Chiwetel Ejiofor
English actor, starred in 12 Years a Slave
Born in London, Chiwetel Ejiofor is an English actor who gained prominence for his role as Solomon Northup in the film '12 Years a Slave'. This performance earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Ejiofor also starred in 'The Martian', received acclaim for his role in 'Dirty Pretty Things', and has appeared in various stage productions, including a celebrated performance in 'Othello' at the National Theatre. Besides film and stage, Ejiofor lent his voice to the character of Baron Mordo in 'Doctor Strange'. His work spans multiple genres, demonstrating versatility and depth in character portrayal.
Starred as Solomon Northup in '12 Years a Slave'
Appeared in 'The Martian'
Voiced Baron Mordo in 'Doctor Strange'
Other People Born on July 10th
Jerry Nelson
Puppeteer and voice actor for Sesame Street
Born
July 10th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2012 13 years ago — 78 years old
A puppeteer and voice actor contributed significantly to children's television. Worked primarily with Jim Henson's Muppets and gained recognition for portraying various characters on 'Sesame Street'. Provided the voices and puppetry for iconic characters, including Gobo Fraggle in 'Fraggle Rock' and Count von Count on 'Sesame Street'. Career spanned several decades, leading to a lasting imprint on family entertainment, particularly through the educational children's programming.
Continue ReadingRonnie James Dio
Heavy metal singer and songwriter
Born
July 10th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 16 years ago — 67 years old
One of the prominent figures in heavy metal music, this artist contributed significantly to the genre through powerful vocals and innovative songwriting. Starting a career in the 1960s, played with bands such as Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and formed Dio. The debut album from Dio, 'Holy Diver,' released in 1983, achieved significant commercial success and solidified a legacy within the heavy metal community. This artist's influence extended beyond music, contributing to the culture of heavy metal through distinctive stage presence and lyrical themes.
Continue ReadingJohn Calvin
Theologian and Reformer of Geneva
Born
July 10th, 1509 516 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1564 462 years ago — 54 years old
A principal figure in the Protestant Reformation, this theologian's work laid the foundations for Reformed Christianity. Led the city of Geneva to become a center of Protestantism. Authored 'Institutes of the Christian Religion,' a seminal text that outlined his theological positions and ecclesiastical governance. His focus on the sovereignty of God and the preaching of the word shaped Reformed doctrine.
Continue ReadingAdam Petty
NASCAR driver and winner of major races
Born
July 10th, 1980 45 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2000 26 years ago — 19 years old
American race car driver competed in NASCAR's top series. Participated in the Cup Series from 1998 to 2000, primarily driving the No. 45 car for Petty Enterprises. Achieved notable success at tracks such as New Hampshire International Speedway, where secured a victory in 1999, becoming the first fourth-generation driver to win a NASCAR race. Tragically passed away during a race in 2000 at New Hampshire, drawing attention to safety in motorsports and prompting changes in race car design and track safety protocols.
Continue ReadingMary McLeod Bethune
Educator and civil rights leader
Born
July 10th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1955 71 years ago — 79 years old
An educator and civil rights leader, established a private school for African American girls in Daytona Beach, Florida, in 1904. Instrumental in forming the National Council of Negro Women in 1935. Served as an advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, contributing to policies affecting African Americans. Advocated for education and civil rights throughout her life, promoting opportunities for black citizens.
Continue ReadingAlejandro de Tomaso
Race car driver and De Tomaso founder
Born
July 10th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2003 23 years ago — 74 years old
Established a successful career as a race car driver in the 1960s and 1970s, competing in various international motorsports events. Founded De Tomaso Automobili, a vehicle manufacturer in Italy, which gained recognition for its sports cars. Developed a distinctive line of vehicles that blended Italian design with performance engineering.
Continue Reading