Betty White
Actress and television personality
An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.
Played Rose Nylund in 'The Golden Girls'
Appeared on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'
Hosted numerous game shows including 'Hollywood Squares'
Received multiple Emmy Awards for her performances
Other People Born on January 17th
Ricky Wilson
English singer-songwriter and band leader
Born
January 17th, 1978 48 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1985 40 years ago — 7 years old
A singer-songwriter, achieved prominence as the lead vocalist of the band Kaiser Chiefs. The band debuted with the album Employment, which featured the hit single I Predict a Riot. This single contributed to the band's rise in popularity within the UK indie rock scene. In addition to musical accomplishments, participated as a judge on the television series The Voice UK, showcasing talent in music and entertainment.
Continue ReadingClyde Walcott
Barbadian cricketer and Test player
Born
January 17th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Barbados, this athlete had a prolific cricket career, representing the West Indies in Test matches. Making his debut in 1948, he quickly established a reputation as a reliable batsman. Walcott's powerful batting style contributed significantly to the team's success during the 1950s. He played a pivotal role in the historic victory against England in the 1950 series, which marked a turning point for West Indies cricket. His contributions extended beyond the field as he later served as an influential cricket administrator and coach. Walcott's dedication to the sport helped shape future generations of cricketers.
Continue ReadingGeorge Stigler
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 17th, 1911 115 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1991 34 years ago — 80 years old
An American economist and academic, contributions focused on the fields of economics and industrial organization. Stigler's work explored market structures and the role of information in economics. He served as a professor at the University of Chicago and played a significant role in the development of the Chicago School of Economics. The achievements in his career culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1982 for his research on the effects of market structure on economic performance.
Continue ReadingThomas Fairfax
English general and Member of Parliament
Born
January 17th, 1612 414 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1671 354 years ago — 59 years old
Served as a key military leader during the English Civil War. Commanded the New Model Army, achieving crucial victories against royalist forces. Held the position of commander-in-chief for Parliamentary forces, playing a significant role in the conflict that ultimately led to the establishment of the Commonwealth. Additionally, participated in negotiations following the war, influencing the future political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingLucy Boynton
Actress known for 'Bohemian Rhapsody'
Born
January 17th, 1994 32 years ago
An actress started a career in film and television at a young age, making her debut in the 2006 film 'Miss Potter'. Gained recognition for the role in the musical biopic 'Bohemian Rhapsody', portraying Mary Austin, which contributed significantly to the film's success. Also starred in the Netflix series 'The Politician' and the critically acclaimed film 'Sing Street'.
Continue ReadingNicolae Iorga
Historian and Prime Minister of Romania
Born
January 17th, 1871 155 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1940 85 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent Romanian historian and politician served as the 34th Prime Minister of Romania. Contributed significantly to historical scholarship, particularly in Romanian history, literature, and culture. Held various academic positions and authored numerous works on history, literature, and political thought. His political career included leadership roles in different governments, reflecting shifts in political context throughout Romania's history. Engaged in international diplomacy and participated in various cultural and academic undertakings, fostering historical awareness and education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Vasily Lazarev
Russian astronaut and physician
Born
February 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1990 35 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and contributed to the Soviet space program as a physician and cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 14 mission in 1974, which involved a successful docking with the Salyut 7 space station. Conducted scientific research during the mission that contributed to the understanding of long-duration spaceflight effects on the human body.
Continue ReadingWesley Addy
American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 29 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
Continue ReadingArnold Rüütel
Estonian politician and President
Born
May 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 96 years old
An agronomist and politician, served as the President of Estonia from 2001 to 2006. Elected to the Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, in 1990, played a significant role in Estonia's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. During presidency, focused on strengthening national identity and international relations. Prior to presidency, held various positions in the agricultural sector, contributing to the country's development in post-Soviet times.
Continue ReadingBasil Wolverton
Author and illustrator of comics
Born
July 9th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1978 47 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in comic book art and illustration, gained recognition for distinctive style and humor. Contributed extensively to various comic series, particularly with his work for 'Mad Magazine.' Created iconic characters and contributed to the medium with unique and often surreal illustrations. Influenced generations of artists and left a significant legacy in the realm of comics.
Continue ReadingÓlafur Thors
Icelandic lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
January 19th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1964 61 years ago — 72 years old
A prominent figure in Icelandic politics, served as Prime Minister during two non-consecutive terms from 1954 to 1956 and from 1963 to 1965. Played a significant role in shaping post-war Icelandic society and governance. Additionally, held various ministerial positions throughout the political career, including Minister of Justice and Minister of Fisheries. Contributed to the development of Iceland’s legal framework and international relations.
Continue ReadingDonald E. Westlake
Author and screenwriter of crime novels
Born
July 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter contributed significantly to the literary world through over 100 published works. Primarily recognized for writing crime and mystery novels, influenced the genre with clever plots and sharp wit. His most notable work includes the Parker series, featuring the character Parker, a professional thief. Westlake also achieved acclaim in screenwriting, particularly for writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Richard Stark's novel. He received the Edgar Award multiple times, solidifying his reputation in crime fiction. His writing style combined humor and suspense, appealing to a broad audience.
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