Alan Paton
South African author and activist
An influential author and political activist, contributed significantly to anti-apartheid movements in South Africa. Wrote the acclaimed novel "Cry, the Beloved Country," which highlighted the struggles of apartheid. Engaged in various social and political issues throughout his life, working to promote human rights and social justice. Served as the first president of the South African Liberal Party from its founding in 1953 until 1968.
Wrote the novel 'Cry, the Beloved Country'
Co-founded the South African Liberal Party
Other People Born on January 11th
Anni Friesinger-Postma
Speed Skater; 2006 Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
January 11th, 1977 49 years ago
A German speed skater achieved significant success in competitive skating. This athlete specialized in middle and long-distance events, competing primarily in the 1000 meters and 1500 meters. The career included participation in multiple World Championships and Olympic Games. At the 2006 Turin Winter Olympics, this skater earned a gold medal in the 1000 meters and a silver medal in the 1500 meters. Over the years, several World Cup titles were secured, solidifying a reputation as one of the top skaters of the era.
Continue ReadingMichael Duff
Footballer and manager, notable for playing
Born
January 11th, 1978 48 years ago
A professional footballer from Ireland, played primarily as a defender. Commenced a career at Newcastle United, contributing significantly to the team's defense for several seasons. Later played for Cheltenham Town and Burnley, winning the Football League Championship with Burnley in 2016. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, managing several clubs, including a stint at Cheltenham Town.
Continue ReadingLee Seung-hoon
South Korean rapper and dancer
Born
January 11th, 1992 34 years ago
Born in 1992, this individual gained recognition as a member of the South Korean boy band Winner. The group debuted in 2014 under YG Entertainment and garnered significant attention for their distinctive music style and engaging performances. The rapper also participated in the reality survival program 'K-pop Star' in 2012, where impressive talents drew public acclaim. The artist is noted for contributions to Winner's chart-topping albums and for showcasing unique dance skills during performances.
Continue ReadingTony Allen
Basketball player and NBA champion
Born
January 11th, 1982 44 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2020 5 years ago — 38 years old
Played as a shooting guard in the NBA, primarily with the Boston Celtics and the Memphis Grizzlies. Contributed to the Boston Celtics' 2008 NBA Championship victory. Recognized for defensive prowess, earning NBA All-Defensive First Team honors multiple times. Transitioned to a prominent role within Memphis, becoming a key player for the team's identity and success during the 2010s.
Continue ReadingJerome Bixby
American author and screenwriter of sci-fi
Born
January 11th, 1923 103 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1998 27 years ago — 75 years old
An influential author and screenwriter contributed significantly to science fiction through works in both film and literature. Wrote episodes for the original 'Star Trek' series, including the notable episode 'Mirror, Mirror'. Authored the short story 'It's a Good Life', adapted into an episode of 'The Twilight Zone'. Worked on the screenplay for 'Fantastic Voyage', which became a classic of the genre. His creative influences extended to the broader cultural landscape, impacting generations of sci-fi writers and fans.
Continue ReadingAlbert Dupontel
French actor and director of 'Bye Bye Morons'
Born
January 11th, 1964 62 years ago
Born in 1964, a prominent French actor and director, achieving recognition for contributions to film and theater. Gained acclaim with the film 'Bye Bye Morons', which won several awards and was highly appreciated for its unique storytelling. In addition to directing, focused on writing and producing, creating works that blend humor and drama. Gained a reputation for versatility in performances, both comedic and serious, contributing to the evolution of French cinema.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Mohit Chattopadhyay
Indian poet and playwright
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
A poet and playwright contributed significantly to Indian literature. Known primarily for crafting plays that incorporate themes of social issues and human emotions. Wrote in Bengali and focused on the interplay between art and society. Engaged with the literary community through various festivals and events, promoting the Bengali language and its literary heritage.
Continue ReadingRobert MacNeil
Journalist and author of 'The MacNeil/Lehrer Report'
Born
January 19th, 1931 95 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 93 years old
A Canadian-American journalist and author, contributed significantly to television journalism. Co-founded PBS’s 'The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour', which set a standard for news broadcasting with its in-depth analysis. Also worked with the CBC before moving to the U.S. and has authored several books, including a historical narrative about the Vietnam War. His career spanned several decades, earning numerous accolades for journalistic excellence.
Continue ReadingEleanor Coppola
American filmmaker of documentary films
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
A filmmaker focused on documentary cinema, Virginia based on extensive insights into the lives of artists and creators. Directed the documentary films 'Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse', which examined the tumultuous production of 'Apocalypse Now', and 'Dreams on Spec', which explored the journeys of aspiring screenwriters in Hollywood. Worked alongside husband Francis Ford Coppola, contributing to various film projects. Contributed to the world of cinema through producing and writing.
Continue ReadingMohammad Al Gaz
Emirati politician & diplomat
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2016 9 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent Emirati politician and diplomat, held key positions within the United Arab Emirates government. Served as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and contributed to international diplomacy efforts, shaping UAE's foreign policy. Played a significant role in enhancing diplomatic relations with various countries and participated in numerous high-level meetings and initiatives. Engaged in discussions on regional security and development issues, further solidifying the UAE's presence on the global stage.
Continue ReadingKarim Fakhrawi
Bahraini journalist, co-founder of Al-Wasat
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2011 14 years ago — 49 years old
Co-founded Al-Wasat, a prominent Bahraini newspaper, in 2002, providing a platform for independent journalism. Fakhrawi played a crucial role in promoting press freedom in Bahrain. His career as a journalist was marked by a commitment to uncovering stories and presenting unbiased news. While facing challenges, he continued to advocate for journalistic integrity and transparency in the media landscape. Fakhrawi's contributions to journalism were significant during a time of political change in Bahrain. His dedication to his craft persisted until his untimely death in 2011.
Continue ReadingGilbert Gottfried
Comedian and voice actor of 'Aladdin'
Born
February 28th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2022 3 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1955, a comedian and actor, gained recognition for distinct voice work and stand-up comedy. First gained major fame as a cast member on 'Saturday Night Live' and later featured in films and television shows. Voiced the character Iago in Disney's animated film 'Aladdin', contributing to the film's comedic elements. Hosted various television programs, including 'America's Funniest People'. Maintained a career in comedy that spanned several decades, noted for a distinctive delivery and controversial humor.
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