Being the most populous state in the New England region of the northeastern United States is the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Popularly known as ‘The Bay State’, Massachusetts is influential and rich in American history, industry and academia, particularly in its capital – Boston. The region was once inhabited by the Massachusett tribe and hence its name. Being the first state in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage, Massachusetts has come a long way since its historic beginning, only to emerge even stronger. Several famous entertainers, athletes, academics, politicians and artists who have gone on to conquer the rest of country with their talent, were born in Massachusetts. Famous sport personalities such as John Cena was born in the state of Massachusetts. Various popular and sought-after Hollywood actors were also born in this state. From the talented Ben Affleck to the promising Matt Damon to the deadly Uma Thurman, all hail from this state. Various popular comedians such as Conan O’ Brien, Amy Poehler, Matt LeBlanc and Steve Carell, all hail from the state of Massachusetts. Keep reading the list to know more celebs born in Massachussets & famous personalities who are from Massachusetts.

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Birthdate: May 29, 1917

Sun Sign: Gemini

Died: November 22, 1963

The 35th President of the United States, John F Kennedy was a charismatic leader who, during his tenure, ably dealt with Cuban missile crisis, proposed public service programmes and lent support to the growing civil rights movement. Before becoming one of the youngest Presidents of the country, he served in the navy, U.S. House of Representatives and the US Senate.

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John Cena

(One of the Greatest Professional Wrestlers of All Time)

Birthdate: April 23, 1977

Sun Sign: Taurus

One of the biggest WWE stars of all time, John Cena has bagged 25 championships, with 16 reigns as a world champion since his professional career began two decades back. Apart from wrestling, Cena has also carved a career as an actor and rapper. His significant projects include films The Marine, Trainwreck and Sisters and rap album You Can't See Me.

Birthdate: January 17, 1706

Sun Sign: Capricorn

Died: April 17, 1790

Benjamin Franklin is considered one of the founding fathers of the United States as he was a signer of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. He was a writer, politician, scientist, inventor, civic activist, an accomplished diplomat and much more. He is a key figure in the history of physics for his discoveries and theories regarding electricity.

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Matt Damon

(One of the Highest-Grossing Actors of All Time)

Birthdate: October 8, 1970

Sun Sign: Libra

One of the biggest Hollywood stars of his time, Matt Damon is one of the highest-grossing actors of all time. Saving Private Ryan, The Talented Mr Ripley, The Martian and The Departed are some of his notable films. He has also been part of the highly successful Bourne franchise and the Ocean's trilogy.

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Edgar Allan Poe

(Writer and Poet - Widely Regarded as a Central Figure of Romanticism in the United States)

Birthdate: January 19, 1809

Sun Sign: Capricorn

Died: October 7, 1849

American writer Edgar Allan Poe is regarded as the architect of modern short story, the inventor of the detective-fiction genre and a major contributor towards science fiction genre. The influential writer is recognised for his tales of mystery and macabre. His notable works include The Raven (poem), The Tell-Tale Heart and The Fall of the House of Usher (short stories).

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John Adams

(2nd President of United States (1797-1801))

Birthdate: October 30, 1735

Sun Sign: Scorpio

Died: July 4, 1826

One of the Founding Fathers of America, John Adams was a statesman, attorney, and diplomat who served as the second president of the United States. He was a principal leader of the American Revolution. As a lawyer, he was devoted to the right to counsel and presumption of innocence. His administration has been favorably ranked by historians and scholars.

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Birthdate: March 2, 1904

Sun Sign: Pisces

Died: September 24, 1991

Dr. Seuss was an American children's author, illustrator, and political cartoonist. He is credited with writing some of the most famous children's books ever, including The Cat in the Hat. His works were translated into over 20 languages and sold more than 600 million copies by the time of his death. Many of his creations were adapted into animated cartoons.

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Edward Norton

(Actor and Filmmaker Known for His Film ‘Primal Fear’)

Birthdate: August 18, 1969

Sun Sign: Leo

Amongst the most talented actors of his generation, Edward Norton won a Golden Globe Award for his debut film Primal Fear. The formidable actor later went on to work in movies like The Illusionist, The Incredible Hulk, The Birdman and American History X. Norton ventured into film direction with Keeping the Faith. He also supports various environmental and social causes.

