Betty White
Actress and television personality

Born
January 17th, 1922
103 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021
3 years ago — 99 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
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
Marie Zdeňka Baborová-Čiháková
Born in 1877, contributions to botany and zoology included extensive research on plant and animal species in central Europe. Conducted studies focusing on ecology and taxonomy, publishing significant papers that advanced knowledge in both fields. Held positions in academic institutions and participated in botanical expeditions. Published work on the flora and fauna of Czech lands, contributing to the understanding of biodiversity in the region.
Continue ReadingGaspard Bauhin
Significant contributions to botanical nomenclature and classification took place, establishing the basis for modern taxonomy. Published "Pinax Theatri Botanici," which listed more than 6,000 plants and proposed a systematic way to classify them. Acted as a professor of medicine at the University of Basel, where studies in botany and medicinal plants flourished. Developed extensive illustrations and descriptions of plants, influencing later naturalists and botanists.
Continue ReadingLiz Ellis
Achieved significant success in netball at both the national and international levels. Played as a prominent defender for the Australian national team, contributing to victories in multiple Commonwealth Games and World Championships. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, providing insights and analysis on netball. Engaged in advocacy for women's sports and health issues.
Continue ReadingAmanda Wilkinson
A Canadian singer emerged in the country music scene as part of the trio The Wilkinsons, which included family members. The group released several albums and charted multiple singles in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The Wilkinsons achieved commercial success with their debut album, which included the hit single '26 Cents.' The group received a Juno Award nomination and contributed to the country's music landscape through their blend of harmonies and storytelling. After the group's initial success, pursued a solo career, releasing an album that showcased personal experiences and emotional depth.
Continue ReadingMaury Povich
A talk show host and producer, hosted the long-running daytime talk show 'Maury' which premiered in 1991. The show featured topics such as paternity tests and relationship issues, and became a staple of American daytime television. Additionally worked as a news anchor and journalist, contributing to the fields of television and media for decades.
Continue ReadingFreddy Rodriguez
Born in 1975, this American actor became prominent for roles in television and film. Best recognized for playing Federico 'Rico' Diaz in the acclaimed HBO series Six Feet Under, the portrayal earned critical attention and showcased a mix of drama and dark humor. Additional roles included appearances in the series Ugly Betty and the film The Dead Zone. The actor's ability to bring depth to characters contributed to a steady presence in the entertainment industry throughout the 2000s and beyond.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
William Christopher
An American actor and singer gained recognition for portraying Father Francis Mulcahy on the television series M*A*S*H from 1972 to 1983. The character was a Catholic chaplain providing support and guidance to fellow soldiers during the Korean War. Christopher also appeared in various other television shows, including The Love Boat and Growing Pains. His stage work included roles in productions such as The Fantasticks and Fiddler on the Roof. Christopher’s contributions to the entertainment industry extended beyond acting, as he also lent his voice to numerous commercials and educational films.
Continue ReadingMarshall McLuhan
An influential media theorist and author, focused on the effects of media on communication and culture. Played a significant role in the study of media ecology and its impact on human perception. Introduced concepts such as 'the medium is the message' and 'global village'. Published seminal works including 'Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man' and 'The Gutenberg Galaxy'.
Continue ReadingLudolph van Ceulen
German-Dutch mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in the calculation of pi. Van Ceulen spent a considerable portion of his life calculating the value of pi to 35 decimal places. This achievement was commemorated on his tombstone in St. Peter's Church in Leyden. He also authored several works on geometry and was a notable figure in the mathematical community during the 16th century. His work laid important groundwork for future developments in mathematics and numerical computation.
Continue ReadingGustave Courbet
A prominent figure in the Realist movement, this painter emphasized the depiction of everyday life and social issues. Artworks often showcased rural scenes and the working class. 'The Stone Breakers' and 'A Burial at Ornans' presented unidealized portrayals of labor and ordinary people. His bold approach challenged the conventional techniques and subjects of the time, earning a reputation for both innovation and controversy. Courbet also organized the Pavilion of Realism in 1855, presenting his works independently from the Salon. His principles promoted realism as an authentic artistic expression.
Continue ReadingJohnnie Walker
A prominent radio DJ in the UK, recognized for a career spanning over several decades. The career began in the early 1970s, and significant shows included the BBC Radio 1 program and later BBC Radio 2's 'Sounds of the 70s' and 'The Johnnie Walker Show.' Transitioned through various genres and themes, adapting to the evolving tastes of radio audiences. Walker's voice became synonymous with late-night listening, and numerous awards were received in recognition of contributions to broadcasting, including multiple Sony Radio Academy Awards. Continued to engage with listeners through both music and conversation, reflecting a rich heritage of British radio.
Continue ReadingBrandon Teena
A trans man, experienced violence and discrimination due to gender identity. In 1993, became a victim of a hate crime that led to his tragic murder in Nebraska. The case highlighted issues surrounding transgender rights and violence against the LGBTQ+ community. The story was later depicted in the film 'Boys Don't Cry', which brought wider attention to the struggles faced by transgender individuals.
Continue Reading