This Day in Pop Culture for January 22

1984: Apple’s Macintosh Changes Everything

Most American’s were introduced to Apple’s Macintosh personal computer during the Super Bowl on this day in 1984. The promo commercial, simply titled 1984, was created by Ridley Scott for $1.5 million and was only shown once. Some have called the commercial a “masterpiece” and “more successful than the Mac itself.” The futuristic commercial (alluding to George Orwell’s novel Nineteen Eighty-Four) was in a way trying to show how Apple could “save humanity” by giving them a choice besides and IBM computer.

1981: The Infamous Portrait of John Lennon and Yoko Ono

Many have seen the Annie Liebowitz portrait of John Lennon and Yoko Ono for the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine that was published on this day in 1981. It featured a naked John Lennon curled up in a fetal embrace of a fully clothed Yoko Ono. However, many are unaware that this photo was taken on December 8, 1980 – 12 hours before Lennon was shot to death.

Liebowitz was given instructions from the editor of the time to get some pictures without Yoko, but when she arrived at the Lennon’s home, he told her that he wanted the pictures to include Yoko. While not happy with this arrangement, Liebowitz went along with the request, and it turns out this portrait is one of her most famous. (Rolling Stone Magazine)

2010: Tucker & Dale Have Quite the Misunderstanding

Premiered at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival, Tucker & Dale vs. Evil is a fairly unknown but hilarious flick about a pair of well-meaning hillbillies who just want to enjoy their vacation only to have it spoiled by a group of college kids who mistake them as backwoods killers. As the kids try to “rescue” their friend who has been “taken captive” by Tucker and Dale, they end up killing themselves with terrible accidents all because of a terrible misunderstanding. The movie got good reviews and stars Tyler Labine, Alan Tudyk and Katrina Bowden.

2018: Minnie Mouse Receives Her Own Star

Well, it’s about time. In celebration of her 90th anniversary, Minnie Mouse received her star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California in 2018. Ushered by her beau, Mickey, Minnie was joined by Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger and Katy Perry who presented the honor to Ms. Mouse in front of Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre.

“Minnie Mouse has been a star and a fashion icon since she first burst onto the scene in the groundbreaking animated classic, Steamboat Willie.” Bob said.

“The star of more than 70 movies during her illustrious career, Minnie has entertained millions of people around the world, touching hearts and bringing joy wherever she goes. We’re thrilled to see her cultural influence and many achievements recognized with her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”

In 2022, the Disney Cruise Line made the mouse a sea captain for the first time.