Cicely Tyson
American actress and activist
A prominent actress with a career spanning over seven decades. Recognized for portraying strong African American women on stage and screen. Gained acclaim for roles in productions such as 'The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman' and 'Sounder'. Received multiple awards including three Primetime Emmy Awards and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild. Advocated for civil rights and representation in the entertainment industry, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling.
Starred in 'The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman'
Received an Academy Award nomination for 'Sounder'
Won three Primetime Emmy Awards
Other People Born on December 19th
Chito Martínez
Belizean-American baseball player
Born
December 19th, 1965 60 years ago
A former baseball player, primarily played as an infielder in Major League Baseball. Debuted in 1991 with the New York Mets and also played for the Montreal Expos and the Cincinnati Reds. Concluded playing career in the late 1990s, contributing to various teams in a utility role.
Continue ReadingMartin Luther King Sr.
American pastor and civil rights leader
Born
December 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1984 41 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent American pastor and civil rights leader, he served as a preacher for the Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. He advocated for social justice, equality, and racial harmony, often addressing inequalities faced by African Americans. His influence extended through his role as the father of Martin Luther King Jr., playing a key part in the civil rights movement and shaping the values of a generation. Active in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, he worked alongside notable figures to address systemic issues of racism and promote nonviolent protest as a means of achieving civil rights.
Continue ReadingRobert Urich
Television actor and producer
Born
December 19th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2002 24 years ago — 55 years old
An American actor and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1970s and 1980s with a successful career in television. Stars in the series 'Vega$' and 'Spenser: For Hire' established a memorable presence in the crime drama genre. Work included guest appearances on various popular television shows, showcasing versatility across different characters. Active in film as well, roles spanned a range of genres. The actor's contributions to the television landscape were significant, leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.
Continue ReadingJennifer Beals
Model and actress from Flashdance
Born
December 19th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in Chicago, a successful model and actress achieved prominence in the 1983 film Flashdance, playing the role of Alex Owens. The film received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Additionally, a notable role in the television series The L Word showcased contributions to LGBTQ+ representation in media. Started modeling at a young age, appearing in various magazines and campaigns. Also involved in humanitarian efforts, supporting causes related to education and equality.
Continue ReadingLimahl
English pop singer with hit songs
Born
December 19th, 1958 67 years ago
English pop singer rose to prominence in the 1980s. Gained fame as the lead vocalist of the band Kajagoogoo, achieving significant success with the hit single "Too Shy". After leaving the band, launched a solo career, with notable songs such as the theme for the movie "The NeverEnding Story". Contributed to the pop music scene with distinctive style and memorable melodies.
Continue ReadingRobert Lang
Czech ice hockey player and Olympian
Born
December 19th, 1970 55 years ago
A professional ice hockey player from the Czech Republic, achieved success in the NHL and international competitions. Played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Detroit Red Wings, and the Washington Capitals. Represented the Czech Republic in multiple international tournaments, contributing to the team's performance during the 1998 Winter Olympics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 28th
Yue Fei
Chinese general and folk hero
Born
March 24th, 1103 923 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1142 884 years ago — 38 years old
A general during the Song Dynasty, played a significant role in military campaigns against the Jurchen invaders during the Jin-Song Wars. Recognized for exceptional leadership and military strategy, commanded forces in several key battles that aimed to reclaim lost territories. Sought to protect the Song Dynasty from external threats. Executed in the ensuing political strife, transformed into a symbol of loyalty and patriotism in Chinese culture.
Continue ReadingShotaro Ishinomori
Japanese manga artist and author
Born
January 25th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1998 28 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent manga artist and author, contributed significantly to the development of manga in Japan. Created series such as 'Cyborg 009' and 'Kamen Rider', which became cultural phenomena. Began a career in the 1950s, publishing numerous works that captured the imagination of audiences. His style and storytelling techniques influenced a generation of manga artists and helped establish manga as an important form of entertainment.
Continue ReadingJorge Obeid
Argentinian politician and governor
Born
1947 79 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 67 years old
An engineer and politician, served as the Governor of Santa Fe Province in Argentina from 2003 to 2007. Played a significant role in provincial politics and contributed to various public policies during his tenure. Engaged in numerous political initiatives and focused on issues related to education, health care, and infrastructure development. His leadership aimed to address the challenges faced by the province and its citizens.
Continue ReadingGeoff Nicholls
British musician and Black Sabbath keyboardist
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2017 9 years ago — 69 years old
A musician primarily recognized for keyboard work in the heavy metal band Black Sabbath. Joined Black Sabbath in the late 1970s as a touring keyboardist and contributed to the studio albums 'Technical Ecstasy' and 'Never Say Die!'. In addition to work with Black Sabbath, collaborated with other artists and bands throughout his career, enhancing many musical projects with his keyboard skills and arrangements.
Continue ReadingNigel Jenkins
Welsh poet and journalist
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
January 28th, 2014 12 years ago — 65 years old
Contributed significantly to Welsh literature and journalism. Worked as a poet, with multiple published collections. Engaged in environmental issues, incorporating themes of nature in writings. Served as a journalist for various publications, offering insights into Welsh culture and geography. Known for fostering a greater appreciation of the Welsh language and landscape through literary and media efforts.
Continue ReadingChoekyi Gyaltsen
10th Panchen Lama of Tibet
Born
February 19th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1989 37 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1938, a prominent Tibetan spiritual leader and the 10th Panchen Lama. Elected to this position at a young age, he became an important religious figure in Tibetan Buddhism. In 1951, he was recognized by the Chinese government, which led to his significant role in Tibetan affairs. The Panchen Lama advocated for Tibetan autonomy and the preservation of Buddhist culture. He faced imprisonment and restrictions due to political tensions in Tibet, and his later years were marked by efforts to gain recognition for Tibetan rights. The Panchen Lama passed away in 1989, leaving a lasting legacy in Tibetan religious life.
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