Patricia Neal
American actress in classic films
An acclaimed American actress, this individual gained prominence in the 1940s and 1950s through significant roles in film and theater. Notable works include performance in 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' and 'Hud', for which an Academy Award was received. The actress also starred in 'A Face in the Crowd' and 'The Fountainhead', showcasing versatility across both drama and science fiction genres. Many performances were marked by a strong screen presence and depth of character, contributing to a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
Won an Academy Award for 'Hud'
Starred in 'The Day the Earth Stood Still'
Featured in 'A Face in the Crowd'
Performed in 'The Fountainhead'
Other People Born on January 20th
Yvonne Loriod
French pianist and composer
Born
January 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributions included significant works in contemporary classical music. Loriod was celebrated for interpretations of works by her husband, composer Olivier Messiaen. She played a vital role in presenting many of his compositions and recognized the need for expanded performance techniques. Loriod also contributed to piano repertoire, composing original works that are performed by pianists worldwide. Affiliation with the Paris Conservatory further cemented her influence in the music education field.
Continue ReadingJaney Godley
Scottish comedian and writer
Born
January 20th, 1961 65 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 2024 1 years ago — 63 years old
A Scottish comedian and writer, contributions include stand-up comedy performances and writing both fictional and autobiographical works. Achievements in the comedy circuit include a strong presence at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where sold-out shows gained significant recognition. Additionally, provided voiceover work for animated content and participated in various podcasts, enhancing the landscape of Scottish humor. An accomplished writer, published a memoir detailing personal experiences and challenges.
Continue ReadingNick Foles
American football quarterback, Super Bowl MVP
Born
January 20th, 1989 37 years ago
Played as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Foles started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he gained recognition for his performance during the 2013 season, finishing with 27 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 119.2. He returned to the Eagles in 2017 and led the team to victory in Super Bowl LII, earning the Super Bowl MVP award for his efforts, which included throwing for 373 yards and three touchdowns. Foles also had stints with other teams, including the St. Louis Rams, Kansas City Chiefs, and Chicago Bears.
Continue ReadingGeovany Soto
Baseball player; 2008 Rookie of the Year
Born
January 20th, 1983 43 years ago
A professional baseball player, primarily played as a catcher. Competed in Major League Baseball with the Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and other teams. Achieved significant success during the 2008 season, receiving the National League Rookie of the Year Award. Contributed to the Cubs' strong performance during that period, helping the team secure a division title. Known for both offensive and defensive skills behind the plate.
Continue ReadingDorothy Provine
Actress in The Alamo and It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World
Born
January 20th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2010 15 years ago — 75 years old
An American actress, singer, and dancer participated in television and film during the 1950s and 1960s. Gained recognition for starring in the television series The Roaring 20s, portraying a flapper in a crime drama setting. Featured in notable films such as The Alamo, where portrayed the character of a woman in the iconic battle, and It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World, a classic comedy film with an ensemble cast. Also had success in musical performances, showcasing vocal talents alongside acting skills. Retired from acting in the 1970s, focusing on personal life and family.
Continue ReadingKarl Anderson
Professional wrestler and tag team specialist
Born
January 20th, 1980 46 years ago
Professional wrestling career began in 2000. Participated in multiple wrestling promotions including WWE and NJPW. Gained prominence as part of the tag team known as The Good Brothers alongside Luke Gallows. Won the IWGP Tag Team Championship multiple times with Gallows, enhancing visibility in the tag team scene. Achieved success in WWE, where the team also captured the Raw Tag Team Championship, contributing to a substantial legacy in professional wrestling.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 8th
Carl Heinrich Graun
German tenor and composer of opera
Born
May 7th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1759 266 years ago — 58 years old
Born in 1701, a significant tenor and composer in Germany. He studied under renowned musicians and gained prominence in the 18th century. Composed notable operas such as 'Cesare e Cleopatra' and 'Der König von Arkadien'. Worked at various courts, including that of Frederick the Great. His contributions to the opera genre were influential during his time, reflecting the transition of musical styles in the Baroque period.
Continue ReadingHenry of Blois
Bishop of Winchester and historian
Born
1111 915 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1171 854 years ago — 60 years old
Served as Bishop of Winchester from 1129 to 1171, played a significant role in the politics of 12th-century England. Actively participated in the governance of the church and state, supporting the king during challenging times. Contributed to the administration of the bishopric, including the construction of the Winchester Cathedral. Authored historical works that provide insight into the events of his time, notably a chronicle covering the reign of King Stephen.
Continue ReadingLucas van Leyden
Dutch Renaissance artist and engraver
Born
1494 532 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1533 492 years ago — 39 years old
Active during the early 16th century, this artist gained recognition for detailed engravings and paintings. He produced religious and secular works that showcased intricate storytelling and character expression. Influenced by Italian Renaissance art, he contributed significantly to the development of printmaking in Northern Europe. A prominent figure in Leiden, he established a reputation that earned him patronage from various local and regional dignitaries. His innovative techniques and artistry inspired contemporaries and left a lasting legacy in Dutch art history.
Continue ReadingAlmanzor
Chief Minister of Córdoba
Died
August 8th, 1002 1023 years ago — None years old
Served as the chief minister and de facto ruler of Córdoba during the late 10th century. Played a central role in the politics of Al-Andalus, overseeing military campaigns and administrative reforms. Enhanced the power of the Caliphate of Córdoba through strategic alliances and conquests. Under leadership, Córdoba became a significant cultural and intellectual center in the Islamic world.
Continue ReadingKonstantinas Sirvydas
Lithuanian priest and lexicographer
Born
1579 447 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1631 394 years ago — 52 years old
A Lithuanian priest and academic, contributed significantly to the lexicography of the Lithuanian language. Authored the first Lithuanian dictionary, which laid the foundation for future Lithuanian language studies. Worked in the early 17th century to promote literacy and education in Lithuania.
Continue ReadingCarl Peter Thunberg
Swedish botanist and entomologist
Born
November 11th, 1743 282 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1828 197 years ago — 84 years old
Thunberg studied botany and entomology while serving as a student of Carl Linnaeus. Extensive travels to Japan and South Africa contributed to his notable collections. Thunberg published several significant works on botany and is credited with identifying numerous plant species. His work laid foundational knowledge for future botanical studies.
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