Joan Leslie
American actress in classic films
Gained prominence in the 1940s as an actress in classic Hollywood films. Starred in 'Yankee Doodle Dandy' alongside James Cagney, showcasing exceptional talent. Worked with directors like Michael Curtiz and appeared in significant films such as 'The Time of Their Lives' and 'Meet Me in St. Louis'. Transitioned to television in the 1950s and continued acting in various series and movies throughout her career. Retired from acting in the 1970s.
Starred in 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'
Appeared in 'Meet Me in St. Louis'
Worked in 1940s classic Hollywood films
Other People Born on January 26th
Emily Hughes
American figure skater, 2006 Olympic qualifier
Born
January 26th, 1989 36 years ago
Competitor in figure skating, participated in the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. Achieved national recognition by placing fourth at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships in 2005. Competed in various national and international events, showcasing technical skills and artistry on ice.
Continue ReadingFrançois Coppée
French poet and author of 'Le Pater'
Born
January 26th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1842, this individual became a prominent French poet and author. With a background in literature and a penchant for depicting the struggles of everyday life, this writer gained recognition for both poetry and prose. The literary contributions spanned several genres, with significant works including 'Le Pater', a reflection on the Lord's Prayer, which resonated deeply with audiences. The author's engagement with themes of faith, love, and the human condition established a lasting legacy in French literature.
Continue ReadingAnders Fogh Rasmussen
Danish diplomat and former Prime Minister
Born
January 26th, 1953 72 years ago
Served as the 39th Prime Minister of Denmark from 2001 to 2009, focusing on economic reform and welfare policies. Transitioned to international roles, leading the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as Secretary General from 2009 to 2014. Prior to this, held various ministerial positions, including Minister of Finance and Minister of Research, Technology and Innovation. Promoted military interventions in Afghanistan and Libya during tenure at NATO, advocating for collective defense strategies.
Continue ReadingAndrew Ridgeley
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Wham!
Born
January 26th, 1963 62 years ago
An English singer-songwriter and guitarist, this individual gained prominence as a member of the pop duo Wham!, which rose to fame in the 1980s. The duo achieved significant commercial success with chart-topping hits and became synonymous with the music scene of that era. The group's second album, 'Make It Big', solidified their status in pop music, featuring popular singles that topped charts worldwide. After the group's disbandment, this individual pursued a solo career and engaged in various business ventures.
Continue ReadingVince Carter
Professional basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
January 26th, 1977 48 years ago
A professional basketball player played primarily as a shooting guard and small forward. Spent over 20 seasons in the NBA, representing teams such as the Toronto Raptors, New Jersey Nets, and Dallas Mavericks. Achieved recognition for exceptional scoring ability and athleticism, particularly noted for performing numerous highlight-reel dunks. Selected as an NBA All-Star eight times and won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 1999. Made significant contributions to his teams during playoff runs and left a legacy of thrilling performances throughout his career.
Continue ReadingDavid Purley
Race car driver, known for bravery
Born
January 26th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 40 years old
A race car driver, primarily competed in Formula One during the early 1970s. Gained attention for an impressive and brave rescue of another driver following a crash at the 1973 Dutch Grand Prix. Also participated in various endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Despite not achieving significant championship standings, demonstrated remarkable skill and determination on the track.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 12th
Břetislav Pojar
Czech animator and director of puppet films
Born
October 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of animation, particularly as a director and animator. Created memorable puppet films that have been recognized both domestically and internationally. Worked extensively in television and film, showcasing traditional Czech animation techniques. His work often featured whimsical storytelling combined with unique artistic styles, impacting the animation genre in Czechoslovakia and beyond.
Continue ReadingAli Mazrui
Political Scientist and Philosopher
Born
February 24th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1933, a prominent political scientist and philosopher, focused on African studies and the relationship between Africa and the West. Mazrui served as a professor at various institutions, including the State University of New York and the University of Illinois. He gained recognition through his television series, 'The Africans: A Triple Heritage,' which explored African identity and culture. His work critically examined the interplay between culture, politics, and history in shaping African societies.
Continue ReadingSukhdev Singh Kang
Indian politician and judge, Governor
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a judge before entering politics. Held the position of 14th Governor of Kerala from 2004 to 2006. Contributed to various legal reforms and governance initiatives during tenure. Engaged in activities aimed at improving the legal and educational frameworks within the state.
Continue ReadingAlvin Rakoff
Film and television director
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 97 years old
A Canadian film and television director, contributed to multiple acclaimed productions over a career spanning several decades. Directed episodes of the influential series 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Prisoner'. Worked on feature films including 'The Birthday Party' and 'The Great Escape'. Also involved in various theatrical productions.
Continue ReadingRoberto Telch
Argentinian footballer and coach
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder. Spent significant time at Club Atlético River Plate, where he achieved considerable success and built a reputation as a skilled player. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, leading teams in various leagues. Contributed to football development in Argentina through coaching roles.
Continue ReadingLilly Ledbetter
Labor rights activist and lawsuit initiator
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
October 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 86 years old
An American activist focused on labor rights, initiated a landmark lawsuit against Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for pay discrimination. The case reached the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that the claim was filed too late. This led to the introduction and passage of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, which aimed to strengthen protections against wage discrimination. Her experiences brought national attention to gender-based pay inequities and she became a prominent speaker on the topic.
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