Birthday Celebrations — May 27

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on May 27 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Born May 27, 1936 — Died March 29, 2024

Field: Acting / Film / Television / Black Hollywood Firsts

Louis Gossett Jr. was an actor whose career spanned stage, television, and film. He became the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Why it matters: Gossett’s career shows the fight for serious Black dramatic roles in Hollywood and the weight carried by breakthrough performances.

Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes

Born May 27, 1971 — Died April 25, 2002

Field: Hip-Hop / R&B / TLC / Black Women in Music

Lisa Lopes was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and member of TLC.

Why it matters: Left Eye brought personality, rhyme, edge, and creative risk to one of the most important girl groups in music history.