Bruno Ganz
Swiss actor known for 'Downfall'
Born
March 22nd, 1941
84 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2019
6 years ago — 77 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
Switzerland
Links & References
An acclaimed Swiss actor with a career spanning over five decades, widely recognized for roles in German and international cinema. Gained significant attention for portraying Adolf Hitler in the film 'Downfall' which depicted the final days of the Third Reich. Worked with esteemed directors including Wim Wenders and Eric Rohmer, contributing to notable films such as 'Wings of Desire' and 'The American Friend'. Aside from film, contributed to theatre, particularly in productions of classic plays. Earned accolades for performances that showcased a deep understanding of complex characters and themes.
Portrayed Adolf Hitler in 'Downfall'
Starred in 'Wings of Desire'
Featured in 'The American Friend'
Other People Born on March 22nd
Simon Furman
Born in 1961, a British comic book writer achieved prominence in the 1980s. Primarily recognized for contributions to the Transformers comic series, significantly shaping its narrative and character arcs. Worked on characters that became iconic within the franchise and contributed to series adaptations in various media. Participated in numerous comic conventions and contributed articles on the genre. Collaborated with various artists to continue developing comic stories that appealed to both new and long-time fans.
Continue ReadingHaing S. Ngor
A Cambodian-American physician and author, contributed significantly to literature on the Khmer Rouge regime. Arrived in the United States as a refugee after surviving the Cambodian genocide. Wrote 'Survival in the Killing Fields', which details experiences during this tumultuous period. Worked as a physician in Los Angeles after earning a medical degree. Acted in the film adaptation of his book, receiving critical acclaim for the performance. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role, marking a significant achievement in film.
Continue ReadingM. Emmet Walsh
An American actor with a career spanning several decades, this individual gained recognition for roles in both film and television. Notable works include appearances in 'Blade Runner', 'The Jerk', and 'The Last Temptation of Christ'. The extensive body of work includes performances across genres, showcasing a range of characters and supporting roles. The talent has contributed to various renowned projects and has collaborated with several prominent filmmakers throughout the career.
Continue ReadingMatthew Modine
A film and television actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Gained prominence through roles in film and television, particularly in the Stanley Kubrick film Full Metal Jacket and the Netflix series Stranger Things. Modine began his acting career in the late 1970s and achieved early success with the film Vision Quest. In addition to acting, he directed several projects, including the film If I Had Known I Was a Genius. Active in various philanthropic efforts, he has supported causes related to mental health and education.
Continue ReadingJames Patterson
An American author and producer, he gained widespread recognition for his work in the thriller genre. Patterson began his career in advertising before transitioning to novel writing. His series features characters like Alex Cross and Women's Murder Club. His books often blend suspense with intricate plots, appealing to a broad audience. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to literature, including the Edgar Award and the Bouchercon Award.
Continue ReadingBill Holman
Contributed significantly to the world of cartooning through work as an illustrator and comic strip creator. Gained recognition for the comic strips published in major newspapers. Created memorable characters and engaging narratives that captured the attention of readers. Worked for several prominent publications, showcasing artistic talent and creativity.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 16th
Gary Carter
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball, primarily for the New York Mets and the Montreal Expos. Achieved notable recognition for contributing to the Mets' victory in the 1986 World Series. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing, sharing knowledge and experience with younger players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003, celebrating a successful career with multiple All-Star appearances.
Continue ReadingColin Edwards
This individual was a Guyanese footballer who played primarily as a defender. He began his professional career with Blackpool and made appearances in several domestic leagues. His international career included representing Guyana in CONCACAF competitions and World Cup qualifiers. Later in his career, he transitioned to play in various leagues within the region. Edwards contributed significantly to the development of football in Guyana, being one of the pioneers in showcasing local talent on higher platforms.
Continue ReadingMarceline Day
Active in the 1920s, this actress starred in several silent and sound films, gaining recognition for performances in 'The Show of Shows' and 'The Roaring Twenties'. Career spanned over three decades, with appearances in various film genres, solidifying a place in early Hollywood history. After retiring from acting, continued working in the film industry in different capacities.
Continue ReadingJustinas Marcinkevičius
Marcinkevičius was a prominent Lithuanian poet and playwright whose works significantly influenced modern Lithuanian literature. Engaging themes of national identity and resilience characterized his writings. His poetry often reflected the struggle for freedom and the enduring spirit of the Lithuanian people. Notable works include the play 'Mindaugas,' which explores the history and culture of Lithuania, alongside many celebrated poetry collections. A member of the National Salvation Committee during the awakening period of the 1980s, he contributed to Lithuania's move towards independence from the Soviet Union.
Continue ReadingJohn V Palaiologos
Ruled as Byzantine emperor from 1341 to 1376 and again from 1379 until death in 1391. Ascended to the throne as a minor, leading to regencies and internal conflicts. His reign was marked by the increasing territorial losses of the Byzantine Empire to the Ottomans and internal strife from the Palaiologos dynasty. Managed to restore some degree of stability in the later years but faced the ongoing decline of imperial power. Further alliances were sought with the West to garner military support against advancing enemies, including a notable appeal for aid from the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingAlexei Navalny
A prominent Russian opposition figure, focused on combating political corruption. Navalny gained recognition through investigative reporting and organized protests against the government. Established the Anti-Corruption Foundation, which exposed high-level corruption among Russian officials. Ran for mayor of Moscow, garnering significant public support. Navalny faced multiple arrests and imprisonments for his activism, which spotlighted the challenges faced by opposition voices in Russia. He survived a poisoning attempt in 2020, leading to international condemnation. Continued to advocate for democratic reforms until death in 2024.
Continue Reading