Donald Richie

Author and film critic of Japanese cinema

Donald Richie - Thinkers & Philosophers born April 17th, 1924
Born
Died
Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Japan

Links & References

An American-Japanese author and film critic, contributed significantly to the understanding of Japanese culture and cinema. Spent much time in Japan, where works reflected deep engagement with the country's film industry. Wrote extensively about Japanese cinema, providing insights that shaped Western appreciation of the medium. Authored several influential books including 'A Hundred Years of Japanese Film', which explored the history and evolution of Japanese filmmaking. His film criticism appeared in various publications and he became a prominent voice in cinematic discourse.

Authored 'A Hundred Years of Japanese Film'

Contributed to film criticism in major publications

Other People Born on April 17th

Billy Fury

English singer-songwriter and musician
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1983 43 years ago — 42 years old

An influential singer-songwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Achieved significant success in the UK music scene with rock and roll hits. First single, 'Maybe Tomorrow,' released in 1959, reached the UK charts. Released numerous albums throughout the 1960s and 1970s, with a distinctive style that combined elements of pop and rock. Continued to perform until health issues impacted career. Estimated to have sold over 1 million records throughout his career, cementing a lasting legacy in British music.

Continue Reading

Dheeran Chinnamalai

Indian commander of the 18th century
Born
April 17th, 1756 269 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1805 220 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1756, a notable military commander in India. Played a significant role in the resistance against British colonial expansion. Led forces in the Kongu region and engaged in battles to protect local sovereignty. Formed alliances with various local chieftains and organized effective counter-attacks against British troops. His strategies contributed to the regional resistance efforts during a turbulent period in Indian history.

Continue Reading

Richard Allen Epstein

American lawyer and academic author
Born
April 17th, 1943 82 years ago

Born in 1943, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and analysis. Focused on property rights, torts, and commercial law. Served as a law professor at the University of Chicago and New York University. Published extensively on law and economics, advocating for libertarian principles. Held various academic and professional roles throughout career, offering clout in debates on law reforms and policy.

Continue Reading

Ben Barnes

American businessman and politician
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago

Served as the 36th Lieutenant Governor of Texas from 1969 to 1973. Played a significant role in Texas politics during the late 20th century. Focused on education reform and public transportation issues while in office. Was also involved in various business endeavors after leaving public service.

Continue Reading

William Holden

American actor in Sunset Boulevard
Born
April 17th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 63 years old

An accomplished actor emerged in the 1940s, achieving widespread recognition for performances in films such as 'Sunset Boulevard' and 'Stalag 17'. Crafted a career characterized by strong performances in both drama and comedy, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor for the role in 'Stalag 17'. Transitioned from film to television late in career, contributing to various projects in the medium. Remained a prominent figure in Hollywood until the mid-1980s.

Continue Reading

Hanna Pakarinen

Finnish singer-songwriter of 'When I'm Gone'
Born
April 17th, 1981 44 years ago

Born in 1981, this Finnish singer-songwriter rose to prominence after winning the first season of 'Idols Finland' in 2003. The victory catapulted her career, leading to the release of successful albums such as 'Pure' and 'My Voice'. Her style blends pop with elements of rock, attracting a large audience both domestically and internationally. Several singles charted in Finland, with 'When I'm Gone' becoming especially popular. This artist has also participated in various music festivals and competitions, solidifying a strong presence in the Finnish music scene.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 19th

Charles Trenet

French singer-songwriter of 'Boum!'
Born
1913 113 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2001 24 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent figure in French music, contributed significantly to the chanson genre. Began career in the early 1940s with engaging melodies and poetic lyrics. Gained international acclaim with songs such as 'Boum!' and 'La Mer'. His work had a lasting influence on both French and global music. Continued to perform and compose throughout his life, leaving a robust catalog of music that retains popularity. Passed away in 2001.

Continue Reading

Kresten Bjerre

Danish footballer and manager
Born
February 22nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2014 11 years ago — 67 years old

Played as a forward in Danish football, primarily for B 1903, and later transitioned into management. Managed several clubs, while also contributing to youth development in the sport. Achieved recognition for his coaching skills and leadership within the teams he managed after his playing career.

Continue Reading

Janet Blair

American actress and singer
Born
April 23rd, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2007 18 years ago — 85 years old

An actress and singer, notable work included performances in films during the 1940s and 1950s. Gained recognition for roles in movies such as 'The Ghost Comes Home' and 'My Wild Irish Rose'. Also appeared in various television series including 'The Gildersleeve Show'. Recorded several musical albums and showcased vocal talent throughout her career. Transitioned successfully between film, television, and music.

Continue Reading

Yegor Letov

Russian singer-songwriter and poet
Born
1964 62 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2008 17 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent figure in Russian rock music and poetry, this artist emerged in the 1980s as the leader of the influential band Grazhdanskaya Oborona. Known for powerful lyrics that addressed social issues, personal struggles, and political commentary, the musician made significant contributions to the genre. Grazhdanskaya Oborona released a number of successful albums, with 'Kreml' and 'Zvezda' receiving particular acclaim. The artist also pursued a solo career, producing several albums that continued to reflect on the complexities of life in post-Soviet Russia. His literary works further highlighted critical social themes, making a lasting impression on Russian culture.

Continue Reading

Leo Rosten

Author and academic with Humor books
Born
April 11th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1997 28 years ago — 88 years old

An author and academic contributed significantly to literature and scholarship through works on humor and language. Most notable works include 'The Joys of Yiddish,' which explored Yiddish culture and language, and 'Hibbler's Guide to the Goliath,' addressing various aspects of life and society. Engaged in teaching and writing throughout his career, providing insight into American culture and identity. Rosten's academic pursuits were complemented by his literary contributions, establishing a notable presence in both fields.

Continue Reading

Ruth Barcan Marcus

Philosopher specializing in logic
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributions focused on formal logic and philosophical issues related to quantification and necessity. Pioneered the Barcan formula, which established foundational principles in modal logic. Influenced discussions on the philosophy of language, epistemology, and metaphysics. Had an extensive academic career, holding positions at institutions such as Yale University. Authored multiple influential texts in the field of logic and philosophy.

Continue Reading