Telly Savalas
American actor and TV detective
An American actor gained prominence through television and film roles. Played the titular character in the long-running detective series 'Kojak', which aired from 1973 to 1978. His performance as Kojak earned critical acclaim and multiple nominations and awards. Savalas also appeared in numerous films, with notable roles in 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Birds'. His distinct bald head and expressive acting style became his trademark.
Played Kojak in the series 'Kojak'
Appeared in 'The Dirty Dozen'
Acted in 'Birds'
Other People Born on January 21st
Cristian Pavón
Argentine footballer with Boca Juniors
Born
January 21st, 1996 30 years ago
A footballer played as a winger and forward, beginning professional career at Boca Juniors in 2014. Gained recognition for exceptional speed and dribbling skills. Contributed to Boca Juniors winning the Argentine Primera División title in 2017. Played for the national team in various competitions, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Joined Major League Soccer's LA Galaxy in 2019 on loan.
Continue ReadingDmitri Khlestov
Russian footballer and defender
Born
January 21st, 1971 55 years ago
A former professional footballer played primarily as a defender. Career included stints at Spartak Moscow and the Russian national team. Gained recognition for contributions to the team's success in the 1996 UEFA European Championship. Also played in the 1994 FIFA World Cup, representing Russia on the international stage. After retirement, transitioned into a coaching role, contributing to the development of future players.
Continue ReadingPhil Thompson
Footballer and coach, captain of Liverpool
Born
January 21st, 1954 72 years ago
Played as a center-back for Liverpool Football Club from 1971 to 1983. Captained Liverpool during the late 1970s and early 1980s, contributing to the team's dominance in English and European football. Won multiple league titles and European Cups. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, serving as a coach and assistant manager at various clubs, including Liverpool. Led coaching initiatives and player development.
Continue ReadingAndreas Bauer
German ski jumper Olympic competitor
Born
January 21st, 1964 62 years ago
Competed in ski jumping during the 1980s and 1990s. Participated in the 1984 Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, representing Germany. Achieved notable success in various international competitions, contributing to the prominence of German ski jumping.
Continue ReadingJames Duckworth
Australian tennis player with ATP titles
Born
January 21st, 1992 34 years ago
A professional tennis player from Australia. Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 82 in March 2022. Participated in all four Grand Slam tournaments, with notable performances at the Australian Open and US Open. Generated recognition for resilience in competing through injuries, contributing to a steady career.
Continue ReadingIkumi Yoshimatsu
Japanese actress and model
Born
January 21st, 1987 39 years ago
An actress and model, gained recognition as Miss International 2012. Appeared in various Japanese films and television shows, including 'Kamen Rider Gaim' and 'Hana Kimi'. Also known for her work in the entertainment industry as a television personality.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 22nd
Anne Hébert
Canadian author and poet
Born
August 1st, 1916 110 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2000 26 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in Canadian literature, contributed significantly through poetry and novels. Published major works such as 'Les Fous de Bassan' and 'Kamouraska', which explore complex themes of identity, isolation, and societal struggles. Received numerous awards for literary excellence, including the Governor General's Award for Fiction.
Continue ReadingNgô Quang Trưởng
Vietnamese general and military leader
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2007 19 years ago — 78 years old
Served as a general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Played a significant role during the Vietnam War, particularly in the defense of the country against North Vietnamese forces. Commanded the 1st Division and was involved in key operations including the Battle of Hue during the Tet Offensive. After the fall of Saigon, relocated to the United States and engaged in various community activities.
Continue ReadingCésar Gutiérrez
Venezuelan baseball player and manager
Born
January 26th, 1943 83 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2005 21 years ago — 61 years old
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop and utility infielder. Served as a player-coach for the Tiburones de La Guaira in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League. Transitioned into managing teams in various leagues, contributing to player development and team strategy. His career spanned several decades, impacting Venezuelan baseball culture through both his playing and coaching.
Continue ReadingRobert Choquette
Canadian Author and Diplomat
Born
April 22nd, 1905 121 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1991 35 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in Canadian literature, produced a significant body of work including poetry and novels. Served as a diplomat, representing Canada in various capacities abroad. His poetic contributions enriched the literary landscape of the country. Focused on themes of identity and culture, reflecting the Canadian experience during his lifetime.
Continue ReadingUrsula K. Le Guin
Sci-fi and fantasy novelist
Born
October 21st, 1929 97 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2018 8 years ago — 88 years old
An influential writer in the genres of science fiction and fantasy, this author crafted complex worlds and explored themes of society and identity. Works include the Earthsea series and the novel The Left Hand of Darkness, which delves into issues of gender and sexual orientation. The author received multiple prestigious awards and accolades throughout the career, contributing significantly to speculative fiction.
Continue ReadingMasaya Nakamura
Businessman and video game pioneer
Born
1925 101 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2017 9 years ago — 92 years old
Founded Namco in 1955, specializing in arcade games. Played a crucial role in the development of popular games such as Pac-Man, which became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s. Expanded the company into a major player in the gaming industry, overseeing the growth of Namco's portfolio, including titles like Galaga and Tekken. Involved in the creation of amusement parks and continued to innovate in gaming technology throughout the years. Credited with elevating the standard of arcade gaming worldwide.
Continue Reading