Viggo Mortensen

Actor known for 'The Lord of the Rings'

Viggo Mortensen - Actor known for 'The Lord of the Rings'
Born

October 20th, 1958
67 years ago

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An actor and producer with American and Danish heritage. Gained prominence for the role of Aragorn in the film trilogy 'The Lord of the Rings', which received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Awards. Acted in various films including 'A History of Violence', 'Eastern Promises', and 'Green Book', the latter earning an Academy Award for Best Picture. Also involved in photography and painting, contributing to the art community.

Portrayed Aragorn in 'The Lord of the Rings'

Earned an Academy Award nomination for 'Eastern Promises'

Won an Academy Award for 'Green Book'

Other People Born on October 20th

George Ormerod

Historian and author of topographical works
Born
October 20th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1873 152 years ago — 87 years old

An English historian and author contributed significantly to the field of local history and topography. Ormerod wrote an extensive history of Cheshire, which remains a key reference for scholars studying the area. In addition to books, engaged in researching and documenting the history of various regions within England. Also served as a founding member of the Royal Historical Society, promoting the study of historical literature and encouraging scholarly research.

Continue Reading

Ric Lee

English drummer with Ten Years After
Born
October 20th, 1945 80 years ago

Born in 1945, contributions to music began in the 1960s. Lee gained prominence as the drummer for the band Ten Years After. The band achieved popularity through its blues rock sound and memorable performances, particularly at the Woodstock Festival in 1969. Lee’s drumming style contributed to the band’s distinctive sound and energetic live performances. The group remained active throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Melville

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1973 52 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, contributions included directing influential films during the post-war era. Established a unique style that fused American noir with French storytelling, leading to the emergence of the 'nouvelle vague' movement. Key works included 'Le Samouraï', which showcased minimalistic dialogue and strong visual storytelling, and 'Les Enfants Terribles', an adaptation of Jean Cocteau's novel. Additionally, founded his own production company, which allowed for creative freedom in filmmaking.

Continue Reading

Ken Ham

Evangelist and creationist educator
Born
October 20th, 1951 74 years ago

Born in Australia, an evangelist and creationist educator focused on promoting a literal interpretation of the Biblical account of creation. Founded Answers in Genesis, an organization that provides resources for the creationist movement. Built the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, which opened in 2007, and the Ark Encounter, a large theme park featuring a life-size replica of Noah's Ark, which opened in 2016. Engaged in numerous debates on creationism versus evolution, drawing significant attention to the creationist perspective within educational and scientific discussions.

Continue Reading

Robert Peters

American poet and playwright
Born
October 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 13th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1924, a significant figure in American literature, particularly in poetry and drama. His work often reflected complex themes and explored the intersection of personal experience and broader societal issues. Peters published several poetry collections, revealing a deep intuition for the craft. He also wrote critically acclaimed plays that were staged in various theaters across the United States. As a critic, he contributed to the understanding and appreciation of contemporary literature through essays and reviews. His teaching roles in universities enriched the study of creative writing and poetry.

Continue Reading

William Russ

Actor and director, notable for 'Boy Meets World'
Born
October 20th, 1950 75 years ago

An American actor and director, recognized for work in television and film. Portrayed the character Alan Matthews in the television series 'Boy Meets World', which aired from 1993 to 2000. Acted in various roles in films and series throughout the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to both drama and comedy genres. Directed episodes of 'Boy Meets World' and engaged in several other projects, showcasing versatility in both acting and direction.

Continue Reading