January 16

Margaret Booth was one of Hollywood's earliest film editors, beginning her career in the silent era. She edited classics such as Ben-Hur (1925) and Gone with the Wind (1939), shaping cinematic storytelling. Later promoted to producer, Booth established the role of post-production supervisor in major studios. Her meticulous editing style influenced generations of filmmakers and editors. At the time of her death, she was one of the highest-ranking women in the film industry, leaving a pioneering legacy.

Irving Rapper directed and produced films from the 1930s to the 1960s, often focusing on literary adaptations and strong female leads. He began his career as a dialogue coach and scriptwriter at Warner Bros., eventually rising to directorial roles. Rapper’s notable works include Now, Voyager (1942) and Captain Carey, U.S.A. (1950), showcasing his elegant storytelling. His nuanced direction and collaborations with major stars cemented his place in classical Hollywood cinema. Rapper’s films remain celebrated for their emotional depth and polished production values.

Born Edith Holländer in Aachen, Germany. She married Otto Frank and gave birth to daughters Margot and Anne Frank. The family moved to Amsterdam in 1933 to escape Nazi persecution. In July 1942, they went into hiding in the Secret Annex. They were betrayed in August 1944 and deported to concentration camps. Edith Frank was sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau, where she died in January 1945.

Leslie H. Martinson (1915–2016) was an American director, producer, and screenwriter with a prolific career in film and television. He directed over a hundred TV episodes for popular series such as Maverick, Mannix, and The Alfred Hitchcock Hour. In 1966, he brought the campy Batman TV series to the big screen with the feature film Batman: The Movie. Martinson’s work was noted for its adaptability across genres, from westerns to action-adventure. He received an Emmy nomination for his direction and contributed to shaping early television drama. Martinson’s enduring career spanned seven decades, reflecting his versatility and passion for storytelling.

Born in Chicago in 1930, Mary Ann McMorrow earned her law degree from Loyola University. She began her legal career as a prosecutor before serving on the family court bench. In 1976, she was appointed to the Illinois Appellate Court, and in 1992 made history as the first woman elected to the Illinois Supreme Court. McMorrow served as chief justice from 2002 to 2006, spearheading reforms to improve judicial ethics and access to justice. She chaired committees on court modernization and legal aid, strengthening Illinois’s legal institutions. After retiring, she remained active mentoring young attorneys and advocating for public service. Her leadership paved the way for greater diversity in the judiciary.

Born in 1930 in New York City, Norman Podhoretz graduated from Columbia University and joined Commentary magazine in 1960. As editor-in-chief from 1960 to 1995, he expanded its influence, championing cultural and political debates that helped define the neoconservative movement. Podhoretz authored influential books such as Making It and Why Are Jews Liberals?, blending memoir with sharp political analysis. After leaving Commentary, he wrote for The Weekly Standard and appeared frequently on television and radio. His insightful and often provocative commentary on American foreign policy and culture earned him a prominent place among 20th-century public intellectuals. He continues to write and speak on current affairs.

Marina Vaizey built her reputation as a sharp-eyed critic writing for leading publications. Her articles and reviews covered contemporary art, exhibitions, and emerging artists. Vaizey's engaging style helped introduce complex cultural trends to broader audiences. She has authored essays and catalogues for major museums and galleries. Through talks and media appearances, she continues to shape public understanding of the art world.

Judy Baar Topinka was an American journalist turned politician who made history as the first woman elected to statewide office in Illinois. She served as the State Treasurer and later as the State Comptroller, earning a reputation for fiscal responsibility and bipartisan cooperation. Before her political career, Topinka worked as a journalist, honing her communication skills and public presence. She began her political journey in the Illinois General Assembly, where she was known for her advocacy on education and financial transparency. Topinka's dedication to public service and her trailblazing achievements paved the way for future generations of women in politics. She remains a respected figure in Illinois history.

Robert Jay Mathews was an American militant and white supremacist who established the group known as The Order in 1983. The organization engaged in armed robberies and violent acts to fund its agenda and promote a racially based ideology. Mathews became a fugitive after a series of crimes and was killed during a standoff with federal agents in 1984. His actions and writings influenced later extremist movements and are studied by law enforcement and scholars. Mathews left behind a manifesto outlining his beliefs, which became a rallying point for other extremist groups. Though his life was brief, his legacy persists in the history of American domestic terrorism.

Born in Bristol, James May began his career in journalism writing for car magazines. He joined the BBC's Top Gear in 2003 alongside Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond. Nicknamed "Captain Slow" for his measured driving style, May became a fan favorite for his humor and technical explanations. After leaving Top Gear in 2015, he co-founded the motoring series The Grand Tour for Amazon Prime Video. May has also hosted science and history programs, showcasing his wide-ranging interests.

Kate Moss (born January 16, 1974) rose to fame in the early 1990s as a leading figure of the 'heroin chic' fashion movement, gracing the covers of international magazines and campaigns for major brands like Calvin Klein and Chanel. Standing at 5-foot-7, her distinctive look challenged conventional modeling standards and revolutionized the industry. In 2007, she launched her own fashion label, showcasing her talents as a designer and creative director. Moss has also collaborated with high-street brands, making designer fashion accessible to a wider audience. Despite occasional controversies, her influence on style and culture remains enduring, solidifying her status as a true fashion icon.