Jimmy Durante

American entertainer of classic comedy

Jimmy Durante - American entertainer of classic comedy
Born

February 10th, 1893
132 years ago

Died

January 29th, 1980
45 years ago — 86 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An influential American entertainer celebrated for a distinctive blend of comedy and music. Durante achieved stardom in vaudeville and later transitioned to film and television. Known for his unique voice and comedic timing, he became a prominent figure during the mid-20th century. Major contributions included hosting his own television variety show, where he showcased his signature humor along with guest appearances from various celebrities. Durante also lent his voice to animated films, notably voicing the character of Mr. Penguin in 'Frosty the Snowman'. His signature phrase, 'Inka Dinka Doo', became widely recognized.

Hosted 'The Jimmy Durante Show'

Starred in 'The Great Gatsby' (1949)

Voiced Mr. Penguin in 'Frosty the Snowman'

Other People Born on February 10th

Sterling Brown

Basketball player for Milwaukee Bucks
Born
February 10th, 1995 30 years ago

Professional basketball player played in the NBA, primarily for the Milwaukee Bucks. Played college basketball at Southern Methodist University, where contributions led to significant team successes. Entered the NBA in 2017, showcasing skills as a forward. Competed in multiple seasons and participated in the 2021 NBA Playoffs, contributing to the team's overall performance.

Continue Reading

Mark Spitz

Olympic swimmer and gold medalist
Born
February 10th, 1950 75 years ago

An American swimmer, competed in the 1968 and 1972 Olympic Games. In the 1972 Summer Olympics, achieved unprecedented success by winning seven gold medals, a record that stood for 36 years. Competed primarily in freestyle and butterfly events, setting numerous world records during the athletic career. After retiring from competitive swimming, transitioned into coaching and sports commentary.

Continue Reading

George of the Palatinate

German bishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
February 10th, 1486 539 years ago
Died
1529 496 years ago — 43 years old

Served as a bishop in the Palatinate region, contributing to ecclesiastical governance during a significant period of religious transformation in Germany. Engaged in the politics of German principalities, particularly in matters related to the Reformation. Advocated for the rights of the ecclesiastical authorities and played a role in negotiations between secular leaders and the church. His tenure was marked by efforts to maintain the authority of the bishopric in the face of growing Protestant movements.

Continue Reading

María Carlé

Argentine tennis player with top rankings
Born
February 10th, 2000 25 years ago

Competed in various international tournaments and achieved remarkable rankings in women's singles tennis. Represented Argentina in the ITF circuit and gained recognition for performances on clay courts. Carried the potential for future success with strong play and dedication to the sport. Trained intensely and participated in multiple championships, demonstrating significant skill and resilience.

Continue Reading

Larry Adler

Harmonica player and composer
Born
February 10th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2001 24 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent harmonica player and composer, this artist became one of the first musicians to popularize the harmonica in classical music. Beginning a career in the 1920s, extensive touring and performances spanned several decades. Collaborations with orchestras and notable composers marked a significant aspect of the artistic journey. Transitioning into acting, appearances included roles in various film and television productions. The unique blend of harmonica artistry and theatrical performance established a distinctive legacy in both music and entertainment.

Continue Reading

Royal Cortissoz

Art critic and writer on American art
Born
February 10th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1948 76 years ago — 79 years old

An influential art critic and writer, contributed significantly to the discourse on American art in the early 20th century. Served as the chief art critic for the Brooklyn Eagle and wrote extensively on the art scene, highlighting the works of contemporary artists and movements. Authored books analyzing American painters and their contributions. Played a vital role in promoting awareness of American art, especially at a time when it was gaining recognition in the global art community.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 29th

George S. Messersmith

American diplomat and ambassador
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1960 65 years ago — 77 years old

Served as an influential American diplomat throughout the mid-20th century. Held the position of United States Ambassador to Poland and Chile, contributing to the development of U.S. foreign policy in Latin America and Europe. Participated in significant diplomatic negotiations during pivotal moments of international relations. Played a key role in strengthening intercultural dialogue between the United States and European nations. Worked for the State Department for several decades, where experiences shaped international relations during tumultuous global events.

Continue Reading

Nam June Paik

Video art pioneer and TV Buddha creator
Born
July 20th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2006 19 years ago — 73 years old

An artist impactful in the development of video art, contributing significantly to the genre's evolution. Experimented with television as an art form and introduced innovative multimedia works. Established a career that merged technology with artistic expression, becoming a prominent figure in contemporary art. Created influential pieces such as TV Buddha, which explored themes of technology's relationship with human spirituality. Contributed to exhibitions globally, cementing a legacy that resonates in both art and media.

Continue Reading

Ephraim Kishon

Israeli author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 80 years old

An Israeli author, screenwriter, and director contributed significantly to literature and film. First published in the 1950s, produced a range of humorous works that captured the essence of Israeli life. Wrote popular satirical columns, and plays that were performed on stages around the world. Many works translated into multiple languages, increasing global readership. Directed films based on his writings, achieving success in the Israeli film industry. Received numerous awards for both literary contributions and film productions.

Continue Reading

Sidney Jones

English conductor and composer of operas
Born
1861 164 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1946 79 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent conductor and composer, contributed significantly to the musical landscape of early 20th century England. Best remembered for composing the operetta 'The Geisha,' which premiered in 1896 and achieved great popularity. Served as a conductor for numerous notable performances, including works by famous composers of the time. His operas and theatrical works often featured a blend of English and Asian themes, reflecting cultural exchanges prevalent during that era.

Continue Reading

Richard Williamson

British Catholic traditionalist bishop
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2025 0 years ago — 85 years old

A Catholic bishop was ordained in 1976. In 1976, was a founding member of the Society of St. Pius X. The bishop gained notoriety for promoting traditionalist Catholic teachings and was involved in controversies regarding his views on various church doctrines and historical events. The bishop was excommunicated in 1988 by the Vatican but later attempted to rehabilitate relations with the Catholic Church. Participated in liturgical ceremonies emphasizing traditional Latin rites and opposed modernist interpretations of Catholicism.

Continue Reading

Vincent R. Impellitteri

American politician, 101st Mayor of NYC
Born
1900 125 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1987 38 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 101st Mayor of New York City from 1950 to 1953. Held the position of New York City Council President prior to becoming mayor. Contributed to the expansion of the city’s infrastructure during a period of post-war growth. After mayoralty, continued public service as a judge, influencing local governance and judicial processes.

Continue Reading