Profile of the Day: Ringo Starr

Today we celebrate musician Ringo Starr’s 82nd birthday!

Image: Ringo Starr / Library of Congress

The former Beatle was born Richard Starkey to Elsie Gleave and Richard Starkey in Liverpool, England. He spent some of his childhood in and out of hospitals. After an appendectomy at the age of 6, he contracted peritonitis, which left him living in a children’s hospital for a year while he recovered. A few years later, he contracted tuberculosis and was admitted to a sanatorium, where he stayed for two years. To relieve boredom and stimulate motor activity, Starr was encouraged to join the hospital band. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for percussions.

In 1962, Starr officially joined the Beatles, replacing their drummer, Pete Best. Soon after, Starr was on the fast track to fame as a member of one of the biggest and most influential bands in music history.

Have you found your connection to the Beatles drummer? Explore Ringo Starr’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re related to the music icon.

View Ringo Starr’s Geni Profile