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Birthdate: August 21, 1990

Sun Sign: Leo

Comedian, musician, actor, and filmmaker Bo Burnham started his career as a YouTuber. The funny content he posted soon gained him attention and opened up more opportunities in the entertainment industry. Since then, he has released a few albums and has appeared in many TV shows. His first film as a director was released in 2018.

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Conan O’Brien

(Host of TV Show 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' (1993-2009))

Birthdate: April 18, 1963

Sun Sign: Aries

Conan O’Brien is an American comedian, writer, television host, podcaster, and producer. Over the years, he has played an important role in NBC, hosting the network's successful shows like The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien and Late Night with Conan O'Brien, and writing for Saturday Night Live. His work has influenced comedians like Mindy Kaling, Seth Meyers, and Kumail Nanjiani.

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Bette Davis

(American Actress Who was Known for Playing Unsympathetic, Sardonic Characters)

Birthdate: April 5, 1908

Sun Sign: Aries

Died: October 6, 1989

Two-time Academy Award-winner Bette Davis, a prominent figure from the Golden Age of Hollywood, was known for playing unlikeable characters and her addiction to cigarettes both off and on screen. Fans loved her in All About Eve and Human Bondage. Bette was also the first female AFI Lifetime Achievement Award-winner.

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Sylvia Plath

(Famous for Her Books 'The Bell Jar' and 'Ariel')

Birthdate: October 27, 1932

Sun Sign: Scorpio

Died: February 11, 1963

Sylvia Plath was an American short-story writer, novelist, and poet. Plath is credited with popularizing confessional poetry and won a posthumous Pulitzer Prize in Poetry. Sylvia Plath achieved popularity and critical acclaim despite suffering from clinical depression for the most part of her adult life. Her story inspired the 2003 film Sylvia in which she was portrayed by Gwyneth Paltrow.

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Birthdate: December 10, 1830

Sun Sign: Sagittarius

Died: May 15, 1886

Victorian-era poet Emily Dickinson apparently wrote around 1800 poems, mostly revolving around themes such as death and immortality. However, she was a recluse, dressed up in white, and mostly interacted with people through correspondence. Her poems were mostly without titles and had short lines, slant rhyme, and unconventional punctuation.

Birthdate: September 1, 1923

Sun Sign: Virgo

Died: August 31, 1969

Rocky Marciano, also known as the Brockton Blockbuster, was the world’s only heavyweight champion to remain undefeated till the end of his career and held the heavyweight title from 1952 to 1956. The International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee held the world’s highest heavyweight knockout-to-win ratio at 85.71%.

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Bill Burr

(Is an American Comedian, Actor, Writer)

Birthdate: June 10, 1968

Sun Sign: Gemini

Height: 5'10" (178 cm)

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Aly Raisman

(Former American Artistic Gymnast and Winner of Three Olympic Gold Medals)

Birthdate: May 25, 1994

Sun Sign: Gemini

With six Olympic medals, including gold medals won at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio Olympics, gymnast Aly Raisman is the second-most-decorated Olympic gymnast in the U.S. She was one of many who accused Olympic team physician Larry Nassar of sexual abuse, leading to his conviction.

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Chris Evans

(Portraying the Marvel Comics Character of Captain America)

Birthdate: June 13, 1981

Sun Sign: Gemini

Chris Evans is best known for his role as Captain America in several Marvel films, including The Avengers. He was initially cast in teen films such as Not Another Teen Movie and later also appeared as Human Torch in two Fantastic Four films. He has also appeared on Broadway.

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Mark Wahlberg

(Best Known for His Role in Films: 'The Departed', 'The Fighter' and 'Italian Job')

Birthdate: June 5, 1971

Sun Sign: Gemini

From being a drug dealer to going to prison on the charge of attempted murder, Mark Wahlberg's young life was a troubled one. That is till the time he decided to pull himself out of the mess and live a worthy life. His foray into music began his journey which later took him into the world of television and film.

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James Taylor

(Singer-Songwriter & Musician - One of the Best-Selling Artists of All Time)

Birthdate: March 12, 1948

Sun Sign: Pisces

Five-time Grammy Award-winning folk singer James Taylor is best known for his hits You've Got a Friend and Fire and Rain. One of Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Artists of All Time, he has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has also won the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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John Krasinski

(Known For His Role as Jim Halpert on the NBC sitcom 'The Office')

Birthdate: October 20, 1979

Sun Sign: Libra

The charming actor John Krasinski is best recognised for playing Jim Halpert in the famous American television show, The Office. Apart from working in numerous other film and television projects as well as commercials, John Krasinski further cemented his position in the entertainment world by branching out into writing, producing and directing movies like The Promised Land and The Hollars.

