Eartha Kitt
Actress and singer of 'Santa Baby'
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
Joshua Malina
Actor in The West Wing and Scandal
Born
January 17th, 1966 60 years ago
An American actor prominently featured in television series and films. Played a key role as Will Bailey in the political drama 'The West Wing.' Also portrayed David Rosen in the series 'Scandal.' Besides acting, engaged in writing and producing various projects, contributing to the entertainment industry through multiple platforms.
Continue ReadingAntonio del Pollaiuolo
Renaissance artist and painter
Born
January 17th, 1429 597 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1498 528 years ago — 69 years old
Antonio del Pollaiuolo was an Italian painter, sculptor, and engraver active during the Renaissance period. Significant works include 'The Battle of the Ten Nudes' and 'Hercules and Antaeus', both showcasing a mastery of human anatomy and dynamic composition. Pollaiuolo's work displayed a deep understanding of movement and muscle structure, which was a notable advancement in the portrayal of the human figure in art during this era. He played a pivotal role in the development of engraving as an art form, contributing to the dissemination of Renaissance ideas across Europe.
Continue ReadingJohann Gottfried Müthel
German pianist and composer of keyboard works
Born
January 17th, 1728 298 years ago
Died
1788 238 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1728, contributed significantly to the music repertoire of the late Baroque and early Classical periods. Müthel studied under renowned composers, including Johann Sebastian Bach. As a composer, he created a variety of keyboard works, which showcased his skill as a pianist. His compositions exhibit the stylistic transitions of the era and reflect the influence of Bach's musical legacy. Müthel also gained recognition as a performer, particularly in the courts and salons of Germany. His works were published during his lifetime, following the tradition of many prominent composers of the period.
Continue ReadingRik De Saedeleer
Belgian footballer and sports journalist
Born
January 17th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent footballer and sports journalist, this individual played primarily as a midfielder. His career in football included notable performances with clubs in Belgium. Transitioning to journalism, he became a respected commentator and analyst of the sport. Contributions to media coverage of football helped shape public understanding and appreciation of the game in Belgium. The dual career in football and journalism highlighted expertise in both sports and communication.
Continue ReadingMichael Zigomanis
Ice hockey player with NHL experience
Born
January 17th, 1981 45 years ago
Played ice hockey as a center, participating in the NHL and AHL. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Played for teams such as the Carolina Hurricanes and the Phoenix Coyotes. Spent significant time in the AHL, contributing to multiple team successes.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on December 25th
Bill Hewitt
Canadian sportscaster and journalist
Born
December 8th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1996 29 years ago — 68 years old
Born in Canada, a significant figure in sports journalism. Credited with pioneering sports broadcasting in the country. Served as a sports commentator and analyst for major networks, contributing to the growth of sports media. Covered major sporting events and provided analysis for various sports. Worked with prominent figures in the sports industry and provided insights into Canadian sports culture.
Continue ReadingPatsy Donovan
Baseball player and manager, MLB career
Born
March 16th, 1865 161 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1953 72 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1865, a prominent Irish-American baseball player and manager contributed significantly to Major League Baseball. His playing career spanned from 1885 to 1899, during which he played predominantly as an outfielder. Donovan spent time with several teams, including the Louisville Colonels and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He later took on managerial roles, including managing the Boston Braves. His strategies and understanding of the game left a mark in baseball history.
Continue ReadingMatthew Hale
Lord Chief Justice of England
Born
November 1st, 1609 416 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1676 349 years ago — 67 years old
Held the position of Lord Chief Justice of England from 1671 until 1676. Served as a judge for multiple courts and contributed significantly to the development of legal principles in English law. Involved in landmark cases that shaped the justice system. Published works on law that influenced future legal thought and practice.
Continue ReadingNicholas Mavroules
American lawyer and politician
Born
November 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2003 22 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1983 to 1993, representing Massachusetts's 5th congressional district. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Worked as an attorney prior to entering politics, gaining experience that informed political decisions and legislative priorities. Engaged in community service and advocacy for both local and national issues, contributing to the civic landscape of Massachusetts.
Continue ReadingRobert Walser
Swiss author and playwright
Born
April 15th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1956 69 years ago — 78 years old
An author and playwright from Switzerland, contributed significantly to the literary world with a unique style characterized by a focus on individual perception and a sense of fragmentation. Writings included the novels 'Jakob von Gunten' and 'The Tenderness of the World', showcasing a distinct narrative voice. Worked as a translator and produced various essays, plays, and prose pieces throughout a prolific career. Spent a significant period in mental health institutions later in life, where creativity continued to flourish despite personal challenges.
Continue ReadingLettice Knollys
English noblewoman and courtier
Born
November 8th, 1543 482 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1634 391 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1543, a prominent English noblewoman and courtier, closely associated with the court of Queen Elizabeth I. Played a significant role in the politics and social dynamics of the Elizabethan era. Engaged in a controversial marriage with Robert Dudley, the Earl of Leicester, which drew attention due to their close relationship and the influence it had on English court politics. After the death of Dudley, managed her estates and family while maintaining a notable presence in the court.
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