Daniel Petrie
Film and television director and producer
A director and producer in film and television. Directed the classic TV movie 'Brian's Song' in 1971, which depicted the life of football player Brian Piccolo. His work spanned several decades, contributing to both television and film. Received several accolades throughout his career, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series or a Special. Also directed films like 'The Dollmaker' and 'Forty Carats'.
Directed 'Brian's Song'
Won an Emmy Award
Other People Born on November 26th
Jean-Jacques d'Ortous de Mairan
Geophysicist and astronomer
Born
November 26th, 1678 347 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1771 255 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed to celestial mechanics and the study of atmospheric phenomena. Devised explanations for the variations in the length of day and night. Researched the nature of tides and lunar influence on Earth. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences, contributing to the development of scientific knowledge in the 18th century.
Continue ReadingErnie Coombs
Television host of Mr. Dressup
Born
November 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2001 25 years ago — 73 years old
A television host, known for creating and starring in the children's show 'Mr. Dressup', which aired on CBC Television from 1967 to 1996. The program featured interactive storytelling, puppetry, and arts and crafts, engaging a generation of Canadian children. Coombs utilized various characters, including the iconic puppets Casey and Finnegan, to teach important values and stimulate creativity. His work significantly shaped children's programming in Canada during his active years.
Continue ReadingDaniel Davis
Actor in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation'
Born
November 26th, 1945 80 years ago
An American actor, recognized for a career spanning several decades in theatre, television, and film. Appeared in the role of the holographic character Professor Moriarty in 'Star Trek: The Next Generation'. Also portrayed Niles the butler in the television series 'The Nanny'. His stage work includes performances on Broadway, showcasing a range of dramatic and comedic talents.
Continue ReadingEugène Ionesco
Playwright of 'The Bald Soprano'
Born
November 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1994 32 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Romania and later becoming a naturalized French citizen, Ionesco emerged as a leading figure in the Theater of the Absurd. Early works were marked by innovative use of language and themes of existentialism. The play 'The Bald Soprano' debuted in 1950 and established a unique theatrical style characterized by nonsensical dialogue and illogical situations. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Ionesco's plays were often staged in major theaters across Europe and the United States, contributing to the international recognition of absurdist drama. His work addressed themes of alienation, communication breakdown, and the absurdity of human existence.
Continue ReadingInge King
Australian Sculptor, known for major public works
Born
November 26th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 100 years old
Born in Germany and later relocating to Australia, this sculptor gained recognition for public art installations and her significant contributions to the Australian arts scene. Involved in various art movements, she created monumental sculptures that often incorporated themes from nature and abstraction. An early member of the Australian Sculptors Society, her works were featured in several exhibitions, showcasing her talent and unique vision. The artist's work remains prominent in public spaces, appreciated for its scale and aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingKatharine Drexel
American nun and saint known for philanthropy
Born
November 26th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1955 71 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent figure in American Catholicism, established the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, focusing on education for Native Americans and African Americans. Founded numerous schools and missions across the United States. Recognized for her efforts to promote education and religious instruction among marginalized communities, reinforcing the role of the Catholic Church in social justice. Canonized as a saint in 2000 by Pope John Paul II.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 22nd
Colleen Dewhurst
Acclaimed Canadian-American actress
Born
June 3rd, 1924 102 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1991 35 years ago — 67 years old
An accomplished actress with a prominent career in both theater and film. Starred in productions such as 'The Miracle Worker' on Broadway and films including 'The Dead Zone' and 'The Guns of Navarone'. Dewhurst won two Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Play and received critical acclaim for her performances. Renowned for her powerful stage presence and emotive acting style, she played significant roles in various television series, including 'Murphy Brown'. Her contributions to the performing arts garnered respect and admiration.
Continue ReadingJacob De la Gardie
Swedish soldier and Lord High Constable
Born
June 20th, 1583 443 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1652 374 years ago — 69 years old
Born in 1583, served as a soldier and politician in Sweden. Held the title of Lord High Constable. Participated in military campaigns during the Thirty Years' War and played a significant role in Swedish politics. Commanded troops and contributed to various military strategies for the Swedish army. Engaged in building and developing the Swedish territory, including involvement in the establishment of cities and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingErwin Komenda
Austrian Car Designer of Porsche 356
Born
April 6th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1996 30 years ago — 92 years old
An Austrian car designer and engineer contributed significantly to automotive design. Played a crucial role in the development of the Porsche 356, which became one of the most iconic sports cars of the 20th century. Worked at the Porsche company where innovative design techniques were implemented, influencing modern automotive aesthetics. Involved in various projects that advanced automotive engineering and design principles, showcasing a blend of form and function.
Continue ReadingPaul Poberezny
Founder of Experimental Aircraft Association
Born
September 14th, 1921 105 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2013 13 years ago — 91 years old
Aviation pioneer and businessman founded the Experimental Aircraft Association in 1953, promoting recreational aviation and supporting homebuilt aircraft. Played a crucial role in organizing the annual Oshkosh AirVenture, the world's largest aviation event. Contributed significantly to the growth and development of the experimental aircraft movement through advocacy and education.
Continue ReadingRoger Martin du Gard
French novelist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 23rd, 1881 145 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1958 68 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1881, a French novelist and paleographer gained prominence in the literary world. Authored the multi-volume novel "Les Thibaults," which explores themes of family dynamics and societal change in France during the early 20th century. Became a prominent literary figure in the 1930s and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1937 for the quality and depth of his writing. His works often reflect the complexity of human relationships and the influence of social and historical contexts. Engaged actively in the literary community, contributing to the development of literary culture in France.
Continue ReadingPope Nicholas III
Pope and reformer during the Middle Ages
Born
1225 801 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1280 746 years ago — 55 years old
Served as pope from 1277 until death in 1280. Focused on church reform and the management of church properties. Worked to restore the authority of the papacy in Rome. Engaged in diplomatic negotiations and sought to strengthen alliances with various Italian city-states. Contributed to the development of church policies and governance during a tumultuous period in medieval history.
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