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Steve Carell

(Actor and Comedian Best Known for His Role of 'Michael Scott' in the NBC Sitcom 'The Office')

Birthdate: August 16, 1962

Sun Sign: Leo

Recognized as "America's Funniest Man" by Life magazine, Steve Carell is an actor, comedian, and writer. He has starred in several hit comedy films and has received numerous awards, including a Golden Globe. Also popular as a comedic TV actor, he has ventured into production and direction as well. Besides comedy, he also plays dramatic roles.

Birthdate: February 8, 1925

Sun Sign: Aquarius

Died: June 27, 2001

John Lemmon is best remembered for his Academy Award-winning roles in Mister Roberts and Save the Tiger, and his Emmy-winning performance in Tuesdays with Morrie. His narration in Harry S Truman: A Journey to Independence earned him a Grammy nomination. He collaborated with Walter Matthau in many projects.

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Matthew Perry

(Best Known for His Role of 'Chandler Bing' on the TV Sitcom 'Friends')

Birthdate: August 19, 1969

Sun Sign: Leo

Died: October 28, 2023

Matthew Perry gained worldwide popularity for playing the character of Chandler Bing on the television sitcom Friends. The sitcom ran from 1994 to 2004 and remains one of the most popular ones till date. He also starred in other television series and a number of films. He had issued with vicodin, methadone, amphetamines and alcohol addiction.

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Uma Thurman

(Best Known for Her Roles in the Films: 'Pulp Fiction' and 'Kill Bill: Volume 1 & 2')

Birthdate: April 29, 1970

Sun Sign: Taurus

From being a lanky girl who was made fun of in school to becoming Hollywood’s A-list star, actress Uma Thurman has had quite a journey. She worked in various movies before landing on the film that earned her international appreciation, Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction. Later, Tarantino's two Kill Bill movies and Mira Nair’s miniseries Hysterical Blindness further boosted her stardom.

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Birthdate: November 20, 1925

Sun Sign: Scorpio

Died: June 6, 1968

Robert F Kennedy, the brother of the 35th US president John F Kennedy, was a politician who served as US Attorney General and as US Senator. He was known as a civil rights and human rights activist and fought against organised crime and the Mafia. He opposed America’s involvement in the Vietnam War. He was assassinated by a 24-year-old Palestinian.

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Susan B. Anthony

(Social Reformer and Women's Rights Activist Who Was a Pioneer Crusader for the Women’s Suffrage Movement)

Birthdate: February 15, 1820

Sun Sign: Aquarius

Died: March 13, 1906

Susan B. Anthony's vital role in the women's suffrage movement changed the course of history. She led one of the two national suffrage organizations, which later became the National American Woman Suffrage Association, with Susan as its leading force. She also played an instrumental role in publishing The Revolution, a women's rights newspaper.

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Matt LeBlanc

(Famous for His Role of 'Joey Tribbiani' in the TV Sitcom 'Friends')

Birthdate: July 25, 1967

Sun Sign: Leo

Best known for his performance as Joey in the TV sitcom Friends, Matt LeBlanc was initially told he was too short to be in the modeling industry. Despite the discouragement, he went on to become a model and then established himself as an actor. He is also known for his performance in the sitcom Episodes, for which he won a Golden Globe.

Birthdate: March 17, 1951

Sun Sign: Pisces

From being a successful child artist, Kurt Russell became a huge Disney teen star, then smoothly transitioned into more mature roles and gained recognition with television biographical movie, Elvis. The filmography of this charismatic movie star, today, has a series of blockbuster, critically applauded and award winning movies like Escape from New York, Backdraft, The Thing, Tombstone and Miracle. 

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Elizabeth Banks

(Actress Known for Her Role in 'The Hunger Games' and 'Pitch Perfect' Movie Series)

Birthdate: February 10, 1974

Sun Sign: Aquarius

Elizabeth Banks is famous for The Hunger Games film series and Pitch Perfect film series. The 2019 action comedy film Charlie's Angels was directed, written and produced by her, in which she acted too. The Spider-Man trilogy, Seabiscuit, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, The Next Three Days and Power Rangers are some of her other notable films. 

