Oprah Winfrey
Talk show host and media executive
Started a career in media as a news anchor in Nashville, before creating a nationally syndicated talk show that ran for 25 years. Established a production company, Harpo Productions, which produced films and television programs. Acted in the film 'The Color Purple' and received an Academy Award nomination. Became a prominent figure in publishing and launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), a cable channel devoted to lifestyle programming.
Created and hosted 'The Oprah Winfrey Show'
Founded Harpo Productions
Produced the film 'The Color Purple'
Launched the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN)
Other People Born on January 29th
Marc Singer
Actor in 'V' and 'The Beastmaster'
Born
January 29th, 1948 77 years ago
An actor with roots in Canada and the United States, gained recognition for performances in television and film. Starred in the science fiction miniseries 'V' in the 1980s, portraying Mike Donovan. Played the title role in the fantasy film 'The Beastmaster,' released in 1982, which became a cult classic. Worked in various television projects and films throughout the 1970s, 80s, and beyond, establishing a presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAnn Jillian
Actress and singer in 'It's a Living'
Born
January 29th, 1950 75 years ago
Born January 29, 1950, an American actress and singer gained recognition for a prominent role in the television series 'It's a Living'. She appeared in various film and television projects throughout her career, showcasing her talents in acting and music. In addition to her work on screen, she delivered impactful performances in stage productions, further expanding her artistic repertoire. Jillian's contributions to entertainment have left a lasting mark in the industry.
Continue ReadingHeather Graham
Actress and director in film and TV
Born
January 29th, 1970 55 years ago
Born in 1970, this actress gained prominence in the 1990s and has appeared in a variety of films and television series. Early roles included parts in 'License to Drive' and 'Twin Peaks'. Gained recognition for performances in 'Boogie Nights' and 'Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me'. Directed the film 'Half Magic' and has been active in the industry for decades, continuing to take on diverse roles in independent and commercial projects.
Continue ReadingSam Trammell
American actor in True Blood
Born
January 29th, 1969 56 years ago
An American actor gained recognition for portraying Sam Merlotte in the HBO series True Blood, which aired from 2008 to 2014. The series, based on the Southern Vampire Mysteries novels by Charlaine Harris, explored a world where vampires coexist with humans. Trammell's performance contributed to the show's popularity, earning it numerous awards and nominations. Trammell also appeared in films such as The Fault in Our Stars and Cherry. His career includes appearances in various television series, demonstrating a range of acting skills in different genres. Trammell graduated from the College of Charleston and later earned a degree from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Continue ReadingChristian VII of Denmark
Danish monarch during the Enlightenment
Born
January 29th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
March 13th, 1808 217 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as King of Denmark and Norway from 1766 until death in 1808. Christian VII's reign coincided with the Age of Enlightenment, which introduced significant intellectual and cultural changes in Europe. His mental health issues affected governance, leading to the regency of his effectively ruling half-brother, Prince Frederick. The king's relationship with Peter Ludvigsk, a physician, influenced the promotion of various reforms, including educational and agricultural advancements. The period saw Denmark's transition towards modern state practices, influenced by Enlightenment thinkers. Christian VII’s abdication was not formal but resulted from his inability to effectively rule due to mental illness. He remained a king symbolically until his death.
Continue ReadingW. C. Fields
Comedian and actor in classic films
Born
January 29th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1946 78 years ago — 66 years old
An American actor, comedian, and screenwriter, primarily active from the 1920s to the 1940s. Gained popularity through stage performances and became a significant figure in early Hollywood cinema. Featured in classic films such as 'It's a Gift' and 'The Bank Dick,' often portraying curmudgeonly characters with a distinctively humorous style. Known for a distinctive comedic persona that included a penchant for wit and a cynical view of life. Fields also worked in vaudeville and wrote many of his own screenplays, which highlighted his talent for both comedy and storytelling.
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