Dennis Potter

English screenwriter and television director

Dennis Potter - English screenwriter and television director
Born

May 17th, 1935
89 years ago

Died

1994
31 years ago — 59 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

A prominent screenwriter and director, contributions spanned television and film. Created influential works that explored complex characters and narratives. Notable for the television series 'Pennies from Heaven' and 'The Singing Detective', which garnered critical acclaim and audience attention. Utilized innovative storytelling techniques and incorporated musical elements into scripts. Later works addressed themes of mortality and memory, reflecting personal experiences.

Created the series 'Pennies from Heaven'

Developed the acclaimed series 'The Singing Detective'

Other People Born on May 17th

Odd Hassel

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in chemistry
Born
May 17th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1981 43 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of molecular structures, using X-ray crystallography. Developed methods for investigating the symmetry and structure of molecular compounds. His work led to advancements in understanding chemical bonding and molecular conformation. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for achievements in this area.

Continue Reading

Rosalind Picard

Computer Scientist, co-founded Affectiva
Born
May 17th, 1962 62 years ago

A computer scientist and engineer contributed significantly to the fields of affective computing and artificial intelligence. Co-founded Affectiva, a company specializing in emotion recognition technology. Developed algorithms to analyze human emotions based on facial cues and physiological signals. Published extensively on topics related to human-computer interaction and the intersection of technology and emotions. Holds numerous patents in the field and has been involved in significant research projects.

Continue Reading

Howard Ashman

Playwright and composer of musical theatre
Born
May 17th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1991 34 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent playwright and lyricist, contributions included crafting the lyrics for beloved Disney animated films. Collaborated with Alan Menken on productions that achieved significant acclaim. Worked on projects such as 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin', leaving a lasting impact on musical theatre. Ashman's work was characterized by poignant lyrics and memorable melodies.

Continue Reading

Passenger

Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
May 17th, 1984 40 years ago

Born in England, this individual gained prominence as a singer-songwriter and musician. The career began in 2007 with the release of the debut album. Achieved significant recognition with the single 'Let Her Go', which topped charts internationally. The style blends folk and acoustic elements, appealing to a broad audience. Continued to release multiple albums, showcasing a distinctive voice and storytelling ability.

Continue Reading

Mary Beatrice Davidson Kenner

American inventor of sanitary belt
Born
May 17th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 94 years old

An inventor contributed significantly to innovations in feminine hygiene products. Developed the first sanitary belt with an adjustable fit, providing a more comfortable and practical solution for women. Despite facing challenges in patenting inventions due to racial discrimination, continued to create useful household and personal items throughout her life. Worked in various capacities, including a long career as a floral designer and entrepreneur.

Continue Reading

Paul Di'Anno

Rock singer-songwriter, former Iron Maiden vocalist
Born
May 17th, 1958 66 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 66 years old

This English rock singer-songwriter rose to prominence as the original lead vocalist of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Joining the band in 1975, a notable contribution was the creation of Iron Maiden's self-titled debut album released in 1980 and the critically acclaimed follow-up 'Killers' in 1981. After departing from the band in 1981, continued a career in music, forming various other musical projects and releasing solo albums. Throughout the years, remained a significant figure in the heavy metal scene, known for powerful vocal style and energetic performances.

Continue Reading