Eartha Kitt

Actress and singer of 'Santa Baby'

Eartha Kitt - Actress and singer of 'Santa Baby'
Born

January 17th, 1927
98 years ago

Died

December 25th, 2008
16 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An actress and singer, gained prominence in the 1950s with a distinctive singing style and a captivating stage presence. Achieved significant acclaim for performances in theatrical productions and pop music. Portrayed Catwoman in the television series 'Batman' during the 1960s. Recorded the holiday classic 'Santa Baby,' which has become a seasonal favorite. Advocated for civil rights and spoke out against the Vietnam War, drawing attention to social issues in the United States.

Released the holiday song 'Santa Baby'

Portrayed Catwoman in 'Batman'

Starred in the musical 'Kiss Me, Kate'

Other People Born on January 17th

Eduard Oja

Estonian composer and conductor
Born
January 17th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1950 75 years ago — 45 years old

Born in Estonia, a composer and conductor experienced significant contributions to music education and criticism in the country. Oja studied at the Saint Petersburg State Conservatory and later became a prominent figure within the Estonian music scene. He served as a conductor for multiple choirs and orchestras. His work often reflected the cultural heritage of Estonia, blending traditional elements with modern techniques. Oja's compositions included choral works that remain integral to Estonian choral repertoire.

Continue Reading

Cuauhtémoc Blanco

Mexican footballer and politician
Born
January 17th, 1973 52 years ago

A football player and politician, Blanco gained recognition for his time with Club América, where he won multiple league titles. He played a significant role in the Mexican national team, participating in three World Cups from 1994 to 2002. After retiring from professional football, he ventured into politics, serving as the mayor of Cuernavaca, Guerrero. Blanco also pursued a career in acting, appearing in television shows and films in Mexico.

Continue Reading

Liz Ellis

Netball player and sportscaster
Born
January 17th, 1973 52 years ago

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 Reading

Ray J

Singer and TV personality from America
Born
January 17th, 1981 44 years ago

Born in 1981, this individual began a career in entertainment as a singer, gaining recognition for hits such as 'One Wish.' Expanded into television, featuring in reality shows like 'Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood.' The career also includes occasional acting roles, with appearances in shows and films. Business ventures in the tech industry reflect an entrepreneurial spirit, further diversifying contributions to popular culture.

Continue Reading

Stanislav Galiev

Ice hockey player, Stanley Cup champion
Born
January 17th, 1992 33 years ago

Ice hockey player competed in the NHL and KHL. Drafted by the Washington Capitals in 2010, contributed to the team during the 2014-2015 season. Played for the Caps in the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Transitioned to the KHL, joining Ak Bars Kazan, where continued to perform at a high level. Represented Russia internationally at multiple levels.

Continue Reading

Cus D'Amato

Boxing manager and trainer of champions
Born
January 17th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 77 years old

An influential boxing manager and trainer, had a significant role in shaping the careers of several world champions. In the 1980s, trained Mike Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight champion in history at age 20. D'Amato also managed Floyd Patterson, a two-time heavyweight champion. His training philosophy emphasized psychological and emotional preparation as much as physical training, focusing on the mental fortitude of athletes. Founded the Cus D'Amato Boxing Club, which produced numerous successful fighters. D'Amato's techniques and strategies in the ring set a standard that influenced generations of boxers and coaches.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 25th

Halfdan Hegtun

Norwegian radio host and politician
Born
October 8th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2012 12 years ago — 94 years old

Engaged in radio broadcasting and politics. Served as a radio host for significant periods, facilitating discussions on various societal issues. Held political positions that influenced local governance and public policy in Norway. Played a crucial role in promoting national dialogue through media while contributing to political discourse during active years.

Continue Reading

Shōhei Ōoka

Japanese author and critic, won Akutagawa Prize
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1988 36 years ago — 79 years old

An author and critic from Japan, Ōoka gained prominence through literary works that explored themes of war, identity, and human experience. The novel "Catchball" dealt with post-war reconstruction and moral dilemmas. Ōoka also garnered attention for the novel "Fires on the Plain," which depicted the suffering of Japanese soldiers during World War II. Within the literary community, Ōoka contributed critiques that reflect a deep understanding of contemporary fiction. His works often aimed to question societal values and provoke thought among readers. The Akutagawa Prize awarded in 1957 recognized his literary talent and solidified his position in Japanese literature.

Continue Reading

Emperor Leo V

Byzantine Emperor, military leader, scholar
Died
December 25th, 820 1204 years ago — None years old

Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 813 to 820. Addressed internal challenges and defended against external threats. Implemented military reforms and strengthened the empire's defenses. Authored a treatise on the art of war, which contributed to military tactics during the period. His reign emphasized the importance of religious orthodoxy.

Continue Reading

Gaston Gallimard

French publisher, founded Éditions Gallimard
Born
January 18th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1975 49 years ago — 94 years old

A significant figure in French publishing, founded Éditions Gallimard in 1911, which became a leading publishing house in France. This establishment published numerous influential authors, contributing to the literary landscape of the 20th century. Maintained a focus on quality literature, promoting both avant-garde and classic works. Under leadership, Éditions Gallimard launched various prestigious literary series that facilitated the works of renowned writers.

Continue Reading

Pedro de Valdivia

Spanish conquistador, founded Santiago
Born
April 17th, 1497 528 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1553 471 years ago — 56 years old

A Spanish conquistador, played a pivotal role in the Spanish conquest of Chile. Arrived in South America in 1535 and explored parts of the continent. In 1541, founded the city of Santiago, which became a major urban center. Faced significant resistance from Indigenous populations but continued to expand Spanish territories in the region. Died in battle against the Mapuche in 1553.

Continue Reading

Charles Pathé

French record producer, founded Pathé Records
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1957 67 years ago — 94 years old

A significant figure in the music industry, established Pathé Records in the early 1900s, contributing to the growth of recorded music. Played a crucial role in the development of sound recording technology and was instrumental in the expansion of the phonograph market. Pathé Records produced numerous recordings that helped shape popular music during the early 20th century. The company engaged in various formats of recording and was a pioneer in the film industry as well.

Continue Reading