Kay Francis
American actress and stage performer
Acted in numerous films during the 1930s, becoming a leading lady in Hollywood. Notable roles included performances in films such as 'Trouble in Paradise' and 'One Way Passage'. Transitioned from theater to film and became highly successful in the pre-Code era, with her star power peaking in a variety of genres including dramas and comedies.
Starred in 'Trouble in Paradise'
Featured in 'One Way Passage'
Appeared in 'The House on 56th Street'
Other People Born on January 13th
Tom Gola
Basketball player and politician
Born
January 13th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
January 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
A basketball player and coach, and later a politician. Played college basketball at La Salle University, where earned All-American honors. Had a successful professional career in the NBA, primarily with the Philadelphia Warriors, and was selected to multiple All-Star teams. Transitioned into coaching and served in various coaching roles after retiring from playing. Entered politics, serving in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Continue ReadingKeith Coogan
Actor in 'Donnie Darko' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'
Born
January 13th, 1970 55 years ago
This American actor gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s, appearing in various television shows and films. Notable performances include roles in 'Donnie Darko' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Coogan also contributed to projects in voice acting and produced works, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry. The actor has also made appearances in popular series like 'The Ben Stiller Show'.
Continue ReadingMario Yepes
Colombian footballer and defender
Born
January 13th, 1976 49 years ago
A former professional footballer, played primarily as a central defender. With a significant career in Club Atlético River Plate, also had stints in clubs like Deportivo Cali, Paris Saint-Germain, Chievo, and Atalanta. Played for the Colombian national team from 1999 to 2014, participating in three FIFA World Cup tournaments. Contributed to Colombia's successful 2016 Copa America campaign, finishing third.
Continue ReadingJohn Davis
American politician and Governor of Massachusetts
Born
January 13th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
1854 171 years ago — 67 years old
Served as the 14th Governor of Massachusetts from 1834 to 1835. Practiced law and engaged in public service throughout his career. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and served multiple terms. Contributed to local governance and civic engagement during the early 19th century.
Continue ReadingSilvana Gallardo
Actress and producer with notable roles
Born
January 13th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 58 years old
An American actress and producer gained prominence for work in film and television. Appeared in significant roles in productions such as 'The Last Dragon' and 'Jagged Edge.' Also contributed to the theater as a producer, engaging in various projects that showcased her artistic capabilities. Career spanned several decades, leading to recognition within the entertainment industry, both in front of and behind the camera.
Continue ReadingChris Wiggins
Canadian actor in 'The Starlost'
Born
January 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 86 years old
An English-born Canadian actor who gained recognition for work in television and film. Notably starred in the Canadian science fiction series 'The Starlost' as the character Devon. Also lent talent to various roles in productions such as 'The Canadian Conspiracy' and 'The Incredible Hulk'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributing to both live-action performances and voice work.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Mariam Baouardy
Syrian Roman Catholic nun, canonized
Born
January 5th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1878 147 years ago — 32 years old
Born in a small village in Ottoman Syria, became a nun in the Carmelite order. Established a convent in Bethlehem and founded a Carmelite community in India. Known for mystical experiences and reported stigmata. Later canonized by the Catholic Church for her piety and dedication to the religious life.
Continue ReadingJeanie MacPherson
American actress and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
An actress and screenwriter contributed to the early film industry. Active in the 1910s and 1920s, she appeared in and wrote for silent films. Collaborated with prominent directors and actors of the era, shaping the narrative structure of early cinema. MacPherson’s work displayed a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. Most noted for writing the screenplay for the classic film 'The Sheik', which starred Rudolph Valentino, a significant film of its time that contributed to the popularity of romantic adventure stories in cinema. Also performed in numerous silent films, establishing a career that spanned both acting and writing.
Continue ReadingCharles Lindbergh
Aviator and first solo nonstop transatlantic flight
Born
February 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old
Transatlantic aviator and explorer completed the first solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. The historic flight took place on May 20-21, 1927, in the Spirit of St. Louis, traveling from New York City to Paris. This achievement significantly advanced the field of aviation and captured the world's imagination. Lindbergh became an international celebrity, receiving numerous accolades for the accomplishment. Later, he contributed to various aviation advancements and engaged in humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingJoe Ruby
Animator known for Scooby-Doo series
Born
March 30th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2020 5 years ago — 87 years old
An American animator contributed significantly to the animation industry. Co-founded Ruby-Spears Productions, which created animated series. Developed the beloved cartoon Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!, which premiered in 1969. Worked on various other shows and projects that showcased innovative storytelling and character design.
Continue ReadingLee Hays
American singer-songwriter, 'This Land Is Your Land'
Born
March 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1981 44 years ago — 67 years old
A significant figure in American folk music, made substantial contributions to the genre in the mid-20th century. Frequently collaborated with other prominent artists, particularly Pete Seeger. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Weavers, a folk music group that gained worldwide popularity. The Weavers helped to revive interest in traditional folk songs during the folk music revival of the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingTed Knight
Actor and comedian from 'Mary Tyler Moore'
Born
December 7th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1986 39 years ago — 62 years old
An American actor and comedian born in 1923. Best recognized for portraying Ted Baxter, a news anchor, on the television series 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Gained critical acclaim and popularity through this role, which showcased his comedic talents. Also appeared in films such as 'Caddyshack' and had a successful voice acting career in animated series. His work in television and film left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry.
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