Bernie Mac
Comedian and actor from The Bernie Mac Show
Born in 1957, a comedian, actor, producer, and screenwriter. Gained fame through stand-up comedy performances, including appearances on HBO's Def Comedy Jam. Starred in The Bernie Mac Show, which aired from 2001 to 2006 and earned critical acclaim. Appeared in films such as Ocean's Eleven, Ocean's Twelve, and Guess Who. Advocated for eugenics research and was involved in several philanthropic efforts. Passed away in 2008.
Starred in The Bernie Mac Show
Appeared in Ocean's Eleven
Featured in Guess Who
Other People Born on October 5th
Pavel Popovich
Ukrainian cosmonaut and pilot
Born
October 5th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2009 16 years ago — 79 years old
Became the first Ukrainian to fly in space in 1962, completing a mission aboard the Vostok 4 spacecraft. Served as a general in the Soviet Air Force and later as a prominent figure within the Soviet space program. Participated in significant training and military operations, contributing to advancements in aviation and space exploration. Also worked as the head of the Spacecraft Control Department.
Continue ReadingDavid Watson
English footballer with Everton FC success
Born
October 5th, 1946 79 years ago
A former professional footballer played as a defender primarily for Everton FC. Achieved significant success during the 1970s with the team, notably winning the FA Cup in 1970. Competed in several international matches for the England national team, showcasing talent at the highest levels of football. Contributed to the game both on and off the pitch following retirement, engaging in coaching roles.
Continue ReadingBevil Rudd
South African runner and journalist
Born
October 5th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1948 77 years ago — 53 years old
Competed in the 800 meters and won a gold medal at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. Set several world records during the era. After an athletic career, transitioned to journalism, contributing to various publications. Engaged in promoting sports and literature.
Continue ReadingJames Rizzi
Painter and illustrator of vibrant art
Born
October 5th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 61 years old
Born in 1950, a prominent American painter and illustrator became widely recognized for colorful, joyful depictions of urban life, primarily in New York City. Rizzi developed a unique style characterized by intricate details and bold colors, creating 3D artworks and animations that captured architectural features of cities. His work gained popularity in the 1980s, making bold statements about cityscapes alongside themes of love and community. Rizzi’s pieces were featured in numerous exhibitions and are held in various prestigious collections. He also contributed designs for large public projects, including the famous 'Rizzi House' in Germany, which showcased his signature style on a grand scale.
Continue ReadingRichard F. Gordon Jr.
American astronaut, Apollo 12 pilot
Born
October 5th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 88 years old
Served as a naval officer and test pilot before joining NASA in 1963. Participated as the command module pilot for Apollo 12, which successfully landed on the Moon in November 1969. Also flew on Gemini 11, where orbital rendezvous was demonstrated, contributing to future missions to the Moon. His career included involvement in various space program activities, including test pilot evaluations and training of future astronauts.
Continue ReadingBill James
Baseball historian and statistician
Born
October 5th, 1949 76 years ago
Born in 1949, a historian and author specialized in baseball analytics. Developed the concept of Sabermetrics, which revolutionized the evaluation of player performance. Authored several influential books, including "Baseball Abstract" and "Win Shares", contributing to both academic and practical aspects of baseball management. Worked for the Boston Red Sox as an advisor, providing insights that aided in the team's success during the 2000s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 9th
Kayyar Kinhanna Rai
Indian journalist and poet
Born
June 8th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1915, this individual contributed significantly to journalism and literature in India. As an influential journalist, authored numerous articles and essays that shaped public discourse. Engaged deeply in poetry, published several collections that resonate with themes of nature and human experience. Actively participated in the literary community, promoting Kannada literature and culture through various platforms.
Continue ReadingGerald Grosvenor
Duke of Westminster, philanthropist
Born
December 22nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 64 years old
Born into aristocracy, held the title of 6th Duke of Westminster. Inherited significant landholdings in London, particularly in areas like Mayfair and Belgravia. Engaged in real estate and property development, contributing to urban development projects. Actively involved in charitable activities, supporting various causes related to education and healthcare. Held positions in various organizations focused on community and charitable endeavors.
Continue ReadingVincent Novello
Composer and music publisher
Born
September 6th, 1781 244 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1861 164 years ago — 79 years old
Born in England in 1781, a significant composer and music publisher contributed to the classical music landscape during the 19th century. Established a publishing house specializing in both sacred and secular music, making a vast array of compositions accessible in print. Collaborated with various composers and provided platforms for new works. Maintained an active role in the musical community, engaging with notable musicians and promoting their compositions.
Continue ReadingFouad Serageddin
Egyptian Minister of Interior
Born
November 2nd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1999 26 years ago — 88 years old
Worked as a lawyer and served as the Minister of Interior in Egypt. Held the position during a transformative period in the country’s political landscape, managing internal security and public order. Engaged in significant governmental reforms and played a role in shaping law enforcement policies. Participated in various political activities and contributed to the administrative framework of the Egyptian state during his tenure.
Continue ReadingTony Mottola
Guitarist and composer for television shows
Born
April 18th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 86 years old
An influential guitarist and composer contributed significantly to the music scene, particularly in television and film. Mottola's career spanned several decades, and his work included collaborations with other notable musicians in the industry. He played a key role in popularizing the guitar as a solo instrument in various genres and settings. His expertise in smooth jazz and Latin music allowed him to create a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences. Mottola also composed and arranged music for television shows, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingAl Freeman Jr.
American actor and director, 'Malcolm X'
Born
March 21st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
An accomplished actor and director, contributions spanned film, television, and theater. Gained acclaim for portrayal of character in the film 'Malcolm X'. Played prominent roles in several television series, notably 'One Life to Live'. Directed a range of productions, showcasing talent in both performance and direction. Worked extensively in the field of acting education and served as a professor.
Continue Reading