John Singleton
Film director of 'Boyz n the Hood'
A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for directing the groundbreaking film 'Boyz n the Hood' in 1991. The film was significant for its raw portrayal of life in South Central Los Angeles and addressed issues of race and violence. Singleton's work often explored themes related to African-American culture and identity. He became the first African-American to receive a Best Director Academy Award nomination for this debut feature. In addition to 'Boyz n the Hood', Singleton directed several other films, including 'Poetic Justice' and 'Shaft'. He also contributed to television, serving as a director and executive producer for the series 'Snowfall'.
Directed 'Boyz n the Hood'
Received Academy Award nomination for Best Director
Directed 'Poetic Justice'
Contributed to 'Snowfall' as executive producer
Other People Born on January 6th
Barry John
Welsh rugby player and Lions star
Born
January 6th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
One of the leading fly-halves in rugby union history, contributed significantly to the success of the Welsh national team during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Played a key role in Wales’ Grand Slam victories in 1969 and 1971. His performance in the 1971 series against the All Blacks is often highlighted as one of the greatest in rugby history. Captained the British and Irish Lions during the 1971 tour to New Zealand, leading a team that achieved a historic series win against the All Blacks. After retiring from rugby, transitioned to a successful career as a sports commentator and analyst, sharing insights on the game and its evolution.
Continue ReadingGuy Gardner
American colonel and astronaut
Born
January 6th, 1948 77 years ago
Joined NASA in 1980 and flew on two space shuttle missions. Served as pilot on STS-9 and STS-67, completing multiple experiments in space. Worked on the development of advanced flight technologies and contributed to research in microgravity environments. Garnered experience in both military and civilian aviation prior to NASA career.
Continue ReadingLarisa Shepitko
Soviet film director and screenwriter
Born
January 6th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 41 years old
A prominent Soviet film director, screenwriter, and actress, one of the leading figures in Soviet cinema during the 1970s. She directed several acclaimed films, including 'The Ascent', which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival in 1977. Shepitko's work often explored themes of morality, spirituality, and the human condition. Alongside her directorial pursuits, she also contributed as a screenwriter, bringing a unique voice to Soviet film. Tragically, her career was cut short by an untimely death in a car accident at the young age of 41.
Continue ReadingNino Tempo
American musician and actor
Born
January 6th, 1935 90 years ago
Born in 1935, a prominent American musician, singer, and actor achieved success in the 1960s. Best known for collaborations with April Stevens, the duo produced hits such as "Deep Purple" and "I’m on Fire." Additionally, performed in various television shows and films. The music career spanned multiple genres including pop and rock. Tempo also gained recognition for his saxophone skills and contributed to soundtracks and albums for numerous artists.
Continue ReadingMurray Rose
Swimmer and sportscaster, Olympic champion
Born
January 6th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent swimmer and sportscaster, achieved significant success in competitive swimming during the 1950s. Rose specialized in freestyle events and gained recognition for extraordinary performances at the Olympics. Competed in the 1956 and 1960 Olympics, winning multiple gold and silver medals. His ability to excel in long-distance freestyle events set him apart from many contemporaries. Transitioned into a successful broadcasting career following retirement from swimming, sharing insights and expertise with audiences. Developed a reputation for clear commentary and analysis in the world of sport.
Continue ReadingTed McDonald
Australian cricketer with Test match appearances
Born
January 6th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1937 88 years ago — 46 years old
Played cricket for Australia from 1911 to 1921. Competed in 15 Test matches as a fast bowler. Represented Victoria in domestic championships. Had notable performances against England during the Ashes series.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Brad Lesley
Baseball player and actor
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2013 12 years ago — 55 years old
Played professional baseball as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB). Competed for the Milwaukee Brewers and the California Angels during the 1980s. Transitioned into acting, appearing in the film 'The Sandlot' and several television shows. Also participated in the Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball league.
Continue ReadingHeinrich Bär
German pilot and Luftwaffe colonel
Born
May 25th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1957 68 years ago — 43 years old
Served as a colonel in the Luftwaffe during World War II. Achieved recognition as a fighter ace, credited with over 200 enemy aircraft kills. Participated prominently in the defense of Germany, engaging in numerous aerial battles. Bär flew the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and was part of several renowned units such as Jagdgeschwader 77. After the war, he faced denazification proceedings but later returned to aviation, working in various capacities within the airline industry.
Continue ReadingJohannes Peter Müller
German physiologist and anatomist
Born
July 14th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1858 167 years ago — 56 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and anatomy during the 19th century. Conducted extensive research on sensory organs and established foundational concepts in comparative anatomy. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin and published key works that influenced future studies in physiology. Advocated for the use of experimental methods in physiological research.
Continue ReadingPercy Heath
American jazz bassist of the Modern Jazz Quartet
Born
April 30th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2005 20 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent jazz bassist contributed significantly to the Modern Jazz Quartet. The quartet formed in 1952 and became well-known for blending classical music with jazz. Participated in numerous recordings and performances, influencing the jazz genre. Collaborated with various jazz legends, showcasing versatility and artistry. Continued to perform and record until later in life, maintaining a strong presence in the jazz community.
Continue ReadingJosiah Willard Gibbs
American physicist and thermodynamics pioneer
Born
February 11th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1903 122 years ago — 64 years old
Contributions to the field of physics and chemistry included the development of the phase rule and the concept of chemical potential. Developed the Gibbs distribution in statistical mechanics. Played a crucial role in thermodynamics by formulating principles that describe the relationships between temperature, pressure, and volume. Authored 'Elementary Principles in Statistical Mechanics' which laid foundational aspects of statistical mechanics. Held a professorship at Yale University with significant influence on the education of future scientists.
Continue ReadingRichard Lugar
American politician and mayor of Indianapolis
Born
April 4th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2019 6 years ago — 87 years old
Served as the 44th mayor of Indianapolis from 1968 to 1975. Assisted in urban development and improvement projects during tenure. Later became a prominent U.S. senator from Indiana, serving from 1977 to 2013. Focused on issues such as foreign policy, agriculture, and education. Played a key role in nuclear non-proliferation efforts and was a proponent of the National Endowment for Democracy.
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