Gene Okerlund
Wrestling announcer and interviewer
Career in professional wrestling spanned several decades, beginning in the 1970s. Served as a prominent announcer and interviewer in the American wrestling industry, gaining a reputation for engaging interviews and a signature catchphrase. Worked with organizations including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Became a familiar face on television during major wrestling events and pay-per-views. His contributions helped elevate the status of wrestling as a form of entertainment, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Hosted 'Tuesday Night Titans' on WWF
Interviewed many wrestling legends
Worked for WCW during the Monday Night Wars
Other People Born on December 19th
Kristina Keneally
Australian politician and Premier of NSW
Born
December 19th, 1968 57 years ago
Served as the 42nd Premier of New South Wales from December 2009 to March 2011. Represented the Australian Labor Party in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly, representing the seat of Heffron. Focused on issues such as education, health, and transport during the premiership. Prior to becoming Premier, held several ministerial roles, including Minister for Planning and Minister for Ageing. After leaving office, continued involvement in public service and political commentary.
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 ReadingChito 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 ReadingTom Lawless
Baseball player and manager, 1987 World Series
Born
December 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Played professional baseball as an infielder from 1982 to 1992, spending time with the St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved a notable career highlight by participating in the 1987 World Series with the Cardinals. Transitioned into coaching and management roles, contributing to various minor league teams and serving as a manager in professional baseball.
Continue ReadingKen Marino
Actor and director known for 'Party Down'
Born
December 19th, 1968 57 years ago
An American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Best recognized for contributing to the television series 'Party Down' as well as co-creating and starring in 'Children's Hospital' on Adult Swim. Also worked in the films 'Wet Hot American Summer' and its sequels, participating in both the original film and the Netflix series revival. In addition to acting, directed episodes for various TV shows, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPhilip William
Prince of Orange and Military Leader
Born
December 19th, 1554 471 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1618 408 years ago — 63 years old
Served as a prominent military leader during the Eighty Years' War, contributing to the Dutch struggle for independence from Spanish rule. Held the title of Prince of Orange and played a crucial role in strategizing campaigns against Spanish forces. His leadership was pivotal for the establishment of the Dutch Republic, with efforts directed towards unifying the provinces against external threats. Negotiated various treaties to strengthen the Rebel forces and maintain order in the region, cementing his status within the complex political landscape of the time. His death in 1618 marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
John Berger
Art critic, novelist, and painter
Born
November 5th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2017 9 years ago — 90 years old
An English art critic, novelist, and painter contributed significantly to the discourse on art, politics, and culture. The book 'Ways of Seeing' provided a critical analysis of visual culture and has influenced the study of art. Worked as a painter and exhibited artworks in various galleries throughout the career. Also authored several novels, offering insights into social and political issues. Engaged in television arts through documentaries and series, expanding the reach of art criticism.
Continue ReadingDick Powell
Actor and director of '42nd Street'
Born
November 14th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1963 63 years ago — 58 years old
Initially starting as a singer, a transition to acting occurred in the early 1930s. Rose to prominence in musicals like '42nd Street' and 'Gold Diggers of 1933'. Later, transitioned to film noir, starring in 'Murder, My Sweet' and 'Pitfall'. Directed several films, including 'The Bad and the Beautiful'. Worked for Warner Bros. throughout the 1930s and 1940s, contributing significantly to the film industry during that era. Established a successful career in both acting and directing until passing in 1963.
Continue ReadingJames Dooley
Irish-Australian politician, Premier
Born
April 26th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1950 76 years ago — 72 years old
Held the office of the 21st Premier of New South Wales from 1891 to 1894. Played a key role in the political landscape during the late 19th century in Australia. Contributed to the development of infrastructure and public services in the state. Worked within the Labor Party, advocating for workers' rights and social reforms.
Continue ReadingGeorge MacDonald Fraser
Scottish journalist and author of Flashman
Born
April 2nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2008 18 years ago — 82 years old
An accomplished journalist and author, contributed significantly to literature through compelling storytelling and rich character development. Gained recognition for creating the 'Flashman' series, which provided a satirical and entertaining take on British history. The series explored the escapades of Harry Flashman, a character derived from Tom Brown's Schooldays. Authored numerous historical novels and non-fiction works, many of which reflect an interest in Scottish history and culture. Collaborated with various publications, demonstrating a range of writing skills across different genres.
Continue ReadingRolf Liebermann
Composer and opera manager
Born
September 14th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1999 27 years ago — 88 years old
Contributions to contemporary classical music included composing operas, orchestral works, and chamber music. Served as director of the Opéra de Paris and the Hamburg State Opera, influencing the European opera scene. Collaborated with notable artists and was pivotal in the establishment of the Festival de Lucerne.
Continue ReadingFrances Cress Welsing
Psychiatrist and author of 'The Isis Papers'
Born
March 18th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2016 10 years ago — 80 years old
Completed medical training and became a psychiatrist, focusing on the psychological implications of racism and colorism. Authored 'The Isis Papers: The Keys to the Colors', which explored the historical and psychological aspects of racial dynamics. Engaged in public speaking and discussions on race-related issues, contributing to the fields of psychology and sociology. Involved in activism aimed at addressing systemic racism and its effects on mental health.
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