Douglas Shearer
Sound Designer for Academy Award-winning films
A prominent sound designer and engineer, contributions included work on multiple Academy Award-winning films. Developed innovative techniques in sound recording and editing that influenced the film industry. Collaborated with renowned directors and sound teams, ensuring high-quality audio production. Played a crucial role in the advancement of audio technology in cinema.
Won Academy Award for Best Sound for 'The Devil and Daniel Webster'
Received multiple Academy Award nominations
Worked on 'Gone with the Wind' and 'The Wizard of Oz'
Other People Born on November 17th
Lee Carseldine
Cricketer with Australian national team
Born
November 17th, 1975 50 years ago
Played professional cricket primarily as a batsman. Represented Australia in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and participated in domestic cricket leagues, including notable stints with Queensland. Took part in the 2003 Cricket World Cup, contributing to Australia's campaign during the tournament.
Continue ReadingDiane Neal
Actress and director in legal dramas
Born
November 17th, 1976 49 years ago
An American actress and director, this individual gained recognition for roles in television series and film. Gained prominence through the role of Casey Novak in the popular series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, which spanned multiple seasons. Extended career in directing, showcasing talents behind the camera. Active in various charitable endeavors, often advocating for causes related to mental health and animal welfare.
Continue ReadingAmanda Evora
Figure Skater and Olympic Competitor
Born
November 17th, 1984 41 years ago
Participated in figure skating competitions at a high level, including the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver. Secured multiple titles in both national and international competitions. Competed in the 2009 World Figure Skating Championships and achieved a commendable ranking. Partnered with Mark Ladwig to compete in pairs events, showcasing technical skill and artistry on the ice.
Continue ReadingJerome James
American basketball player, NBA center
Born
November 17th, 1975 50 years ago
Played college basketball at Florida State University. Entered the NBA in 1999 and played for the Sacramento Kings. Later joined the Seattle SuperSonics, contributing to their playoff run during the 2004-2005 season. Signed a significant contract with the New York Knicks in 2005 but dealt with injuries during tenure. Concluded NBA career with the Knicks in 2009.
Continue ReadingLee Strasberg
Acting teacher and method acting pioneer
Born
November 17th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1982 43 years ago — 80 years old
Prominent acting teacher and director developed the method acting technique, significantly influencing American theater and film. Co-founded the Actors Studio in 1947, providing a transformative platform for actors. Mentored numerous notable actors, contributing to their development and success. Held crucial roles in films including 'The Godfather Part II' and 'The Last Tycoon', showcasing his talents in both acting and direction. His legacy continues to shape the craft of acting in contemporary cinema.
Continue ReadingStephen Root
American actor in 'Office Space'
Born
November 17th, 1951 74 years ago
An American actor, known for roles in film and television. Contributed to a wide range of projects throughout the career. Portrayed Milton Waddams in the film 'Office Space'. Played Jimmy James in the television series 'NewsRadio'. Featured in other prominent roles in shows such as 'Veep' and 'Justified'. Gained recognition for voice work in animated series.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 5th
Edmund Herring
Australian general and Chief Justice
Born
1892 133 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1982 43 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a general in the Australian Army during World War II, leading troops in notable campaigns. Later transitioned into a political career and served as the 7th Chief Justice of Victoria. Played a significant role in the legal landscape of the state, offering judgments that influenced various aspects of law. Recognized for contributions to both military and judicial fields.
Continue ReadingGriffin Bell
United States Attorney General
Born
1918 107 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2009 16 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 72nd United States Attorney General from 1977 to 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. Focused on civil rights and criminal justice during tenure. Played a key role in the implementation of the Attorney General's Task Force on Family Violence. Was also a prominent lawyer in Georgia and contributed to multiple legal and political initiatives throughout his career.
Continue ReadingJill Saward
Rape victim and activist for justice
Born
1965 60 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2017 8 years ago — 52 years old
Survivor of a brutal rape in 1986, which received significant media attention, dedicated life to advocating for victims of sexual assault. Worked with various organizations to raise awareness and improve legal support for survivors. Involved in campaigns aimed at changing public perceptions and policies surrounding sexual violence, contributing to discussions on victim rights and legal reform. Wrote about personal experiences to inspire others and provide insights into the trauma faced by survivors. Left a legacy of activism focused on justice and support for victims after passing in 2017.
Continue ReadingBilly Bletcher
American actor and voice artist
Born
September 24th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1979 46 years ago — 84 years old
A prominent voice actor and singer, contributed significantly to the animation industry during the Golden Age of Animation. Provided the voices for numerous characters in classic cartoons. Often associated with the character of the Big Bad Wolf in Walt Disney's animated features. Also appeared in various live-action films, showcasing versatility as a performer.
Continue ReadingVasko Popa
Serbian poet and academic recognized for contemporary poetry
Born
June 29th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1991 34 years ago — 68 years old
Born in 1922, one of the pivotal figures in Serbian literature, focused on avant-garde poetry. His work often explored themes of folklore, myth, and existentialism. Contributed significantly to the literary scene in Yugoslavia and influenced many writers with innovative forms and styles. Authored several notable collections, including 'The Little Box' and 'The Eternal Introduction'. Served as a professor of literature, mentoring a generation of poets and scholars until his death in 1991.
Continue ReadingJoseph Lelyveld
Journalist and executive editor, The New York Times
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
January 5th, 2024 1 years ago — 87 years old
An American journalist served as executive editor of The New York Times. Lelyveld began his career in journalism at The New York Times, contributing as a reporter and editor for several decades. He focused on foreign affairs and held positions as the chief of the newspaper's bureau in several international locations. Under his leadership, the newspaper won numerous awards, including Pulitzer Prizes. After retiring from daily journalism, he authored books that examined important historical and social issues, further contributing to public discourse through his writing.
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