January 23: What Happened on This Day in History

Mariska Hargitay (1964)

Mariska Hargitay is an American actress, producer, and director best known for her role as Olivia Benson on the long-running NBC drama series 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit'. She has earned critical acclaim, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance in the series. [bio]

Jeanne Moreau (1928)

Jeanne Moreau was a celebrated French actress, singer, and director, renowned for her influential work in European cinema, especially during the French New Wave era. She is recognized for her powerful performances and unique screen presence. [bio]

Chesley Sullenberger (1951)

Chesley Sullenberger is an American retired airline captain, best known for successfully landing US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009 after both engines failed, saving all 155 people on board. He is celebrated as a hero for his decisive actions and calm leadership during the incident. [bio]

Rutger Hauer (1944)

Rutger Hauer was a renowned Dutch actor best known internationally for his roles in science fiction and action films, particularly his iconic performance as Roy Batty in 'Blade Runner' (1982). He appeared in numerous Dutch and Hollywood movies throughout his career, earning a reputation for his intensity and versatility. [bio]

Ernie Kovacs (1919)

Ernie Kovacs was an American comedian, actor, and writer, best known for his inventive and highly influential work in television during the 1950s and early 1960s. Recognized for his experimental and visual comedy style, Kovacs was a pioneer in utilizing the medium's capabilities, and his unique approach helped shape future generations of comedians and television producers. [bio]

Gail O'Grady (1963)

Gail O'Grady is an American actress and producer, best known for her roles on television, particularly on the long-running series 'NYPD Blue.' [bio]

Tito Ortiz (1975)

Tito Ortiz is an American mixed martial artist and former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the sport of MMA during its early 2000s boom. [bio]

Randolph Scott (1898)

Randolph Scott was an American film actor known for his roles in Westerns during the 1930s to the 1960s. Over his career, he appeared in over 100 films and became an enduring symbol of the Western genre, noted for his strong, stoic characters. [bio]

Jack Reynor (1992)

Jack Reynor is an Irish-American actor known for his roles in films such as 'What Richard Did,' 'Transformers: Age of Extinction,' and 'Midsommar.' He has gained critical acclaim for his performances, especially in independent and international cinema. [bio]

Gil Gerard (1943)

Gil Gerard is an American actor best known for his role as Captain William 'Buck' Rogers in the science fiction television series 'Buck Rogers in the 25th Century' (1979–1981). [bio]

Paul Robeson (1976)

Paul Robeson was an American bass-baritone singer, actor, and civil rights activist renowned for his deep, powerful voice and pioneering work both on stage and off, advocating for social justice and equality. [bio]

Craig Charles (1997)

Craig Charles is a British actor, comedian, television presenter, and DJ, widely recognized for his roles in the science fiction sitcom 'Red Dwarf' and in the long-running soap opera 'Coronation Street.' He is also known for presenting the popular game show 'Robot Wars.' [bio]

Hal Holbrook (2021)

Hal Holbrook was an acclaimed American actor, best known for his portrayal of Mark Twain in his one-man stage show, as well as his work in film and television. [bio]

Jack LaLanne (2011)

Jack LaLanne was an American fitness and nutrition expert, television host, and motivational speaker, often referred to as the 'Godfather of Fitness.' He is best known for pioneering fitness and exercise programs on television and for promoting the importance of healthy living throughout the 20th century. [bio]

Gorden Kaye (2017)

Gorden Kaye was an English actor best known for his role as René Artois in the British TV sitcom 'Allo 'Allo!. His comedic timing and distinctive presence made him a beloved figure in British television. [bio]

Freddie Bartholomew (1992)

Freddie Bartholomew was a British-American child actor most famous for his roles in Hollywood films during the 1930s, such as 'David Copperfield' and 'Captains Courageous.' [bio]

Jack Oakie (1978)

Jack Oakie was an American actor and comedian, best known for his work in films during the 1930s and 1940s, including his celebrated role as Napaloni, the dictator of Bacteria, in Charlie Chaplin's 'The Great Dictator' (1940). [bio]

Hope Hampton (1982)

Actress (star dust and lawful larcency), died at 83.

Ian Wolfe (1992)

Actor (houdini, thx-1138, homebodies), dies at 95.

Johnny Carson (2005)

Legendary American television host of 'The Tonight Show' who defined late-night entertainment for decades.