Harold Prince
Theatre director and producer of 'Phantom'
A prominent director and producer in American theatre, contributions spanned over several decades. Collaborated with Stephen Sondheim on multiple productions, including 'Company' and 'Sweeney Todd'. Directed the original Broadway production of 'The Phantom of the Opera', which became one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. Received numerous Tony Awards for outstanding direction and production in theatre.
Directed 'The Phantom of the Opera'
Co-created 'Company' with Stephen Sondheim
Won 21 Tony Awards
Other People Born on January 30th
Max Theiler
Virologist, Nobel Prize in Physiology
Born
January 30th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1972 53 years ago — 73 years old
Born in South Africa and later becoming a naturalized American, a significant contribution involved the development of the vaccine for yellow fever. The work in virology extended to detailed research on the morphology and pathogenesis of viruses. Theiler received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1951 for the achievement in yellow fever vaccination, demonstrating the use of the virus to elicit immunity. His research set a foundation for further advancements in vaccine development and was instrumental in the fight against viral diseases.
Continue ReadingJohn Patterson
American baseball pitcher for the Expos
Born
January 30th, 1978 48 years ago
A professional baseball player, primarily played as a pitcher. Career spanned from 2000 to 2007, during which time played for the Montreal Expos and the Washington Nationals. In 2005, achieved a significant milestone by winning 18 games, which earned a selection to the All-Star Game. Following an injury in 2007, concluded professional playing career. Transitioned to coaching roles after retirement.
Continue ReadingKodai Senga
Japanese baseball pitcher for Fukuoka Hawks
Born
January 30th, 1993 33 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher, earned recognition while playing for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Helped the Hawks win multiple Japan Series championships and earned the accolade of Japan Series MVP. In 2023, transitioned to Major League Baseball and signed with the New York Mets, showcasing a unique combination of velocity and a distinctive forkball pitch. Established a reputation for striking out batters and has been considered one of the top pitchers in the NPB prior to his MLB debut.
Continue ReadingDavid Opatoshu
Actor and screenwriter in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'
Born
January 30th, 1918 108 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 78 years old
An American actor and screenwriter, contributions included prominent roles in film and television throughout the mid-20th century. Appeared in 'The Bridge on the River Kwai', which received several Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Other appearances included 'The Untouchables' and 'The Twilight Zone'. Opatoshu also engaged in screenwriting, contributing to various projects in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingTrevor Gillies
Ice hockey player for New York Islanders
Born
January 30th, 1979 47 years ago
Played professional ice hockey primarily as a right winger. Drafted in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders. Played in the NHL for the New York Islanders, making his debut during the 2009–2010 season. Known for a physical playing style and contributions to team dynamics during his tenure. Also played in the American Hockey League (AHL) with several teams including the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
Continue ReadingJahvid Best
Football Player and Athlete, NFL
Born
January 30th, 1989 37 years ago
An American football player excelled as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Played college football at the University of California, Berkeley, earning recognition for speed and agility. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 2010 NFL Draft, contributed significantly during rookie season with various game-changing performances. Played in a total of 22 games over two seasons before health issues led to retirement from professional football.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 31st
Bobby Robson
Football manager and England national coach
Born
February 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2009 16 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in football, this individual began his career as a player with Fulham and later played for West Bromwich Albion. Transitioning to management, he took charge of several clubs, including Ipswich Town, where he achieved notable success by winning the FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981. Additionally, this individual managed the England national team from 1982 to 1990, leading the team to the semifinals of the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Later managed clubs like Barcelona and Newcastle United, further solidifying a legacy as a respected figure in football.
Continue ReadingPaul Bucha
United States Army Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2024 1 years ago — 81 years old
Served in the Vietnam War as a U.S. Army officer. Participated in combat operations as part of the 101st Airborne Division. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during a firefight in 1971. Later became active in veterans' affairs and community service. Authored a memoir detailing experiences in combat.
Continue ReadingAlbert Leduc
Canadian ice hockey player
Born
1902 124 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1990 35 years ago — 88 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the 1960s and 1970s. Competed in the NHL primarily as a forward. Represented teams including the New York Rangers and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Contributed to various teams in the Eastern Hockey League and the American Hockey League. Known for strong performance during his playing career.
Continue ReadingHedd Wyn
Welsh poet who won the National Eisteddfod
Born
1887 139 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1917 108 years ago — 30 years old
A prominent Welsh language poet, achieved recognition through the writing of lyrical and poignant poetry. Gained significant acclaim posthumously after being awarded the prestigious Bardic Chair at the 1917 National Eisteddfod of Wales, held in Birkenhead, England. This notable award came shortly after tragically dying on the battlefield during World War I, which garnered considerable attention and reflection on the impact of war on artists and literature.
Continue ReadingFriedrich Franz
Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin
Born
1910 116 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2001 24 years ago — 91 years old
Held the title of Hereditary Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, serving as a ceremonial figure in a traditional region of Germany. Involved with the Mecklenburg-Schwerin duchy during a time of political transition in Germany. Participated in various cultural and historical activities related to the duchy, contributing to regional heritage. Managed the family estate and engaged in charitable activities for local communities.
Continue ReadingAngus Cloud
Actor from HBO's Euphoria
Born
1998 28 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2023 2 years ago — 25 years old
An actor gained recognition for portraying Fezco in the HBO series Euphoria. The character earned a significant fan base due to its unique personality and storyline. Cloud's performance contributed to the show's critical acclaim and popularity. Prior to his role in Euphoria, the actor had minimal experience in the entertainment industry, having been discovered by a casting agent while walking down the street. His portrayal resonated with audiences and solidified his place in contemporary television. Cloud's sudden passing in July 2023 shocked fans and the entertainment community.
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