Betty Garrett
Actress and singer in Broadway musicals
A prominent American actress, singer, and dancer, performed in Broadway musicals and films. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'On the Town' and featured in the film adaptation. Notably appeared in the television series 'Laverne & Shirley' as Edna Babish. Her career spanned several decades, captivating audiences with her talent in both musical theater and television.
Starred in 'On the Town'
Appeared in 'Laverne & Shirley'
Other People Born on May 23rd
Otto Lilienthal
Pioneer aviator and glider inventor
Born
May 23rd, 1848 177 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1896 129 years ago — 48 years old
A German aviation pioneer, contributed significantly to the development of controlled flight. Conducted over 2,000 flights, demonstrating the principles of aerodynamics through various glider designs. Published numerous works on flight and aerodynamics. His studies laid the groundwork for future aviators and engineers in the emerging field of aviation. The successes of his gliders inspired subsequent aviation efforts globally.
Continue ReadingRosemary Clooney
American singer and actress in White Christmas
Born
May 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent singer and actress, rose to fame in the 1950s with a successful music career. Gained significant popularity through the iconic Christmas song 'White Christmas' and starred in the movie of the same name alongside Bing Crosby. Clooney's smooth vocal style and engaging performances made her a mainstay in the entertainment industry. In addition to her music and film career, she had a notable presence on television, appearing in her own show in the 1960s. Clooney's contributions to music and film have left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingRómulo Díaz de la Vega
Mexican General and President (1855)
Born
May 23rd, 1800 225 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1877 148 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1800, this individual served as a general and briefly as President of Mexico in 1855. Active in the military during a tumultuous period, his leadership contributed to various endeavors aimed at stabilizing the country amid political strife. His presidency was marked by efforts to address existing conflicts and governance challenges that Mexico faced at the time. Though his tenure was short, it reflected the complexities of leadership during a significant transitional era.
Continue ReadingJoe Slovo
Politician and anti-apartheid activist
Born
May 23rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1995 31 years ago — 68 years old
A lawyer and politician, contributed to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Co-founded the South African Communist Party and served as the Chief of Staff of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress. Participated in the negotiations to end apartheid and served as a minister in the post-apartheid government.
Continue ReadingLinden Ashby
Actor best known for 'Teen Wolf'
Born
May 23rd, 1960 65 years ago
An American actor achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Featured in the popular series 'Teen Wolf' as Jackson Whittemore, contributing to the show's success from 2011 to 2017. Also appeared in the movie 'Mortal Kombat' as Johnny Cage, showcasing talent in the action genre. Early career included roles in various soap operas, with a significant break in film and television leading to a lasting presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPhilip I of France
King of France during the Investiture Controversy
Born
May 23rd, 1052 973 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1108 917 years ago — 56 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1059 until death in 1108. His reign was marked by conflicts involving the papacy and the monarchy known as the Investiture Controversy. Engaged in various territorial disputes and involvement in the First Crusade. Consolidated royal power in France and strengthened the Capetian dynasty. Philip's rule saw the gradual increase of the king's authority amidst ongoing conflicts with both nobility and the church.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 12th
Eubie Blake
Pianist and composer of 'Shuffle Along'
Born
February 7th, 1887 139 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1983 42 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1887, a pioneering figure in American music, particularly in the genres of ragtime and jazz. Collaborated with numerous artists and composers throughout a lengthy career, often focusing on creating music that reflected the African American experience. The musical 'Shuffle Along' debuted in 1921, becoming one of the first Broadway shows to be written, produced, and performed by African Americans, significantly influencing American musical theater. Continued to perform and compose well into the latter half of the 20th century, contributing to the cultural landscape and inspiring future generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingGary Owens
Radio host and voice actor
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 81 years old
Worked extensively in radio, serving as a host and voice actor. Gained recognition for work on programs such as 'Laugh-In' and 'The Gary Owens Show'. Contributed voice work to various cartoons, notably 'Space Ghost' and 'The Addams Family'. Spent several decades in the entertainment industry, becoming a prominent figure in voice acting and radio broadcasting.
Continue ReadingPeggy Gilbert
Saxophonist and bandleader
Born
January 17th, 1905 121 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2007 18 years ago — 102 years old
Pioneered as a female saxophonist and bandleader in jazz and popular music during the early to mid-20th century. Led her own all-female band and performed on radio programs and at various venues. Contributed to the representation of women in the music industry, often breaking gender barriers. Worked with prominent artists and was involved in notable performances throughout her career.
Continue ReadingEugene Esmonde
English lieutenant and pilot
Born
March 1st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1942 83 years ago — 32 years old
Served as a lieutenant in the Royal Navy during World War II. Participated in several key missions, including operations against enemy ships and submarines. Achieved recognition for bravery during a critical air raid. Died during a valiant attempt to rescue fellow pilots, earning posthumous honors for courage and sacrifice.
Continue ReadingDavid Groh
Actor in 'Ocean's 11' and 'The Love Boat'
Born
1939 87 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 69 years old
An American actor featured prominently in television and film. Achieved recognition for a range of roles across various genres. Gained popularity through appearances in series such as 'The Love Boat' and 'M*A*S*H'. Played significant roles in several films, including 'Ocean's 11'. His career spanned multiple decades, contributing to both comedic and dramatic storytelling on screen.
Continue ReadingDorothy Stang
Nun and Missionary in Brazil
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old
A nun and missionary worked in the Brazilian Amazon, advocating for the rights of landless farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Engaged in various initiatives to protect the rainforest and support local communities. Founded the Pastoral Land Commission, which focused on land reform and protection of the rights of marginalized groups. Her commitment to social justice led to significant recognition in both Brazil and internationally.
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