Abe Burrows
Playwright and director: 'Guys and Dolls'
An author and playwright who contributed significantly to American theater. Early works included 'Coney Island' and 'The Guy Who Came Back'. Achieved acclaim with the musical 'Guys and Dolls', which won the Tony Award for Best Musical. Also wrote the book for the musical 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying', which garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Established a reputation for witty dialogue and engaging narratives.
Wrote the book for 'Guys and Dolls'
Co-created 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying'
Other People Born on December 18th
Ashley Benson
American actress known for Pretty Little Liars
Born
December 18th, 1989 36 years ago
An actress and singer, gained recognition for portraying Hanna Marin in the television series Pretty Little Liars, which aired from 2010 to 2017. Additionally, appeared in the films Spring Breakers and Pixels. Involved in music, releasing several singles. Gained a significant fanbase through social media platforms.
Continue ReadingTravon Walker
American football player, Georgia Bulldogs
Born
December 18th, 2000 25 years ago
Played college football at the University of Georgia, contributing to a championship-winning season in 2021. Participated in the College Football Playoff National Championship and was recognized for exceptional defensive skills. Selected as the first overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, marking a significant achievement in a professional football career.
Continue ReadingImad Wasim
Pakistani cricketer and all-rounder
Born
December 18th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, this cricketer made a name in international cricket as an all-rounder, contributing significantly as a left-arm orthodox spinner and a lower-order batsman. Represented Pakistan in formats such as One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 internationals. Played a crucial role in Pakistan's victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, showcasing strong performances with both bat and ball. Also had a successful domestic career, including stints in T20 leagues around the world.
Continue ReadingAlex DeBrincat
Ice hockey player for Chicago Blackhawks
Born
December 18th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played as a winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 39th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Made an impact as a goal scorer with a notable 41 goals in the 2018-2019 season. Played a key role in the Blackhawks' offensive lineup and participated in multiple NHL All-Star Games.
Continue ReadingBarbora Krejčíková
Czech tennis player, French Open champion
Born
December 18th, 1995 30 years ago
This athlete debuted professionally in 2013 and achieved significant success in singles and doubles tennis. The player won the women's singles title at the 2021 French Open, becoming the first Czech woman to win the tournament since 1981. Alongside her singles success, this athlete also excelled in doubles, winning multiple Grand Slam titles and ranking first in the WTA doubles rankings. Representing the Czech Republic, this player contributed to the country's success in the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingBrianne Theisen-Eaton
Canadian heptathlete and Olympic competitor
Born
December 18th, 1988 37 years ago
Achieved recognition as a heptathlete representing Canada. Competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics, finishing eighth. Won multiple Canadian national championships in heptathlon. Attended the University of Oregon, where achieved NCAA titles in heptathlon and pentathlon.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Lionel Pickens
American rapper with hit albums
Born
1983 43 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2015 10 years ago — 32 years old
A rapper, recognized for contributions to the hip-hop genre. Gained popularity in the 2000s, particularly for work as a member of the rap group Three 6 Mafia. Released several solo projects and collaborated with various artists, solidifying a presence in the music industry. Won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for the track 'It's Hard out Here for a Pimp' featured in the film 'Hustle & Flow'.
Continue ReadingKen Venturi
Golf champion and sportscaster
Born
May 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 82 years old
Accomplished golfer and sportscaster achieved significant recognition in the golfing world. Won the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club after overcoming a severe personal challenge. Transitioned to a long career in broadcasting with CBS Sports, where provided insightful commentary and analysis of golf tournaments. Contributed to the sport's popularity through a unique ability to connect with audiences.
Continue ReadingThongbanh Sengaphone
Laotian politician and key government figure
Born
1953 73 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 61 years old
Thongbanh Sengaphone served as a prominent politician in Laos, holding various governmental positions throughout his career. His roles included serving as a Minister of Public Security and as a member of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. Sengaphone's political activities were closely tied to the governance and security policies in Laos during his time in office. He contributed to the development of party frameworks and state security strategies, particularly in the context of Lao governance. His political tenure was marked by significant events in the country's history, influencing the direction of its internal affairs until his passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingTodor Veselinović
Serbian football player and manager
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Played as a forward and gained prominence in the 1950s, representing the Yugoslav national team. Had stints with Red Star Belgrade, winning multiple domestic titles. Transitioned into management following retirement, taking charge of various clubs including Red Star Belgrade and leading them to further successes. Contributed to football's development in Serbia through coaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingToe Blake
Ice hockey player and coach, Montreal Canadiens
Born
August 21st, 1912 113 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1995 30 years ago — 82 years old
Played professional ice hockey and later became a successful coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). As a player, won three Stanley Cups with the Montreal Canadiens. Transitioned to coaching, leading the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships from the bench. Recognized for contributions to the sport and significant wins during a prolific coaching career.
Continue ReadingYvonne Loriod
French pianist and composer
Born
January 20th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, contributions included significant works in contemporary classical music. Loriod was celebrated for interpretations of works by her husband, composer Olivier Messiaen. She played a vital role in presenting many of his compositions and recognized the need for expanded performance techniques. Loriod also contributed to piano repertoire, composing original works that are performed by pianists worldwide. Affiliation with the Paris Conservatory further cemented her influence in the music education field.
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