How do you portray the unique qualities of an individual if all you do is list their factual data? It really doesn't matter where they were borne or went to school, unless it is directly related to the story. If everyone has a story, what makes them different? This is a case where you can use a lot of quotes if the individual is quotable; and don't make them up. You can get into trouble real fast if you quote someone with something they didn't say. You may even get push-back if you do quote a person correctly, which is a good reason to use a recording device. (Most don't use tape any more and can be transferred directly to your computer.)
It's very hard to come up with a good profile from only a 30-minute interview or a handful of press clippings. If that's all you've got, dig some more and then try for a follow-up. It doesn't matter whether they're famous or not, persistence is the key to success.