-in boyfriend Michael Edwards. Her mother often left her with Michael due to her commitments as a TV actress. After Priscilla broke up with Edwards, he admitted his lust for Lisa in his book titled Priscilla, Elvis & Me

Resilience and Impact: The Inspiring Journey of Ashley Judd Born 1968

Ashley Judd, born on April 19, 1968, in Granada Hills, California, is an American actress and political activist. She has carved a niche for herself in Hollywood with her powerful performances and her dedication to humanitarian and political causes. The daughter of country music singer Naomi Judd and half-sister to Wynonna Judd, Ashley grew up surrounded by the entertainment industry but faced her own set of challenges before finding her path to success.

Early Life and Education

Ashley Judd's childhood was marked by frequent relocations, as her mother Naomi pursued a career in music. This itinerant lifestyle contributed to a sense of instability, but it also exposed Ashley to a variety of cultures and environments. Despite the challenges, Ashley was an excellent student and showed a passion for learning from a young age. She attended 13 schools before completing her high school education at Franklin High School in Tennessee.

After high school, Judd enrolled at the University of Kentucky, where she majored in French and minored in anthropology, art history, theater, and women’s studies. During her time at the university, she was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority and spent a semester studying in France. Her academic achievements and exposure to different cultures during her college years helped shape her worldview and laid the foundation for her future humanitarian work.

Struggles and Challenges

Despite being part of a famous family, Ashley Judd faced her share of personal struggles. She has been open about the difficulties she encountered in her relationships and the impact of her mother's fame on her own life. In her memoir, "All That Is Bitter and Sweet," Judd revealed her experiences with depression and the healing journey she undertook to overcome these challenges.

Judd's journey to self-discovery and healing led her to seek therapy and counseling, which she credits with helping her understand and address the root causes of her struggles. Her openness about her mental health journey has made her a vocal advocate for mental health awareness and has inspired many others to seek help and support.

Rise to Fame

Ashley Judd's acting career began in the early 1990s, with her first significant role coming in the 1993 film "Ruby in Paradise." Her portrayal of Ruby Lee Gissing, a young woman seeking independence and a fresh start, earned her critical acclaim and the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. This breakthrough role opened the doors to more prominent opportunities in Hollywood.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Judd starred in a series of successful films, including "Heat" (1995), "A Time to Kill" (1996), "Kiss the Girls" (1997), and "Double Jeopardy" (1999). Her performances in these films showcased her versatility as an actress and solidified her status as a leading lady in Hollywood. Judd's ability to portray strong, complex female characters resonated with audiences and critics alike.

Success and Impact

In addition to her acting career, Ashley Judd has been a dedicated humanitarian and political activist. She has used her platform to advocate for a variety of causes, including women's rights, education, and global health. Judd has traveled to countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Thailand, working with organizations like Population Services International and the United Nations Population Fund to address issues such as poverty, gender-based violence, and reproductive health.

Judd's commitment to social justice and equality has also led her to become involved in political activism. She has been a vocal supporter of the Democratic Party and has considered running for political office. In 2017, Judd was one of the first women to publicly accuse Harvey Weinstein of sexual harassment, a move that helped ignite the #MeToo movement and brought attention to the pervasive issue of sexual harassment and assault in the entertainment industry and beyond.

Legacy and Influence

Ashley Judd's influence extends beyond her filmography and activism. She has been a role model for many, demonstrating resilience, courage, and a commitment to making a difference in the world. Her willingness to speak out on difficult issues and her dedication to improving the lives of others have made her a respected figure in both the entertainment industry and the global community.

Judd's journey from a tumultuous childhood to a successful acting career and impactful activism is a testament to her strength and determination. She continues to inspire others with her work, both on and off the screen, and remains a powerful voice for change in the world.

As Ashley Judd continues to navigate her career and advocacy, her legacy as an actress and activist will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world. Her journey serves as a reminder that personal struggles can be transformed into a force for good, and that the pursuit of justice and equality is a noble and necessary endeavor.

Cuba M. Gooding, Jr born January 1968

Cuba M. Gooding, Jr. (born January 2, 1968) is an American actor. He is best known for his Academy Award-winning portrayal as Rod Tidwell in Cameron Crowe's Jerry Maguire (1996) and his critically acclaimed performance as Tré Styles in John Singleton's Boyz n the Hood (1991).

Cuba Gooding, Jr. was born and raised in The Bronx, New York, the son of Shirley, a singer with the Sweethearts, and Cuba Gooding, Sr., a lead vocalist of soul group The Main Ingredient. He has two brothers, musician Tommy Gooding and fellow actor Omar Gooding, and sister, April Gooding. His family moved to Los Angeles after Gooding, Sr.'s music group had a hit single with "Everybody Plays the Fool" in 1972; the elder Gooding abandoned his family two years later. During his appearance on The Howard Stern Show, Gooding revealed that after his father had left, his family lived in hotels throughout Los Angeles. Gooding was raised by his mother and attended four different high schools: North Hollywood High School, Tustin High School, Apple Valley High School, and John F. Kennedy High School in Granada Hills in Los Angeles. He served as class president in three of them. He became a born-again Christian at age 13.

