Joel Hodgson
Comedian and creator of Mystery Science Theater 3000
A comedian and actor, contributed to the comedy scene through innovative projects. Created the cult television series Mystery Science Theater 3000, which blended humor with film commentary. Early career involved performing stand-up comedy and working on television shows. Expanded the Mystery Science Theater format to live performances and later reboots, capturing the interest of audiences across generations. Collaborated on various projects in comedy and writing throughout a lengthy career.
Created Mystery Science Theater 3000
Performed live comedy shows
Other People Born on February 20th
Roy Cohn
American lawyer and political activist
Born
February 20th, 1927 99 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1986 39 years ago — 59 years old
Built a prominent career in law, gaining recognition as a legal advisor in high-profile cases. Served as chief counsel to Senator Joseph McCarthy during the Red Scare, advocating for anti-communist actions. Established a private practice in New York City, representing various clients including influential business figures and organized crime members. Publicly engaged in controversial political activism throughout his career, asserting a staunch conservative viewpoint. Played a significant role in various cases and investigations, with a reputation for aggressive courtroom tactics.
Continue ReadingJean Kennedy Smith
American diplomat, 25th Ambassador to Ireland
Born
February 20th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2020 6 years ago — 92 years old
Served as the 25th United States Ambassador to Ireland from 1993 to 1998. Played a pivotal role in the Northern Ireland peace process and was instrumental in the Good Friday Agreement. Engaged in various cultural and educational initiatives to strengthen ties between the United States and Ireland. Worked on behalf of individuals with disabilities and promoted social justice causes throughout her career.
Continue ReadingGloria Vanderbilt
Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 7 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.
Continue ReadingCornelius Vanderbilt Whitney
American businessman and philanthropist
Born
February 20th, 1899 127 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1992 33 years ago — 93 years old
Businessman and philanthropist contributed to various industries, particularly in media and transportation. Established the Whitney Communications Corporation. Involved in the development of the New York Central Railroad. Founded several companies in the film industry, supporting artistic ventures. Served as a board member of the Metropolitan Opera Association and funded various philanthropic initiatives, especially in arts and education.
Continue ReadingLouis-Alexandre Berthier
French general and Minister of Defence
Born
February 20th, 1753 273 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1815 211 years ago — 62 years old
A key military figure during the French Revolutionary Wars, served as a general in the revolutionary army. Held the position of Minister of Defence and played a crucial role in the organization of the French military. Participated in the campaigns of the Italian and Egyptian expeditions under Napoleon Bonaparte. As a major general, contributed to significant military strategies that aided in the expansion and effectiveness of the French army throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingRobert Altman
American filmmaker with M*A*S*H
Born
February 20th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2006 19 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent director and screenwriter in American cinema, this individual contributed significantly to film art with a unique storytelling style. Debuting in the 1950s, created a series of innovative films that often employed ensemble casts and overlapping dialogue. The 1970 film M*A*S*H, a black comedy about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War, achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, earning multiple Academy Award nominations. Other notable works include Nashville, a musical drama that provided a critique of American culture, and The Player, a satirical look at Hollywood. Established a reputation for challenging traditional narratives and influential cinematic techniques throughout a remarkable career.
Continue Reading