Anyone know that the Olivia Newton-John was Max Born's granddaughter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the familial connection between Olivia Newton-John and the physicist Max Born, exploring her heritage and the implications of this relationship. Participants share their knowledge and personal reflections regarding this connection.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants confirm that Olivia Newton-John is indeed the granddaughter of Max Born, citing her mother, Irene Born, as his daughter.
  • One participant expresses surprise at learning about Newton-John's German or Ashkenaz descent and mentions a family member who may have more information on genealogical ties.
  • Another participant recalls having known this fact previously but admits to forgetting it over time.
  • A participant notes Max Born's historical connection to Albert Einstein, highlighting their professional relationship.
  • Some participants express a preference for discussing Newton-John's contributions to music and joy rather than her familial ties to a Nobel laureate.
  • One participant questions the accuracy of the claim regarding her descent from Max Born, suggesting a need for clarification.
  • Another participant reflects on their personal connection to Newton-John through her music, specifically referencing a lyric that resonates with her lineage.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally acknowledge the connection between Olivia Newton-John and Max Born, but there are varying levels of knowledge and surprise regarding this relationship. Some participants express uncertainty about the accuracy of the information.

Contextual Notes

Some statements reflect personal anecdotes and varying degrees of familiarity with the topic, indicating that not all participants have the same level of knowledge about Newton-John's heritage.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in the intersection of popular culture and historical figures in science, as well as those exploring genealogical connections in notable families.

swampwiz
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Science news on Phys.org
Yes.
 
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No. Did not even know ONJ was of German or Ashkenaz descent though my daughter was her major fan. I should ask my elder sister, our family genealogy hobbyist, of any known ties to Max Born.
 
I used to know it, but forgot all about it. Now I remember it. I might forget it again in the future.
 
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I knew that.

Max was for a time a colleague of Albert Einstein in the University of Berlin department of physics. They remained pen pals.
 
I guess this means Born was a ”Physical” scientist.
 
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Born to be wild.
 
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No, I didn't know that, wow.
 
I prefer the joy of life she spread rather than any prize
 
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  • #10
When she sings "if we both were Born..." ,(from "I Honestly Love You"), it always reminded me that she was descended from a "Born".
 
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  • #11
Is that totally accurate or just a good approximation?
 
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  • #12
I came to know her because she was Born's granddaughter.
 
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