John Joseph Travolta, born on February 18, 1954, in Englewood, New Jersey, is an acclaimed American actor and singer who rose to international fame in the 1970s. Travolta was the youngest of six children in a family with strong ties to the entertainment industry; his mother was an actress and drama teacher, and his father was a former semi-professional football player. Encouraged by his mother's passion for theater, Travolta pursued acting from a young age, joining an area actors' group and performing in local musicals.

Travolta's breakthrough came with his role as Vinnie Barbarino in the television sitcom "Welcome Back, Kotter" (1975–1979), which made him a teen idol. His film career took off with significant roles in "Carrie" (1976) and "Saturday Night Fever" (1977), the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film's success cemented his status as a cultural icon of the disco era. He continued his success with leading roles in "Grease" (1978) and "Urban Cowboy" (1980).

Despite a decline in popularity during the 1980s, Travolta made a remarkable comeback with his role in Quentin Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction" (1994), earning another Academy Award nomination. He continued to star in various successful films, including "Get Shorty" (1995), "Face/Off" (1997), and "Hairspray" (2007).

In addition to acting, Travolta has pursued a music career, releasing nine albums, with several singles charting on the Billboard Hot 100. His musical endeavors often complemented his film roles, as seen with the soundtrack for "Grease."

Travolta's personal life includes his marriage to actress Kelly Preston in 1991, with whom he had three children. Preston passed away in 2020. Travolta is also known for his involvement in Scientology, which he embraced in 1975.

Beyond entertainment, Travolta is a licensed pilot and has engaged in philanthropy. His career, marked by significant highs and a notable resurgence, has established him as a versatile and enduring figure in American pop culture.