John Belushi
American actor and comedian, SNL star
A prominent actor and comedian, recognized for groundbreaking work on the sketch comedy show 'Saturday Night Live'. Gained acclaim as a member of the original cast, contributing to the show's rise in popularity during the 1970s. Starred in the cult classic film 'Animal House', which became a defining comedy of its era and is credited with popularizing the college comedy genre. Collaborated with various comedians and writers throughout a brief yet impactful career in comedy and film, showcasing unique talents in both improvisation and performance.
Starring in 'Saturday Night Live'
Leading role in 'Animal House'
Other People Born on January 24th
John Romita Sr.
Comic Book Artist, Spider-Man Illustrator
Born
January 24th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2023 2 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent comic book artist, contributed significantly to the medium in the 1960s and 1970s. Worked for Marvel Comics, particularly recognized for work on the Spider-Man series. His distinctive style helped shape the visual identity of Spider-Man, transforming the character into a cultural icon. Additionally, played a significant role in the creation of several covers and storylines that remain popular.
Continue ReadingSigne Rink
Danish writer and ethnologist
Born
January 24th, 1836 190 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1909 116 years ago — 73 years old
Born in Greenland, a Danish writer and ethnologist contributed significantly to the understanding of Greenlandic culture and society. Pursued education in Denmark, resulting in a focus on ethnographic studies. Published various works that documented the lifestyles, traditions, and social structures of Greenland’s Inuit population. Collaborated with explorers and fellow scholars to highlight indigenous perspectives and experiences. Actively engaged in the promotion of Greenlandic history and culture throughout her career.
Continue ReadingErnest Borgnine
American actor in film and television
Born
January 24th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
July 8th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old
A prominent American actor, earned acclaim for performances across film and television. Gained recognition for portraying the lead role in the film 'Marty,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1955. Starred in the popular television series 'McHale's Navy,' which aired from 1962 to 1966. Throughout a career spanning over six decades, contributed to various genres, including drama and comedy, solidifying a reputation as a versatile performer. Worked with numerous notable directors and actors, receiving critical praise for various roles. Borgnine's contributions to the entertainment industry were acknowledged with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating significant achievements in acting.
Continue ReadingIsmail Nasiruddin of Terengganu
Fourth Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia
Born
January 24th, 1907 119 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 72 years old
Served as the fourth Yang di-Pertuan Agong from 1960 to 1965. His reign occurred during a period of significant national development and change in Malaysia. Prior to becoming Agong, held the position of Sultan of Terengganu and contributed to the administration of the state. Was involved in various ceremonial duties and took part in the country's constitutional monarchy.
Continue ReadingKamran Baghirov
Azerbaijan Communist Party Secretary
Born
January 24th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2000 26 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the First Secretary of the Azerbaijan Communist Party from 1969 to 1987. Oversaw significant political and economic developments within the Azerbaijani Soviet Socialist Republic during the late 20th century. Played a key role in the implementation of various economic reforms and addressed social issues within the party's governance. His leadership coincided with turbulent times in the Soviet Union, especially during the periods leading up to its dissolution.
Continue ReadingRenate Garisch-Culmberger
German shot putter and Olympic athlete
Born
January 24th, 1939 87 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 84 years old
Competed in shot put events in international athletics. Achieved a notable career highlight by earning a gold medal at the 1962 European Athletics Championships. Represented Germany in the 1960 and 1964 Olympic Games in the shot put category. Collected various national titles throughout the career in field athletics.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 5th
Georges Vanier
Canadian general and Governor General
Born
April 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian military and politics, served as a general in the Canadian Army during World War II. Later transitioned to a political career, becoming the 19th Governor General of Canada from 1960 until death in 1967. His tenure focused on fostering national unity and support for the arts in Canada. Vanier's contributions to both military and civil service enhanced Canada's presence in various international arenas.
Continue ReadingKurt Moll
German opera singer with Wagnerian roles
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 79 years old
A renowned opera singer, specialized in bass performances. Gained recognition for roles in operas such as Wagner's 'Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg' and 'Tannhäuser'. Contributed to major opera houses, including the Bayreuth Festival and the Vienna State Opera. Possessed a powerful voice, which made an enduring impact in the operatic world.
Continue ReadingTom Pryce
Race car driver with Formula One influence
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old
Began motorsport career in karting, achieving significant success before transitioning to single-seaters. Competed in Formula One from 1974 until 1977. Joined the Shadow team in 1975, where notable performances highlighted skill and talent. Recorded a remarkable sixth place finish at the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix, establishing a strong reputation in the racing community. Tragically lost life during a race at the South African Grand Prix in 1977, marking a premature end to a promising career.
Continue ReadingLolo Ferrari
French dancer and actress
Born
1963 63 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2000 25 years ago — 37 years old
A French dancer, actress, and singer, this individual gained notoriety in the late 1990s for her unique appearance and performances. Known for a distinctive style, she became a prominent figure in the cabaret scene and gained attention in various television appearances. The combination of her dancing talents and theatrical presentations contributed to her popularity. Performances included live shows that showcased her provocative and flamboyant personas, leading to her involvement in films and reality television toward the end of her career.
Continue ReadingMarie d'Agoult
Historian and author of the 19th century
Born
December 31st, 1805 220 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1876 149 years ago — 70 years old
Born into a wealthy family, contributed to French letters and historical scholarship during the 19th century. Engaged in the Romantic movement, edited and published works that highlighted the significance of modern history and culture. Notably, wrote about her experiences and observations in the literary scene of her time, including her relationship with composer Franz Liszt, which influenced her writing. Her efforts in establishing French history as a subject of academic inquiry paved the way for future historians.
Continue ReadingVlada Divljan
Serbian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
March 5th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the Serbian music scene, contributed significantly as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Initiated a career in the late 1970s and became known as a founding member of the influential rock band Riblja Čorba. Successfully merged rock music with poetic lyrics, producing several albums that resonated with the public during the 1980s and 1990s. Engaged in various musical projects throughout a prolific career, gaining recognition for both solo work and collaborations with other artists. His music often explored themes of love, society, and personal introspection, and he maintained an active public presence until his passing in 2015.
Continue Reading