Happy birthday! Ava DuVernay turns 53 today

Ava DuVernay is celebrating her 53rd birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, she is one of the most acclaimed directors of her generation.

Popular director-producer Ava DuVernay (Selma, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of herself hidden from view. At 53rd birthday, she remains a woman of many facets.

DuVernay, a cultural icon

Born Ava Marie DuVernay in Long Beach on August 24, 1972, her career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. DuVernay's not just a great director, she's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business woman. At this point in her career, there seems to be little Ava hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Ava DuVernay as she promises more to come. After all, she's only 53.

Happy Birthday, Ava, you're the best!

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