Dick Shawn
American actor and comedian
An actor and comedian highlighted for a distinctive style and unique performances. Frequently appeared in comedy films and television shows during the 1960s and 1970s. Gained recognition for the role of a comedic performer in the film 'It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World' and the Broadway musical 'The Producers'. Offered a blend of humor and personality that resonated with audiences.
performed in 'It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World'
starred in the original production of 'The Producers'
Other People Born on December 1st
Deep Roy
Actor in film and television productions
Born
December 1st, 1957 68 years ago
A Kenyan-British actor, widely recognized for performances in film and television. Appeared as a key character in the film 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' as the Oompa-Loompas. Also featured in the series 'The NeverEnding Story' and had roles in 'Star Trek' and 'The Man with the Golden Gun'. Deep Roy has contributed to the entertainment industry through various roles spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingStanton Barrett
Race car driver and stuntman
Born
December 1st, 1972 53 years ago
A race car driver and stuntman with a career in motorsports. Participated in various NASCAR series, including the NASCAR Cup Series and the Nationwide Series. Engaged in stunt work for major films, highlighting skills in high-speed and high-risk scenarios. Contributed to the entertainment industry through stunt coordination and performance.
Continue ReadingJohn Evans
Politician, 21st Premier of Tasmania
Born
December 1st, 1855 170 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1943 82 years ago — 87 years old
Born in England and later settling in Australia, served as the 21st Premier of Tasmania. Held office during a period of economic development and social reform. Focused on public works and education, contributing significantly to the infrastructure of the state. His administration also addressed labor issues, laying the groundwork for future social policies.
Continue ReadingGary Peters
U.S. Senator from Michigan
Born
December 1st, 1958 67 years ago
Born in 1958, this American politician served in various political roles, including as a member of the United States Senate representing Michigan. Serving since 2015, held a previous position in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2009 to 2013, after serving in the Michigan State Senate. Focus areas included economic development and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingKatherine LaNasa
Actress, dancer, and choreographer
Born
December 1st, 1966 59 years ago
Born in 1966, this American actress and former ballet dancer gained recognition for work in television and film. Significant roles include appearances in 'Fresh Hell', 'The Campaign', and 'True Blood'. Also engaged in choreography, contributing to various productions over the years.
Continue ReadingBilly Paul
Soul singer of 'Me and Mrs. Jones'
Born
December 1st, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1934, one of the noted soul singers, achieved fame with the hit single 'Me and Mrs. Jones' in 1972, which reached number one on the Billboard chart. His career began in the 1950s, performing with various artists and recording with notable labels. Active throughout the 60s and 70s, Paul's work featured elements of jazz and R&B, contributing to the soul genre's evolution. He produced several albums during his career, with many songs reflecting social themes and personal narratives. Continued to perform and record into the later years of life, leaving a lasting influence on the soul music scene.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 17th
Piet Hein
Danish poet and mathematician
Born
December 16th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1996 29 years ago — 90 years old
A poet and mathematician from Denmark contributed to both fields significantly. Established a reputation for writing short, witty poems called 'grooks' that combine humor with philosophical insights. Also made notable contributions to recreational mathematics, including work on mathematical puzzles and optimization. Created the Soma cube, a popular puzzle in and of itself that reflects abstract mathematical concepts. Contributed to scientific discourse through the intersection of mathematics and art.
Continue ReadingRoger Wolcott Sperry
Psychologist, Biologist, Nobel Laureate
Born
August 20th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1994 31 years ago — 80 years old
A psychologist and biologist whose research contributed to the understanding of the lateralization of brain function. Worked extensively with split-brain patients, demonstrating how each hemisphere of the brain has specialized functions. Conducted experiments that illustrated how the two hemispheres communicate differently, providing insights into cognitive processes. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1981 for his findings, sharing the prize with David H. Hubel and Torsten N. Wiesel. His work laid foundational knowledge in neuropsychology and the study of brain mechanisms.
Continue ReadingChaim Herzog
Israeli general and 6th President
Born
September 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1997 28 years ago — 78 years old
Served as the 6th President of Israel from 1983 to 1988. During military service, held the rank of Major General in the Israel Defense Forces. Advocated for peace and security in the region. Was involved in legal and political matters, contributing to the Israeli legal system and political landscape. Authored several works on Israeli history and politics.
Continue ReadingCecil Harmsworth King
English publisher and newspaper executive
Born
1901 124 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1987 38 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent English publisher and newspaper executive, played a significant role in the media landscape during the 20th century. Oversaw the Daily Telegraph as managing director and led the expansion of the newspaper's influence. Also served as the chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), influencing broadcasting policies and practices. Under leadership, the Daily Telegraph underwent modernization, adapting to changing reader interests.
Continue ReadingJonathan V. Plaut
Rabbi and author
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 70 years old
Served as a prominent rabbi and authored numerous works on Jewish thought and practice. Played a significant role in interfaith dialogue and community engagement. Had a notable career in Jewish education and leadership, influencing many through sermons and writings. Contributed to various publications focusing on religious themes and community development.
Continue ReadingNityananda Mohapatra
Indian journalist and poet
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 100 years old
This individual was a journalist, poet, and politician from India. Contributing to various newspapers, played a significant role in the field of journalism, particularly focusing on socio-political issues. As a poet, published works that resonated with the cultural and political landscape of the time. Engaged in politics, being associated with notable political movements and organizations in India. Served as an influential figure in promoting literature and journalism, particularly in the Odia language, through various platforms.
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