Sidney Poitier
Actor and director, Oscar-winning role
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in the Bahamas, an impactful figure in American cinema. Starred in films such as 'Lilies of the Field', earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Other notable works include 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner', 'To Sir, with Love', and 'The Defiant Ones'. Poitier also directed films including 'Buck and the Preacher' and 'Stir Crazy'. Later served as the Bahamian ambassador to Japan, contributing to diplomatic relations. His career spanned decades, influencing representation in film and culture.
Won the Academy Award for Best Actor for 'Lilies of the Field'
Starred in 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner'
Directed 'Buck and the Preacher' and 'Stir Crazy'
Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Other People Born on February 20th
Josh Sargent
Soccer player, Norwich City FC striker
Born
February 20th, 2000 26 years ago
Born in 2000, this soccer player began his youth career at a local club before joining the youth academy of a prominent Major League Soccer team. He played as a forward and showcased his skills in both domestic and international competitions. After notable performances in youth tournaments, he signed with a European club where he contributed to the team's offensive lineup. The player has represented the national team in various international fixtures, making significant appearances in World Cup qualifiers.
Continue ReadingJiah Khan
Indian actress in Bollywood films
Born
February 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Died
2013 13 years ago — 25 years old
Born in 1988, this actress gained recognition in the Hindi film industry with her debut in 'Nishabd' alongside Amitabh Bachchan. She also appeared in 'Ghajini' and 'Housefull', showcasing talent in both drama and comedy roles. Her career was marked by roles that often highlighted the complexities of contemporary romance. Despite a promising start, her life was cut short in 2013. The actress's contributions to Indian cinema, although brief, left a lasting impression on her fans.
Continue ReadingLuis Severino
Dominican Major League Baseball pitcher
Born
February 20th, 1994 32 years ago
This athlete plays as a pitcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the New York Yankees. Severino made his MLB debut in 2015 and quickly established himself as a key member of the Yankees' starting rotation. Recognized for fastball velocity and slider effectiveness, he received an All-Star selection in 2017. Severino contributed to the Yankees' postseason efforts, notably participating in the American League Wild Card Game.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Naguib
Egyptian general, 1st President of Egypt
Born
February 20th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1984 41 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the first President of Egypt following the revolution of 1952 that led to the overthrow of the monarchy. Previously held the position of Prime Minister and played a significant role in the Free Officers Movement. Advocated for social and economic reforms during his presidency but faced challenges in maintaining power. Eventually, differences with his successor led to his resignation and house arrest for a significant period. Contributions to the establishment of a republic and military reforms are notable during his leadership.
Continue ReadingJames Johnson
Basketball Player for the Miami Heat
Born
February 20th, 1987 39 years ago
A professional basketball player, played primarily as a forward. Drafted 16th overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls. Played for several NBA teams, including the Toronto Raptors and the Miami Heat. Gained recognition for a well-rounded skill set and versatility on the court. Achieved a notable career-high of 31 points in a single game while with the Heat. Transitioned into a valuable role player, contributing defensively and offensively throughout various seasons.
Continue ReadingRihanna
Barbadian singer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1988 38 years ago
Born in February 1988, a Barbadian singer and actress emerged as one of the most prominent figures in the music industry. Debuting with the album 'Music of the Sun,' gained widespread recognition for the single 'Umbrella' featuring Jay-Z. Subsequent albums, including 'Good Girl Gone Bad' and 'Anti,' solidified a position in pop music, showcasing a blend of genres and distinctive vocal style. The artistry extended to acting with a notable role in the film 'Ocean's 8.' An influential figure in fashion, launched the lingerie line Savage X Fenty and the cosmetics brand Fenty Beauty, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 6th
Gordon Renwick
Ice hockey administrator and businessman
Born
1935 91 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2021 5 years ago — 86 years old
An influential figure in Canadian ice hockey, played a key role in the development of the sport at both amateur and professional levels. Served as president of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association and was integral in promoting the growth of youth hockey programs across Canada. Additionally, contributed to the management of professional teams and ensured the establishment of fair play standards and regulations within the sport. Focused on advancing the interests of ice hockey players and fostering a culture of excellence throughout the hockey community.
Continue ReadingHerbert Chapman
English football manager, Arsenal FC
Born
January 19th, 1878 148 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1934 92 years ago — 55 years old
Managed Arsenal FC from 1925 to 1934, leading the team to significant successes in English football. Introduced innovative tactics and training methods that transformed the club and the game. Under management, Arsenal won two First Division titles in 1931 and 1933, and the FA Cup in 1930. Chapman's strategies laid the groundwork for future football management.
Continue ReadingBob Holness
Radio and television host for Blockbusters
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
January 6th, 2012 14 years ago — 84 years old
A radio and television host in South Africa and England co-hosted the popular game show Blockbusters. Hosted the show from its inception in 1983 until 1990, becoming a recognisable figure in British television. Worked in radio, contributing to various stations, including the BBC. Also, hosted other television programs and was involved in charity work throughout his career.
Continue ReadingVladimir Vernadsky
Mineralogist and chemist, biogeochemistry pioneer
Born
March 12th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1945 81 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions to mineralogy and geochemistry included the establishment of the science of biogeochemistry. Developed the concept of the biosphere, emphasizing the impact of living organisms on the Earth's geology and atmosphere. Worked with the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences and contributed to the development of scientific institutions in Russia. Authored several influential works, including 'The Biosphere' which explored the relationship between life and the planet's physical processes.
Continue ReadingChen Yi
Chinese general and politician
Born
August 26th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1972 54 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a general in the People's Liberation Army during the Chinese Civil War. Became the second Foreign Minister of the People's Republic of China from 1958 to 1972. Participated in various military campaigns and played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic. Contributed to foreign policy during a crucial period in China's international relations.
Continue ReadingBurt Munro
Motorcycle racer and record holder
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1978 48 years ago — 79 years old
A motorcycle racer from New Zealand achieved significant recognition for setting land speed records. Remarkably, the individual set a record of 183.586 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967 on a modified 1920 Indian motorcycle. This accomplishment remained unbeaten in its class for decades. The effort to push the limits of speed involved considerable innovation and engineering on the motorcycle to enhance performance. The story of this racer gained further attention with the release of the film 'The World's Fastest Indian'.
Continue Reading