Darryl F. Zanuck
Film producer and studio executive
A prominent figure in Hollywood, Zanuck co-founded 20th Century Fox and served as a pivotal force in the studio's production operations. His career spanned several decades during which he produced acclaimed films that garnered multiple Academy Awards. Zanuck's influence on the film industry was significant as he shapes numerous productions that helped define cinematic storytelling in the mid-20th century. He held various positions within the industry, including writer and director, ultimately becoming a central figure in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
Produced 'How Green Was My Valley' (1941) which won the Academy Award for Best Picture
Co-founded 20th Century Fox
Produced 'The Grapes of Wrath' (1940)
Other People Born on September 5th
Sigrid
Norwegian singer with hit 'Strangers'
Born
September 5th, 1996 29 years ago
A singer-songwriter originating from Norway, gained prominence with the release of singles including 'Strangers' and 'Don't Kill My Vibe'. Debuted studio album, 'Sucker Punch', achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. The artist's style blends pop and electronic influences, contributing to the modern music landscape.
Continue ReadingKristina Söderbaum
Film actress and producer of Germany
Born
September 5th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old
An actress and producer, achieved prominence in German cinema during the 1930s and 1940s. Gained attention for roles in Leni Riefenstahl's films, including 'Olympia' and 'Triumph of the Will'. Later worked in various European productions, earning acclaim for artistic contributions to film. Transitioned into producing, overseeing projects that reinforced her artistic vision. Continued to engage with the arts until her passing in 2001.
Continue ReadingLouis VIII
King of France during the medieval period
Born
September 5th, 1187 838 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1226 799 years ago — 39 years old
Ruled as King of France from 1223 until death in 1226. Participated in the Albigensian Crusade, aiming to eliminate Catharism in southern France. Strengthened the French monarchy and centralized power. Engaged in conflicts with England, including a military campaign against King John. Extended royal influence in territories like Languedoc and Poitou. His reign marked efforts to enhance the authority of the crown over the nobility.
Continue ReadingAleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy
Russian poet and playwright
Born
September 5th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1875 150 years ago — 58 years old
Aleksey Konstantinovich Tolstoy contributed significantly to Russian literature as a poet, author, and playwright. His works encompassed a range of genres, including poetry, novels, and plays. Tolstoy's notable works include the narrative poem 'The Devil' and the historical novel 'Prince Serebryany' which reflected themes of Russian folklore and history. His literary style combined romanticism with realism, allowing for deep explorations of character and emotion. Tolstoy was also a member of the Imperial Academy of Arts and participated actively in the literary community of his time.
Continue ReadingAmy Beach
American composer and pianist, Gaelic Symphony
Born
September 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1944 82 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American composer and pianist, Beach made significant contributions to classical music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She composed a wide array of works, including symphonies, chamber music, and songs. Beach gained recognition with the premiere of her Gaelic Symphony in 1896, which was the first symphony composed and published by an American woman. Additionally, she played piano and performed her works at various concerts, contributing to her legacy in American music. Beach's compositions often drew on American folk themes and incorporated elements of European styles, reflecting her unique musical voice within her time.
Continue ReadingJohn Stewart
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
September 5th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
January 19th, 2008 18 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent figure in the American folk music scene, played a crucial role in the development of the genre during the 1960s. Gained recognition as a member of the Kingston Trio. Transitioned to a solo career, releasing several notable albums. Wrote the hit song 'Daydream Believer', which became a major success for The Monkees. Continued to perform and record music until death.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 22nd
Desmond Hoyte
Guyanese politician and President
Born
March 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2002 23 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the President of Guyana from 1985 to 1992 after holding various ministerial positions. Initially a member of the People's National Congress, took office following the death of the previous president. Implemented economic reforms and attempted to transition the country towards a free-market economy. Focused on improving international relations and fostering diplomatic ties with other nations. Played a significant role in the non-aligned movement and represented Guyana in several international forums.
Continue ReadingCharles Court
Politician and 21st Premier of WA
Born
September 29th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 96 years old
Served as the 21st Premier of Western Australia from 1974 to 1982. Held various ministerial positions including Minister for Works and Minister for Housing. Worked to promote economic development and infrastructure improvements during the premiership. Expanded Western Australia's role in the resources sector, fostering growth in mining and industry.
Continue ReadingWillibald Pirckheimer
German lawyer and Renaissance author
Born
December 5th, 1470 555 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1530 495 years ago — 60 years old
A prominent figure of the German Renaissance, extensively contributed to humanist literature. Engaged in legal practice while also serving as a patron of the arts. Collaborated with notable artists of the period, influencing the cultural landscape. Authored letters and treatises that showcased classical learning and the significance of education. Played a vital role in the promotion of humanist thought in Germany.
Continue ReadingWilliam Hyde Wollaston
English chemist and physicist
Born
August 6th, 1766 259 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1828 197 years ago — 62 years old
Contributions to chemistry and physics included the discovery of the elements palladium and rhodium. Developed methods for refining platinum, which advanced early techniques in metallurgy. Conducted pioneering work in spectroscopy. Wrote significant scientific papers that laid foundations for future research.
Continue ReadingSamuel Beckett
Irish playwright and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 13th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1989 36 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in modern literature, this individual achieved recognition for contributions to drama and fiction. Often associated with existential themes, works include the play 'Waiting for Godot' and the novel 'Molloy'. The writing style employed a minimalistic approach, significantly influencing the absurdist movement in theatre. The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded in 1969, acknowledging creative and innovative literary output. Beyond plays, exploration of narrative forms in novels and poetry also marked a significant aspect of the individual's work.
Continue ReadingGodfried Bomans
Dutch television host and author
Born
March 2nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1971 54 years ago — 58 years old
Born in the Netherlands, a prominent figure in Dutch literature and television, focused on children's literature and television programming. Achievements include hosting various cultural programs and engaging audiences with entertaining educational content. Additionally, authored several books that contributed to Dutch literature, notably in the genre of fantasy and stories for young readers. The popularity extended to radio, where engaging storytelling was a hallmark. Emphasis on the importance of literature in education characterized much of the work.
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