John Witherspoon
Actor and comedian from 'Friday'
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An actor and comedian, Witherspoon gained prominence through his work in television and film. His career included significant roles in the film series 'Friday', which became a cultural staple for its humor and dialogue. Alongside film, he was well recognized for his role in the television series 'The Wayne Brady Show' and appeared in various other shows that showcased his comedic talent. Witherspoon's influence on comedy included his unique delivery and character portrayal, earning him a lasting legacy in the industry.
Played Willie Jones in 'Friday'
Appeared on 'The Wayans Bros.'
Voiced characters in 'The Boondocks'
Other People Born on January 27th
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Composer of Classical music and operas
Born
January 27th, 1756 270 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1791 234 years ago — 35 years old
Born in Salzburg, this prolific composer and pianist created over 600 compositions across various genres, including symphonies, operas, chamber music, and choral works. His early exposure to music facilitated remarkable achievements from a young age, traveling through Europe to perform. Notable works include operas like 'The Marriage of Figaro,' 'Don Giovanni,' and 'The Magic Flute,' which remain cornerstones of the operatic repertoire. His contributions to the symphony, concerto, and sonata genres significantly shaped classical music, influencing countless composers after his time. Mozart's life was marked by financial struggles and a complex relationship with the musical establishment of his era, culminating in his untimely death at the age of 35. Despite this, his legacy endures, and his works continue to be celebrated worldwide.
Continue ReadingWilliam Randolph Hearst Jr.
Journalist and publisher of Hearst
Born
January 27th, 1908 118 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1993 32 years ago — 85 years old
Worked as a journalist and publisher, contributing to the legacy of the Hearst media empire. Served as the president of Hearst Corporation and played a pivotal role in the expansion and modernization of the company's operations. Influenced American journalism and publishing industries through innovative practices and widespread distribution of print media. Supported various philanthropic initiatives and contributed to the arts.
Continue ReadingHarrison Reed
English football midfielder
Born
January 27th, 1995 31 years ago
Born in 1995, this football midfielder spent formative years in the Southampton youth system. Transitioned to senior football through loans to several clubs, including Norwich City and Cardiff City. Played a significant role in the Championship, contributing to team efforts. In 2020, joined Fulham in the Premier League, showcasing skills in a competitive environment. Represents England at various youth levels and demonstrates expertise in midfield dynamics.
Continue ReadingGöran Hägglund
Swedish politician and social reform advocate
Born
January 27th, 1959 67 years ago
Served as the 28th Minister for Social Affairs in Sweden from 2006 to 2014. Played a significant role in shaping social policy during tenure. Engaged in various reforms related to health care and social services, emphasizing welfare improvements. Contributed to the Christian Democrat Party's strategies in government coalitions, advocating for family issues and social welfare reforms.
Continue ReadingRoss Bagdasarian Sr.
Singer-songwriter and creator of Chipmunks
Born
January 27th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
1972 54 years ago — 53 years old
An American singer-songwriter, pianist, producer, and actor, contributed to the music industry through the creation of the animated musical group Alvin and the Chipmunks. The group debuted in 1958 and became a significant cultural phenomenon. The first album, "Sing Alvin Sing," featured the hit song 'The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late)', which won a Grammy Award. This innovative approach combined humor and music, appealing to both children and adults. The success of Alvin and the Chipmunks led to numerous sequels, animated television series, and films, making a lasting mark on pop culture.
Continue ReadingJohn Eccles
Neurophysiologist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 27th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1997 28 years ago — 94 years old
A prominent neurophysiologist and academic whose research significantly advanced the understanding of synaptic transmission. Authored numerous influential papers and textbooks in the field of neurobiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1963 for discoveries concerning the ionic mechanisms involved in excitation and inhibition in the peripheral and central portions of the nervous system.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 29th
Ranko Žeravica
Basketball player and coach
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in Serbian basketball, played for the Yugoslav national team and contributed significantly as a coach. Achieved notable success during coaching career, leading various teams in the Yugoslav leagues. The coaching career included tenure with the national team, where significant results in European competitions were attained. Also part of the success achieved with the Partizan team during the 1970s and 1980s.
Continue ReadingIon Irimescu
Sculptor and illustrator with notable works
Born
1903 123 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2005 20 years ago — 102 years old
This individual was a Romanian sculptor and illustrator, active primarily in the 20th century. Graduated from the Nicolae Grigorescu Fine Arts Institute, contributed significantly to the field of sculpture through various public works and exhibitions. Taught at the University of Arts in Bucharest. His artistic style reflects a connection to both traditional Romanian motifs and modernist influences. Engaged in numerous cultural activities and held leadership positions in artistic organizations.
Continue ReadingCarlos Guastavino
Argentine composer with notable works
Born
April 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2000 25 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1912, this Argentine composer contributed significantly to the classical music repertoire, particularly in the area of choral and piano music. His music often showcased the influences of Argentine folk traditions, and he frequently incorporated national themes. Guastavino studied music in Buenos Aires and was associated with notable figures in the Argentine musical landscape. His works gained recognition in various international music festivals. Throughout his lifetime, he composed a vast number of pieces, including songs that have become staples in the folk and classical canon. He passed away in 2000.
Continue ReadingAngelika Amon
Molecular and cell biologist, cancer research
Born
1967 59 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2020 5 years ago — 53 years old
A molecular and cell biologist, made significant contributions to understanding the process of cell division and its implications in cancer. Conducted extensive research on the role of the spindle assembly checkpoint in ensuring accurate chromosome segregation. Worked at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and led a laboratory renowned for its pioneering insights in cell biology. Recipient of several prestigious awards and honors throughout the scientific community for groundbreaking studies.
Continue ReadingGreg
Belgian author and illustrator of comics
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1999 26 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in the world of comics, this Belgian author and illustrator gained recognition for creating the comic series 'Achille Talon'. Additionally, collaborated on various comic adaptations and series, showcasing a distinctive art style and clever storytelling. Contributed to the development of the Franco-Belgian comic tradition with work that appealed to both children and adults. His influence extended to various comic festivals and publications, reinforcing the cultural significance of comics in Belgium.
Continue ReadingHiroshi Morie
Musician and singer-songwriter from Japan
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
October 29th, 2023 2 years ago — 55 years old
Achieved recognition as a musician and singer-songwriter with a career spanning several decades. Released numerous albums that showcased a blend of traditional Japanese music and contemporary styles. Contributed to the music scene with impactful lyrics and memorable melodies, gaining a loyal following. Worked on various projects, including collaborations with other artists, which further enriched the scope of the Japanese music landscape.
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