Antoine Houdar de la Motte
French author and playwright
A prominent figure in 17th-century French literature, contributed significantly to the development of drama and poetry. Best remembered for rewriting Homer's 'Iliad' into a modern French verse, aimed at making classical works more accessible. Authored 'Renaud' and 'Don Quichotte', showcasing advancements in the literary style of the time. Participated in the formation of the French Academy, which aimed to standardize and promote the French language and literature.
Wrote a modern adaptation of 'Iliad'
Authored 'Renaud'
Contributed to 'Don Quichotte'
Participated in the founding of the French Academy
Other People Born on January 18th
Gang Dong-won
South Korean actor in 'The Train to Busan'
Born
January 18th, 1981 45 years ago
Born in 1981, this South Korean actor gained recognition for roles in movies and television series. Featured in films such as 'The Train to Busan', 'A Violent Prosecutor', and 'Peninsula', he has built a successful career in the entertainment industry. The performances often showcase a range of characters, from heroes to complex individuals. Apart from film, also starred in the drama series 'Goblin', which achieved significant popularity.
Continue ReadingHayle Ibrahimov
Ethiopian-Azerbaijani long-distance runner
Born
January 18th, 1990 36 years ago
Born in 1990, this long-distance runner represented Azerbaijan in international competitions. Competed in various Olympic and World Championship events, specializing in the 5000 meters and 10000 meters. Achieved significant successes on the European circuit and gained recognition for outstanding performances in marathon races. Demonstrated consistent results and endurance in numerous athletic events.
Continue ReadingCarl McCoy
English Singer-Songwriter, Fields of the Nephilim
Born
January 18th, 1963 63 years ago
Born in 1963, an English singer-songwriter gained prominence as the frontman of the band Fields of the Nephilim. The band, formed in the mid-1980s, blended gothic rock and heavy metal, achieving a cult following with their atmospheric sound and distinctive imagery. The debut album, 'Dawnrazor,' released in 1987, showcased a dark and brooding style that resonated with fans of the genre. Subsequent albums, including 'The Nephilim' and 'Elysium,' further solidified their place in the gothic rock scene. McCoy's lyrical themes often explored esoteric and mythical subjects, contributing to the band's unique identity.
Continue ReadingAndré Ribeiro
Race car driver, Formula 1 participant
Born
January 18th, 1966 60 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 55 years old
Born in Brazil in 1966, this race car driver participated in the Formula One World Championship during the early 1990s. He drove for the teams Minardi and Brabham, competing in numerous Grand Prix events primarily between 1993 and 1994. In addition to a career in Formula 1, he also achieved success in other racing series, including the IndyCar Series. His time in motorsport's high-stakes environment highlighted his skills in speed and precision on diverse tracks around the world.
Continue ReadingJohan Djourou
Swiss footballer with Arsenal achievements
Born
January 18th, 1987 39 years ago
A Swiss footballer primarily played as a defender. Djourou began his professional career at Arsenal, making over 100 appearances for the club from 2004 to 2014. After leaving Arsenal, played for teams such as Hamburg and FC Sion, contributing to their defensive line. Internationally, represented Switzerland in multiple tournaments, including the UEFA European Championship and the FIFA World Cup. Djourou's playing style was characterized by his physicality and aerial ability.
Continue ReadingOlivier Rochus
Belgian tennis player and ATP competitor
Born
January 18th, 1981 45 years ago
A professional tennis player from Belgium, competed on the ATP Tour primarily during the 2000s. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 24 in 2002. Best performance in Grand Slam tournaments came at the 2003 French Open, reaching the fourth round. Partnered with his brother, Christophe, in doubles and won the 2005 Italian Open. Retired in 2013 after 17 years on the tour.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 26th
Jonathan Drummond-Webb
Surgeon and academic in South Africa
Born
1959 67 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 45 years old
A prominent surgeon and academic, contributions spanned various medical fields, emphasizing surgical techniques and education. Held positions at several esteemed institutions, significantly impacting medical training standards. Engaged in numerous surgical innovations and published a variety of academic papers. Actively involved in mentoring young surgeons and advocating for improved healthcare practices in South Africa.
Continue ReadingVincent Schiavelli
American actor in iconic films
Born
November 11th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 57 years old
An actor renowned for unique roles in film and television, spanning a career from the 1970s until his passing in 2005. Notable performances included the roles in 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' as Taber and in 'Ghost' as the subway ghost. Contributions to television included appearances on series such as 'The Wonder Years' and 'Batman: The Animated Series.' Apart from acting, authored a book on Italian cuisine titled 'Vincent Schiavelli's Midnight Kitchen.' His signature look and character portrayals left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingReggie White
American football defensive end, NFL champion
Born
1961 65 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 21 years ago — 43 years old
Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) from 1984 to 2000. Spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. Led the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XXXI. Received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award twice and was selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times. Played college football at the University of Tennessee.
Continue ReadingLukas Enembe
Indonesian politician, Governor of Papua
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 56 years old
Served as the Governor of Papua from 2013 to 2023. Focused on economic development and education reforms in the province. Held leadership roles within various local government organizations. Engaged with international stakeholders to promote Papua's interests.
Continue ReadingJim O'Toole
Major League Baseball pitcher and All-Star
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Played as a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago White Sox during a career spanning from 1958 to 1966. Achieved recognition for outstanding performance in the 1963 season, leading the National League in earned run average (ERA) with a remarkable 2.57. Selected for the All-Star team in 1964, further showcasing pitching skills at the highest level in Major League Baseball. Concluded career with a record of 89 wins and 77 losses over his time in the league.
Continue ReadingPaul Blair
Baseball player and coach
Born
1944 82 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 69 years old
Played major league baseball primarily as a center fielder. Had a successful career with the Baltimore Orioles, contributing to two World Series championships in 1966 and 1970. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, sharing expertise and knowledge with younger players. Recognized for defensive skills and base running ability during playing years.
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