Charles Laughton

Actor and director, celebrated for 'Witness for the Prosecution'

Charles Laughton - Actor and director, celebrated for 'Witness for the Prosecution'
Born

July 1st, 1899
125 years ago

Died

December 15th, 1962
62 years ago — 63 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

An English-American actor and director, contributions to film and theater are notable. Laughton received acclaim for portraying complex characters, particularly in the film adaptations of literary works. Directed films showcasing his vision, particularly 'The Night of the Hunter'. His performance in 'Witness for the Prosecution' earned a nomination for an Academy Award, solidifying his status in cinematic history. Laughton's theater work included significant performances in London and New York, reflecting a deep commitment to the craft of acting.

Starred in 'Witness for the Prosecution'

Directed 'The Night of the Hunter'

Appeared in 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame'

Other People Born on July 1st

Rhoda Delaval

English painter and aristocrat
Born
July 1st, 1725 299 years ago
Died
1757 268 years ago — 32 years old

Born in England in 1725, this individual was a prominent painter. The artworks primarily included portraits and landscapes, showcasing the artistic styles of the period. Active during the 18th century, her creations reflected both her aristocratic background and her passion for art. Her contributions to the art scene were documented in several exhibitions and collections. The combination of noble heritage and artistic talent made a notable mark in the English art community.

Continue Reading

David Arkenstone

Composer and performer of new age music
Born
July 1st, 1952 72 years ago

A composer and performer produced a significant body of new age music, characterized by instrumental and ambient sounds. Extensive work includes contributions to video game soundtracks, with notable scores for 'World of Warcraft' and 'EverQuest'. The musical style often incorporates elements of various genres including jazz and classical, earning recognition in the new age music scene.

Continue Reading

Beatrix Lehmann

English actress in stage and film
Born
July 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

An English actress gained recognition for performances in theatre and film. Career spanned several decades, with significant work in plays and classic movies. Notably involved in England's theatrical scene, showcasing abilities in both comedic and dramatic roles. Featured in the film 'The Innocents' and had a prominent career in productions at The Old Vic.

Continue Reading

Harold Sakata

Wrestler and actor, portrayed Oddjob
Born
July 1st, 1920 104 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1982 42 years ago — 62 years old

A Japanese-American wrestler and actor gained recognition for playing the character Oddjob in the 1964 James Bond film Goldfinger. Initially a successful amateur wrestler, he transitioned to professional wrestling, competing in various matches across the United States. The performance in Goldfinger brought significant attention and opened doors to further artistic endeavors, including appearances in television series and films. Contributions to both wrestling and acting resulted in a lasting legacy in popular culture.

Continue Reading

Geneviève Bujold

Canadian actress in film and television
Born
July 1st, 1942 82 years ago

An acclaimed actress, recognized for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence in the 1960s with performances in films such as 'Antigone' and 'The Acting Class'. Achieved international recognition for the role of Dr. Helen Granger in 'Earthworm'. In 1971, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her performance in 'Anne of the Thousand Days'. Worked extensively in both French and English cinema, contributing to significant cinematic works throughout the decades.

Continue Reading

Leslie Caron

French actress and dancer known for Gigi
Born
July 1st, 1931 93 years ago

Born in 1931, a prominent French actress and dancer, gained acclaim in the film industry during the 1950s. Starred in several musicals and dramas, showcasing exceptional talent and versatility. Received an Academy Award nomination for performance in 'Lili' and won a Golden Globe for the same role. Collaborated with acclaimed directors and choreographers throughout a celebrated career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 15th

Heinz Wolff

Physiologist and engineer, Wolff's Periodic Table
Born
April 29th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

A physiologist and engineer, contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and biomedical engineering. Served as a professor at Brunel University in London and was a prominent figure in promoting science education through television programs. Developed the Wolff's Periodic Table as a tool in psychophysics and engineering. His work focused on the relationship between physiology and engineering principles.

Continue Reading

Alfred Bird

Chemist and inventor of baking powder
Born
1811 214 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1878 146 years ago — 67 years old

An English chemist and businessman, contributed significantly to the culinary world through the invention of baking powder. This invention revolutionized baking by allowing for a lighter texture in baked goods and simplified the process of leavening. Bird also developed a variety of other food products, including egg-free custard powder, suited for those with egg allergies. His innovations greatly influenced the food industry and home baking practices.

Continue Reading

William Proxmire

American politician and journalist
Born
November 11th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2005 19 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin from 1957 to 1989. Known for his persistent efforts to reduce government waste and spending. Utilized the Golden Fleece Award to highlight wasteful government projects. Proxmire was also a member of the U.S. Army during World War II and engaged in journalism after the war. Advocated for various social issues throughout his political career.

Continue Reading

Eliza Atkins Gleason

American librarian and educator
Born
December 15th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2009 15 years ago — 100 years old

Contributed significantly to library science and education in the United States. Worked as an educator and librarian in various institutions. Published widely on library science, history, and education practices. Served as the first African American librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library. Focused on the importance of libraries in urban education and community service.

Continue Reading

Fats Waller

Pianist and composer of 'Ain't Misbehavin''
Born
May 21st, 1904 120 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1943 81 years ago — 39 years old

An influential American pianist and composer emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, contributing significantly to the jazz genre. Combining humor and virtuosity, played in numerous nightclubs in New York City. Composed memorable pieces, many of which became standards in jazz repertoire. Gained recognition for performances both in person and on radio broadcasts, showcasing a playful style that blended elements of stride piano with popular music. Became a prominent figure in Harlem's music scene and influenced countless musicians.

Continue Reading

Bob Brookmeyer

Trombonist and composer of jazz music
Born
December 19th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
December 15th, 2011 13 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in jazz, Brookmeyer contributed significantly as a trombonist, pianist, and composer. He was a key member of the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, which helped redefine big band jazz. In addition to performing, he composed various works for jazz ensembles and smaller groups. Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned artists such as Stan Getz and Clark Terry, and his innovative approaches to jazz arrangements were influential among musicians. Brookmeyer was also an educator, imparting knowledge about jazz performance and theory to students and aspiring musicians.

Continue Reading