Birthdate: September 25, 1929

Sun Sign: Libra

Died: December 30, 2022

Barbara Walters is an American retired television personality and broadcast journalist. Renowned for her popularity with viewers, Walters appeared as the host of several popular TV shows. A pioneer for women in broadcasting, Walters became the first woman to co-host shows like Today and ABC Evening News. In 1996, she was named in TV Guide’s 50 Greatest TV Stars list.

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Birthdate: July 12, 1817

Sun Sign: Cancer

Died: May 6, 1862

Henry David Thoreau was an American philosopher, essayist, poet, and naturalist. He is credited with popularizing transcendentalism and simple living. His philosophy of civil disobedience, which was detailed in his essay of the same name, later influenced world-renowned personalities like Leo Tolstoy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mahatma Gandhi.

Birthdate: May 25, 1803

Sun Sign: Gemini

Died: April 27, 1882

Ralph Waldo Emerson was an American philosopher who led the transcendentalist movement that developed in the eastern United States in the 1820s and 1830s. He is credited with popularizing individualism through his numerous lectures and essays. Emerson influenced many thinkers and writers that followed him; he mentored Henry David Thoreau, who went on to become a leading transcendentalist.

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Birthdate: October 13, 1969

Sun Sign: Libra

Figure skater Nancy Kerrigan is best known for her 1993 U.S. Figure Skating Championship win. She has also won medals at the 1991 and 1992 World Championships and the 1992 and 1994 Winter Olympics. She was attacked and injured by a man hired by her rival Tonya Harding’s former husband. 

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Meghan Trainor

(Pop Singer-songwriter Known for her Debut Single 'All About That Bass')

Birthdate: December 22, 1993

Sun Sign: Capricorn

Meghan Trainor is an American talent show judge and singer-songwriter. Trainor is credited with promoting body positivity through her music; her songs often have lyrical themes based on personal empowerment and body image. Also a well-known philanthropist, Meghan Trainor works closely with organizations, such as The American Cancer Society. She also takes an active part in several charity events.

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Jennifer Coolidge

(Actress and Comedian Best Known for Role as ‘Jeanine Stifler’ in ‘American Pie’ Film Series)

Birthdate: August 28, 1961

Sun Sign: Virgo

Jennifer Coolidge is an American actress. She is known for playing Jeanine Stifler in the sex comedy film series American Pie. Also known for her charity work, Coolidge has had a major impact working with organizations that support animal rights and AIDS assistance. Thanks to her performance in Legally Blonde, her voice has been the subject of a famous impression.

Birthdate: February 7, 1960

Sun Sign: Aquarius

From playing a sexual voyeur to a sadomasochistic boss, James Spader has portrayed a variety of roles, establishing himself as a versatile actor. Despite suffering from strong obsessive-compulsive issues, James Spader has managed to succeed as an actor and hence serves as an inspiration to many who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder.

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Birthdate: September 16, 1971

Sun Sign: Virgo

The co-founder of Upright Citizens Brigade, an improvisational-comedy troupe, Amy Poehler went on to utilize her comedic skills to establish herself as a prominent Hollywood personality. Over the years, she has played a crucial role in enhancing the popularity of American television, for which she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Birthdate: August 17, 1969

Sun Sign: Leo

Donnie Wahlberg is a singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor. Popularly known as thebad boy of New Kids on the Block band, Wahlberg faced up to 20 years in prison after he was charged with arson for setting The Seelbach Hilton on fire. The charge was later reduced and eventually dropped after he agreed to appear in public-service videos.

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Mindy Kaling

(Actress and Comedian Known for Her Role in the Series: 'The Office' and 'The Mindy Project')

Birthdate: June 24, 1979

Sun Sign: Cancer

Actress, comedian, and writer Mindy Kaling first gained international fame with her work in the NBC sitcom, The Office, for which she was nominated for several Primetime Emmy Awards. She earned a bachelor's degree in playwriting before beginning her career. As the child of immigrants from India, she is one of the few Indian-American women active in the industry.