Lucy Liu born December 1968

Lucy Alexis Liu (born December 2, 1968) is an American actress. She became known for her role in the television series Ally McBeal (1998–2002) as the vicious and ill-mannered Ling Woo, and has also appeared in several notable film roles, including Charlie's Angels, Kill Bill and Kung Fu Panda.

Lucy Liu was born and was raised with her brother John in Jackson Heights, Queens, New York, by Taiwanese immigrant parents. Liu has said that she grew up in a "diverse" neighborhood. Her family spoke Mandarin at home and she did not learn English until she was five years old. Her father, Tom, was a civil engineer and her mother, Cecilia, a biochemist, but they sacrificed those careers in Taiwan to come to the United States. Liu, at her parents' insistence, devoted her spare time to studying. She attended the Joseph Pulitzer Middle School (I.S.145) and she graduated from New York City's prestigious Stuyvesant High School in 1986. She attended New York University for one year, before transferring to the University of Michigan, where she joined the Chi Omega sorority and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Asian Languages and Cultures. At one point, Liu worked as a waitress in Michigan.

Owen Wilson born November 1968

Owen Cunningham Wilson (born November 18, 1968) is an American actor, comedian and writer.

Wilson was born in Dallas, Texas, to photographer Laura Cunningham Wilson and Robert Andrew Wilson, an advertising executive and operator of a public television station. He has an older brother, Andrew and a younger brother, Luke, both also involved in filmmaking. His family is Irish American and Roman Catholic. While living in Dallas, Wilson attended The Lamplighter School, and St. Mark's School of Texas, from which he was expelled when, in the tenth grade, he stole his teacher's textbook to aid him in his homework. Wilson attended his junior and senior years in high school at the New Mexico Military Institute.

Julie Vega born May 1968

Julie Pearl Apostol Postigo, better known as Julie Vega (May 21, 1968 – May 6, 1985), was a Filipina child actress and singer. She remains popular and well-loved in the Philippines, years after her sudden death at the age of 16 triggered a massive outpouring of nationwide grief that is still vividly remembered by Filipino showbiz fans. She won two FAMAS Awards for Best Child Actress during her brief showbiz career.

Celine Dion born March 1968

Céline Marie Claudette Dion, CC, OQ who born on March 30, 1968 is a Canadian singer, occasional songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur. Born to a large, impoverished family in Charlemagne, Quebec, Dion emerged as a teen star in the French-speaking world after her manager and future husband René Angélil mortgaged his home to finance her first record. In 1990, she released the anglophone album Unison, establishing herself as a viable pop artist in North America and other English-speaking areas of the world.

Dion had first gained international recognition in the 1980s by winning both the 1982 Yamaha World Popular Song Festival and the 1988 Eurovision Song Contest. Following a series of French albums in the early 1980s, she signed on to CBS Records Canada in 1986. During the 1990s, with the help of Angélil, she achieved worldwide fame after signing with Epic Records and releasing several English albums along with additional French albums, becoming one of the most successful artists in pop music history. However, in 1999 at the height of her success, Dion announced a temporary retirement from entertainment in order to start a family and spend time with her husband, who had been diagnosed with cancer. She returned to the top of pop music in 2002 and signed a three-year (later extended to almost five years) contract to perform nightly in a five-star theatrical show at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

Dion's music has been influenced by genres ranging from rock and R&B to gospel and classical. While her releases have often received mixed critical reception, she is renowned for her technically skilled and powerful vocals. Dion is the best selling Canadian artist of all time; and her album, D'eux is the best selling French-language album of all time. In 2004, after surpassing 175 million in album sales worldwide, she was presented with the Chopard Diamond Award at the World Music Awards for becoming the best selling female artist of all time. In April 2007 Sony BMG announced that Celine Dion had sold over 200 million albums worldwide.

Will Smith born September 1968

Willard Christopher "Will" Smith, Jr. (born September 25, 1968)is an American actor, film producer and rapper. He has enjoyed success in music, television and film. Newsweek has called him the most powerful actor on the planet. Smith has been nominated for four Golden Globe Awards, two Academy Awards, and has won multiple Grammy Awards. Smith rose to fame as a rapper under the name The Fresh Prince in the late 1980s and his role in the television series The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. His most notable films include Bad Boys and its sequel; Men in Black and its sequel; Independence Day; I, Robot; Ali; The Pursuit of Happyness; I Am Legend; Hancock; and Seven Pounds. He is the only actor in history to have eight consecutive films gross over $100 million in the domestic box office as well as being the only actor to have eight consecutive films open at #1 on the domestic box office as a Lead Actor. Read more here.