Jenny Lewis
Singer-songwriter and actress
Born in 1976 in Las Vegas, a singer-songwriter and actress emerged in the entertainment industry. Started as a child actress starring in series such as 'The Wizard' and 'Auga. Later, transitioned into music, co-founding the band Rilo Kiley. Released solo albums including 'Rabbit Fur Coat'. Pursued a successful solo music career alongside acting roles. Collaborated with various artists and bands, contributing to the broader music scene.
Co-founded and performed with Rilo Kiley
Released the solo album 'Rabbit Fur Coat'
Acted in the television series 'The Wizard'
Starred in the series 'Auga'
Other People Born on January 8th
Graham Chapman
English actor and writer, Monty Python
Born
January 8th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1989 36 years ago — 48 years old
An English actor and screenwriter, contributed significantly to British comedy. Co-founded the comedy group Monty Python, which created the iconic television show 'Monty Python's Flying Circus'. Also starred in the film 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail', which became a cult classic. In addition to working in television and film, wrote and performed in various other projects, showing a distinctive sense of humor that has influenced later generations of comedians. Engaged in solo writing efforts and theatrical performances, including the notable stage adaptation of his works.
Continue ReadingAlfred Russel Wallace
Geographer and biologist, co-developer of evolution
Born
January 8th, 1823 202 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1913 112 years ago — 90 years old
A Welsh geographer, biologist, and explorer, contributed significantly to the understanding of natural selection. Conducted extensive field studies in the Amazon and the Malay Archipelago. Proposed the theory of evolution by natural selection independently and simultaneously with Charles Darwin. Co-authored the landmark paper on the theory in 1858, which led to the formulation of the concept in scientific literature.
Continue ReadingEdmond-Charles Genêt
Translator and diplomat during revolution
Born
January 8th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1834 191 years ago — 71 years old
Born in France in 1763, this individual became a notable figure during the French Revolution. He served as a diplomat for the French government, arriving in the United States as an envoy in 1793. His tenure as Minister Plenipotentiary was marked by attempts to secure American support for France, which included negotiating military alliances. His approach led to significant controversy, with conflicts arising over U.S. neutrality and Genêt's activities generating political tensions. Forced to return to France due to evolving diplomatic relations, he later settled in the United States, where he continued his work as a translator and was involved in local politics.
Continue ReadingCarl Gustav Hempel
German philosopher of science
Born
January 8th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1997 28 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent philosopher of science associated with the Vienna and Berlin Circles, contributed significantly to the philosophy of language, logic, and scientific method. Authored several influential works, exploring concepts such as the problem of induction and the role of theories in science. Hempel's work on the logical structure of scientific explanations remains fundamental in contemporary philosophy of science.
Continue ReadingStephen Hawking
Theoretical physicist and author
Born
January 8th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2018 7 years ago — 76 years old
A theoretical physicist and cosmologist, contributed significantly to the fields of general relativity and quantum gravity, particularly in the context of black holes. Achieved widespread recognition through the publication of 'A Brief History of Time', which made complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. Held the Lucasian Professorship of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge for over 30 years, influencing the next generation of physicists. Despite living with a debilitating motor neuron disease, continued to advance research in theoretical physics and engaged in public science communication.
Continue ReadingJosé Ferrer
Puerto Rican-American actor and director
Born
January 8th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1992 33 years ago — 80 years old
An actor and director with a notable career in film and theater. Gained prominence for the role of Cyrano de Bergerac in the 1946 Broadway production of 'Cyrano de Bergerac,' which also led to an Academy Award for Best Actor. Directed several acclaimed stage productions and was involved in various film projects, illustrating a significant contribution to the performing arts. His work spanned both English and Spanish-language productions, showcasing versatility across different media.
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