Benny Hill
Actor and comedian from The Benny Hill Show
An English actor, singer, and screenwriter gained prominence through a long-running television program that featured a blend of comedy sketches, physical humor, and slapstick. The Benny Hill Show became highly popular, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s, showcasing Hill's unique comedic style characterized by quick wit and playful antics. The program achieved significant ratings and was broadcast in various countries, contributing to Hill’s international recognition. Throughout his career, Hill also performed in films and on stage, solidifying his reputation as a versatile performer, but it was his television work that left a lasting legacy in comedy.
Created and starred in The Benny Hill Show
Won a BAFTA TV Award for Best Entertainment Performance
Other People Born on January 21st
Jake Elliott
American football player, Super Bowl champion
Born
January 21st, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL) for the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved success during Super Bowl LII, where the team secured a victory against the New England Patriots. Overcame challenges as a rookie in the league, earning recognition for accuracy in field goal attempts. Contributed to the team's kicking game with several game-winning kicks throughout his career.
Continue ReadingErling Persson
H&M founder and retail pioneer
Born
January 21st, 1917 108 years ago
Died
October 28th, 2002 23 years ago — 85 years old
Founded H&M in 1947, which became a global fashion retailer. The first store opened in Västerås, Sweden, and the brand rapidly expanded internationally. Under leadership, H&M introduced affordable fashion to a broad audience, emphasizing sustainability in recent years. Persson's vision established a successful business model in the fast fashion industry.
Continue ReadingRomano Fogli
Italian footballer and World Cup champion
Born
January 21st, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old
Played as a defender in professional football, primarily for Bologna F.C. during the 1960s. Contributed to Bologna’s success in Serie A, winning the Italian championship. Represented Italy in international competitions, participating in the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Achieved notable recognition for being part of the Italian national team that won the 1968 UEFA European Championship.
Continue ReadingSergey Klevchenya
Speed skater and Olympic competitor
Born
January 21st, 1971 54 years ago
A speed skater competed for Russia in various international competitions, including the Winter Olympics. Participated in the 1994 Lillehammer and 1998 Nagano Winter Games, showcasing prowess in the 500 meters and 1000 meters events. Achieved numerous national titles and contributed to the sport's development in Russia during the 1990s.
Continue ReadingMarina Foïs
French actress in comedy and drama
Born
January 21st, 1970 55 years ago
An actress born in France in 1970, recognized for work in both film and television. Gained prominence through roles in comedy and drama, especially noted for performances in the television series 'Les Ripoux' and films like 'Polisse' and 'Les Grandes Vacances.' Foïs attended the Cours Florent, a prestigious acting school, before beginning a career that showcased talent in varied roles, contributing to the French entertainment landscape.
Continue ReadingÁngel Mena
Ecuadorian footballer and forward
Born
January 21st, 1988 37 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Began career in Ecuador and gained recognition for performances in the Ecuadorian Serie A. Transferred to clubs in Mexico, contributing to the success of teams competing in Liga MX. Also represented the Ecuador national team in various international competitions, showcasing talent on the global stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 20th
Tim Hetherington
Photographer and journalist, 'Restrepo'
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2011 14 years ago — 41 years old
Engaged in conflict and documentary photography, showcasing the realities of war. Co-directed the Oscar-nominated documentary film 'Restrepo', which details the experiences of soldiers deployed in Afghanistan. Contributions included work in Liberia, where coverage chronicled the civil war. Collaborated with various publications, providing powerful visual narratives that captured human stories in times of crisis. Focused on the impact of media in war zones and the representation of conflict in contemporary societies. Died while covering the Libyan Civil War.
Continue ReadingGavin Millar
Scottish film director, 'The Last Great Wilderness'
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2022 3 years ago — 84 years old
A Scottish film director gained prominence in the film industry through several notable works. Directed 'The Last Great Wilderness', a film exploring themes of nature and humanity. Also worked in television, contributing to series such as 'The Lost Garden' and 'The Last of the Oystermen'. His career spanned multiple decades, engaging in various projects that showcased storytelling through a visual medium.
Continue ReadingArchibald MacLeish
American poet and playwright, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
May 7th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1982 43 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent poet, playwright, and lawyer significantly contributed to American literature throughout the 20th century. Won three Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry, showcasing exceptional literary talent. Served as the Librarian of Congress from 1939 to 1944, influencing public access to literature and documentation. A member of the National Institute of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Letters, fostering artistic growth in the nation. Authored notable works including the play 'J.B.', which received acclaim for its exploration of the Job story from the Bible and the poetry collection 'Collected Poems', illustrating a profound command of the English language.
Continue ReadingBert Weedon
English guitarist and music educator
Born
May 10th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent English guitarist and music educator, played a pivotal role in the development of rock and pop music in the UK. Gained recognition in the 1950s for the instructional book 'Play in a Day', which helped numerous aspiring musicians learn to play guitar. Contributed to the careers of various artists by providing an accessible approach to guitar playing. Worked alongside notable musicians and performed on numerous recordings throughout his career, influencing a generation of guitarists.
Continue ReadingAvicii
Electronic musician and DJ
Born
September 8th, 1989 36 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2018 7 years ago — 28 years old
Innovated the electronic dance music scene, blending house music with elements of pop and progressive sounds. Gained international acclaim with hits such as 'Wake Me Up' and 'Levels'. Released the album 'True' in 2013, which showcased a distinct musical style that spurred interest in the genre. Collaborated with various artists across the globe and contributed to the music of numerous chart-topping singles. Received multiple awards, including Billboard Music Awards and Grammy nominations, highlighting achievements in the music industry.
Continue ReadingRoman Gabriel
American football player and actor
Born
August 5th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
Played quarterback in the National Football League from 1962 to 1972, primarily for the Los Angeles Rams and later for the Philadelphia Eagles. Achieved Pro Bowl selections and led the Rams to a postseason appearance. Also contributed to the sport as a coach at various levels. Transitioned to acting, appearing in television and film, with roles in series such as 'The Brady Bunch' and 'The Twilight Zone.'
Continue Reading