Don Rickles
American Actor and Comedian
An actor and comedian, recognized for a distinctive style of insult comedy and quick wit. Gained prominence in the 1960s and had a career spanning several decades. Appeared in films such as 'Kelly's Heroes,' 'Casino,' and the 'Toy Story' series, where provided the voice for Mr. Potato Head. Featured in multiple television shows, often as a guest star or in specials that highlighted his comedic talent.
Voice of Mr. Potato Head in 'Toy Story'
Regular appearances on 'The Tonight Show'
Guest appearances on various television programs
Other People Born on May 8th
Melissa Gilbert
Actress and director of Little House
Born
May 8th, 1964 61 years ago
An American actress and director recognized for work in television and film. Achieved prominence through the role of Laura Ingalls Wilder in the series 'Little House on the Prairie.' Directed episodes of both 'Little House on the Prairie' and 'The Wonder Years.' Contend in various dramatic and comedy roles throughout a lengthy career, including appearances in stage productions and reality television.
Continue ReadingClaes Rålamb
Swedish statesman and diplomat
Born
May 8th, 1622 403 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1698 327 years ago — 75 years old
A prominent figure in 17th-century Sweden, served as an influential statesman and diplomat. Held the position of Envoy Extraordinary to France and participated in various diplomatic missions. Played a vital role in negotiations during the Treaty of Karlowitz. Engaged in the governance of Sweden, contributing to the political landscape of the era. His efforts in diplomacy and statecraft were significant during a tumultuous period in Swedish history.
Continue ReadingFernandel
French actor and singer
Born
May 8th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1903, this French actor and singer became a prominent figure in the cinematic landscape of the 20th century. Gaining recognition for his roles in comedy films, he showcased a unique charm and personality through characters in popular movies. Major works include 'La Vache et le Prisonnier' and the 'Don Camillo' series, where performances highlighted a blend of humor and emotion. His career spanned several decades, and his contributions to film helped shape French cinema.
Continue ReadingRoss Barnes
Baseball player and manager in 19th century
Born
May 8th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1915 110 years ago — 64 years old
An American baseball player and manager, made significant contributions to the early development of professional baseball. Played as a shortstop and was one of the first players to excel in batting, earning a reputation as a skilled hitter. Competed in the National League with the Chicago White Stockings, leading the league in batting average multiple times. Transitioned into managing, taking leadership roles with various teams, which included stints in the minor leagues. His playing career and managerial roles helped shape the strategies of the game in its formative years.
Continue ReadingBill Cowher
American football coach and analyst
Born
May 8th, 1957 68 years ago
A former American football player and coach, gained recognition as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1992 to 2006. Led the team to victory in Super Bowl XL in 2006. Prior to coaching, played as a linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles. After retiring from coaching, transitioned into a career as a sports analyst, providing insights on NFL broadcasts.
Continue ReadingJohan Jensen
Danish mathematician and engineer
Born
May 8th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1925 100 years ago — 65 years old
Contributions to mathematics and engineering spanned various fields, particularly in geometry and mathematical analysis. Developed significant theories and published numerous papers that advanced understanding in these disciplines. Worked on practical engineering problems and contributed to the development of methods that improved computation and problem-solving in engineering applications. Held various positions in academia and was involved in teaching the next generation of engineers and mathematicians.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 6th
David Bloom
American journalist and war correspondent
Born
1963 62 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2003 22 years ago — 40 years old
Served as a television journalist for NBC News, focusing on covering major global events. Gained prominence as a war correspondent during the Iraq War, providing in-depth analysis and reports from the front lines. His live reporting from inside Iraq garnered significant attention. Passed away in 2003 while covering the war, leaving behind a legacy of impactful journalism.
Continue ReadingShawn Mackay
Rugby player and coach
Born
1982 43 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2009 16 years ago — 27 years old
An Australian rugby player and coach, played for the Australian national rugby union team and competed at the 1987 Rugby World Cup. Transitioned to coaching after retiring as a player, contributing to the development of rugby in Australia. Held coaching positions at various clubs, focusing on youth development and talent identification in rugby. His playing and coaching career spanned several decades, influencing the sport at various levels.
Continue ReadingMary Anderson
American actress in theatre and film
Born
April 3rd, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 96 years old
Born in 1918, this American actress gained prominence for her work in both theatre and film during the mid-20th century. She starred in the Broadway production of 'The King and I' and appeared in films such as 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Sound and the Fury'. Her performances showcased a range of emotions and depth, contributing to the storytelling in the roles played. Active in the entertainment industry for several decades, she cultivated a dedicated following.
Continue ReadingMassimo Tamburini
Italian motorcycle designer and co-founder
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2014 11 years ago — 71 years old
Massimo Tamburini was an Italian motorcycle designer instrumental in shaping modern motorcycle aesthetics and performance. In 1973, co-founded Bimota, a company renowned for its innovative designs that combined advanced engineering with Italian styling. Tamburini played a critical role in creating iconic motorcycle models, including the Bimota SB6 and the Ducati 916. The Ducati 916, released in 1994, is considered one of the most beautiful motorcycles ever made and won numerous awards for its design and performance. Tamburini's work not only influenced motorcycle design but also established Bimota as a significant player in the motorcycle industry until his passing in 2014.
Continue ReadingBigas Luna
Spanish film director and screenwriter
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
April 6th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old
Key figure in Spanish cinema, focused on themes of sexuality and identity. Gained recognition in the 1990s for distinct visual style and narrative techniques. Directed films such as 'Jamón Jamón', which highlighted the cultural dynamics of Spain and showcased the talents of actors like Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem. Also directed 'The Age of Beauty' and 'The Last Supper', both of which explored societal issues through a unique artistic lens. His work contributed to the rise of a new wave of Spanish filmmakers during this era.
Continue ReadingIoannis Alevras
Greek politician, President of Greece
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the President of Greece from 1980 to 1981. Alevras had a background in banking and held various political positions throughout his career, contributing to the country’s political landscape. His presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the political environment during a transitional period in Greek history.
Continue Reading