Billie Whitelaw
English actress known for Samuel Beckett roles
Born
1932
94 years ago
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An accomplished English actress, she gained recognition for her performances in theater, particularly in works by Samuel Beckett. Whitelaw had a prolific career spanning several decades, transitioning from stage to screen with notable performances in film and television. She starred in the film 'The Omen' and appeared in popular series such as 'The Man in the Glass Booth'. Her collaborations with Beckett included acclaimed productions of 'Play' and 'Not I', showcasing her distinctive talent and dedication to the avant-garde. Throughout her career, she received various awards for her contributions to acting.
Starred in 'The Omen'
Performed in 'Not I' by Samuel Beckett
Appeared in 'The Man in the Glass Booth'
Other People Who Died on December 21st
Carl Van Vechten
Author and photographer of musical figures
Born
June 17th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1964 61 years ago — 84 years old
An American author and photographer, recognized for contributions to literature and the artistic world in the early to mid-20th century. Published several novels, with 'Nigger Heaven' being one of the most discussed works. Engaged with the Harlem Renaissance, capturing its essence through photography and literature. Developed friendships with numerous artists and musicians, influencing cultural trends of the time. Documented important figures in the 1920s and 1930s, producing a significant body of photographic work that portrayed the vibrancy of this artistic period.
Continue ReadingH.B. Warner
English actor in silent film era
Born
October 26th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1958 67 years ago — 82 years old
Began a career in theatre before transitioning to film in the early 20th century. Gained prominence during the silent film era, appearing in numerous films that showcased his dramatic skills. Achieved lasting recognition for roles in 'The Last of the Mohicans' and 'It's a Wonderful Life', portraying Mr. Gower, the druggist. Worked with many leading figures in early cinema and was noted for the ability to convey emotion without dialogue.
Continue ReadingEdwin G. Krebs
American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
June 6th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent figure in biochemistry contributed to understanding the regulation of enzymes and cellular processes. Conducted research on the protein kinase cascade and discovered reversible protein phosphorylation. This research laid the foundation for the field of signal transduction in cells. Held a faculty position at the University of Washington for many years and served as chair of the biochemistry department. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1992 for work on signal transduction in cells.
Continue ReadingFriedrich August von Quenstedt
Geologist and palaeontologist
Born
July 10th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1889 136 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to geology and palaeontology during the 19th century. Worked extensively on the classification of fossils, particularly from the Jurassic period. Authored several pivotal works, including the influential treatise 'Die Gesteine Württembergs', detailing the geology of Württemberg. His research focused on the stratigraphy and fossil records, establishing foundational concepts in the study of prehistoric life.
Continue ReadingRichard Long
English painter and sculptor
Born
June 2nd, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 29 years old
Born in 1945, this individual is recognized for contributions to land art and environmental art. A career spanned several decades, focusing on using natural materials to create artworks that are often situated in outdoor settings. The practice involved walking in landscapes, with artworks documented through photography. This artist's approach emphasizes the relationship between nature and artistic expression.
Continue ReadingNikolaas Tinbergen
Ethologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1988 37 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent ethologist and ornithologist, this individual contributed significantly to the study of animal behavior. The research emphasized instinctive behavior in animals and introduced the concept of fixed action patterns. In 1973, shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine with Konrad Lorenz and Karl von Frisch for discoveries concerning organization and elicitation of individual and social behavior patterns in animals. His work laid foundational principles in ethology and significantly advanced understanding of animal behavior, breeding, and communications.
Continue Reading