Taylor Hackford

Film director and producer of Ray

Taylor Hackford - Film director and producer of Ray
Born

December 31st, 1944
80 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Director, producer, and screenwriter focused on film and television. Debuted with the film 'The Idolmaker' in 1980. Directed the acclaimed biographical film 'Ray', which earned two Academy Awards. Produced several projects, including the documentary 'The Righteous and the Wicked'. Worked extensively in television, directing episodes of series such as 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Shark'.

Directed the film 'Ray' which won 2 Academy Awards

Produced the documentary 'The Righteous and the Wicked'

Directed episodes of 'The Twilight Zone'

Other People Born on December 31st

Carmen Contreras-Bozak

Puerto Rican-American soldier and veteran
Born
December 31st, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Puerto Rico, served in the United States Army during World War II. Joined the Women's Army Corps and participated in key military operations. Contributed to the war effort while facing challenges as a Latina in a predominantly male environment. After military service, became an advocate for veterans’ rights and worked to improve benefits for women in the military. Retired with recognition for her service and dedication to the Army.

Continue Reading

Fred Beebe

Baseball player and coach, 1912 Olympics
Born
December 31st, 1880 144 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1957 67 years ago — 76 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher and later transitioned to coaching. Competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics as a member of the United States baseball team. Contributed to the development of baseball skills for younger players through coaching roles in various leagues.

Continue Reading

Connie Willis

Science fiction author, Hugo Award winner
Born
December 31st, 1945 79 years ago

An American author recognized for contributions to the science fiction genre, particularly through the exploration of time travel. Wrote the acclaimed 'Doomsday Book,' a novel that intertwines a contemporary narrative with a historical setting during the Black Death. Created a notable series of works set in Oxford's time travel research program, delving into themes of history and human experience. Received multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards throughout a prolific writing career.

Continue Reading

Jana Veselá

Czech basketball player, Olympian
Born
December 31st, 1983 41 years ago

A professional basketball player, competed internationally for the Czech Republic. Played in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) for teams including the Minnesota Lynx. Participated in the 2012 London Olympics, representing the national team. Accumulated extensive experience in European leagues, contributing significantly to club successes.

Continue Reading

Alycia Parks

Tennis player with notable tournament wins
Born
December 31st, 2000 24 years ago

Competed in professional tennis, achieving significant rankings in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Gained attention for powerful serves and strong performance in both singles and doubles events. Participated in Grand Slam tournaments, marking a pivotal career stage. Received accolades for contributions to the sport, embodying competitive spirit at a young age.

Continue Reading

Emperor Go-Yōzei

Emperor of Japan during the Edo period
Born
December 31st, 1572 452 years ago
Died
1617 408 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1572, ruled as the 107th emperor of Japan during the Edo period. His reign spanned from 1586 to 1611. Oversaw the continuation of the unification of Japan under Tokugawa Ieyasu. The era was marked by relative peace and stability, which allowed for cultural growth and development. His death in 1617 led to the ascension of his successor. The Tokugawa shogunate maintained power throughout the remaining years of the period, which lasted until 1868.

Continue Reading