What Happened This Year 1981

Born in 1981

Zsolt Baumgartner

Hungarian racing driver and F1 competitor
Born
January 1st, 1981 44 years ago

Born in Hungary, this racing driver competed in Formula One, achieving significant milestones during his career. Debuted in Formula One at the 2003 Australian Grand Prix, becoming the first Hungarian to race in the series. Competed for the Minardi team during the 2003 and 2004 seasons.

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Eden Riegel

Actress, best known for daytime roles
Born
January 1st, 1981 44 years ago

An actress, recognized for work in daytime television. Riegel portrayed Bianca Montgomery on the soap opera 'All My Children' from 2000 to 2005 and reprised the role briefly in 2011. She also provided voice work for animated series and video games. Riegel participated in various stage productions and is credited with contributions to the industry through her performances.

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Mladen Petrić

Footballer with Bundesliga experience
Born
January 1st, 1981 44 years ago

Career in professional football spanned from 1998 to 2019, primarily playing as a forward. Played for teams such as Hamburger SV and FC Basel, achieving success in various leagues. Represented the Croatian national team, participating in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2008 and FIFA World Cup 2014. Transitioned to coaching after retirement.

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Maxi Rodríguez

Argentine footballer, World Cup participant
Born
January 2nd, 1981 44 years ago

A professional footballer from Argentina, contributed significantly to the sport as a winger. Played for several clubs including Newell's Old Boys, Espanyol, Villarreal, Atlético de Madrid, and Liverpool. Achieved notable success with Liverpool, winning the FA Cup in 2006. Represented Argentina at multiple international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup in 2006 and 2014, and the Copa América in 2004 and 2011. Scored a memorable extra-time goal against Mexico in the 2006 World Cup, enhancing reputation on the global stage.

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Kirk Hinrich

Basketball player for Chicago Bulls
Born
January 2nd, 1981 44 years ago

Played professional basketball in the NBA, primarily for the Chicago Bulls. Played as a point guard and had a successful collegiate career at the University of Kansas, where he led the team to the NCAA Final Four in 2002 and 2003. Drafted 7th overall by the Chicago Bulls in the 2003 NBA Draft. Throughout his NBA career, contributed significantly to the team’s performance and was recognized for his skills as a defender and playmaker.

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Eli Manning

American football quarterback, two-time Super Bowl MVP
Born
January 3rd, 1981 44 years ago

A former professional American football quarterback, played most of career for the New York Giants in the National Football League (NFL). In 2004, selected as the first overall pick in the NFL Draft by the Giants. Achieved significant success during tenure, highlighted by victories in Super Bowl XLII and Super Bowl XLVI against the New England Patriots. Garnered Super Bowl MVP honors in both championship games. Retired from professional football in 2020 after 16 seasons in the league.

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Deadmau5

Electronic music producer and DJ
Born
January 5th, 1981 44 years ago

A prominent electronic music producer and DJ, this artist gained recognition within the music industry for innovative sound designs and captivating performances. Grew up in Ontario, Canada, and began producing music at a young age. Rose to prominence with the release of the album 'Random Album Title' in 2008, which featured the hit single 'Ghosts 'n' Stuff'. Established a unique persona by performing in a distinctive mouse helmet. Frequently collaborated with other musicians and produced various successful tracks throughout the 2010s. Maintained a substantial presence in the electronic dance music scene, known for both studio work and live performances at major festivals.

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Asante Samuel

American football cornerback and champion
Born
January 6th, 1981 44 years ago

Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and Atlanta Falcons. Achieved significant success during tenure with the New England Patriots, appearing in two Super Bowls and winning Super Bowl XXXIX. Recorded multiple interceptions each season, establishing himself as one of the premier defensive players. Pro Bowl selections occurred in 2007, 2009, and 2010, highlighting consistent performance and skill in coverage. Notable for strong tackling and ability to read opposing quarterbacks, contributing to his reputation in the league.

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Rinko Kikuchi

Japanese actress known for Babel
Born
January 6th, 1981 44 years ago

Born in 1981, this Japanese actress gained international recognition for her role in the film 'Babel', which received critical acclaim. She began her acting career in the early 2000s, appearing in various Japanese films and television dramas. Her performance in 'Babel' earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, making her the second Japanese actress to receive this honor. Subsequent roles included significant performances in films like 'Pacific Rim' and 'Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter'. This actress has also collaborated with prominent directors and participated in several international film projects, further establishing her presence in the global film industry.

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