Gift Ngoepe
South African baseball player, MLB debut
A professional baseball player began playing in the Major Leagues in 2017. First South African to reach MLB. Played primarily as a shortstop and infielder with notable time spent in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Also represented South Africa in international competitions such as the World Baseball Classic.
Made MLB debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2017
First South African player in Major League Baseball
Other People Born on January 18th
Bob Hansen
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
January 18th, 1961 65 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Iowa, where he earned All-Big Ten honors. Selected by the Utah Jazz in the 1983 NBA Draft, contributed to the team for several seasons. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary for various networks. Recognized for insights and understanding of the game.
Continue ReadingJesse L. Martin
Actor in 'Law & Order' and Broadway singer
Born
January 18th, 1969 57 years ago
Born in 1969, an American actor and singer recognized for remarkable performances in television and theater. Gained prominence through the role of Ed Green in the long-running police procedural series 'Law & Order', contributing to the show's critical and commercial success for over a decade. Also achieved acclaim for roles in musical theater, particularly in the original Broadway cast of 'Rent', showcasing both acting and vocal talents. Engaged in various television and film projects, maintaining a notable presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingChristian Burns
Singer-songwriter with solo albums
Born
January 18th, 1974 52 years ago
A singer-songwriter, original music career began in the late 1990s with the band BBMak. After the band's disbandment, transitioned to a solo career, releasing several albums and collaborating with various artists in the music industry. Gained recognition for blending pop and electronic styles, contributing to the evolution of contemporary pop music. Worked with renowned producers and musicians, showcasing versatility across genres. In addition to a successful solo career, continued to perform as part of different musical projects.
Continue ReadingWerner Olk
Football player and manager, 1. Bundesliga
Born
January 18th, 1938 88 years ago
A German football player and manager, primary involvement occurred during the mid-20th century. Played as a forward and made contributions to various clubs in Germany, participating in the 1. Bundesliga. Transitioned to a managerial role after retirement from playing, overseeing several teams and shaping their competitive strategies.
Continue ReadingSeung-Hui Cho
Mass murderer responsible for Virginia Tech shooting
Born
January 18th, 1984 42 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 23 years old
Born in South Korea, committed a mass shooting at Virginia Tech on April 16, 2007, which resulted in 32 deaths and injuries to many others. The incident is remembered as one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. Cho was a student at Virginia Tech prior to the shooting and had exhibited signs of mental health issues in the years leading up to the event. He wrote and directed a series of disturbing plays that reflected his troubled state of mind. Cho's actions spurred discussions about gun control and mental health resources in educational institutions.
Continue ReadingPaul Freeman
English actor, The Raiders of the Lost Ark
Born
January 18th, 1943 83 years ago
An English actor, active in film, television, and theater. Began a career in the 1960s and appeared in various productions, becoming widely recognized for the role of René Belloq in the film 'Raiders of the Lost Ark.' Additionally, portrayed the character of Professor Moriarty in 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.' Involved in theater work and had roles in several notable British television series.
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