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
Ender Arslan
Turkish basketball player; Euroleague titles
Born
January 13th, 1983 43 years ago
Played professional basketball primarily in Turkey, representing multiple clubs throughout a career beginning in the early 2000s. Most notable for contributions to Anadolu Efes S.K. and Beşiktaş, achieving success in domestic leagues and European competitions. Participated in the Euroleague and the Turkish Basketball League, earning accolades for shooting and playmaking abilities. Represented Turkey in international competitions, contributing to the team's efforts during various championships.
Continue ReadingJan van Goyen
Dutch painter known for landscape paintings
Born
January 13th, 1596 430 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1656 369 years ago — 60 years old
Active during the Dutch Golden Age, this painter specialized in landscape paintings characterized by their serene compositions and atmospheric effects. Van Goyen's works often featured rivers, windmills, and rural scenes, reflecting the beauty of the Dutch countryside. He contributed to the development of Dutch landscape painting and was influential among his contemporaries. His technique involved the use of a restricted palette to create a sense of harmony in his pieces. Besides painting, van Goyen worked as an illustrator, creating works for books and other publications.
Continue ReadingAustin Watson
American ice hockey player, NHL forward
Born
January 13th, 1992 34 years ago
Professional ice hockey player participated in the NHL. Played as a forward and contributed significantly to the Nashville Predators. Competed in the Stanley Cup playoffs and was part of the Predators team that reached the finals in 2017. Also played for the Ottawa Senators during his career. Previously played in the OHL for the Windsor Spitfires, where he developed his skills before moving to the professional league.
Continue ReadingClaudia Emerson
American poet with a Pulitzer Prize
Born
January 13th, 1957 69 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 ReadingEero Koivistoinen
Finnish saxophonist and composer
Born
January 13th, 1946 80 years ago
A prominent saxophonist and composer, contributed extensively to jazz music in Finland. Studied at the Sibelius Academy and started a career in the 1960s. His work included various collaborations and solo projects, blending elements of jazz with Finnish folk music. Led several bands and orchestras, showcasing original compositions and interpretations of traditional pieces. Also worked as a conductor, emphasizing contemporary jazz and modern classical music. Participated in numerous festivals and recording projects, and released several albums that highlighted the evolution of jazz in Finland.
Continue ReadingShonda Rhimes
Television producer and screenwriter
Born
January 13th, 1970 56 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on October 18th
Frank 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 ReadingMarino Perani
Football player and manager in Italy
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent football player and later manager, he played primarily as a winger. His professional playing career spanned from the early 1950s to the late 1960s, mainly with Bologna, where he achieved significant success. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into management, leading several teams in Italy's lower leagues. His tactical skills and experience from a playing career enriched his coaching style, contributing to the development of the teams he managed.
Continue ReadingBrain Damage
Professional wrestler, 2005 APW champion
Born
1977 49 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 35 years old
American wrestler competed in various promotions, primarily in the independent circuit. Made a name in hardcore wrestling with notable matches featuring extreme stipulations and bold moves. Achieved notable success in promotions like IWA Mid-South and APW. Gained recognition for contributions to the deathmatch wrestling style, showcasing unique talents and intense performances. His career included memorable rivalries and participation in prestigious tournaments.
Continue ReadingGinés González García
Argentine politician and physician
Born
1945 81 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 ReadingAlan Coren
Journalist and author of humorous works
Born
1938 88 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 ReadingLisbeth Palme
Swedish child psychologist, UNICEF chairwoman
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
October 18th, 2018 7 years ago — 87 years old
A Swedish child psychologist, served as chairwoman of UNICEF. Advocated for children's rights and welfare on a global scale. Worked extensively to improve the lives of underprivileged children. Contributed to the development of various child-focused initiatives and programs during tenure at UNICEF.
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