Dan Curtis
Television director and producer
A prominent television director and producer, this individual created significant works in the horror genre. Best recognized for creating the cult classic soap opera 'Dark Shadows', which aired from 1966 to 1971, contributions also included directing made-for-television films and miniseries. The work 'The Night Stalker' gained acclaim, leading to a successful series featuring the character Kolchak, influencing later horror television.
Created 'Dark Shadows'
Directed 'The Night Stalker'
Produced various horror-themed miniseries
Other People Born on August 12th
Alfred Lunt
American actor and stage director
Born
August 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1977 48 years ago — 84 years old
An influential American actor and director, primarily recognized for achievements in theater. Developed a reputation for remarkable performances with his partner Lynne Fontanne in various plays. Worked extensively in the Broadway scene during the mid-20th century, contributing to the growth of American theater. Directed and starred in multiple productions that showcased exceptional talent and depth in character portrayal. Received critical acclaim for the emotional range exhibited in performances and direction.
Continue ReadingLouise de Marillac
co-founder of the Daughters of Charity
Born
August 12th, 1591 434 years ago
Died
1660 366 years ago — 69 years old
Co-founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633, an organization dedicated to serving the poor and sick. Established the community to provide education and healthcare to underserved populations. Contributed to the development of charitable work in France and influenced the Catholic Church's approach to social service. Played a significant role in promoting the Vincentian spirit of service and charity throughout Europe.
Continue ReadingKōji Kitao
Sumo wrestler, 60th Yokozuna
Born
August 12th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 56 years old
Debuted in professional sumo in 1980, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo, in 1993. Competed primarily in the top division and held a prominent position in the sport during the 1990s. Represented the Takanohana stable, making significant contributions to the sumo landscape and competing against top wrestlers of the era.
Continue ReadingRoss McWhirter
Author and co-founder of Guinness World Records
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1975 50 years ago — 50 years old
An English author and activist co-founded the Guinness Book of Records, which became a popular reference book worldwide. This work originated from a discussion regarding the fastest game bird in Britain, leading to the establishment of a record-keeping entity. The first edition was published in 1955, and it quickly gained immense popularity, becoming an annual publication. In addition to record-keeping, involvement in various civic activities and political affairs occurred throughout life, including efforts related to freedom of speech and public policy. The co-founding of the world-famous record book marked a significant contribution to entertainment and cultural reference.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Legrenzi
Italian composer of Baroque music
Born
August 12th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1690 336 years ago — 63 years old
An influential composer during the Baroque period, contributions to sacred and secular music are significant. His work spanned various musical forms, including operas, oratorios, and instrumental music. Among the most notable works are 'La divisione dell' intero mondo' and the opera 'Argene.' Legrenzi's style incorporated elements of the Venetian school, showcasing rich harmonies and melodic lines. His career flourished in Venice, where he held important positions, including organist at the Basilica of San Marco. The composer’s legacy continued to influence subsequent generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingGeorge Soros
Investor, philanthropist, and founder of Soros Fund
Born
August 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Born in Hungary, an investor and philanthropist established Soros Fund Management in 1970, achieving notable success in hedge fund management. In the late 20th century, built a reputation as a major financier of various political and social causes through Open Society Foundations. Played a significant role in the 1992 Black Wednesday event, where speculation against the British pound resulted in substantial profits. Contributed extensively to educational and humanitarian efforts globally, influencing policies in Eastern Europe and beyond. Resided in the United States for many years, continuing philanthropic endeavors focused on democracy and human rights.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 27th
Ian Dury
English Singer-Songwriter and Actor
Born
May 12th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2000 26 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in the English music scene, this individual gained recognition in the late 1970s. His style combined elements of rock and punk, often infused with a distinctly British sensibility. The album 'New Boots and Panties!!' featured the hit singles 'Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick' and 'Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3'. As an actor, roles included appearances in films and television, contributing to a multifaceted career. A polio survivor, he often addressed themes of disability and resilience in his work.
Continue ReadingSigismund Báthory
Transylvanian Prince and military leader
Born
1573 453 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1613 413 years ago — 40 years old
Served as Prince of Transylvania during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Ascended to the throne in 1593 and was involved in various military campaigns against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership was marked by efforts to maintain Transylvanian autonomy amidst external pressures from neighboring powers. Báthory's rule faced challenges from both within and outside the principality, leading to eventual deposition due to political intrigue and military failures. Following his removal, he spent time in exile.
Continue ReadingRichard N. Frye
American scholar and academic expert
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2014 12 years ago — 94 years old
An influential scholar in Persian studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of Iranian history and culture. Held academic positions at Harvard University and the University of Massachusetts. Founded the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Harvard, which became a key institution for the study of the region. Authored several books and translated important Persian texts, enhancing Western knowledge of Persian literature and culture.
Continue ReadingYuri Gagarin
Russian cosmonaut and space pioneer
Born
March 9th, 1934 92 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1968 58 years ago — 34 years old
A Soviet pilot and cosmonaut, became the first human to travel into space on April 12, 1961, aboard the Vostok 1 spacecraft. The mission lasted 108 minutes, orbiting the Earth once. This historic flight marked a significant achievement in the Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union. After the space flight, served as a deputy training director for future cosmonauts and participated in various public engagements promoting space exploration. Received numerous awards and decorations for contributions to space science and aeronautics until untimely death in a plane crash in 1968.
Continue ReadingJames Dewar
Scottish chemist and physicist
Born
September 20th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1923 103 years ago — 80 years old
A chemist and physicist contributed significantly to cryogenics and spectroscopy. Invented the Dewar flask, a vacuum-insulated container. Conducted research on the liquefaction of gases, leading to the first successful liquefaction of hydrogen. Held the position of Heriot-Watt University principal. Served as a fellow of the Royal Society and received multiple awards for contributions to science.
Continue ReadingRudolf Vrba
Pharmacologist and educator
Born
September 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2006 20 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Czechoslovakia, a prominent pharmacologist and educator contributed significantly to the study of drug interactions and pharmacokinetics. Emigrated to Canada after World War II, began a teaching career at the University of Alberta. Played a crucial role in the development of the first pharmacology course in Canada, focusing on the integration of clinical practice and pharmacological principles. Conducted extensive research that advanced the understanding of drug effectiveness and safety. Published numerous articles in scientific journals, elevating educational standards in pharmacology, and served as a mentor to many students in the field.
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