Kirstie Alley
American actress from 'Cheers' fame
An American actress and producer, recognized for significant roles in television and film during the 1980s and 1990s. Gained prominence for portraying Rebecca Howe on the sitcom 'Cheers,' which aired from 1987 to 1993. Received critical acclaim and several awards for her performance, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Special for 'The Last Don.' Also starred in the 'Look Who's Talking' film series, which contributed to her popularity. In addition to acting, engaged in various production projects throughout her career, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Portrayed Rebecca Howe on 'Cheers'
Won an Emmy Award for 'The Last Don'
Starred in 'Look Who's Talking' film series
Other People Born on January 12th
Toto Wolff
Formula One Team Principal
Born
January 12th, 1972 53 years ago
An investor and entrepreneur in motorsport, served as the Executive Director and Team Principal of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. Oversaw the team during a period of unprecedented success in Formula One racing. Secured multiple Constructors' Championships and Drivers' Championships. Played a pivotal role in the development of both drivers and race strategies, contributing to the dominance of the team in F1.
Continue ReadingDontrelle Willis
Baseball player, 2003 Rookie of the Year
Born
January 12th, 1982 43 years ago
Professional baseball pitcher played primarily for the Florida Marlins in Major League Baseball (MLB). Debuted in 2003 and had an impressive rookie season, earning the National League Rookie of the Year Award. In 2005, achieved an All-Star appearance, showcasing exceptional skills on the mound. Also played for teams such as the Detroit Tigers, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Cincinnati Reds throughout a career spanning nearly a decade. Willis was known for his distinctive pitching style and charismatic presence on the field.
Continue ReadingJeff Bezos
Businessman and founder of Amazon
Born
January 12th, 1964 61 years ago
A computer scientist and businessman established Amazon in 1994, transforming the way consumers shop online. Under leadership, Amazon expanded from an online bookstore to a global e-commerce giant, offering a vast array of products and services. The company introduced innovations like Amazon Prime and cloud computing services through Amazon Web Services (AWS). Bezos also acquired The Washington Post in 2013, influencing media and journalism. In 2021, Bezos stepped down as CEO of Amazon but remains involved with the company and leads Blue Origin, a venture focused on space exploration.
Continue ReadingCharles Perrault
French author of classic fairy tales
Born
January 12th, 1628 397 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1703 322 years ago — 75 years old
Authored celebrated fairy tales including "Cinderella," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Little Red Riding Hood." Contributed to the development of the fairy tale genre in literature and helped to popularize storytelling for children. In 1697, published "Histoires ou contes du temps passé," which compiled these tales, making them widely accessible and influential in European literature.
Continue ReadingArman Alizad
Television presenter and tailor
Born
January 12th, 1971 54 years ago
Born in Iran and later moving to Finland, a prominent tailor and television presenter emerged as a figure in the media landscape. Gaining fame through various television programs, contributions to cultural discussions showcased both fashion expertise and personal narratives. A distinct style and engaging presentation attracted a dedicated audience, leading to numerous appearances on Finnish television.
Continue ReadingSimon Russell Beale
Actor and historian, acclaimed for stage roles
Born
January 12th, 1961 64 years ago
Born in Malaysia and raised in England, an accomplished actor and historian has garnered acclaim in the theatre world. Studied at the University of Birmingham and later joined the Royal Shakespeare Company, portraying iconic characters in numerous Shakespearean plays. Worked extensively in London's West End, featuring prominently in productions such as 'King Lear', 'Hamlet', and 'The Tempest'. Received multiple awards including the Olivier Award, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication to the craft. Also contributed to historical documentaries, enriching cultural discourse through performance and scholarship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 5th
Clair Cameron Patterson
Geochemist, developed uranium-lead dating
Born
June 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago — 73 years old
A geochemist made significant contributions to the field of geochronology. Developed the uranium-lead dating technique that established the age of the Earth as 4.5 billion years. Conducted research on lead contamination and its effects on human health. Advocated for environmental protection and helped raise awareness about lead in the environment, influencing public policy and regulation.
Continue ReadingJohann Friedrich Fasch
German composer and violinist
Born
April 15th, 1688 337 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1758 267 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1688, a significant figure in the Baroque music era, recognized for contributions to both instrumental and vocal music. Composed numerous orchestral works, cantatas, and chamber music. Served as a Kapellmeister in several courts, particularly in Zerbst, where he worked to develop and promote music. His compositions often reflected the stylistic transitions of the period, blending German and Italian styles. Throughout his career, contributions to the development of the concerto grosso form were notable.
Continue ReadingFred Clark
American actor in film and television
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1968 57 years ago — 54 years old
An American actor worked extensively in film and television. Gained recognition for roles in various productions during the mid-20th century. Featured in several notable films and television shows, contributing to the entertainment industry for decades. Known for distinctive performances that showcased versatility across different genres.
Continue ReadingRobert Walker
American actor in 'Strangers on a Train'
Born
April 15th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2019 6 years ago — 79 years old
An actor, celebrated for performances in films during the 1940s and 1950s. Gained significant recognition for the role in 'Strangers on a Train' in 1951, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Appeared in various other films and television shows throughout the 1950s. Known for a distinct ability to portray complex characters, contributing to the film industry's development during that era.
Continue ReadingFrancis II of France
King of France (1559-1560)
Born
January 19th, 1544 481 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1560 465 years ago — 16 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1559 until death in 1560. Ascended to the throne at the age of 15. His reign coincided with significant religious conflict in France, particularly between Catholics and Protestants. Married Mary, Queen of Scots, solidifying the connection between France and Scotland. Died prematurely, leading to the regency of his mother, Catherine de' Medici.
Continue ReadingClaude Dornier
Engineer and aircraft manufacturer
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 85 years old
An engineer and businessman contributed significantly to aviation by founding Dornier Flugzeugwerke, a company specializing in aircraft manufacturing. Focused on innovation and design, various notable aircraft were developed during his tenure, including the Dornier Do 17 and Do 24 flying boats. Dornier's work extended to military and civilian aircraft, solidifying a reputation for engineering excellence.
Continue Reading