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
Jennifer 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 ReadingGinger Stanley
Model and actress, stunt performer
Born
December 19th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 92 years old
Ginger Stanley worked in film and television as a model, actress, and stunt performer. Career began in the late 1940s, with appearances on television shows and in feature films. Gained recognition for roles in popular series and films. Notable for stunt work in major productions, contributing to action sequences that required skilled performance.
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 ReadingPhilip William
Prince of Orange and Military Leader
Born
December 19th, 1554 471 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1618 407 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 ReadingCriss Angel
Magician known for Mindfreak series
Born
December 19th, 1967 58 years ago
A magician and illusionist gained prominence through the television series 'Mindfreak,' which showcased various mind-bending illusions and tricks. Performing live shows, achieved multiple awards for artistry in magic and illusions. Established the 'Criss Angel Believe' show in Las Vegas, which ran for several years, attracting large audiences and enhancing the entertainment scene.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on January 2nd
William P. Rogers
American Secretary of State and lawyer
Born
June 23rd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2001 25 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 55th United States Secretary of State under President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in formulating foreign policy during a time of great international tension. Participated in the peace negotiations that led to the Paris Peace Accords in 1973, which aimed to establish peace in Vietnam. Worked as a lawyer and held various positions in public service, contributing to legal and governmental affairs throughout his career.
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 ReadingNancy Kelly
American actress with Oscar nomination
Born
March 25th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1995 31 years ago — 73 years old
Best recognized as an actress in classic films, one of the most notable roles included the lead in the 1952 film 'The Kidnappers.' Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for the film 'The Bad Seed' in 1956. Career spanned several decades, performing in both cinema and television. In addition to movies, made appearances on stage and in series, including 'The Twilight Zone.'
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 ReadingEdith New
Militant Suffragette Advocate
Born
March 17th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1951 75 years ago — 73 years old
Active in the women's suffrage movement in England, dedicated efforts to securing voting rights for women. Engaged in direct action campaigns, including acts of civil disobedience and property damage. Worked alongside notable suffragettes and was involved with organizations advocating for women's rights. Advocated for the cause through public speaking and writing, contributing to the wider movement's visibility.
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