Jean-Baptiste van Loo
French painter known for portraiture
A prominent French painter from the 18th century, van Loo specialized in portrait painting and became a prominent figure in the French art scene. Working primarily in the style of Rococo, he produced many notable portraits for the French aristocracy. His academic career included serving as a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture. Van Loo spent several years in Italy, where he was influenced by the works of the Old Masters. After returning to France, he became court painter to King Louis XV and produced various works that captured the elegance and opulence of the period.
Served as court painter to Louis XV
Produced significant Rococo portraits
Other People Born on January 14th
Robbie Brady
Irish footballer, Euro 2016 standout
Born
January 14th, 1992 34 years ago
Played as a winger and left back, competing at club level in the Premier League and international tournaments. Represented teams including Manchester United, Hull City, and Burnley. Gained recognition during the UEFA Euro 2016 with a significant goal against Italy, helping the national team reach the knockout stage. Participated in other international competitions, contributing to Ireland's efforts in qualifying and competing on a European stage.
Continue ReadingHal Roach
Film producer and director of comedies
Born
January 14th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 100 years old
An influential figure in early Hollywood, contributed significantly to the film industry during the silent and early sound eras. Founded the Hal Roach Studios in 1915, producing comedic short films that introduced iconic characters and series. Developed the popular 'Our Gang' series, which showcased a group of neighborhood children in humorous situations. Also produced Harold Lloyd's films and the classic comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, solidifying a legacy in comedic filmmaking.
Continue ReadingCălin Popescu-Tăriceanu
Romanian engineer and politician, Prime Minister
Born
January 14th, 1952 74 years ago
An engineer and politician held the position of the 60th Prime Minister of Romania from 2004 to 2008. Served as the president of the Senate of Romania from 2014 to 2019. Played a significant role in Romania's entry into NATO and the European Union. Held various ministerial positions in the Romanian government during his career, influencing national policies and reforms.
Continue ReadingD'Andre Swift
American football player, NFL Running Back
Born
January 14th, 1999 27 years ago
Played college football at the University of Georgia, where achieved significant success as a standout running back. Drafted by the Detroit Lions in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Contributed to the Lions' offense with notable rushing and receiving yards in multiple seasons. Demonstrated versatility as a dual-threat running back.
Continue ReadingLasse Kjus
Norwegian alpine ski racer champion
Born
January 14th, 1971 55 years ago
A prominent alpine ski racer from Norway, achieved success in the 1990s and early 2000s. Competed in several Winter Olympics and World Championships, earning multiple medals. Exhibited versatility across various alpine skiing disciplines, including downhill and super-G. Retired from competitive skiing and transitioned to a successful career in sports and business.
Continue ReadingLelisa Desisa
Ethiopian long-distance runner, Marathon champion
Born
January 14th, 1990 36 years ago
Born in 1990, a long-distance runner proficient in marathon events. Achieved significant success in competitive running with notable performances in major international marathons. In 2013, won the Boston Marathon, finishing in a time of 2:10:22. Claimed victory at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing, securing a gold medal in the marathon. Competed in various prestigious races around the world, consistently ranking among the top elite runners. Represented Ethiopia in multiple international competitions, showcasing exceptional endurance and speed.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 19th
Hope Lange
American actress, won two Emmy Awards
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2003 22 years ago — 70 years old
An American actress gained recognition for performances in film and television. Starred in the television series 'Bus Stop' and 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir.' Appeared in the films 'Pillow Talk,' 'The Rain People,' and 'The Way We Were.' Several roles resulted in Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Worked in the entertainment industry for several decades, earning a reputation for versatility.
Continue ReadingSally Ann Howes
English-American singer and actress
Born
July 20th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2021 4 years ago — 91 years old
A celebrated singer and actress, this individual gained prominence in musical theatre and film. She starred in the original West End production of 'My Fair Lady' alongside Rex Harrison and received acclaim for performances in 'Brigadoon' and 'The Sound of Music.' In film, she gained recognition for her role in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' as Truly Scrumptious. She had a successful career on stage and screen, showcasing a range of vocal and acting talents throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingDock Ellis
Baseball player and coach, no-hitter pitcher
Born
March 11th, 1945 81 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2008 17 years ago — 63 years old
A professional baseball player and coach had a career spanning from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. Primarily a pitcher, achieved notoriety with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Threw a no-hitter on June 12, 1970, against the San Diego Padres, which was notable not only for the achievement but also for occurring while under the influence of LSD. Later transitioned to coaching and was involved in minor league and independent baseball. Advocated for social justice and player rights throughout his career.
Continue ReadingRosalind Knight
English actress with notable TV roles
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2020 5 years ago — 87 years old
An English actress gained prominence through performances in television and film. Notable appearances included roles in 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'Carry On' films. Voiced characters in animated series and featured in various other TV shows, showcasing a broad versatility in acting. Work spanned several decades, beginning in the 1950s. Contributed to productions both on screen and stage, leaving a legacy in British entertainment.
Continue ReadingAndrei Karlov
Russian diplomat, Ambassador to Turkey
Born
1954 72 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2016 9 years ago — 62 years old
Served as a Russian diplomat with significant focus on Turkey, culminating in the role of Ambassador to Turkey. Contributed to the strengthening of bilateral relations between Russia and Turkey during tenure. Assassinated in Ankara on December 19, 2016, while attending an art exhibition, leading to international attention and debate regarding diplomatic security.
Continue ReadingLarry Morris
American football linebacker, NFL champion
Born
1933 93 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 79 years old
Played as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams during the 1960s. Achieved significant recognition for contributions to the Bears' defense, which helped secure an NFL Championship in 1963. Participated in multiple Pro Bowls, demonstrating exceptional skills and performance on the field. After retiring, remained involved in football as a coach.
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