In most calendar years, birthdays arrive like clockwork. But for a unique group of people born on February 29 known as leaplings, their actual date of birth only appears every four years. Because 2026 is not a leap year, these public figures will technically not have an official date to mark their birthdays. Many will instead celebrate informally on February 28 or March 1.
Here is a look at some of the most recognized celebrities and public figures with this rare birth date, along with what they are known for.
Ja Rule — American Rapper and Actor
Jeffrey Bruce Atkins, professionally known as Ja Rule, was born on February 29, 1976, in Queens, New York. He became one of the most prominent rap artists in the late 1990s and early 2000s under Irv Gotti’s Murder Inc. label. Ja Rule’s gravelly voice and crossover appeal helped him produce hit singles such as “Always on Time”, “Between You & Me”, and “Wonderful”. Known for blending gangsta rap with mainstream R&B, Ja Rule’s leap year birthdays have always drawn attention, including his playful “10th birthday” celebration in 2016.
Korede Bello — Nigerian Singer and Songwriter
Born on February 29, 1996, Korede Bello is a celebrated figure in Nigerian music and Afrobeats. He gained fame with the hit song “Godwin”, which topped charts across Nigeria and Africa. Bello is known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, winning him fans worldwide. With no February 29 in 2026, he will mark his birthday on an alternative date like many other leaplings.
Tyrese Haliburton — NBA Star Guard
Born on February 29, 2000, Tyrese Haliburton is one of the brightest young talents in the NBA. A standout point guard, Haliburton is recognized for his exceptional playmaking, shooting efficiency, and basketball IQ. Despite his rising career and growing fanbase, 2026 will be a year without his official leap day birthday, which he will likely observe on February 28 or March 1.
Tony Robbins — Motivational Speaker and Author
Tony Robbins, born February 29, 1960, is a globally recognized motivational speaker, life coach, and author. He has built a worldwide following through his seminars, workshops, and best-selling books, including Awaken the Giant Within and Unlimited Power. Robbins’ leap year birthdays have always been special, symbolizing the rare nature of his birth date — a tradition that continues even in non-leap years.
Ferran Torres — Spanish Football Professional
Spanish footballer Ferran Torres, born February 29, 2000, is known for his speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts. Having played at top European clubs and representing Spain internationally, Torres is part of a growing list of elite athletes whose birthdays fall on the elusive leap day. In 2026, his official birthday will not appear, and he will mark it on an alternative date.
Abdukodir Khusanov & Jesper Lindström — Emerging Football Talents
Professional footballers Abdukodir Khusanov and Jesper Lindström also share the rare February 29 birth date. Both athletes are rapidly making names for themselves in competitive football. Like their fellow leaplings, 2026 will be a year without an official birthday on the calendar.
Why 2026 Has No Leap Day Birthdays
The Gregorian calendar adds February 29 in leap years, years divisible by four to align the calendar with Earth’s orbit around the sun. Since 2026 is not divisible by four, there will be no February 29, leaving leaplings without their literal birth date. Many choose to celebrate instead on February 28 or March 1, keeping the tradition alive in non-leap years.
Leaplings, though rare, have always fascinated the public. From chart-topping musicians and globally recognized motivational speakers to elite athletes, their birthdays are a reminder of the unique quirks of our calendar and a reason to celebrate life a little differently
