Beverly Sills

Opera soprano and actress

Beverly Sills - Opera soprano and actress
Born

May 25th, 1929
96 years ago

Died

July 2nd, 2007
18 years ago — 78 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Acclaimed as one of the leading sopranos of her time, this artist gained prominence in the opera world during the mid-20th century. Known for captivating performances, she sang major roles in operas such as 'Romeo and Juliet' and 'Lakmé'. The singer's successful career included performances with renowned companies like the New York City Opera and the Metropolitan Opera. Beyond performance, contributions to arts education and her role as a television personality further established her legacy in American culture.

Sang lead roles in 'Romeo and Juliet'

Performed at the New York City Opera

Sang at the Metropolitan Opera

Hosted PBS broadcasting specials

Other People Born on May 25th

Kazi Nazrul Islam

Bengali poet and revolutionary musician
Born
May 25th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Bengali poet, author, and songwriter, created a significant body of work that addressed themes of social justice and revolution. His poetry often interwove elements of mysticism and nationalism. Islam composed numerous songs and is celebrated for pioneering a genre that blends traditional and modern music forms. His fervent activism against colonial rule inspired many during India's struggle for independence. Additionally, served as the national poet of Bangladesh, fostering a strong cultural identity through literary contributions.

Continue Reading

Octavia Spencer

American actress and author
Born
May 25th, 1970 55 years ago

Born in 1970, this American actress gained widespread attention for her role in 'The Help,' which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Early career included roles in television series such as 'The Big Mama's House' and 'Malcolm X' and provided significant contributions to various film and television projects. Spencer also co-wrote a series of children's books, showcasing her talent beyond acting.

Continue Reading

Gordon H. Smith

American businessman and politician
Born
May 25th, 1952 73 years ago

A businessman and politician served as a United States Senator from Oregon from 1997 to 2009. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure, focusing on agriculture, rural issues, and telecommunications. Prior to serving in the Senate, held various positions in business, including president of the Oregon Association of Nurseries. After leaving the Senate, continued to be active in public affairs and business.

Continue Reading

Ernest "Pop" Stoneman

Country musician known for 'The Stoneman Family'
Born
May 25th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 75 years old

Active in the early 20th century, a prominent figure in American country music, contributed significantly to the genre's development. Recorded numerous songs with the Stoneman Family, which helped popularize bluegrass and traditional country music. Participated in the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing talent and influencing future generations of musicians. His work laid the foundation for later artists in the country music landscape.

Continue Reading

Steve Cochran

Film and television actor in the 1950s
Born
May 25th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 48 years old

An American actor played roles in film, television, and stage productions. Achieved fame during the 1950s with performances in movies and television series. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Naked Jungle' and 'The Wild One'. Appeared in various television series including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Big Story'. Also had a notable stage career.

Continue Reading

Larry Hogan

American politician and Governor of Maryland
Born
May 25th, 1956 69 years ago

Served as the 62nd Governor of Maryland from 2015 to 2023. Initially gained national attention as a Republican in a predominantly Democratic state. Focused on improving the state's economy, reducing taxes, and implementing bipartisan initiatives. Played a significant role in budget management and infrastructure projects. Successfully re-elected in 2018, demonstrating substantial support across party lines.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 2nd

Elie Wiesel

Holocaust survivor and human rights activist
Born
September 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 87 years old

Survived the Holocaust and documented the experience in literature. Authored the memoir 'Night', which recounts experiences in Nazi concentration camps. Became a prominent advocate for human rights and spoke out against oppression worldwide. Founded the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity, focusing on education and promoting understanding between people.

Continue Reading

Vincenzo Galilei

Italian lute player and composer
Born
1520 505 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1591 434 years ago — 71 years old

Significant contributions to music theory and experimentation with musical acoustics occurred. Composed prominent works for the lute and established a strong foundation for the development of opera. Wrote influential treatises that analyzed music's mathematical aspects, helping to bridge the gap between science and the arts.

Continue Reading

Ernest Hemingway

American novelist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 21st, 1899 126 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1961 64 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent novelist and short story writer emerged in the early 20th century. Works included the novels 'The Old Man and the Sea,' 'For Whom the Bell Tolls,' and 'A Farewell to Arms.' Contributed to journalism while covering the Spanish Civil War and World War II. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 for mastery of the art of narrative. Influenced writing styles and techniques, contributing to the development of modern American literature.

Continue Reading

George McBride

Baseball player and manager
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1973 52 years ago — 93 years old

Played shortstop in Major League Baseball from 1904 to 1915, primarily with the Washington Senators. Managed the Senators from 1927 to 1929. Achieved significant recognition for his defensive skills and leadership on the field. Contributed to the development of young players during managerial career.

Continue Reading

Maurice Chevit

French actor and screenwriter in cinema
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, this individual achieved recognition for a career that spanned several decades. Participation in the film 'Les Valseuses' marked a significant milestone, showcasing extraordinary talent. The body of work includes various roles in both film and theater, immersing in complex characters and narratives. Contributions to the art of storytelling as a screenwriter demonstrated depth and ambition.

Continue Reading

Ray Brown

American jazz bassist and cellist
Born
October 13th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2002 23 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent jazz bassist and cellist, this artist contributed to the genre through collaborations and recordings. Played with notable ensembles, including the Oscar Peterson Trio and has a substantial discography as a leader. This musician also worked as an educator, influencing future generations of jazz artists. His skill on both bass and cello showcased versatility in various jazz styles, making a significant mark in the jazz community.

Continue Reading