Alexander Korda
Film director and producer of the 1940s
A prominent film director and producer, contributed significantly to Britain’s cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Founded London Films, which produced several key British films. Directed the epic historical film 'The Thief of Bagdad,' which received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations. Famed for bringing British cinema to an international audience. Managed to blend artistic vision with commercial success throughout a transformative period in filmmaking.
Directed 'The Thief of Bagdad'
Produced 'The Lion Has Wings'
Other People Born on September 16th
Guy Hamilton
Film director and screenwriter for Bond films
Born
September 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 94 years old
Directed several James Bond films, including 'Goldfinger' and 'Diamonds Are Forever'. Established a career in filmmaking after working in television. Collaborated with prominent actors and production teams, contributing to the popularity of the spy genre in cinema. Directed other notable films, enhancing the landscape of British and international film throughout the decades.
Continue ReadingPaul Henning
Screenwriter and producer, The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
September 16th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
March 25th, 2005 20 years ago — 93 years old
A screenwriter and producer engaged in television, creating popular sitcoms in the mid-20th century. Developed iconic series, blending humor with unique character-driven narratives. Achievements include creating a successful television landscape that showcased rural American culture. Contributions spanned multiple decades, establishing a lasting legacy in television comedy.
Continue ReadingW. O. Bentley
Race car driver and automotive engineer
Born
September 16th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1971 54 years ago — 82 years old
An English race car driver and engineer founded Bentley Motors Limited in 1919, focusing on luxury vehicles. Bentley contributed to the design and performance of race cars in the early 20th century, establishing a reputation for engineering excellence. The brand achieved significant success in motorsport, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s, with notable victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Bentley's commitment to quality and performance became hallmarks of the brand, which remains prominent in the automotive industry today.
Continue ReadingLaurence J. Peter
Author of the Peter Principle
Born
September 16th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1990 35 years ago — 70 years old
An author and educator, contributed significantly to the field of management. Developed the Peter Principle, a concept stating that individuals rise to their level of incompetence in organizational hierarchies. Authored several books, with the most notable being 'The Peter Principle: Why Things Go Wrong in Organizations'. Engaged in academic and public speaking, providing insights into the dynamics of workplace structures and management failures.
Continue ReadingKorla Pandit
Pianist and composer, television pioneer
Born
September 16th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old
Originated as a musician in the 1940s, contributed to the genre of exotica music. Gained fame through a television show that showcased his piano performances, blending music with hypnotic visuals. Utilized striking visual elements, including unique attire and makeup, to enhance performances. His work paved the way for later musicians and performers within the genre, establishing a significant presence in popular music at the time.
Continue ReadingH. A. Rey
Author and illustrator of Curious George
Born
September 16th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1977 48 years ago — 78 years old
An author and illustrator contributed significantly to children's literature through the creation of Curious George, a beloved character in children's books. Collaborating with wife Margret Rey, produced a series that has entertained countless children. The first book was published in 1941, and the series has since included numerous titles, remains popular in various formats including animated television adaptations. The whimsical art style and engaging storytelling have made the character a staple in early childhood education.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 23rd
Aloysius Pang
Singaporean actor in TV dramas
Born
1990 35 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2019 6 years ago — 29 years old
Began acting in school plays and pursued a career in television, appearing in several Singaporean dramas. Gained recognition for roles in productions such as 'The Dream Job' and 'Nero's Diary'. In addition to acting, also participated in stage performances. Won the Best Actor award at the 2014 Star Awards for his performance, solidifying his status in the industry. His contributions to Singaporean television included both lead and supporting roles, showcasing versatility across various genres. Passed away in 2019.
Continue ReadingRiz Ortolani
Composer of film scores and music.
Born
March 25th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
An Italian composer and conductor, contributed significantly to film music. Collaborated with numerous directors and composers across various genres. Achieved acclaim for the score of the 1968 film 'Mondo Cane', which earned an Academy Award nomination. Composed music for other notable films including 'Cannibal Holocaust' and 'The Yellow Rolls-Royce'. Conducted orchestras and wrote many scores recognized for their emotional depth and orchestration.
Continue ReadingJohn Field
Irish pianist and composer of nocturnes
Born
July 26th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1837 188 years ago — 54 years old
A prominent pianist and composer, played a crucial role in the development of the nocturne genre in music. Field's compositions, particularly his nocturnes, influenced many later composers, including Frédéric Chopin. He spent significant time in Russia where he received recognition and performed extensively. His works are characterized by lyrical melodies and expressive depth, showcasing the Romantic style. Field also contributed to piano teaching and performance techniques during his career, earning a reputation in both areas.
Continue ReadingAlexander Woollcott
American actor and theater critic
Born
January 19th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1943 82 years ago — 56 years old
Born in 1887, this individual served as an influential figure in American theater. Renowned for the role in the Broadway play 'The Royal Family,' the work drew inspiration from the Barrymore family. Contributions extended to journalism, with prominent work as a drama critic for The New York Times and as a member of the Algonquin Round Table, a group of New York City writers and critics. In addition to theatrical endeavors, participated in radio broadcasting and wrote books, including 'While Rome Burns,' which contained essays and columns. The individual blended wit and critique in the arts.
Continue ReadingSong Yoo-jung
South Korean actress and model
Born
1994 31 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 2021 4 years ago — 27 years old
Gained recognition as an actress and model in South Korea. Starred in television dramas including 'Make a Wish' and 'The Great Shaman Ga Doo-shim.' Engaged in various modeling projects and had an active presence in the entertainment industry. Achieved a noteworthy following for performances in popular series and online content.
Continue ReadingEdward Rutledge
Governor and Signer of the Declaration
Born
November 23rd, 1749 276 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1800 225 years ago — 50 years old
Served as the 39th Governor of South Carolina. Contributed to the formation of the United States by signing the Declaration of Independence. Played a role in the American Revolutionary War, particularly in organizing naval strategies against British forces. Participated in various political efforts to strengthen governance in South Carolina post-independence.
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