Gwen Verdon
Actress and dancer in Broadway musicals
Renowned as a groundbreaking actress and dancer, contributions to Broadway reshaped the landscape of musical theater. Key performances included originating roles in 'Damn Yankees' and 'Chicago'. The combination of exceptional talent and innovative choreography left a lasting legacy in the industry.
Starred in 'Damn Yankees' as Lola
Portrayed Roxie Hart in 'Chicago'
Won four Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Musical
Other People Born on January 13th
Shonda Rhimes
Television producer and screenwriter
Born
January 13th, 1970 55 years ago
Produced and created several popular television series. 'Grey's Anatomy' garnered critical acclaim and established a significant fan base. 'Scandal' became a cultural phenomenon, exploring political drama. 'How to Get Away with Murder' received multiple award nominations, showcasing complex legal issues. Founded Shondaland, a production company that focuses on inclusive storytelling in television.
Continue ReadingEric Betzig
Physicist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry
Born
January 13th, 1960 65 years ago
American physicist and chemist made significant contributions to the field of microscopy. Developed super-resolution microscopy techniques, enabling imaging of biological processes at the molecular level. This technology has been essential in advancing the understanding of cellular structures and dynamics, facilitating innovations in various scientific disciplines. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2014 for achievements in microscopy alongside colleagues. His work has been influential in biophysics, biology, and materials science, contributing to numerous research applications.
Continue ReadingJosh Freeman
American football quarterback
Born
January 13th, 1988 37 years ago
Played college football at Kansas State University, achieving significant recognition and success. Selected in the first round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Served as the starting quarterback for the Buccaneers and set a franchise record for passing yards in a single game. Later played for teams including the Minnesota Vikings and the Pittsburgh Steelers. His time in the NFL featured key performances and contributions to various teams.
Continue ReadingClaudia Emerson
American poet with a Pulitzer Prize
Born
January 13th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2014 11 years ago — 57 years old
An American poet and academic contributed significantly to contemporary poetry. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2006 for the collection 'Late Wife.' Served as a professor at various institutions, including the University of Mary Washington. Engaged in literary discussions and criticism, published numerous works in respected literary journals, and edited anthologies that highlighted other poets' works.
Continue ReadingOrlando Bloom
English actor known for 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born
January 13th, 1977 48 years ago
An English actor rose to prominence through roles in blockbuster films. Gained recognition starring as Legolas in 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy, which included 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Two Towers', and 'The Return of the King'. Also played the character Will Turner in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' series, starting with 'The Curse of the Black Pearl'. Other notable roles included performances in 'Troy' and 'Elizabethtown'. His career featured a blend of action, fantasy, and drama genres, leading to various award nominations.
Continue ReadingMax Whitlock
Artistic gymnast and Olympic champion
Born
January 13th, 1993 32 years ago
Accomplished artistic gymnast specialized in floor and pommel horse events. Won multiple gold medals in World Championships and European Championships. Achieved historic success at the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games, becoming the first British gymnast to win an Olympic gold medal in the individual apparatus events. Added to his accolades, secured a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. Recognized as a prominent figure in British gymnastics, contributing to its growth and visibility.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Alan Coren
Journalist and author of humorous works
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent English journalist and author, this individual contributed to various publications including Punch and The Times. A known figure in literature, he authored numerous humorous books, earning acclaim for a unique wit and style. Additionally, this person served as a panelist on the BBC quiz show Call My Bluff, showcasing an engaging presence in television. The work spanned decades, reflecting changes in British culture and comedy.
Continue ReadingAbdel Rahman Swar al-Dahab
5th President of Sudan
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2018 7 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 5th President of Sudan from 1985 to 1986. Led the transitional government following the overthrow of the previous regime. Focused on restoring order and initiating democratic elections. Implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and addressing regional conflicts. Retired from politics after overseeing the return to civilian rule.
Continue ReadingGinés González García
Argentine politician and physician
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
Graduated from medical school and specialized in public health. Held significant positions in the Argentine government, including Minister of Health. Contributed to healthcare policies and reforms aimed at improving access to medical services. Involved in the management of public health issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic response in Argentina. His tenure focused on strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
Continue ReadingFrank Watkins
American bass player for Soulfly
Born
February 19th, 1968 57 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2015 10 years ago — 47 years old
Watkins performed as the bassist for the metal band Soulfly, contributing to the group's heavy sound and distinctive style. He joined the band in 1998 and played on several of their albums, including 'Primitive,' 'Savages,' and 'Ritual.' Prior to Soulfly, he was also a member of the band Obituary, helping to shape the death metal genre during the 1990s. Watkins's contributions included both live performances and studio recordings, showcasing his proficiency in heavy metal bass playing.
Continue ReadingAllan Stanley
Canadian ice hockey player and coach
Born
March 1st, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 87 years old
A professional ice hockey player and coach, Stanley played defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1946 to 1969. He started his career with the New York Rangers before moving to teams such as the Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs. During his time with the Maple Leafs, he contributed to the team's four Stanley Cup championships in 1962, 1963, 1964, and 1967. Stanley later transitioned to coaching, where he utilized his extensive knowledge of the game to mentor younger players. His career was marked by a strong defensive presence and leadership on the ice.
Continue ReadingYehuda Bauer
Historian specializing in the Holocaust
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 98 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of Holocaust studies and education. Served as a professor at the Avraham Harman Institute of Contemporary Jewry at Hebrew University. Co-founded the International Institute for Holocaust Research at Yad Vashem. Authored numerous books and articles, providing scholarly analysis and historical context to the events of the Holocaust.
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