Desmond Llewelyn
Actor in James Bond films as Q
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
A soldier and actor, contributions to film primarily include the portrayal of the character Q in the James Bond series. The role spanned over 17 films from 1963 to 1999, establishing a memorable presence in the franchise. His background included military service during World War II, and after the war, he transitioned into acting, gaining prominence in theater and film.
Portrayed Q in the James Bond series
Appeared in 17 Bond films
Participated in World War II
Other People Born on September 12th
Paul Walker
Actor in the Fast & Furious franchise
Born
September 12th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 40 years old
An American actor became widely recognized for roles in the Fast & Furious film series, portraying the character Brian O'Conner. Walker's acting career began in the early 1990s, with appearances in television and film. He gained significant fame for his performance in the Fast & Furious franchise, which began in 2001 and evolved into a global phenomenon over multiple sequels. Beyond acting, he founded Reach Out Worldwide, a non-profit organization providing aid to disaster-stricken areas. Walker's life was tragically cut short in a car accident in 2013, but his legacy continues through both his film work and philanthropic efforts.
Continue ReadingJesse Owens
American sprinter and long jumper
Born
September 12th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old
Competed in track and field, specializing in sprinting and long jump. Gained global notoriety at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where four gold medals were won in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100 meter relay. Defended titles at the 1935 Big Ten Conference, setting multiple world records in a single day. His athletic achievements challenged the prevailing notions of racial superiority during that era.
Continue ReadingRobert Irwin
American painter and environmental artist
Born
September 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 95 years old
Born in 1928, this artist became a prominent figure in the world of contemporary art, primarily recognized for innovative installations that integrate light and space. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, he began his career as a painter but later transitioned into creating immersive environments that challenge perceptions and engage with the viewer's experience of space. His work often reflects a deep sensitivity to the surrounding environment, utilizing natural elements to enhance the artistic experience. Throughout his career, he has exhibited in several prestigious venues and was associated with the Light and Space movement in California.
Continue ReadingRichard Jordan Gatling
American engineer, inventor of the Gatling gun
Born
September 12th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago — 84 years old
An American engineer developed the Gatling gun, one of the earliest successful machine guns. The Gatling gun was patented in 1862 and saw extensive use during the American Civil War. Its design utilized a rotating barrel and a hand-crank mechanism, allowing rapid fire compared to traditional firearms. Gatling's invention significantly influenced military technology and warfare strategies. Later, the design was modified and improved for increased efficiency and reliability in subsequent conflicts. Gatling's contributions to engineering extended beyond firearms as he patented over a dozen inventions during his career.
Continue ReadingLeonard Peltier
Political activist and prisoner advocate
Born
September 12th, 1944 81 years ago
Born in 1944, Peltier became an important figure in the American Indian Movement during the 1970s. Peltier's activism centered around the rights and sovereignty of Indigenous peoples. After a deadly shootout at Wounded Knee, Peltier was convicted of murder in connection with the deaths of two FBI agents in 1975. The conviction was controversial and has been the subject of ongoing debates regarding civil rights and legal injustices faced by Native Americans. Peltier has spent decades in prison, advocating for Indigenous rights and raising awareness about political prisoners.
Continue ReadingMaciej Żurawski
Footballer, UEFA Euro 2008 participant
Born
September 12th, 1976 49 years ago
A prominent Polish footballer, played as a striker. Started professional career at Widzew Łódź, where significant contributions included winning the Polish Championship. Later joined Wisła Kraków, securing multiple Ekstraklasa titles. Transferred to Scottish club Celtic, achieving success in the Scottish Premier League and winning the Scottish Cup. Represented the Polish national team in international competitions, including UEFA Euro 2008. Retired from professional football and transitioned into coaching and sports management.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 19th
Ned Vizzini
Author of 'It's Kind of a Funny Story'
Born
April 4th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2013 12 years ago — 32 years old
An American author and screenwriter, contributed to literature and film through works addressing mental health and adolescence. Gained attention with the debut novel 'It's Kind of a Funny Story,' published in 2006. The book depicts the experiences of a teenager coping with depression and was later adapted into a feature film in 2010. Also wrote 'Be More Chill,' a novel that explores the complexities of teenage life and was adapted for musical theater. Engaged in screenwriting for television, including the series 'The Game.'
Continue ReadingJimmy Hill
Football manager and sportscaster
Born
July 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Played as a centre-forward for Brentford and Fulham. Managed Coventry City, leading the team to the FA Cup victory in 1987. Transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, contributing to sports journalism and commentary on television and radio. Renowned for innovative ideas, including the introduction of the first-ever televised football match in the UK and advocacy for player rights and income after retirement.
Continue ReadingHerbert C. Brown
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 22nd, 1912 113 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2004 21 years ago — 92 years old
Born in England and later moving to the United States, a chemist made significant contributions to the fields of organic chemistry and boron chemistry. The development of the hydroboration reactions provided new pathways for synthetic organic chemists. In 1979, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for pioneering work with boron compounds. Served as a professor at Purdue University, contributing to academic research and education.
Continue ReadingPeter Struck
German politician and former defense minister
Born
January 24th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 13th Federal Minister of Defence in Germany from 2002 to 2005. Led the ministry during a period of military engagement in Afghanistan as part of NATO operations. Held the position of chairman of the SPD parliamentary group in the Bundestag. Active in several key defense policy discussions during a critical phase for Germany’s role in international security.
Continue ReadingMichael Leunig
Australian cartoonist and writer
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2024 1 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Australian cartoonist and writer, gained recognition for unique illustrations and insightful commentary. Contributed to various publications, including the Age and the National Times, where work often explored themes of love, spirituality, and the complexities of life. Created a range of cartoon characters, with the most notable being the whimsical character known as 'Duck.' Authored several books that compile cartoons and essays, emphasizing the connection between art and everyday experiences. Influenced the Australian cultural landscape through commentary and creative expression.
Continue ReadingRosalind Knight
English actress with notable TV roles
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2020 5 years ago — 87 years old
An English actress gained prominence through performances in television and film. Notable appearances included roles in 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'Carry On' films. Voiced characters in animated series and featured in various other TV shows, showcasing a broad versatility in acting. Work spanned several decades, beginning in the 1950s. Contributed to productions both on screen and stage, leaving a legacy in British entertainment.
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