Michael Ontkean
Canadian actor in 'The Rookies' and 'Slap Shot'
An accomplished Canadian actor, contributed to film and television from the 1970s onwards. Gained recognition for roles in the television series 'The Rookies' as Officer Mike Phillips and in the film 'Slap Shot' as the character Dennis Lemaster. Also featured in the television series 'Twin Peaks' as Sheriff Harry S. Truman. Developed a reputation for playing both dramatic and comedic roles throughout a lengthy career.
Played Officer Mike Phillips in 'The Rookies'
Starred as Dennis Lemaster in 'Slap Shot'
Portrayed Sheriff Harry S. Truman in 'Twin Peaks'
Other People Born on January 24th
Gottfried von Einem
Austrian composer and pianist
Born
January 24th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 78 years old
Worked as a composer and pianist, contributing significantly to 20th-century classical music. Created operas, concertos, and chamber music that highlighted dramatic themes and complex structures. Gained recognition for operatic works such as 'Der Prozess' based on Franz Kafka's novel and received numerous awards, including the Austrian State Prize for Music. Served as a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna, influencing future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingJ. Howard Marshall
American lawyer and businessman
Born
January 24th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 90 years old
Established a successful career in the oil industry, notably serving as the chairman of Marshall Oil Company. Contributed to the legal field with expertise in tax law and responsibilities as a law professor. Gained attention through high-profile relationships and interests in various investment ventures. His estate became the center of a significant legal battle following his death, related to the inheritance claims of his widow, Anna Nicole Smith.
Continue ReadingKarpoori Thakur
Indian politician, 11th Chief Minister of Bihar
Born
January 24th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1988 37 years ago — 64 years old
An educator and politician, served as the 11th Chief Minister of Bihar in India. Held office twice, first from 1970 to 1971 and again from 1977 to 1978. Instrumental in implementing policies aimed at social justice and educational reforms. Advocated for the rights of backward classes and worked toward improving their access to education and job opportunities.
Continue ReadingPaula Hawkins
American politician, U.S. Senator
Born
January 24th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 82 years old
Paula Hawkins served as a U.S. Senator from Florida from 1977 to 1989. She was the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate from Florida. Prior to her Senate service, Hawkins was involved in Florida state politics and served as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. During her tenure in the Senate, she focused on issues such as women's rights, health care, and environmental protection. After leaving the Senate, she remained active in politics and public service.
Continue ReadingMartin Lings
Author and scholar of Islamic studies
Born
January 24th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 96 years old
A prominent English author and scholar specialized in Islamic studies and spirituality. Worked as a lecturer at the University of London, contributing significantly to the field of religious and spiritual literature. His interpretation of Islamic teachings and Sufi poetry has garnered attention and respect within academic circles. Authored several notable works, including a well-regarded biography of the Prophet Muhammad titled 'Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources'. Lings' writings were rooted in a deep understanding of Islamic traditions and aimed to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western perspectives.
Continue ReadingGene Mako
Tennis player and film actor
Born
January 24th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
Competed in professional tennis during the mid-20th century and achieved notable success in doubles events. Partnered with partners such as Jack Kramer, winning the 1940 U.S. National Championships men's doubles title. Transitioned into acting, appearing in films including 'The Kid from Brooklyn' and 'The Fleet's In'.
Continue Reading