Igor Troubetzkoy
Race car driver and Russian aristocrat
Born in Russia, a prominent figure in motorsports during the early 20th century. Participated in various racing events, including the Mille Miglia and the Monaco Grand Prix. Notably drove for the Scuderia Ferrari team. Served as a liaison between Russian expatriates and their former homeland during a turbulent period in history. His aristocratic background influenced his perspective on racing and social issues of the time.
Competed in the Mille Miglia
Raced in the Monaco Grand Prix
Drove for Scuderia Ferrari
Other People Born on August 23rd
Mike Yastrzemski
Baseball player, San Francisco Giants outfielder
Born
August 23rd, 1990 35 years ago
An American baseball player, primarily recognized for his tenure with the San Francisco Giants in Major League Baseball. He made his debut in 2019 after being drafted by the Giants. Yastrzemski played college baseball at Vanderbilt University, where he earned All-American honors. He achieved significant milestones during his career, including participation in the 2021 MLB All-Star Game and contributions to the team's success in the postseason.
Continue ReadingP. J. Washington
Professional basketball player Charlotte Hornets
Born
August 23rd, 1998 27 years ago
Played college basketball at the University of Kentucky, where contributed to a successful season. Selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2019 NBA Draft. Established a reputation as a versatile forward with strong defensive skills. Made significant contributions to the Hornets since joining the team, demonstrating consistent scoring and rebounding abilities.
Continue ReadingJeremy Lin
Basketball player, NBA Champion.
Born
August 23rd, 1988 37 years ago
Played professional basketball in the NBA and gained attention during a prolific period with the New York Knicks in 2012. Lin became a standout player during this time, leading the team to a number of victories and inspiring fans globally. He later played for several other teams, including the Houston Rockets and the Toronto Raptors, culminating in winning the NBA Championship in 2019 with the Raptors. Lin's journey from an undrafted player to a professional athlete highlighted the challenges faced by Asian-Americans in sports and created a significant cultural impact.
Continue ReadingDarren Collison
Professional basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
August 23rd, 1987 38 years ago
Played as a professional basketball player in the NBA, primarily as a point guard. Played for teams including the New Orleans Hornets, Indiana Pacers, and Sacramento Kings. Collison contributed to multiple playoff runs and had notable performances throughout his career. He returned to the league after a brief retirement to continue playing, demonstrating resilience and commitment to the sport. Collison also pursued interests off the court, focusing on personal development and community engagement.
Continue ReadingTaylor Decker
American football offensive tackle
Born
August 23rd, 1993 32 years ago
An offensive tackle in American football, played for the Detroit Lions in the National Football League (NFL). Gained recognition for performance on the offensive line, contributing to the team's overall success. Drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft after a successful college career at the University of Iowa, where significant achievements included being named a first-team All-Big Ten selection. Continues to play a vital role in protecting the team's quarterback and enhancing the running game.
Continue ReadingOlga Govortsova
Tennis player, French Open competitor
Born
August 23rd, 1988 37 years ago
A professional tennis player from Belarus, participated in numerous international competitions. Achieved singles ranking as high as World No. 35 in 2010. Competed in all four Grand Slam tournaments, with a notable performance reaching the fourth round of the French Open in 2009. Also had a successful doubles career, achieving a top ranking of World No. 27 in 2012. Represented Belarus in various Fed Cup matches throughout her career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 20th
Joe DeSa
Baseball player for the New York Mets
Born
July 27th, 1959 66 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1986 39 years ago — 27 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as an outfielder during the 1980s. Made his Major League Baseball debut with the New York Mets in 1984. Played five seasons in the MLB, appearing in 143 games. Known for contributions to the teams he played for during his career.
Continue ReadingMadge Sinclair
Jamaican-American actress in film and TV
Born
April 28th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 57 years old
Born in Jamaica, an actress made a significant mark in film and television. Moved to the United States to pursue acting and became a prominent figure in various productions. Starred in the classic film 'Coming to America' alongside Eddie Murphy, as well as in the television series 'Roots' which highlighted the historical struggles of enslaved African Americans. Recognized for powerful performances that brought depth to her roles, she became one of the first Black actresses to hold leading roles in mainstream media.
Continue ReadingRaoul Bott
Mathematician known for Bott periodicity
Born
September 24th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2005 20 years ago — 82 years old
A Hungarian-American mathematician specialized in topology and algebraic geometry. Contributions to the field include the Bott periodicity theorem, which significantly influenced the development of K-theory and stable homotopy theory. Held academic positions at prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, and contributed to the understanding of differential forms. Participated in advancing the application of mathematics in various scientific areas.
Continue ReadingBrittany Murphy
Actress from 'Clueless' and '8 Mile'
Born
November 10th, 1977 48 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 32 years old
An American actress and singer gained prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Featured in the film 'Clueless' as the character Tai Frasier, which became a cultural touchstone. Starred alongside Eminem in '8 Mile', further solidifying a successful film career. Also lent voice to the character Luanne Platter in the animated series 'King of the Hill'. Her performances were noted for their charm and emotional depth, leading to a dedicated fan following. The early death at age 32 marked a tragic end to an evolving career in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingRiccardo Freda
Film director and screenwriter of horror
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 90 years old
An Egyptian-Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the horror genre in Italian cinema. Early career included working in various roles within the film industry. Gained recognition for horror films in the 1960s and 1970s. Renowned for directing notable works such as 'I Vampiri' (1956), often credited as the first Italian horror film. Also directed 'The Horrible Dr. Hichcock' (1962) and 'Murder Obsession' (1981), which showcased a blend of psychological drama and horror elements. Collaboration with prominent actors and technicians of the era established a distinctive style in horror filmmaking. Continued to influence filmmakers long after his films were released.
Continue ReadingRickey Henderson
Baseball player and coach, stolen base record
Born
December 25th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
December 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 65 years old
This individual excelled as a Major League Baseball outfielder and coach. Playing primarily for the Oakland Athletics, achieved a record 1,406 stolen bases over a 25-year career. Debuted in the MLB in 1979 and contributed to the Athletics' 1989 World Series championship. After retirement, transitioned into coaching roles, influencing new generations of players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009.
Continue Reading