Ernie Kovacs
Television comedian and game show host
A pioneering television personality, a unique style revolutionized comedy and game shows in the 1950s. Created innovative sketches that blended surreal humor with visual gags. Served as the host of 'The Ernie Kovacs Show,' which showcased unconventional formats and absurdist comedy. Hosted various game shows, including 'Take a Good Look,' influencing future television hosts and comedians. His work featured an avant-garde approach that challenged standard broadcasting methods.
Hosted 'The Ernie Kovacs Show'
Conceived the game show 'Take a Good Look'
Innovated television sketch comedy
Other People Born on January 23rd
Stendhal
French novelist, wrote 'The Red and the Black'
Born
January 23rd, 1783 242 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1842 183 years ago — 59 years old
A significant figure in French literature, contributed to the development of the novel in the early 19th century. Achieved recognition for works that explored the complexities of human psychology and society. 'The Red and the Black' presented a detailed portrait of social rise and ambition within post-Napoleonic France. Also authored 'The Charterhouse of Parma', noted for its intricate narrative and character development. Stendhal's writing style incorporated elements of realism and romanticism, influencing numerous later writers.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Manet
French painter of modern life artworks
Born
January 23rd, 1832 193 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1883 142 years ago — 51 years old
Born in 1832, a prominent figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Engaged with contemporary themes and rejected academic standards, which prompted debates within the art community. Key works include 'Olympia' and 'Luncheon on the Grass', showcasing innovative techniques and subjects that challenged traditional norms. Played a crucial role in the development of modern art and influenced many future artists.
Continue ReadingNicola Zalewski
Polish footballer known for Roma
Born
January 23rd, 2002 23 years ago
Born in 2002, professional footballer plays as a winger. Developed through the youth system of AS Roma, debuted in Serie A in 2021. Gained attention for performances in both league and international matches. Represented Poland at various youth levels before joining the senior national team. Participated in UEFA Euro 2020, contributing to the team's efforts in a major European tournament.
Continue ReadingOtto Diels
German chemist; Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 23rd, 1876 149 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1954 71 years ago — 78 years old
Significant contributions to organic chemistry were made, particularly through the development of the Diels-Alder reaction, a method for synthesizing cyclic compounds. Served in academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Kiel. In 1950, received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for work in the field of chemical bonding and reaction mechanisms. The Diels-Alder reaction remains a fundamental tool in organic synthesis and has widespread applications in chemical research.
Continue ReadingSurendra Sai
Indian activist for tribal rights
Born
January 23rd, 1809 216 years ago
Died
1884 141 years ago — 75 years old
Active during the mid-19th century, this activist opposed British colonial rule in India, particularly regarding the exploitation of indigenous communities. Leading a rebellion against British authority in the region of Sambalpur, the individual fought for the rights and dignity of the local tribes. The activism was rooted in the capture of their ancestral lands and resources by colonial powers. The rebellion was marked by a series of confrontations and efforts to reclaim agency for the indigenous population. Despite being suppressed, this struggle has been recognized as a significant resistance movement during the time.
Continue ReadingRuben Loftus-Cheek
Professional footballer, Chelsea FC
Born
January 23rd, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer played as a midfielder. Developed through the youth system at Chelsea FC, debuted for the senior team in 2014. Had loan spells at Crystal Palace and Fulham, contributing to their campaigns in the Premier League. Represented the England national team, including participation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 13th
Wyatt Earp
American lawman and frontier figure
Born
March 19th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1929 96 years ago — 80 years old
Served as a law enforcement officer in the American West during the late 19th century. Became a notable figure in the history of the Old West, particularly for involvement in events such as the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Worked various jobs including saloon keeper and gambler, while maintaining a reputation for law enforcement. Later engaged in mining and real estate ventures. His life and experiences inspired numerous books, films, and television shows that depict the Wild West era.
Continue ReadingVictoriano Huerta
Mexican military officer and president
Born
December 22nd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1916 109 years ago — 65 years old
Served as a military officer before becoming president of Mexico in 1913. Assumed the presidency after orchestrating a coup against President Francisco I. Madero. His administration faced opposition from revolutionary leaders, leading to a period of unrest and conflict. Resigned in 1914 and went into exile in the United States. Died in 1916.
Continue ReadingOliviero Toscani
Italian photographer, renowned for advertising
Born
February 28th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2025 0 years ago — 82 years old
An influential photographer and communication expert, Toscani played a significant role in the development of modern advertising. He was particularly associated with the Italian fashion brand Benetton, where his provocative campaigns often sparked discussions around social issues. His partnerships with various magazines and companies produced campaigns that challenged societal norms, emphasizing issues such as racism, health, and war. Toscani's bold and sometimes controversial approach reshaped advertising's relationship with art and provocation. He also contributed to discussions on visual culture and the importance of aesthetics in communication through his exhibitions and lectures.
Continue ReadingDonny Hathaway
Singer-songwriter and pianist
Born
October 1st, 1945 80 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1979 46 years ago — 33 years old
This American singer-songwriter gained recognition for contributions to soul and R&B music during the 1970s. His collaboration with Roberta Flack on the song 'Where Is the Love' achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Hathaway released acclaimed albums, including 'Everything Is Everything' and 'Donny Hathaway,' which showcased exceptional vocal talent and songwriting skills. His distinctive style combined elements of jazz, gospel, and blues. Hathaway faced mental health challenges throughout his life, which were linked to his untimely death in 1979.
Continue ReadingBrian Bedford
English-American actor and director
Born
February 16th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 80 years old
An accomplished actor and director, involved in theater and film, notable for performances in classical roles. Worked extensively with the Royal Shakespeare Company and gained recognition on Broadway for portraying the lead in 'The Importance of Being Earnest'. Directed productions off-Broadway and contributed to several notable films, including 'The Last of the Mobile Hot Shots' and 'The Country Girl'. Involved in teaching acting and made significant contributions to the arts community.
Continue ReadingJakob Hurt
Estonian theologist and linguist
Born
July 22nd, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1907 118 years ago — 67 years old
Contributed significantly to Estonian language and literature, focusing on folklore and language studies. Hurt played a crucial role in the development of the Estonian national identity through linguistic research and advocacy for the native language. Worked as a professor at the University of Tartu and published numerous works that explored the richness of Estonian culture. His efforts in preserving folk songs and tales were essential for the revival of national consciousness during periods of foreign dominance.
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