Don Ameche

American actor in comedy films

Don Ameche - American actor in comedy films
Born

May 31st, 1908
116 years ago

Died

December 6th, 1993
31 years ago — 85 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Ameche was an actor who gained prominence in the entertainment industry, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s. He starred in the comedy films 'Trading Places' and 'Midnight.' His career spanned several decades, featuring roles in radio, film, and television. Ameche's performances often showcased his charm and comedic timing, earning him recognition and a devoted audience. He received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in 'Cocoon' in 1986. His work in both film and theater showcased a versatility that allowed for enduring appeal across generations.

Starred in 'Trading Places'

Won Academy Award for 'Cocoon'

Played a leading role in 'Midnight'

Other People Born on May 31st

Laura Ikauniece

Latvian heptathlete and Olympian
Born
May 31st, 1992 32 years ago

Competed internationally in heptathlon events. Achieved significant results in European Championships and World Championships. Represented Latvia at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Established personal records that contributed to ranking among the top athletes in the discipline.

Continue Reading

Shane Bieber

Baseball player; All-Star and Cy Young Award winner
Born
May 31st, 1995 29 years ago

Professional baseball player excelled as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the Cleveland Guardians since debuting in 2018. Achieved the American League Cy Young Award in 2020, highlighting a standout season with impressive strikeout numbers and a low earned run average. Selected as an All-Star in 2021, solidifying reputation as a top performer in the league. Known for exceptional control, ability to pitch deep into games, and a strong work ethic.

Continue Reading

Clint Eastwood

Actor and director famed for westerns
Born
May 31st, 1930 94 years ago

An American actor, director, and producer, this individual gained prominence in the 1960s through the role of the Man with No Name in Sergio Leone's 'Dollars Trilogy', which included 'A Fistful of Dollars', 'For a Few Dollars More', and 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly'. Transitioning to directing, major works include 'Unforgiven', which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1993, and 'Million Dollar Baby', which also secured multiple Oscars. The career spanned over seven decades, showcasing talents in both acting and directing, along with contributions to music as a composer and musician.

Continue Reading

Julian Beck

American actor and theatre director
Born
May 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 61 years old

An actor and director who co-founded the Living Theatre, which was influential in experimenting with the boundaries of traditional theatre. Directed and performed in productions that sought to explore the intersection of art and social issues. Was a prominent figure in the avant-garde theatre movement during the 1960s and 1970s. In addition to work in theatre, appeared in films, including 'The Night of the Iguana' and 'The Amityville Horror'.

Continue Reading

Michaël Bournival

Ice Hockey Player and Championship Winner
Born
May 31st, 1992 32 years ago

A Canadian ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Bournival was drafted 177th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. During his time with the Canadiens, he contributed to the team's run to the 2014 Stanley Cup Final. In the American Hockey League (AHL), Bournival played significant roles with the Hamilton Bulldogs and the St. John's IceCaps, showcasing his skills on the ice and helping teams achieve competitive standings.

Continue Reading

Augie Meyers

Musician, songwriter for The Sir Douglas Quintet
Born
May 31st, 1940 84 years ago

Born in 1940, this musician gained recognition as a prominent figure in the music scene. He was a founding member of The Sir Douglas Quintet, a band known for blending rock and roll with Tex-Mex influences. The group released the hit single 'She's About a Mover' in 1965, which became a classic of the era. In addition to his work with The Sir Douglas Quintet, he collaborated with various musicians throughout his career and contributed to the development of the Americana music genre. His career has spanned several decades, reflecting a dedication to musical artistry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 6th

Danny Williams

South African singer with hit songs
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
December 6th, 2005 19 years ago — 63 years old

A South African singer gained recognition in the 1960s and 1970s for a distinctive voice and emotive performances. Achieved notable success with the song "Moonlight Affair," which became a hit in several countries. His music blended genres, appealing to a wide audience. In addition to a flourishing music career, contributed significantly to the South African music scene, influencing future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Prince Toneri of Japan

Japanese Imperial Prince and historian
Died
December 6th, 735 1289 years ago — None years old

Born in 676, an Imperial Prince of Japan contributed to the cultural and historical record of the Nara period. Played a significant role in the compilation of historical texts, promoting the study of ancient Japanese traditions and the importance of the imperial lineage. His period of activity coincided with significant developments in the Japanese state, including the establishment of bureaucratic governance and the codification of laws. Died on December 6, 735.

Continue Reading

William Swainson

Ornithologist and entomologist
Born
October 8th, 1789 235 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1855 169 years ago — 66 years old

Born in England and later settling in New Zealand, this figure made significant contributions to the fields of ornithology and entomology. Extensive fieldwork in both countries resulted in numerous descriptions of bird species and insects. The works addressed various aspects of the natural history of New Zealand, showcasing its unique avian population. The cataloging and classification work significantly advanced knowledge in these scientific domains.

Continue Reading

Nicholas Rowe

English poet and playwright
Born
1674 351 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1718 306 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent English poet and playwright, contributions included successful plays and poetry during the early 18th century. Became the Poet Laureate in 1715, a role that elevated the stature of the position. Wrote several notable plays, with 'Tamerlane' and 'The Fair Penitent' being particularly well-received. His works are characterized by their dramatic narratives and lyrical qualities, reflecting the stylistic trends of the period.

Continue Reading

Gian Maria Volonté

Italian actor in political cinema
Born
April 9th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1994 30 years ago — 61 years old

Achieved recognition as an Italian actor, primarily associated with the genre of political cinema. Gained prominence for roles in films directed by the notable filmmaker Elio Petri, specifically in 'Investigation of a Citizen Above Suspicion' and 'The 10th Victim'. Noteworthy collaboration with Sergio Leone in the iconic Spaghetti Westerns, particularly 'A Fistful of Dollars' and 'For a Few Dollars More'. His performances often showcased a deep understanding of complex characters and social issues, contributing significantly to the European film movement during the 1960s and 1970s. Volonté's dedication to his craft was reflected in his extensive theatrical work as well.

Continue Reading

Jean Pierre Flourens

Physiologist and academic specializing in brain studies
Born
April 13th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1867 157 years ago — 73 years old

Contributions included research on the functions of different parts of the brain, particularly the cerebellum and the medulla oblongata. Conducted experiments on animals to understand the roles of various brain regions and effects of lesions. Flourens developed methods to study the nervous system, leading to a better understanding of brain localization. His work influenced subsequent neurological studies and laid groundwork for future research in physiologic psychology.

Continue Reading