Famous people and celebrities who died on January 20

Welcome to Takemeback.to's page dedicated to remembering the celebrities and famous people who passed away on January 20. On this day, we honor the lives and legacies of notable figures from various fields who left an indelible mark on the world. Explore our list to learn about their remarkable contributions and celebrate their enduring impact.

  • Bettina von Arnim
    1859 Bettina von Arnim

    German writer known for her novels and correspondence with prominent literary figures.

  • Josh Gibson
    1947 Josh Gibson

    Legendary Negro League baseball player known as the 'Black Babe Ruth', considered one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history who...

  • Matt Moore
    1960 Matt Moore

    Actor (deluge and coquette), passes away at 72.

  • Robinson Jeffers
    1962 Robinson Jeffers

    American poet and writer.

  • Alan Freed
    1965 Alan Freed

    Alan Freed was an influential American disc jockey and radio personality who is widely credited with popularizing the term 'rock and roll' and helping to bring the genre to mainstream audiences during the 1950s. [bio]

  • Minanogawa Tōzō
    1971 Minanogawa Tōzō

    The 34th yokozuna in sumo wrestling history, a prestigious and accomplished Japanese professional sumo wrestler who achieved the highest...

  • Amilcar Cabral
    1973 Amilcar Cabral

    Amilcar Cabral was a revolutionary leader who played a crucial role in the independence movements of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde from...

  • Manuel Garrincha
    1983 Manuel Garrincha

    Manuel Garrincha was a legendary Brazilian footballer, widely considered one of the greatest dribblers in soccer history.

  • Johnny Weissmuller
    1984 Johnny Weissmuller

    Johnny Weissmuller was an American competitive swimmer and actor, best known for playing Tarzan in films of the 1930s and 1940s and for being a five-time Olympic gold medalist in swimming. [bio]

  • Philippe de Rothschild
    1988 Philippe de Rothschild

    Prominent French wine producer and businessman from the famous Rothschild family, who managed the prestigious Mouton Rothschild vineyard and...

  • Beatrice Lillie
    1989 Beatrice Lillie

    Beatrice Lillie was a celebrated Canadian-born comedic actress, singer, and stage performer who became a major star on both sides of the Atlantic during the 20th century, renowned for her sharp wit and distinctive style. [bio]

  • Barbara Stanwyck
    1990 Barbara Stanwyck

    Barbara Stanwyck was an acclaimed American actress known for her strong, memorable roles in film and television across several decades, particularly from the 1930s through the 1950s. Renowned for her versatility and screen presence, she starred in numerous film classics and later made a successful transition to television. [bio]

  • Audrey Hepburn
    1993 Audrey Hepburn

    Audrey Hepburn was a British actress and humanitarian who became one of Hollywood's most revered and recognizable stars. Best known for her roles in films such as 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', 'Roman Holiday', and 'My Fair Lady', Hepburn also dedicated much of her later life to philanthropic work, especially with UNICEF, advocating for children's rights across the globe. [bio]

  • Matt Busby
    1994 Matt Busby

    From 1946-1970, he was the scottish manager of manchester united soccer club.

  • Gerry Mulligan
    1996 Gerry Mulligan

    Gerry Mulligan was a legendary jazz baritone saxophonist and composer who significantly influenced the cool jazz movement of the 1950s.

  • Curt Flood
    1997 Curt Flood

    Pioneering Major League Baseball player who challenged the reserve clause, significantly impacting players' rights and free agency in...

  • Bobo Brazil
    1998 Bobo Brazil

    Pioneering African American professional wrestler known for breaking racial barriers in wrestling during the mid-20th century.

  • Carrie Hamilton
    2002 Carrie Hamilton

    Carrie Hamilton was an American actress, singer, and playwright, daughter of legendary comedian Carol Burnett and Joe Hamilton, known for...

  • Al Hirschfeld
    2003 Al Hirschfeld

    Renowned caricaturist known for his distinctive black and white line drawings of celebrities, capturing the essence of performing arts and...

  • Nedra Volz
    2003 Nedra Volz

    American character actress known for her comedic roles in television and film during the mid-20th century.

  • Guinn Smith
    2004 Guinn Smith

    American athlete and military pilot who excelled in pole vaulting and served his country during his lifetime.

  • Per Borten
    2005 Per Borten

    Norwegian lawyer and politician who served as the 18th Prime Minister of Norway from 1965 to 1971, playing a significant role in Norwegian...

  • John Levy
    2012 John Levy

    John Levy was a pioneering African American jazz bassist and music manager who played a significant role in promoting jazz musicians during...

  • Etta James
    2012 Etta James

    Legendary singer known for her powerful voice and soulful music.

  • Claudio Abbado
    2014 Claudio Abbado

    Renowned Italian conductor who was a leading figure in classical music, known for his exceptional memory and leadership of major orchestras...

  • Otis G. Pike
    2014 Otis G. Pike

    American politician from New York who served in the U.S.

  • Edmonde Charles-Roux
    2016 Edmonde Charles-Roux

    A prominent French journalist and writer who made significant contributions to literature and fashion journalism.

  • Paul Bocuse
    2018 Paul Bocuse

    Legendary French chef from Lyon who revolutionized culinary arts through nouvelle cuisine.

  • Mira Furlan
    2021 Mira Furlan

    Mira Furlan was an acclaimed Croatian and Yugoslav actress, best known internationally for her roles as Delenn in the science fiction television series 'Babylon 5' and as Danielle Rousseau in the US television series 'Lost.' [bio]

  • Meat Loaf
    2022 Meat Loaf

    Meat Loaf was an American singer and actor best known for his powerful vocals and the best-selling album 'Bat Out of Hell'. His theatrical performances and distinctive style earned him an enduring place in rock and pop culture. [bio]

What Is special about January 20?

Discover what makes January 20 a memorable date