Dolph Schayes
Basketball player and coach, NBA All-Star
A prominent basketball figure, played as a power forward and center in the NBA from 1948 to 1964. Spent the majority of career with the Syracuse Nationals, leading the team to the 1955 NBA Championship. After retirement from playing, transitioned to coaching, guiding teams in the ABA and NBA. Schayes's contributions to the game encompassed scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, establishing him as a key player during the early years of professional basketball.
Led Syracuse Nationals to 1955 NBA Championship
Named to 12 NBA All-Star Games
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1973
Other People Born on May 19th
Dick Scobee
Astronaut and Space Shuttle Commander
Born
May 19th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1939, a pilot and astronaut served in the United States Air Force before joining NASA. Participated in several significant missions, including STS-41-C and STS-51-L, where he held the position of commander. During the latter flight, the Space Shuttle Challenger tragically disintegrated shortly after launch, resulting in the loss of all crew members. Scobee's contributions to space exploration and his leadership during missions are part of his legacy.
Continue ReadingNellie Melba
Soprano and acclaimed opera singer
Born
May 19th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1931 94 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent Australian soprano achieved international fame during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Gained fame through performances in opera houses across Europe and America, particularly at the Royal Opera House and Covent Garden. Developed a powerful vocal technique that set new standards for operatic singing. Also ventured into theatrical roles, showcasing versatility. Contributed significantly to Australian arts through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingDick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingOla John
Dutch footballer with Benfica success
Born
May 19th, 1992 33 years ago
A professional football player originated from the Netherlands, played primarily as a winger. Started his career at FC Twente, where he achieved recognition in the Eredivisie. Transferred to Benfica in 2012, contributing to the club's successes in the Primeira Liga and the Taça da Liga. Additionally, represented the Netherlands at youth international levels, showcasing talent on the European stage.
Continue ReadingJames Reyne
Singer-songwriter with Australian Crawl
Born
May 19th, 1957 68 years ago
A singer-songwriter emerged in the Australian music scene in the 1980s. Formed the band Australian Crawl, which enjoyed significant success with hits like 'Reckless' and 'Beautiful People'. Launched a solo career following the band's breakup, releasing multiple albums and receiving acclaim for both rock and country music. Continues to perform and is recognized for contributions to the Australian music industry.
Continue ReadingTina Strobos
Dutch psychiatrist and physician
Born
May 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Worked as a physician and psychiatrist, providing mental health care and treatment during and after World War II. Strobos participated in rescuing Jewish people from Nazi persecution in the Netherlands. After the war, continued medical practice and became an advocate for mental health awareness and treatment.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 10th
Michael Cole
American actor in 'The Mod Squad'
Born
July 3rd, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2024 1 years ago — 84 years old
An American actor gained prominence in the 1960s through the television series 'The Mod Squad'. The show featured a trio of young detectives who addressed social issues of the era, blending drama with elements of counterculture. Following 'The Mod Squad', worked in various television series and films, contributing to a substantial body of work over several decades. Also involved in voice work for animated television and films, showcasing versatility across different mediums. Continued to make appearances in the entertainment industry well into the 21st century, demonstrating a lasting presence.
Continue ReadingEd Wood
Filmmaker and director of Plan 9 from Outer Space
Born
October 10th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1978 47 years ago — 54 years old
An actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual gained recognition for a distinctive style characterized by unconventional storytelling and low-budget productions. Achievements include directing the cult classic film 'Plan 9 from Outer Space', often cited as one of the worst films ever made, which has since garnered a cult following. The craftsmanship in film-making drew attention during the 1950s and became a subject of interest in film studies. This person also collaborated with various actors and contributed to countless productions throughout the later part of the 20th century.
Continue ReadingRichard Pryor
Comedian and actor in Stand-Up Comedy
Born
December 1st, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2005 20 years ago — 65 years old
A comedian, actor, producer, and screenwriter, this individual revolutionized stand-up comedy with a raw and honest style. Early in life, experiences in a racially charged environment inspired material that resonated with a wide audience. The individual appeared in several films, including 'Silver Streak', 'Stir Crazy', and 'Richard Pryor: Live in Concert', showcasing humor while addressing social issues. Additionally, work in television included the show 'The Richard Pryor Show'. During a career spanning several decades, the individual received numerous accolades for contributions to comedy and film industries.
Continue ReadingAlice Tully
Soprano and philanthropist
Born
September 14th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1993 32 years ago — 91 years old
Acclaimed as a leading soprano in the 20th century, significant contributions to the classical music scene included performances at the Metropolitan Opera. Established the Alice Tully Hall in New York City, enhancing the prominence of chamber music and providing a venue for emerging artists and established musicians. Actively engaged in philanthropy, supporting educational initiatives in the arts.
Continue ReadingDavid Shimoni
Belarusian-Israeli poet and translator
Born
August 25th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1956 69 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Belarus in 1891, this individual became a prominent poet and translator in Hebrew literature. Residing in Israel, contributions spanned various literary forms, with a particular focus on poetry that explored personal and national themes. Active in cultural circles and literary communities, works reflected both the Jewish experience and broader human emotions. Efforts in translation introduced significant foreign works to Hebrew-speaking audiences, enhancing cultural exchange and understanding. The literary legacy includes a blend of personal introspection and wider societal concerns, resonating with readers over time.
Continue ReadingArmand Hammer
Businessman and Occidental Petroleum founder
Born
May 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1990 35 years ago — 92 years old
Established Occidental Petroleum in 1920, leading the company to become one of the largest oil producers in the United States. Expanded operations internationally, significantly contributing to the oil industry. Engaged in various philanthropic activities, focusing on cultural and medical initiatives. Maintained a high-profile presence in business and politics, fostering relationships with several world leaders.
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