Birthday Celebrations — August 24

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on August 24 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Ernest Wright

Born August 24, 1941 — died May 23, 2023

Singer and founding member of Little Anthony and the Imperials.

Wright helped create the close harmonies behind enduring recordings including “Tears on My Pillow,” “Goin’ Out of My Head,” and “Hurt So Bad.” The group’s blend of doo-wop, soul, and dramatic pop earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Marshall Thompson

Born August 24, 1942

Singer, musician, and founding member of the Chi-Lites.

Thompson helped build one of Chicago soul’s most enduring groups, known for elegant harmonies and socially conscious and romantic classics including “Have You Seen Her” and “Oh Girl.” His leadership has kept the Chi-Lites’ legacy active across generations.

Rocky Johnson

Birth name: Wayde Douglas Bowles

Born August 24, 1944 — died January 15, 2020

Canadian professional wrestler and barrier-breaking tag-team champion.

Johnson became a major Black wrestling star through speed, athleticism, and charisma. With Tony Atlas, he formed the Soul Patrol and became part of the first Black team to win the WWE tag-team championship, opening doors in a highly segregated entertainment industry.

Jeffrey Daniel

Born August 24, 1955

Singer, dancer, choreographer, and member of Shalamar.

Daniel became one of popular music’s most influential dancers through Shalamar and television appearances that introduced American audiences to street-dance techniques including the backslide. His choreography and work with Michael Jackson helped shape the visual language of 1980s pop.

Reggie Miller

Full name: Reginald Wayne Miller

Born August 24, 1965

Basketball Hall of Famer, Olympic gold medalist, broadcaster, and Indiana Pacers legend.

Miller became one of NBA history’s greatest long-range shooters and clutch performers. His movement without the ball, late-game fearlessness, and intense playoff rivalries helped elevate the three-point shot long before it became the center of modern basketball.

Ava DuVernay

Born August 24, 1972

Director, writer, producer, distributor, and advocate for inclusive filmmaking.

DuVernay became the first Black woman to direct a film nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture through Selma. With projects including 13th, When They See Us, Queen Sugar, and ARRAY, she has joined historical storytelling with institution-building for underrepresented filmmakers.

Dave Chappelle

Full name: David Khari Webber Chappelle

Born August 24, 1973

Comedian, actor, writer, producer, and influential social satirist.

Chappelle became one of his generation’s most consequential comedians through fearless observations about race, fame, media, politics, and American contradiction. Chappelle’s Show reshaped sketch comedy and remains deeply embedded in Black popular culture.

Arian Foster

Full name: Arian Isa Foster

Born August 24, 1986

Former NFL running back, musician, writer, podcaster, and three-time All-Pro selection.

Foster rose from an undrafted player to become the Houston Texans’ all-time rushing leader. His intelligence, versatility, and willingness to discuss athlete identity, labor, religion, and mental life distinguished him beyond the football field.

Justine Skye

Full name: Justine Indira Skyers

Born August 24, 1995

Singer, songwriter, actress, and independent R&B artist.

Skye moved from an internet audience into a recording career shaped by atmospheric R&B, Caribbean heritage, visual style, and creative independence. Her direct engagement with fans reflects how a new generation of Black artists builds careers beyond traditional industry routes.