Bert Haanstra
Dutch filmmaker and screenwriter
An influential Dutch director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to Dutch cinema. Haanstra began his career in the 1940s and gained prominence with a series of documentaries and feature films. His work often depicted everyday life and cultural themes in the Netherlands. Haanstra's film 'Fanfare' won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1958. He continued to create films throughout the 1960s and 70s, exploring social subjects through his unique visual storytelling. His long career in the film industry left a lasting legacy in Dutch film culture.
Won an Academy Award for 'Fanfare'
Directed acclaimed films in the 1960s and 70s
Other People Born on May 31st
Mac Suzuki
Japanese baseball player, MLB pitcher
Born
May 31st, 1975 50 years ago
This individual played professional baseball as a pitcher, making a significant mark in Major League Baseball (MLB). After starting a career in Japan, played for the Yokohama BayStars in Nippon Professional Baseball before transitioning to MLB. Debuted in 1999 with the Seattle Mariners and later played for the Kansas City Royals. Known for adept pitching skills, competed at the highest level of the sport and contributed to team success during tenure in the league.
Continue ReadingMatthew Lodge
Australian rugby league player
Born
May 31st, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a prop in rugby league. Represented the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL) and later played for the New Zealand Warriors. Debuted in the NRL in 2015 and gained attention for his performances on the field. Experienced both challenges and successes throughout his career, including a suspension in 2019 impacting his reputation. Returned to the game demonstrating resilience and determination.
Continue ReadingYukio Edano
Japanese politician and Foreign Minister
Born
May 31st, 1964 61 years ago
Served as a significant figure in Japanese politics with a focus on government communications and foreign relations. Held the position of Minister for Foreign Affairs from 2011 to 2012. Played a key role during the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, coordinating government response efforts. Contributed to various policy discussions and reforms within the Democratic Party of Japan.
Continue ReadingSantino Ferrucci
Race car driver; IndyCar Series competitor
Born
May 31st, 1998 27 years ago
Competed in various racing series, including the IndyCar Series. Debuted in the series in 2019, gaining attention for performances with Dale Coyne Racing. Participated in the 2020 Indianapolis 500, finishing in 7th place. Prior to IndyCar, raced in Formula 2 and was part of the Ferrari Driver Academy.
Continue ReadingBrandon Smith
New Zealand rugby league player
Born
May 31st, 1996 29 years ago
A rugby league player from New Zealand, Smith achieved recognition for playing as a hooker. Initially represented the Melbourne Storm in the NRL, contributing to the team's 2017 and 2020 premiership victories. Later joined the New Zealand Warriors, continuing to showcase skills on the field and playing a key role in the team's performance.
Continue ReadingRobert Richards
Australian politician, 32nd Premier
Born
May 31st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old
Served as the 32nd Premier of South Australia from 1944 to 1947. Held the position of Minister for Health and Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier. Led the Liberal and Country League party during his political career. Focused on post-war recovery and development in South Australia. Involved in various legislative reforms during tenure as Premier.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 23rd
Marco Simoncelli
Motorcycle racer, MotoGP standout
Born
1987 38 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2011 14 years ago — 24 years old
Competed professionally in motorcycle racing, particularly in the MotoGP World Championship. Achieved notable success in the 250cc class, winning the world championship in 2008. Transitioned to MotoGP, racing for the San Carlo Honda Gresini team and gaining recognition for aggressive riding style. Tragically died during a race in 2011, prompting a significant response within the motorsports community regarding safety measures.
Continue ReadingStanley Tanger
Businessman and philanthropist; founded Tanger Outlet Centers
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old
Established Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, revolutionizing the retail landscape through outlet shopping. Expanded the company into a leading publicly traded retail entity, providing a model for shopping centers across the United States. Engaged in various philanthropic efforts contributing to education and community development. Over the years, the company grew to operate over 70 outlet centers nationwide, offering a wide range of brand name products at reduced prices.
Continue ReadingJack Chick
Cartoonist and Publisher of Tracts
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2016 9 years ago — 92 years old
Created religious comic books that conveyed fundamentalist Christian messages. Founded Chick Publications in 1974 and published numerous tracts that addressed various social issues through a biblical lens. His work reached a worldwide audience and gained both followers and criticism for its strong stances on morality and theology. Continued producing tracts until his passing in 2016.
Continue ReadingLou Jacobi
Canadian-American actor and comedian
Born
December 28th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2009 16 years ago — 95 years old
A Canadian-American actor and comedian, achieved prominence in the entertainment industry. Gained recognition for performances in the film 'Goodbye, Columbus' and the television series 'The Golden Girls'. Active in theatre as well, appeared in productions such as 'The Merchant of Venice' and 'The Sunshine Boys'. Contributed to the world of voice acting in animated features. Active in show business from the 1940s until the 2000s.
Continue ReadingBernard Mayes
Journalist and academia figure
Born
October 10th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2014 11 years ago — 85 years old
Born in England and later becoming a naturalized American, an influential figure in journalism and academia contributed significantly to the field through teaching, writing, and media. Prominent in the establishment of journalism education, held faculty positions at several universities including the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, involved in public broadcasting and community media projects, enhancing the communication landscape. Authored various articles and works focusing on journalism ethics and practices.
Continue ReadingJosh Kirby
English painter and illustrator of covers
Born
November 27th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 23rd, 2001 24 years ago — 72 years old
Contributed to the visual landscape of literature through painting and illustration. Produced a significant number of book covers, notably for the works of Terry Pratchett, contributing to the fantasy genre's aesthetic. Created artwork for science fiction and fantasy novels, establishing a distinct style that resonated with readers. Worked extensively in poster design and children's books, showcasing versatility in different illustration formats. Also engaged in fine art, producing pieces that displayed his unique artistic vision.
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