Jonathan Larson
Playwright and composer of Rent
A prominent American playwright and composer, gained recognition for the groundbreaking musical Rent. Rent, which explored themes of love, loss, and the struggles of marginalized communities, premiered Off-Broadway in 1996. Larson received the Tony Award for Best Musical posthumously, as well as the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The musical became a cultural phenomenon, celebrated for its innovative approach to storytelling and representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Larson's life was tragically cut short just before the show's premiere, adding a poignant note to the legacy of his work.
Created the musical Rent
Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama
Received the Tony Award for Best Musical
Other People Born on February 4th
Mohamed Sherif
Egyptian footballer and striker
Born
February 4th, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer played as a striker, primarily for Al Ahly SC in Egypt. Sherif began his career in the youth system of the club before making his first-team debut in 2016. He quickly established himself as a key player, known for scoring crucial goals in domestic competitions as well as the CAF Champions League. In 2020, he contributed significantly to Al Ahly's victory in the CAF Champions League, securing the title for the club. Additionally, he made appearances for the Egyptian national team, competing in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Continue ReadingClint Black
Country music singer-songwriter and producer
Born
February 4th, 1962 63 years ago
An influential figure in the country music genre, this artist emerged in the late 1980s and quickly gained prominence. Debut album, 'Killin' Time', released in 1989, produced several hit singles, including 'A Better Man', which topped the charts. Throughout the 1990s, produced multiple albums, with several achieving gold and platinum status. Collaborated with other prominent artists, contributing to the genre's evolution. Developed a successful career as a producer and continued to perform and record music well into the 2000s.
Continue ReadingMaximilian Wöber
Austrian footballer with Sevilla FC
Born
February 4th, 1998 27 years ago
A professional footballer specialized as a defender, played for various clubs including Rapid Wien and Sevilla FC. Earned recognition for contributions to both club and national team, representing Austria in international competitions. Notable for playing a key role in defensive strategies and contributing to team successes in domestic leagues and tournaments.
Continue ReadingRon Rangi
Rugby player for New Zealand
Born
February 4th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 47 years old
A rugby player participated in the sport's professional circuit, making significant contributions to the game during the 1960s and 1970s. Primarily played as a forward and excelled in both domestic leagues and international competitions. Represented New Zealand at various levels, contributing to the national team's strategies and successes. Played for teams in the Wellington Rugby Football Union, showcasing talent and sportsmanship throughout a successful athletic career.
Continue ReadingJohn Steel
Musician and songwriter of The Animals
Born
February 4th, 1941 84 years ago
A musician and songwriter, contributed to the British rock band The Animals. Played as a drummer and was part of the group's success in the 1960s. The band gained fame with hits such as "House of the Rising Sun" and "Bring It On Home to Me." The Animals became iconic in the rock scene and are credited with pioneering the blues-rock genre. Their music remains influential in the development of popular music.
Continue ReadingLucie Šafářová
Czech professional tennis player
Born
February 4th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed in professional tennis and achieved significant success in both singles and doubles formats. Won the French Open women's doubles title in 2015 and reached the singles semifinals at the French Open in 2014. Regularly ranked among the top 10 in the WTA rankings during her career, showcasing strong performances in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 25th
Fanny Blankers-Koen
Dutch Olympic track and field athlete
Born
April 26th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2004 21 years ago — 85 years old
Achieved prominence as a track and field athlete, specializing in sprinting and hurdling events. Competed in the 1948 London Olympics, earning four gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, 80 meters hurdles, and 4x100 meters relay. Set multiple world records during an illustrious career, becoming a significant figure in the history of women's athletics. Retired from competitive sports in 1955, influencing future generations of female athletes.
Continue ReadingDiana Barrymore
American actress in film and theater
Born
March 3rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1960 65 years ago — 38 years old
An American actress achieved recognition in film and theater during the 1940s and 1950s. She began her career on stage before transitioning to film, where she gained acclaim for her performances. Her notable films included "The Duchess of Idaho" and "The Mad Doctor." Throughout her career, struggles with personal issues led to intermittent work, yet her talent was evident in several memorable roles. Despite challenges, she left a mark in the industry during her active years.
Continue ReadingMorrie Turner
American cartoonist and creator of 'Wee Pals'
Born
December 11th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2014 11 years ago — 90 years old
An American cartoonist created the comic strip 'Wee Pals' in 1965, which became one of the first comic strips to feature a multiracial cast of characters. The strip addressed various social issues with humor and insight, gaining a devoted following. Turner achieved recognition in the cartooning community, receiving accolades such as the Inkpot Award. Turner was also active in promoting diversity through visual arts and provided insights on the importance of representation in media. His work in the field of cartooning influenced younger generations of artists who aspired to tell their own stories through comics.
Continue ReadingGuillaume Delisle
French cartographer and geographer
Born
February 28th, 1675 350 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1726 299 years ago — 50 years old
Worked as a prominent cartographer and geographer in France during the early 18th century. Contributed significantly to the field of mapping and geographical studies with innovative techniques. Published maps that brought accuracy and detail to the understanding of Earth's geography. Was appointed as the Royal Geographer to the King of France, reflecting the importance of work in the realm of cartography.
Continue ReadingRichard McBrien
Theologian and author of Catholicism
Born
August 19th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
January 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
An American priest and theologian who taught at the University of Notre Dame for over three decades, specializing in Roman Catholic doctrine and history. Authored several influential books on Catholicism, including a widely used work simply titled 'Catholicism.' Contributed to various publications and served as a commentator on theological issues. Played a significant role in discussions around the Catholic Church's modern challenges.
Continue ReadingTheo van Gogh
Dutch art dealer and Van Gogh's brother
Born
May 1st, 1857 168 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1891 134 years ago — 33 years old
An influential art dealer in the late 19th century, played a key role in promoting the works of Vincent van Gogh. Managed the art gallery Goupil & Cie and worked closely with many Impressionist artists. Provided financial and emotional support to Vincent, encouraging his artistic development. After Vincent's death, became a champion of his brother's work, helping to establish his posthumous reputation.
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