José Ferrer

Puerto Rican-American actor and director

José Ferrer - Puerto Rican-American actor and director
Born

January 8th, 1912
113 years ago

Died

January 26th, 1992
33 years ago — 80 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An actor and director with a notable career in film and theater. Gained prominence for the role of Cyrano de Bergerac in the 1946 Broadway production of 'Cyrano de Bergerac,' which also led to an Academy Award for Best Actor. Directed several acclaimed stage productions and was involved in various film projects, illustrating a significant contribution to the performing arts. His work spanned both English and Spanish-language productions, showcasing versatility across different media.

Academy Award for Best Actor in 1950

Role of Cyrano de Bergerac in Broadway and film

Other People Born on January 8th

Windell Middlebrooks

American actor from 'The Suite Life on Deck'
Born
January 8th, 1979 46 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 36 years old

An American actor gained prominence for a recurring role in the television series 'The Suite Life on Deck' as well as appearing in commercials for Miller High Life. Middlebrooks also had guest appearances in various other television shows including 'Scrubs' and 'Parks and Recreation'. His work in the entertainment industry notably included voice work in animated series, enhancing his contributions to television. He was also involved in live theater, showcasing a range of skills in acting.

Continue Reading

Iuliu Maniu

Romanian politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 8th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in Romania during significant historical periods. Led the National Peasant Party and played a key role in Romanian politics, serving as Prime Minister in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Focused on democracy and constitutional governance while navigating the complexities of interwar Europe. Advocated for the welfare of the rural population and worked towards modernization of agricultural practices. After World War II, faced persecution and imprisonment under the communist regime due to political opposition.

Continue Reading

Saeed Jaffrey

Indian-British actor in film and TV
Born
January 8th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 15th, 2015 9 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1929, this actor gained recognition for roles in film and television, showcasing a range of characters reflective of different cultures. Breakthrough performances included starring in the film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and the series 'Tandoori Nights'. Jaffrey also lent his voice to various projects and appeared in numerous British television productions, establishing a notable presence in the industry. His contributions spanned several decades, reflecting a commitment to both creative performance and cultural representation.

Continue Reading

Gaby Hoffmann

American actress, starred in 'Girls'
Born
January 8th, 1982 43 years ago

Born in 1982, this actress gained prominence for roles in both film and television. Early work included appearances in 'Field of Dreams' and 'Now and Then'. Significant recognition came from the role in the HBO series 'Girls', where she portrayed a dynamic character across multiple seasons. Additionally, starred in critically acclaimed films like 'Wild' and 'Frances'. This artist has showcased a range of performances and continues to contribute to various projects in the entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Dennis Wheatley

Soldier and author of thriller novels
Born
January 8th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 80 years old

Served in the British Army during World War I and later became a prolific author. Gained recognition for writing a series of thriller novels, particularly in the horror and occult genres. His work often featured themes of adventure, mysticism, and the supernatural. Authored several bestsellers, contributing significantly to the genre. Wrote 'The Devil Rides Out', which became particularly popular and was later adapted into a film.

Continue Reading

William Hartnell

English actor; original Doctor Who
Born
January 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old

An English actor achieved prominence for portraying the First Doctor in the long-running television series Doctor Who. The role, initiated in 1963, set the foundation for a franchise that would evolve over decades. Hartnell's performance was characterized by a unique blend of authority, warmth, and charm, capturing the complexities of the character. Before Doctor Who, a career included various stage performances and films, contributing to a robust theatrical presence. Hartnell's transition to television marked a significant turn in his career, with the role of the Doctor defining his legacy.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 26th

Don Budge

Tennis player and coach, Grand Slam winner
Born
June 13th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2000 25 years ago — 84 years old

An American tennis player achieved the first Grand Slam in 1938, winning all four major championships in a single calendar year. Budge secured victories at the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the U.S. Open. His innovative playstyle and powerful two-handed backhand revolutionized the game. Post-retirement, Budge contributed to tennis as a coach and served as a spokesperson for the sport, promoting its growth. He also played a significant role in the establishment of tennis as a professional career.

Continue Reading

Kobe Bryant

Basketball player, 5-time NBA champion
Born
August 23rd, 1978 46 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 41 years old

An American basketball player, played 20 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Achieved five NBA championships and earned two NBA Finals MVP awards. Scored 81 points in a single game against the Toronto Raptors, the second-highest in NBA history. Represented the United States in international competitions, winning two Olympic gold medals in basketball. Transitioned to various ventures post-retirement, including a successful film project.

Continue Reading

Al McGuire

Basketball coach and NCAA champion
Born
September 7th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2001 24 years ago — 72 years old

Coached the Marquette University men's basketball team from 1964 to 1977. Led the team to a NCAA Championship victory in 1977. Renowned for his engaging personality and unique coaching style. After retiring from coaching, worked as a television analyst for college basketball. Received the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction in 1992.

Continue Reading

Edward G. Robinson

Actor in classic films like 'Double Indemnity'
Born
December 12th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1973 52 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Romania, significant work in American cinema spanned several decades. Achieved prominence in the 1930s and 1940s as part of the film noir movement. Gained acclaim for a distinctive portrayal of tough-guy characters, particularly in 'Little Caesar' and 'Key Largo'. Demonstrated versatility with performances in various genres, including drama and comedy. Received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for the film 'The Yearling'. Continued performing in film and television until death in 1973.

Continue Reading

Dietrich von Hildebrand

German Catholic philosopher and author
Born
October 12th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1977 48 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent philosopher and author engaged in the fields of metaphysics, ethics, and aesthetics. Contributed to the Catholic philosophical tradition through works on personalism, love, and the nature of beauty. Served as a professor at the University of Munich, influencing generations of students. Emigrated to the United States during World War II, where continued to teach and write on key philosophical issues, particularly relating to faith and reason.

Continue Reading

Bear Bryant

American football coach and innovator
Born
September 11th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1983 42 years ago — 69 years old

Led college football programs with a focus on winning and discipline. Achieved significant success as head coach at the University of Alabama. His coaching career spanned over 38 years, with teams consistently finishing in the top rankings. Notable for his unique coaching style and ability to motivate players, he shaped numerous football careers and left a lasting legacy in the sport.

Continue Reading