Vasily Lazarev
Russian astronaut and physician
Served as a colonel in the Soviet Air Force and contributed to the Soviet space program as a physician and cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 14 mission in 1974, which involved a successful docking with the Salyut 7 space station. Conducted scientific research during the mission that contributed to the understanding of long-duration spaceflight effects on the human body.
Participated in Soyuz 14 mission
Served as a physician on Salyut 7
Contributed to medical research in space
Other People Born on February 23rd
Josh Gad
Actor and voice of Olaf in Frozen
Born
February 23rd, 1981 44 years ago
An American actor, producer, and screenwriter has contributed to film and theatre. Gained recognition for voicing Olaf in the animated films Frozen and Frozen II. Also starred in the Broadway production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Appeared in television shows such as The Elected and 1600 Penn. Engaged in various projects, including the role of LeFou in the live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.
Continue ReadingKazuya Kamenashi
Japanese singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 23rd, 1986 39 years ago
Performed as a member of the popular Japanese boy band KAT-TUN. Gained recognition for leading roles in television dramas such as 'Nobuta wo Produce' and 'Joker: Yurusarezaru Sosakan'. Released several solo singles and albums, contributing to the J-pop genre. Also participated in various stage productions, showcasing versatility in performance.
Continue ReadingOla Svensson
Swedish singer-songwriter; 'Engine' hit
Born
February 23rd, 1986 39 years ago
Born in 1986, a singer-songwriter gained prominence in Sweden with a successful music career. gained recognition after participating in a popular talent show, which led to a record deal. Released albums and singles, with 'Engine' achieving significant commercial success in 2008. Engaged in various artistic projects, collaborating with other artists and contributing to the Swedish music scene. Continued to produce music, blending pop and other genres, sustaining a loyal fanbase over the years.
Continue ReadingJérémy Pied
Professional footballer and defender
Born
February 23rd, 1989 36 years ago
Born in France, a professional footballer who played primarily as a right back. Initially joined Lyon's youth academy, making his first-team debut in 2007. Transferred to Lille in 2012, contributing to the team's success in Ligue 1. Later joined clubs such as Nice and Saint-Étienne. Notable for his defensive skills and contributions in domestic leagues throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJosé Joaquín de Herrera
Mexican politician and general
Born
February 23rd, 1792 233 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1854 171 years ago — 61 years old
Served as President of Mexico from 1844 to 1845 and briefly in 1854. Held significant military roles during the Mexican-American War. Participated in multiple battles and negotiations, influencing key political dynamics of the era. Played a role in drafting important legislation aimed at stabilizing the country.
Continue ReadingClarence D. Lester
American fighter pilot
Born
February 23rd, 1923 102 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1986 39 years ago — 63 years old
Born in 1923, served as a fighter pilot during World War II, achieving notable acclaim for flying various aircraft, including the P-51 Mustang. Contributed to aerial combat missions in the European theater. After the war, continued a career in aviation, later reflecting on experiences as a pilot in relation to military history and strategy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 31st
Billie Dove
American actress in silent films
Born
May 14th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1997 27 years ago — 94 years old
Achieved prominence as a silent film actress in the early 20th century, starring in a number of successful films. Gained fame for performances in 'The Eternal City' (1923) and 'New Toys' (1925). Transitioned to sound films but largely retired from acting in the 1930s. Additionally, pursued a career in singing and appeared in several stage productions.
Continue ReadingBarry Lane
Professional Golfer with numerous titles
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2022 2 years ago — 62 years old
A professional golfer who enjoyed a successful career primarily in the European Tour and Champions Tour. Achieved notable success in the 1990s and 2000s, securing multiple tournament victories. Lane had a reputation for consistency on the course and represented England internationally, including participation in the World Cup of Golf. His career spanned over three decades, during which he competed against many top players in the sport.
Continue ReadingWesley Addy
American actor in television and film
Born
August 4th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1996 28 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor, prominent during the mid-20th century, worked extensively in television and film. Appeared in leading roles on series such as 'The Edge of Night' and 'The Defenders'. Had a successful career in Broadway, particularly celebrated for performances in productions like 'A Moon for the Misbegotten'. Also featured in movies including 'The Young Lovers' and 'The Way We Were'.
Continue ReadingEileen Heckart
American actress in stage and film
Born
March 29th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2001 23 years ago — 82 years old
An actress with a career spanning over six decades in film, television, and theater. Gained prominence for roles in the Broadway production of 'The Dark at the Top of the Stairs' and the film 'Butterflies Are Free'. Won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in 'Butterflies Are Free'. Appeared in multiple television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Love Boat'.
Continue ReadingValerian Wellesley
British Duke, politician, and soldier
Born
July 2nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2014 10 years ago — 99 years old
Served as the 8th Duke of Wellington, holding a prominent role in the House of Lords. Participated in military service during World War II, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Engaged in politics, advocating for various causes and contributing to legislative discussions. Inherited the title of Duke in 1943, representing a historic lineage linked to the Battle of Waterloo. Maintained a lifelong connection to the family estate at Stratfield Saye, preserving the legacy of the Wellington family.
Continue ReadingArnold Rüütel
Estonian politician and President
Born
May 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2024 0 years ago — 96 years old
An agronomist and politician, served as the President of Estonia from 2001 to 2006. Elected to the Riigikogu, the Estonian parliament, in 1990, played a significant role in Estonia's transition to independence from the Soviet Union. During presidency, focused on strengthening national identity and international relations. Prior to presidency, held various positions in the agricultural sector, contributing to the country's development in post-Soviet times.
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