Betty Comden
Screenwriter and librettist for Broadway
A prominent screenwriter and librettist contributed significantly to American musical theater and film. Collaborated closely with writing partner Adolph Green, crafting scripts and lyrics for numerous successful productions. Co-created iconic musicals including "On the Town" and "Bells Are Ringing," both of which received critical acclaim. Worked in films, notably contributing to the screenplay of "Singin' in the Rain," widely regarded as one of the greatest musicals in cinema history. Her contributions to Broadway and Hollywood earned numerous accolades throughout a prolific career.
Co-created the musical "On the Town"
Wrote screenplay for "Singin' in the Rain"
Co-created the musical "Bells Are Ringing"
Other People Born on May 3rd
François Coty
Fragrance entrepreneur and pioneer
Born
May 3rd, 1874 151 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1934 91 years ago — 60 years old
Established a successful fragrance business in France, focusing on luxury perfumes. Founded Coty Inc., which transformed the beauty industry with innovative marketing and product presentation. Introduced notable fragrances such as La Rose Jacqueminot and became a prominent figure in the cosmetics sector.
Continue ReadingVirgil Fox
American organist, composer, and performer
Born
May 3rd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 68 years old
An acclaimed organist and composer, contributions include performances across major concert halls in the United States and Europe. Developed a unique style that integrated classical organ literature with contemporary elements. Held a prominent position in the American organ community, influencing generations of musicians through his innovative techniques and interpretations.
Continue ReadingGeorge Paget Thomson
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 3rd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1975 50 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent English physicist and academic, contributions to physics include research on electron diffraction, which demonstrated the wave-like properties of electrons. The work provided significant enhancement to quantum mechanics and solidified the understanding of wave-particle duality. In 1937, the Nobel Prize in Physics was awarded for these contributions, sharing the honor with Clinton Davisson. Thomson was also involved in education, holding various academic positions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPrincess Élisabeth of France
French Princess and Revolutionary figure
Born
May 3rd, 1764 261 years ago
Died
1794 231 years ago — 30 years old
Born into the French royal family, a member of the House of Bourbon. Participated actively in the events leading up to the French Revolution. Opposed the revolution and was executed by guillotine in 1794 during the Reign of Terror. Despite royal lineage, she expressed a desire for a more personal connection with her subjects. Throughout her life, she maintained close ties with her family, including her brother, King Louis XVI, and her sister-in-law, Marie Antoinette.
Continue ReadingDwayne Haskins
American football player and quarterback
Born
May 3rd, 1997 28 years ago
Died
April 9th, 2022 3 years ago — 24 years old
A football player played as a quarterback in the NFL, primarily for the Washington Football Team and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gained recognition in college at Ohio State University, where threw for 4,831 yards and 50 touchdowns in 2018. Led the Buckeyes to a Big Ten Championship and earned the Graham-George Offensive Player of the Year Award. Entered the NFL Draft and was selected 15th overall in 2019. Played two seasons in the NFL before passing away in 2022.
Continue ReadingGottfried Fuchs
Soccer player and Olympic medalist
Born
May 3rd, 1889 136 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1972 53 years ago — 82 years old
Played soccer for the German national team and later represented Canada in international competitions. Competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics and contributed to the team securing a silver medal. Transitioned to a successful career in Canadian soccer post-competition, influencing the sport within the country.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 23rd
Roger Newdigate
English politician and landowner
Born
May 30th, 1719 306 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1803 222 years ago — 84 years old
An English politician and landowner, served as a Member of Parliament for the constituency of East Grinstead from 1754 to 1761. Participated actively in parliamentary debates and was associated with various political factions. Held the position of High Sheriff of Surrey, influencing local governance. Engaged in agricultural reforms and land management, enhancing the productivity of his estates. Contributed to the political landscape of the time through consistent representation and advocacy.
Continue ReadingLouis Malle
French filmmaker with acclaimed films
Born
October 30th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1995 30 years ago — 63 years old
A prominent director, producer, and screenwriter emerged in the French film industry during the 1950s. Worked on influential films such as 'Les Amants,' which challenged contemporary norms, and 'Au Revoir les Enfants,' a poignant portrayal of World War II youth. Malle also directed 'Atlantic City,' which showcased his ability to create atmospheric narratives. Collaborated with international cinema, demonstrating a distinct cinematic voice.
Continue ReadingWillie Pep
Boxer with multiple world championships
Born
September 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent professional boxer, achieved significant success during the 1940s and 1950s. Competed in the featherweight division and held the World Featherweight Championship multiple times. Known for exceptional speed and agility, secured a remarkable career record with a high number of victories by decision. After retiring from boxing, served as a referee, further contributing to the sport.
Continue ReadingAndy O'Sullivan
Irish Republican Hunger Striker
Died
November 23rd, 1923 102 years ago — None years old
Engaged in the struggle for Irish republicanism, O'Sullivan participated in a hunger strike to protest against British rule in Ireland. The hunger strike aimed to demand political recognition for Irish republicans and better treatment of prisoners. This act of defiance led to significant attention towards the plight of political prisoners in Ireland during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingStela Popescu
Romanian actress in theater and film
Born
December 21st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2017 8 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in Romanian cinema and theater, gained recognition during the communist era for performances in various films and television shows. Achieved significant acclaim through contributions to theatrical works and a long-standing career in entertainment. Participated in numerous popular productions that resonated with audiences, showcasing a profound talent and versatility on stage and screen. Received various accolades for roles that defined a generation of Romanian performers.
Continue ReadingFred R. Harris
American politician and senator
Born
November 13th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2024 1 years ago — 94 years old
Served as a United States senator from Oklahoma from 1965 to 1972. Played a significant role in the establishment and support of various social programs during tenure. Contributed to the Democratic Party as a key figure in the Senate and was involved in the debates surrounding civil rights legislation. After leaving the Senate, engaged in academia and continued contribution to political discourse through writings and lectures.
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