Dave Thomas
Canadian actor and director of SCTV
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
Canada
Links & References
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, involved with the sketch comedy show SCTV, which gained critical acclaim. Also co-created and starred in the film Strange Brew, which became a cult classic. Contributed to television and film projects throughout career, winning accolades for comedic performances and writing skills.
Co-created and starred in SCTV
Co-wrote and acted in Strange Brew
Other People Born on May 20th
Joel Moon
Rugby league player & representative athlete
Born
May 20th, 1988 37 years ago
Debuted in professional rugby league in 2007. Played for clubs including the Sydney Roosters and the New Zealand Warriors. Represented New South Wales Country in representative matches. Participated in the rugby league World Cup, contributing to team strategies and performance.
Continue ReadingCate Campbell
Swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 20th, 1992 33 years ago
Competed in international swimming events, winning multiple medals. Achieved Olympic success at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, securing gold in the 4x100 meter freestyle relay. Set numerous national records and was part of the Australian swimming team that excelled in World Championships.
Continue ReadingPedro María de Anaya
Mexican soldier and President (1847-1848)
Born
May 20th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1854 172 years ago — 58 years old
Served as a soldier in the Mexican-American War and held the position of President of Mexico from 1847 to 1848. During presidency, faced challenges arising from the war and internal political instability. Resigned amid pressures from both foreign and domestic factions. His government oversaw significant territorial losses for Mexico as a result of the war with the United States.
Continue ReadingAlexei Tupolev
Engineer of the Tupolev Tu-144 jet
Born
May 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
An engineer specialized in aviation design, and contributed significant advancements in aerospace technology. Designed the Tupolev Tu-144, the first supersonic transport aircraft, which made its maiden flight in 1968 and became a symbol of Soviet aeronautics. Played a key role in the development of various military and civilian aircraft during a career that spanned several decades. Engaged in research and development focused on improving aircraft performance and safety, leading to innovative designs that influenced future aviation.
Continue ReadingChristie Blatchford
Canadian journalist and broadcaster
Born
May 20th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2020 6 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent journalist and broadcaster, contributed to Canadian media over several decades. Worked for major publications including the Toronto Sun and The National Post. Gained recognition for incisive commentary on various topics, including sports, crime, and politics. Authored several books, with some focused on high-profile criminal cases. Actively engaged in broadcasting, providing insightful opinions and analysis on various media platforms.
Continue ReadingBalu Mahendra
Sri Lankan-Indian filmmaker and cinematographer
Born
May 20th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 13th, 2014 12 years ago — 74 years old
A filmmaker and cinematographer, with roots in both Sri Lanka and India, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Directed critically acclaimed films primarily in Tamil cinema. Known for innovative techniques in cinematography, shaping visual storytelling. His work often integrated traditional narratives with modern cinematic expressions. Influenced a generation of filmmakers and artists and helped popularize regional films on global platforms. Passed away on February 13, 2014.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 27th
Art Heyman
Professional Basketball Player
Born
1941 85 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 71 years old
Played college basketball at Duke University, where averaged over 24 points per game during his senior year. Entered the NBA in 1963 and played for several teams, including the New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. Had a brief but impactful professional career, contributing as a forward and guard. After retiring, contributed to the basketball community in various capacities.
Continue ReadingDarryl Dawkins
Basketball player, Chocolate Thunder
Born
January 11th, 1957 69 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 58 years old
An American basketball player and coach, gained recognition during the 1970s and 1980s. Played as a center and power forward, primarily for the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Nets in the NBA. Known for his powerful dunks and flamboyant personality, earned the nickname 'Chocolate Thunder.' Innovated the game with his expressive approach to dunking, including shattering backboards, which led to the NBA adopting new rules regarding backboard breakage. Transitioned into coaching after his playing career, mentoring young athletes and contributing to basketball at various levels.
Continue ReadingJacques Friedel
Physicist and academic, crystallography
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of crystallography. Served as a professor at the University of Paris and directed research at the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS). Authored numerous publications and played a crucial role in the development of the theory of dislocations in crystals. Contributed to the advancement of materials science and solid-state physics, influencing research in magnetism and magneto-optics.
Continue ReadingJuan Izquierdo
Uruguayan footballer, international player
Born
1997 29 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 27 years old
A professional footballer from Uruguay, played predominantly as a forward. Izquierdo started his career in domestic leagues before making a significant impact in international competitions. Represented the Uruguayan national team and gained recognition for his performances in regional tournaments. Had a successful club career, contributing goals and assists. Participated in several high-stakes matches, showcasing skills and tactical awareness on the field.
Continue ReadingNeville Alexander
Linguist and language activist
Born
1936 90 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions included work on the development of language policies and the promotion of mother-tongue education in South Africa. Focused on the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages. Engaged in activism that addressed the linguistic rights of marginalized communities. Authored several books and articles on language, education, and politics. Served as the director of the Project for the Study of Alternative Education in South Africa.
Continue ReadingBob Carr
American politician and former governor
Born
September 28th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2024 1 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 40th governor of New South Wales from 1995 to 2005. Held a prominent role in Australian politics, focusing on economic development and environmental issues. Was also the Minister for Foreign Affairs, contributing to Australia's foreign relations. After leaving politics, continued to engage in public life through various roles, including academics and authorship.
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