George Burns

American actor and comedian in vaudeville

George Burns - American actor and comedian in vaudeville
Born

January 20th, 1896
129 years ago

Died

March 9th, 1996
29 years ago — 100 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in 1896, this individual gained fame as a comedian and actor, particularly through a successful partnership with Gracie Allen in vaudeville. The duo's radio show, 'The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show,' became a staple of American entertainment in the 1940s and 1950s. The transition to television further solidified popularity, showcasing their comedic talents and unique dynamic. Later years included performance in film, with significant roles in 'The Sunshine Boys' and 'Oh, God!.' Recognition included winning multiple Emmy Awards and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This individual continued to perform and entertain into advanced age, demonstrating lasting appeal and significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show

Oh, God!

Other People Born on January 20th

Linda Moulton Howe

Investigative journalist and producer
Born
January 20th, 1942 83 years ago

An investigative journalist and producer focused on topics related to the paranormal, environmental issues, and government cover-ups. Established a career in journalism through various media platforms. Created and produced the documentary film 'A Strange Harvest' which highlighted the issue of cattle mutilations. Frequently explores themes around unexplained phenomena and alleged extraterrestrial encounters, conducting in-depth interviews and investigations.

Continue Reading

Rob Bourdon

American musician and songwriter in Linkin Park
Born
January 20th, 1979 46 years ago

A musician and songwriter, contributed as the drummer for the rock band Linkin Park. The band achieved critical and commercial success with the debut album 'Hybrid Theory' released in 2000, which sold over 10 million copies in the United States alone. Bourdon's drumming style and production skills were integral to the band's signature sound, combining elements of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music. Linkin Park became influential figures in the nu metal genre, garnering a massive global fanbase and numerous awards.

Continue Reading

David Lynch

Film director and visual artist
Born
January 20th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2025 0 years ago — 78 years old

A television and film director, visual artist, and musician, created significant works in both film and television. Directed the critically acclaimed film 'Blue Velvet' and developed the cult television series 'Twin Peaks.' Lynch's style is characterized by surrealism and dreamlike narratives, with themes exploring the dark side of American life. Additionally, created a series of art pieces and collaborated on various musical projects throughout the career. Contributions to cinema and television have influenced many contemporary filmmakers and artists.

Continue Reading

Carl Linnaeus the Younger

Swedish botanist and author of flora works
Born
January 20th, 1741 284 years ago
Died
1783 242 years ago — 42 years old

Worked extensively on botanical classification, focusing on plant taxonomy. Contributed to the development of the original binomial nomenclature system initiated by his father. Authored several influential texts that cataloged various plants, including 'Flora Suecica', which detailed the flora of Sweden. Engaged in teaching botany and conducted research that furthered the scientific understanding of plant species during the 18th century.

Continue Reading

Polona Hercog

Tennis player with WTA titles
Born
January 20th, 1991 34 years ago

A professional tennis player competed on the WTA Tour. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 35 in 2012. Notable performances include winning two WTA singles titles and reaching the third round of the French Open in 2012. Contributed to the Slovenia national team in the Fed Cup. Active in both singles and doubles with several titles across both formats.

Continue Reading

Lead Belly

Folk/Blues Musician and Songwriter
Born
January 20th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 61 years old

An American folk and blues musician and songwriter, celebrated for skills on the twelve-string guitar and richly expressive voice. Born in 1888, gained recognition for original compositions and traditional folk songs. Frequently performed in prison and after release in New York City clubs. Collaborated with other musicians, contributing to the folk revival of the 1960s. The repertoire includes many traditional songs that were adapted and popularized by future artists.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 9th

Willard Metcalf

American painter, notable for landscape art
Born
July 1st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1925 100 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent American painter and academic contributed significantly to the field of landscape painting. Primarily associated with the American Impressionist movement, created evocative depictions of New England scenes. Participated in various exhibitions, showcasing a mastery of light and color. Held teaching positions at prestigious institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. His works are characterized by an intimate connection to nature and an ability to capture atmospheric effects.

Continue Reading

Paul von Lettow-Vorbeck

German general and East Africa commander
Born
March 20th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1964 61 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial German Army during World War I. Commanded German forces in the East Africa campaign, opposed British troops, and conducted a guerrilla warfare strategy. Successfully led operations that resulted in significant territorial control for German East Africa. Promoted to the rank of general and allowed the German forces to remain engaged in the war long after most of the empire had capitulated. After the war, continued to be a significant figure in discussions about military tactics and strategy.

Continue Reading

Willie Davis

Baseball player, manager, and outfielder
Born
April 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 69 years old

Played in Major League Baseball as an outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1960 to 1973. Won two World Series titles with the Dodgers in 1963 and 1965. Served as a manager in the minor leagues after retirement, contributing to the development of young players. Transitioned to a successful career outside of baseball, engaging in various business ventures.

Continue Reading

Robert Mapplethorpe

Photographer known for flower images
Born
November 4th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1989 36 years ago — 42 years old

An American photographer recognized for black and white portraiture, floral compositions, and provocative imagery. Work prominently featured themes of sexuality and gender. Gained attention in the 1970s and 1980s for exploring taboo subjects in contemporary society. His photographs often blended classical aesthetics with modern themes. The retrospective exhibition at the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1988 highlighted extensive works. Passed away in 1989 due to complications from AIDS.

Continue Reading

Doris Haddock

Political activist and voting rights advocate
Born
January 24th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
March 9th, 2010 15 years ago — 100 years old

Born in 1910, this individual became a prominent voice in American politics, advocating for voting rights and campaign finance reform. In 1995, at the age of 85, campaigned for the U.S. Senate in New Hampshire, gaining national attention for running a grassroots campaign. The individual was known for walking across the state to promote the message of voting rights and participated in various political movements throughout the life. Additionally, this person's activism focused on issues such as women's rights and environmental concerns, fostering public awareness through numerous speeches and public appearances.

Continue Reading

Fernando Rey

Spanish actor in film and television
Born
September 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1994 31 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent Spanish actor, featured in over 200 films during a prolific career spanning several decades. Gained international recognition through collaborations with notable directors, including Luis Buñuel. Achieved acclaim for roles in films such as 'Viridiana,' 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie,' and 'The French Connection.' His performances contributed to the popularity of Spanish cinema during the latter half of the 20th century.

Continue Reading