Birthday Celebrations — June 26

Born on this day. These are the birthdays we celebrate on June 26 — the people whose lives added to the story of Black history.

Gilberto Gil

Born June 26, 1942

Title: Brazilian singer, songwriter, guitarist, and cultural figure

Gilberto Gil is one of Brazil’s most important musicians and a founder of the Tropicália movement. His career connects music, political expression, Afro-Brazilian culture, and public service, including his later role as Brazil’s minister of culture.

Shannon Sharpe

Born June 26, 1968

Title: Pro Football Hall of Fame tight end and sports media personality

Shannon Sharpe became one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, winning Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens. After football, he became a major sports media voice, bringing personality, debate, and cultural commentary into sports broadcasting.

Derek Jeter

Born June 26, 1974

Title: Baseball Hall of Famer, New York Yankees captain, and sports executive

Derek Jeter spent his entire 20-year Major League Baseball career with the New York Yankees. Known as “The Captain,” he became a five-time World Series champion and was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.

Michael Vick

Born June 26, 1980

Title: Former NFL quarterback and football coach

Michael Vick changed how many people saw the quarterback position because of his speed, arm strength, and open-field athleticism. His career is also complicated by his 2007 dogfighting conviction, but his return to the NFL and later work in football keeps him part of the larger conversation about talent, accountability, and second chances.