Famous People Born in 1987: Why This Class Still Rules Hollywood

If you were born in 1987, you basically entered the world right as the first-ever "GIF" was created. Think about that. You’re part of a vintage that remembers life before the internet but was young enough to master it before your brain finished developing. It’s a weird, sweet spot. And honestly, looking at the roster of celebrities born in 1987, it’s pretty clear that this specific birth year produced a disproportionate amount of staying power.

We aren't just talking about flash-in-the-pan influencers. We are talking about the "Class of '87"—a group that includes arguably the greatest soccer player of all time, a Pulitzer-winning rapper, and the man who single-handedly brought the "mullet" back to mainstream cinema.

The Heavy Hitters of 1987

It’s wild to think that Lionel Messi and Zac Efron share the same birth year. One spent his youth in Rosario, Argentina, battling a growth hormone deficiency to become a global god of sport, while the other was navigating the halls of Disney Channel.

Messi (born June 24, 1987) is the definitive 1987 success story. By 2026, he’s basically completed the "main quest" of life. After winning the 2022 World Cup and securing his eighth Ballon d'Or, he's spent the last few seasons turning Inter Miami into a global brand. He’s 38 now. In athlete years, that’s ancient, yet he’s still the biggest draw in any stadium he enters.

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Then you’ve got the Hollywood side of things.

Zac Efron (October 18, 1987) has had one of the most fascinating career pivots of any millennial. Most of us remember him as the floppy-haired Troy Bolton in High School Musical. But Zac didn't stay in that box. He went from teen idol to "muscle-bound comedy guy" and then took a hard left into "serious actor" territory with The Iron Claw. People used to write him off, but he's proven he’s got more range than almost anyone else from that era.

The Women Redefining the Industry

You can’t talk about 1987 without mentioning Blake Lively (August 25). She didn't just play Serena van der Woodsen; she basically became a lifestyle mogul. Between her lead role in the 2024 hit It Ends with Us and her ubiquitous presence on the Met Gala carpet, Blake has managed to maintain an "A-list" status that feels effortless.

Then there's Sarah Snook.
Born on December 1, 1987, the Australian actress spent years being a "if you know, you know" talent until Succession happened. Her portrayal of Shiv Roy won her two Golden Globes and an Emmy. By early 2026, she’s even picking up Trailblazer Awards at the AACTAs. She represents the "late bloomer" energy of the '87 crew—those who didn't necessarily peak at 19 but are dominating their late 30s.

Why 1987 Was a "Goldilocks" Year for Talent

There’s a theory that people born in the late 80s have a unique work ethic. They grew up watching the "old guard" of the 90s but had to adapt to the digital collapse of the 2010s.

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Look at Michael B. Jordan (February 9, 1987).
The guy started as a child model for Toys "R" Us. He did the grind. He was on The Wire as a kid, then Friday Night Lights, and now he's directing his own Creed movies and starring in high-stakes thrillers like 2025's Sinners.

Kendrick Lamar (June 17, 1987) is another perfect example. Kendrick isn't just a rapper; he's a Pulitzer Prize winner. He’s arguably the most respected lyricist of the decade. While other artists chase TikTok trends, Kendrick (like many of his 1987 peers) seems to value the "craft" over the "clout." It’s a very Gen X approach to a very Millennial career.

A Few More Names You Forgot Were the Same Age:

• Miles Teller (February 20): The Top Gun: Maverick star who somehow manages to be both a prestige actor (Whiplash) and a blockbuster draw.
• Tom Felton (September 22): Everyone’s favorite "bad boy" Draco Malfoy. He’s leaned into the nostalgia while building a solid stage and indie career.
• Rose Huntington-Whiteley (April 18): Transitioned from Victoria's Secret angel to a powerhouse in the beauty and business world.
• Evan Peters (January 20): The man who can play literally anyone, from a mutant in X-Men to some of the most chilling roles in TV history.

The "Almost" 1987ers

I've seen people get this wrong all the time. People often think Rihanna was born in 1987. Close, but no. She’s a February 1988 baby. Same with Sebastian Stan—people often lump him in because of his Gossip Girl ties, but he was actually born in 1982.

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It’s easy to get these years mixed up because these stars all came up through the same cultural pipeline. They all survived the low-rise jeans era, the Perez Hilton era, and the transition from DVD to streaming.

What's Next for the Class of '87?

As we move through 2026, this group is entering what should be the prime of their careers. They are no longer the "young stars"—they are the veterans.

We’re seeing them move into executive producer and director roles. Miles Teller is producing The Gorge; Blake Lively is producing her own films; Michael B. Jordan has his own production company, Outlier Society.

They aren't waiting for permission anymore. They’re running the show.

Take Action: How to Keep Up

If you're a fan of these specific stars, here is how you can actually support their current "mature" era:

• Watch the Indie Projects: Instead of just waiting for the next Marvel movie, check out the smaller films these actors are producing. That’s where the real creative risks are happening.
• Follow the Business Moves: Many '87ers are moving into lifestyle and tech. Blake Lively’s Betty Buzz or Michael B. Jordan’s various investments are good indicators of where celebrity influence is heading.
• Check the Credits: Start noticing how many of these actors are now listed as "Executive Producer." It changes the way you view the content when you realize they have a seat at the table.

This birth year wasn't just a fluke. It was a bridge between two worlds, and the results speak for themselves. Whether it’s Messi on the pitch or Kendrick on the mic, the 1987 cohort isn't slowing down anytime soon.