January 27

John Farrow was born in 1904 in Sydney and began his career as an actor before transitioning to directing and screenwriting in Hollywood. In the 1930s and 1940s, he helmed films such as 'Five Came Back' and 'Around the World in 80 Days', earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Story. During World War II, Farrow served in the U.S. Navy, directing training films. His work is noted for its strong narrative drive, exotic locations, and blend of action and human drama. Farrow's versatility as a writer, producer, and director cemented his reputation in film history. He died in 1963, remembered as a versatile and pioneering filmmaker.

David Landau was born in 1947 and began his journalism career in the United Kingdom. He later moved to Israel, where he rose to become editor-in-chief of Haaretz, one of the country's leading newspapers. Landau was known for his insightful analysis of Middle East politics and commitment to journalistic integrity. He authored several books exploring Israeli society and the peace process. His leadership at Haaretz influenced public debate and policy discussions in Israel. He died on January 27, 2015, leaving a legacy of fearless reporting and impactful commentary.

Born in 1958 into the Schönburg-Glauchau noble family, Maya von Schönburg-Glauchau became a fixture in European social circles. She was known for her elegant fashion sense and interior design work, often featured in lifestyle publications. Despite her aristocratic background, she championed charitable causes, including supporting dyslexia research. Maya balanced her social commitments with a warm personality, earning admiration across the continent. Her legacy endures through foundations and the many lives she touched. She passed away in 2019, remembered for her generosity and contributions to cultural and charitable projects.

Born in Tunis in 1983, Lina Ben Mhenni began blogging at age 17, using the internet to shed light on human rights abuses. Her site 'A Tunisian Girl' provided firsthand accounts of protests, inspiring activists and journalists worldwide. She faced harassment and legal threats for challenging authoritarian rule but remained committed to free speech. Ben Mhenni’s work earned her recognition from Reporters Without Borders and a rating as one of Time’s most influential bloggers. She continued advocating for social justice and press freedom until her passing in 2020 at the age of 36. Her courageous voice helped shape Tunisia’s democratic transition.