Historical Events
- A massive ice storm hits eastern Canada and the northeastern United States, continues through January 10, and causes widespread destruction
- Anton Chekov's dramatic play "Ivanov", translated and adapted by David Hare, closes at Vivian Beaumont Theater, NYC, after 51 performances
- Jeffrey Stock and Susan Birkenhead's musical "Triumph of Love" closes at Royale Theater, NYC, after 85 performances
"A Funny Thing Happened"
Second successful revival of by Stephen Sondheim's musical "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum", starring Nathan Lane, closes at St James, NYC, after 715 performances and 1 Tony Award
- Wilaya of Relizane massacres in Algeria: over 170 are killed in three remote villages
Famous Birthdays
Liza Soberano (26 years old)
Filipino-American actress (Forevermore; Everyday I Love You), born in Santa Clara, California
Famous Deaths
- John Gary [Strader], American pop and easy listening singer ("Cold"), dies of cancer at 65
- Mae Questel, American vaudeville, screen and voice actress (Olive Oyl; Betty Boop), dies from complications of Alzheimer's disease at 89
Died in 1998 1998 Highlights
About January 4, 1998
Day of the Week: Sunday
How Long Ago? 26 years, 3 months and 24 days
Leap Year: No
Generation: Generation Z
Chinese Zodiac: Ox
Star Sign: Capricorn
Music Charts
#1 Song: Candle In The Wind 1997/Something About The Way You Look Tonight - Elton John
#1 Song: Perfect Day - Various Artists
