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
Jair Jurrjens
Baseball pitcher, All-Star selection
Born
January 29th, 1986 40 years ago
A professional baseball pitcher from Curaçao contributed significantly to Major League Baseball. Made debut in 2006 with the Detroit Tigers and went on to play for the Atlanta Braves. In 2011, earned an All-Star selection, demonstrating outstanding performance during that season. Known for a strong right pitching arm and effective strikeout ability, maintained an influential presence on the mound throughout career.
Continue ReadingJames Jamerson
American bass player with Motown Records
Born
January 29th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1983 42 years ago — 47 years old
A prominent bass player in the Motown sound, contributed to numerous classic songs during the 1960s. Played on iconic tracks by various artists, influencing the genre of soul and rock music. Worked primarily as a session musician, utilizing the Fender Precision Bass to craft memorable lines that became integral to the rhythm and melody of countless hits. Jamerson's innovative playing style and techniques helped define the bass guitar's role in popular music.
Continue ReadingSydney Chapman
Mathematician and geophysicist
Born
January 29th, 1888 138 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1970 55 years ago — 82 years old
Contributions to mathematics and geophysics included significant work on the theory of the upper atmosphere and the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth's magnetosphere. Developed the Chapman function, extensively applied in atmospheric science. Also, researched the conditions and theories related to the stratosphere and ionosphere.
Continue ReadingChris Bourque
Ice hockey player and AHL champion
Born
January 29th, 1986 40 years ago
An American ice hockey player had a career spanning over a decade, mainly in the American Hockey League (AHL). Drafted in 2004, played for teams such as the Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals in the National Hockey League (NHL). Achieved considerable success in the AHL, winning the Calder Cup with the Hershey Bears in 2010 and 2016. Represented the United States internationally, participating in various tournaments.
Continue ReadingHenry Ward Ranger
American painter and academic
Born
January 29th, 1858 168 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1916 109 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1858, an American painter and academic specialized in landscape painting. Ranger played a pivotal role in the emergence of American Impressionism. He studied in Paris and developed a style that showcased the interplay of light and color in natural settings. Ranger was a founding member of the Old Lyme Art Colony, which became a central hub for Impressionist artists in America. His teaching at various art institutions also influenced many aspiring painters, promoting the Impressionist movement across the country.
Continue ReadingKyary Pamyu Pamyu
Japanese pop singer and model
Born
January 29th, 1993 33 years ago
Achieved recognition as a prominent figure in the Japanese pop music scene. Rose to fame with the release of the viral hit 'PonPonPon' in 2011, which showcased a unique fusion of colorful visuals and catchy melodies. Developed a distinctive style that combines elements of fashion, culture, and music. Released several successful albums that contributed to the city's vibrant Harajuku culture. Active in multiple media formats, including television appearances and fashion collaborations.
Continue Reading