Joost van der Westhuizen

Rugby player and World Cup champion

Joost van der Westhuizen - Rugby player and World Cup champion
Born

February 20th, 1971
54 years ago

Died

February 6th, 2017
8 years ago — 45 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

South Africa

Links & References

A prominent rugby union player represented South Africa. Primarily played as a scrum-half, notable contributions occurred during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Part of the Springboks team that secured victory against New Zealand in the final held at Ellis Park. Known for exceptional speed, agile play, and defensive skills on the field. Transitioned into coaching and rugby commentary after retirement, sharing expertise and insights into the sport.

Played for the South African Springboks

Won the 1995 Rugby World Cup

Other People Born on February 20th

Ansel Adams

Photographer and environmentalist
Born
February 20th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1984 41 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of photography, particularly in landscape photography, and is recognized for black-and-white images of the American West. Developed the Zone System, a technique for achieving proper exposure and tonal range. Published several influential books on photography and conservation, fostering greater appreciation for natural landscapes. Actively promoted environmental conservation and the establishment of national parks.

Continue Reading

Chelsea Peretti

Comedian and writer on 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine'
Born
February 20th, 1978 47 years ago

A comedian, writer, and actress, this individual gained recognition for her role as Gina Linetti on the television series 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine.' In addition to acting, she has contributed to various comedy projects and has worked as a writer for popular shows. She has released stand-up specials that showcase her unique comedic style. The individual has also been involved in music, highlighting her versatility as an artist.

Continue Reading

Kjell Ove Hauge

Norwegian school principal and athlete
Born
February 20th, 1969 56 years ago

Served as a school principal in Norway while competing in track and field. Achieved national recognition in athletics through participation in various competitions, demonstrating significant prowess in the sport. Represented Norway at international events, contributing to the country's presence in track and field disciplines.

Continue Reading

Jurickson Profar

Baseball player and infielder
Born
February 20th, 1993 32 years ago

Born in Curaçao, an infielder showcased talent in Major League Baseball. Made debut with the Texas Rangers in 2012. Played a significant role in the team's operations, contributing both defensively and offensively. Achieved a successful stint with the San Diego Padres, displaying versatility in various infield positions. Contributed to the 2020 World Series Championship team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, enhancing his reputation within the league.

Continue Reading

Willie Garson

Actor, notable for Sex and the City
Born
February 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
September 21st, 2021 3 years ago — 57 years old

An actor and director active in film and television, contributed significantly to the industry with a career spanning several decades. Best recognized for the role of Stanford Blatch in the television series 'Sex and the City,' portrayed a loyal friend in the lives of the main characters. Also featured in the series 'White Collar' as Mozzie, showcasing versatility across both comedic and dramatic roles. Garson took part in various film projects alongside television, leaving a lasting legacy through performances that resonated with audiences.

Continue Reading

Jay Hernandez

American actor in film and television
Born
February 20th, 1978 47 years ago

Born in 1978, this actor gained recognition for roles in several television series and films. Gained prominence with the role of Jesse in the television series 'Angel' and starred in the 'Hostel' film series. Portrayed the character of Thomas Magnum in the reboot of 'Magnum P.I.', which aired from 2018 to 2021. Also featured in projects such as 'Crazy/Beautiful' and 'The Expanse'.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 6th

Hugo Montenegro

American composer and conductor
Born
September 2nd, 1925 99 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1981 44 years ago — 55 years old

A composer and conductor focused on instrumental music and orchestral arrangements. Gained popularity during the 1960s and 1970s. Composed numerous arrangements, including adaptations of popular songs and themes for television and film. The most recognized work includes the theme for the film "The Good, the Bad and the Ugly." Conducted for various artists and television programs, contributing to the musical landscape of the period.

Continue Reading

James Merrill

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
March 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 68 years old

Acclaimed for contributions to contemporary poetry and theater. Published notable works including 'The Changing Light at Sandover', a narrative poem that blends personal and mythological themes, which received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1977. Contributed significantly to the understanding of poetic form and language through a series of influential literary works. In addition to poetry, engaged in playwriting, creating works that highlighted both individual and societal concerns. Merrill's writing frequently explored the complexities of identity and existence.

Continue Reading

Menachem Elon

Academic and jurist, authored legal texts
Born
November 1st, 1923 101 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1923 in Germany, a prominent academic and jurist specialized in Jewish law and civil law. Served as a professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and held the position of Deputy President of the Supreme Rabbinical Court in Israel. Contributed extensively to legal scholarship through publications and lectures, particularly in the fields of religious and civil law. Was significantly involved in the dynamics of Jewish law within the context of modern legal frameworks. His work encompassed various aspects of legal theory and practice, focusing on merging traditional Jewish law with contemporary legal systems.

Continue Reading

Christopher Clavius

Mathematician and astronomer, calendars
Born
March 25th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1612 413 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent mathematician and astronomer contributed significantly to the development of the Gregorian calendar. Worked extensively on mathematical education and published influential textbooks in mathematics. Served as a professor at the Collegio Romano, where the curriculum emphasized mathematics and astronomy. His writings helped shape the understanding of mathematics in Europe during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

Continue Reading

Dan Gerson

Screenwriter and co-writer of 'Monsters, Inc.'
Born
1966 59 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2016 9 years ago — 50 years old

Gerson contributed to the animation industry as a screenwriter, with significant work at Pixar Animation Studios. He co-wrote the screenplay for the acclaimed film 'Monsters, Inc.', which was released in 2001. This animated film received critical acclaim and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. In addition to 'Monsters, Inc.', Gerson also worked on other animated films, providing his expertise in storytelling and character development. His work shaped the narratives of beloved animated features.

Continue Reading

Elvira of Castile

Queen of Sicily
Died
February 6th, 1135 890 years ago — None years old

Elvira of Castile served as Queen of Sicily during the 12th century. As a member of the royal family, she played a significant role in the political landscape of the region. Elvira married Roger II of Sicily, becoming an influential figure in the court. Her life in Sicily coincided with the consolidation of the kingdom and the establishment of a thriving multicultural society. Elvira's marriage not only strengthened ties between the kingdoms but also contributed to the region’s political stability.

Continue Reading