William Peter Blatty
Author of The Exorcist novel
Born
Died
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
An American author and screenwriter focused on themes of religion and the supernatural. Best recognized for the novel The Exorcist, published in 1971. The book became a bestseller and was later adapted into a successful film in 1973, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. He wrote several other novels, essays, and screenplays throughout his career, often exploring existential and philosophical questions.
Authored The Exorcist novel
Won an Academy Award for The Exorcist screenplay
Other People Born on January 7th
John Steiner
English actor in film and television
Born
January 7th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1941, an English actor performed in films and television series. Gained recognition for roles in 'The Last Express' and 'The Italian Job'. Appeared in various productions throughout the 1960s and 1970s, contributing to the British film scene. Collaborated with notable filmmakers adding to a diverse portfolio spanning several genres.
Continue ReadingKotaro Suzumura
Economist and academic specializing in welfare.
Born
January 7th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 76 years old
Born in 1944, this individual pursued a career in economics, focusing on welfare economics and social choices. The academic served as a professor at various universities, contributing to economic theory and policy. The work emphasized the importance of fair distribution and social welfare mechanisms. The economist also contributed to numerous publications that analyzed social choice theory.
Continue ReadingVic Darchinyan
Professional boxer with multiple titles
Born
January 7th, 1976 49 years ago
Born in Armenia and later representing Australia, a professional boxer achieved significant success in the flyweight and super flyweight divisions. Claimed the IBF flyweight title in 2004 and successfully defended it multiple times. In 2008, became the WBC super flyweight champion after defeating Cristian Mijares. Known for an aggressive fighting style and notable punching power, the boxer's career included several high-profile bouts and victories over prominent opponents.
Continue ReadingVasily Alekseyev
Weightlifter and world champion coach
Born
January 7th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2011 14 years ago — 69 years old
Competed primarily in the super heavyweight category for the Soviet Union. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, setting numerous world records in weightlifting competitions. Claimed gold medals at the World Championships and the Olympic Games. Transitioned to coaching, contributing to the development of future champions in the sport. Continued to influence weightlifting through training methodologies and technique refinement.
Continue ReadingKenny Davern
Clarinetist and saxophonist in jazz
Born
January 7th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent American jazz clarinetist and saxophonist, contributed to the traditional jazz scene. Collaborated with various musicians throughout the career, showcasing a mastery of the clarinet. Participated in numerous festivals, enhancing the visibility of jazz on the national stage. Recorded several albums that reflected dedication to the genre and performed widely, gaining a devoted following among jazz enthusiasts.
Continue ReadingNicholson Baker
American novelist and essayist
Born
January 7th, 1957 68 years ago
An American novelist and essayist, primarily focused on the exploration of details in everyday life and the human experience. Initiated a literary career with the publication of the novel 'Vox' in 1992, which garnered attention for its provocative subject matter. Other notable works include 'The Mezzanine' and 'Room Temperature', both showcasing a distinctive narrative style that captures the nuances of daily life and personal introspection. His essays often scrutinize contemporary culture, technology, and the state of literature. Significant contributions include a critical examination of the implications of digital technology on reading and writing.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 12th
Anne
Princess Royal and Princess of Orange
Born
February 6th, 1665 360 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1759 266 years ago — 93 years old
Daughter of King James II of England and Mary of Modena, this individual served as Princess Royal from birth. Married to Prince Maurice of Nassau, she became the Princess of Orange. Actively participated in the political and cultural life of the Netherlands, influencing both local and English courts. Developed relationships with various European royal families through marriage alliances and connections.
Continue ReadingHugh Mercer
Scottish-American general and physician
Born
1726 299 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1777 248 years ago — 51 years old
A military officer and physician, contributed to the American Revolutionary War. Mercer earned a reputation for his bravery in battle and served under General George Washington. His medical background informed his leadership during the conflict, as he tended to wounded soldiers. Mercer was mortally wounded at the Battle of Princeton, which took place on January 3, 1777.
Continue ReadingAlexandra Bastedo
English actress in The Champions
Born
March 9th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old
An English actress gained prominence through roles in television and film. Starred in the 1960s ITC series The Champions, portraying a member of a team of secret agents with extraordinary abilities. Appeared in several other television shows and films throughout her career, including guest roles in popular series. Also involved in animal welfare and expressed a passion for animal rights.
Continue ReadingSharad Yadav
Indian politician and former minister
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2023 2 years ago — 76 years old
Served as a member of the Lok Sabha for multiple terms. Held the position of the 30th Minister of Civil Aviation and the 29th Minister of Labour. Contributed to various legislative efforts and policies during a prominent political career spanning several decades. Involved in the formation and leadership of the Janata Dal, advocating for social justice and regional issues within Indian politics.
Continue ReadingFrançois Bigot
French politician and colonial administrator
Born
January 30th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1778 247 years ago — 74 years old
Served as a prominent colonial administrator during the 18th century. Governed the French colony of Canada and played a crucial role in the administration of French territories in North America. Oversaw economic activities and trade practices, including the fur trade, which was vital for the colony's economy. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen France's hold on its North American territories.
Continue ReadingLuiz Bonfá
Brazilian guitarist and composer of 'Manha de Carnaval'
Born
October 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 78 years old
A Brazilian guitarist and composer, contributed significantly to the bossa nova genre. Bonfá's music combined elements of samba and jazz, influencing generations of musicians. He gained international recognition for the composition 'Manhã de Carnaval,' featured in the film 'Black Orpheus.' Throughout his career, Bonfá released numerous albums, showcasing his unique guitar style and composition skills. His works remain popular among musicians and fans of Brazilian music.
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