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Joe Keery

(Actor and Musician Best Known for His Role as ‘Steve Harrington’ in the TV Series ‘Stranger Things’)

Birthdate: April 24, 1992

Sun Sign: Taurus

Joe Keery is an American musician and actor. Apart from playing important roles in popular web television series like Stranger Things, Joe Keery also plays a significant role as a contributing musician for the popular psychedelic rock band, Post Animal.

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Jack Kerouac

(Novelist and Poet Best Known for His Novels: ‘On the Road', ‘The Dharma Bums’ and ‘Big Sur’)

Birthdate: March 12, 1922

Sun Sign: Pisces

Died: October 21, 1969

Jack Kerouac is remembered as a prominent figure of the Beat Generation. His works, consisting of several novels and poems, with their focus on spirituality, drugs, travel, sex, and jazz, paved the way for the hippie movement. He is best known for his pathbreaking novel On the Road

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Leonard Bernstein

(Composer Whose Best-Known Work is the Broadway Musical 'West Side Story')

Birthdate: August 25, 1918

Sun Sign: Virgo

Died: October 14, 1990

Leonard Bernstein was an American composer, music educator, conductor, pianist, author, and humanitarian. One of the most important cultural personalities of 20th century America, Bernstein influenced many generations of musicians. He is also credited with mentoring famous conductors like John Mauceri, Herbert Blomstedt, Alexander Frey, Marin Alsop, and Edo de Waart among many others.

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Birthdate: November 19, 1959

Sun Sign: Scorpio

One of the most revered and decorated actresses of her generation, Allison Janney is famous for playing C. J. Cregg, a role which is regarded as one of the greatest female characters in the history of American television. Also known for her work as an activist, Allison campaigns for issues like addiction recovery, mental health, women's rights, and gay rights.

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Ellen Pompeo

(Best Known for Her Role as ‘Dr. Meredith Grey’ on the TV Series ‘Grey's Anatomy’)

Birthdate: November 10, 1969

Sun Sign: Scorpio

American actress Ellen Pompeo attained fame when she acted in the 2002 film Moonlight. But she gained worldwide recognition for the portrayal of Dr Meredith Grey in the critically acclaimed and successful television series Grey’s Anatomy. She has also acted in films like Old School, Catch Me If You Can, In the Weeds, Art Heist, Daredevil and Life of the Party.

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Leonard Nimoy

(Known for Playing 'Spock' in The 'Star Trek' Franchise)

Birthdate: March 26, 1931

Sun Sign: Aries

Died: February 27, 2015

Three-time Emmy nominee Leonard Nimoy is best known for playing the iconic character Spock in the Star Trek franchise, for almost 50 years. Spock became a cult, and even Nimoy’s autobiographies were named after the character. He also appeared in Zombies of the Stratosphere and hosted a documentary series.

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Kevin Feige

(Film producer)

Birthdate: June 2, 1973

Sun Sign: Gemini

Height: 6'0" (183 cm)

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Geena Davis

(Actress Known for Her Role in Films: 'The Accidental Tourist', 'Thelma & Louise' and 'The Fly')

Birthdate: January 21, 1956

Sun Sign: Aquarius

An Academy Award-winning actress, Geena Davis is also known for her work to fight gender bias, for which she was presented with the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award. An ardent archer, who vied for a semifinals spot in the U.S. Olympic archery team for the 2000 Summer Olympics, Geena supports the Women's Sports Foundation among other initiatives that support women.

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Casey Affleck

(Actor and Filmmaker Best Known for His Academy-Award Winning Film 'Manchester by the Sea')

Birthdate: August 12, 1975

Sun Sign: Leo

Actor and director, Casey Affleck has been active in the entertainment industry for over three decades. He developed a love for acting while in school and appeared in many school plays. Encouraged by his drama teacher, he decided to become an actor. After struggling for a few years, he established himself successfully in Hollywood.

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Donna Summer

(Singer-Songwriter)

Birthdate: December 31, 1948

Sun Sign: Capricorn

Died: May 17, 2012

Height: 5'7" (170 cm)

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Eliza Dushku

(Best Known for Her Drama Series ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and its Spin-off Series ‘Angel’)

Birthdate: December 30, 1980

Sun Sign: Capricorn

Eliza Dushku is an American actress and model. She inspired a lot of people to stay sober by sharing her story of struggle with alcohol and drug addiction. Also a well-known activist, Dushku has raised funds for several charitable causes. She also works closely with the THRIVE-Gulu organization, which works towards helping the survivors of war.