Happy birthday! Thelma Houston turns 80 today

  • By Lori Macatee
  • Washington
  • Last updated on

The iconic and legendary singer turns 80 on Thursday, May. 7, 2026.

Thelma Houston is celebrating her 80th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, she is one of the most acclaimed singers of her generation.

Popular singer-actress Thelma Houston (Don't Leave Me This Way, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of herself hidden from view. At 80th birthday, she remains a woman of many facets.

Houston, a cultural icon

Born Thelma Jackson in Leland on May 7, 1946, her career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Houston's not just a great singer, she's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business woman. At this point in her career, there seems to be little Thelma hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Thelma Houston as she promises more to come. After all, she's only 80.

Happy Birthday, Thelma, you're the best!

Thelma Houston career in pictures

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