Edward Hardwicke
English actor of Sherlock Holmes series
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
An actor with a career spanning several decades, primarily recognized for roles in television and film. Gained significant recognition for portraying Dr. John Watson in the Sherlock Holmes television adaptations alongside Jeremy Brett. Participated in various theater productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed to numerous British television dramas, making a notable impact as a character actor.
Portrayed Dr. Watson in Sherlock Holmes
Appeared in the film The Spy Who Came in from the Cold
Other People Born on August 7th
Kevin Muscat
Footballer, coach, and manager
Born
August 7th, 1973 52 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a defender. Started career in England with Watford and later played for clubs such as Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to Australian football, joining Melbourne Victory and earning two A-League Championships. Served as the head coach of Melbourne Victory and successfully won the A-League Premiership.
Continue ReadingJames Randi
Stage magician and author of 'Flim-Flam!'
Born
August 7th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
A stage magician, author, and skeptic engaged in debunking paranormal claims and pseudoscience. Founded the James Randi Educational Foundation, which promoted critical thinking and scientific skepticism. Gained recognition through stage performances under the name 'The Amazing Randi', showcasing illusions and magic. Authored the book 'Flim-Flam!: The Truth About Unicorns, Paranormal Claims, and Other Mysteries of the Mind', where critical thinking and examination of the paranormal were emphasized.
Continue ReadingJerry Pournelle
Science fiction author and journalist
Born
August 7th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2017 8 years ago — 84 years old
An American author and journalist, recognized for contributions to science fiction and military theory. Worked for NASA and was influential in developing concepts for future space exploration. Wrote multiple novels, often in collaboration with other authors, including works set in the 'Janissaries' universe and 'The Mote in God’s Eye'. Served as a columnist for various magazines, where insights on technology and politics were well-regarded. Engaged in commentary on the intersection of science fiction and contemporary issues, promoting a blend of speculative narrative and practical insight.
Continue ReadingAugust Ahlqvist
Finnish professor and Finno-Ugric scholar
Born
August 7th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1889 136 years ago — 63 years old
Ahlqvist served as a professor and was prominent in the study of Finno-Ugric languages. Contributions included poetry and literary criticism. Authored important works that explored the intricacies of these languages and their literature. Engaged in the cultural and educational development of Finland during the 19th century, focusing on the significance of the Finnish language and literature. Influenced the preservation and promotion of Finno-Ugric heritage through academic and literary efforts.
Continue ReadingSydney McLaughlin-Levrone
American hurdler and Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 7th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, a prominent American hurdler and sprinter emerged as a leading figure in athletics. Achieved significant success in various competitions, showcasing exceptional talent in the 400 meters hurdles and sprinting events. Gained recognition during high school competitions, setting national high school records. Competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, securing a gold medal in the 400 meters hurdles, where a world record was established. Continues to compete at elite levels in professional athletics.
Continue ReadingAlain Corneau
French film director and screenwriter
Born
August 7th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2010 15 years ago — 67 years old
Significant contributions to French cinema included directing feature films, often blending genres and exploring complex narratives. Gained recognition for the film 'Tous les matins du monde,' which was a critical and commercial success in France. Focused on themes of music, personal relationships, and psychological depth in storytelling. Directed several other notable works throughout the 1980s and 1990s, establishing a personal style characterized by careful pacing and atmospheric visuals.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Dabney Coleman
Actor in film and television comedies
Born
January 3rd, 1932 94 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
Born in 1932, this American actor gained recognition through a prominent career in film and television. This individual frequently portrayed characters with a mix of authority and humor, often in comedic settings. Major roles included appearances in the films 'Tootsie' and 'Nine to Five,' as well as the television series 'Buffalo Bill.' Over the decades, this actor became a familiar face in mainstream entertainment, contributing to memorable scenes and performances that garnered a loyal audience.
Continue ReadingPiet Blauw
Dutch Politician and Public Official
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2019 6 years ago — 82 years old
A prominent figure in Dutch politics, served as a member of the House of Representatives. Held various positions within the government, focusing on social policies and public welfare. Played a significant role in shaping legislative developments during tenure and was active in community initiatives.
Continue ReadingAlain Cuny
French actor in 'The Wages of Fear'
Born
July 12th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent French actor with a career spanning several decades, recognized for performances in notable films during the mid-20th century. Played significant roles in classics like 'The Wages of Fear' directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, and 'The Longest Day', showcasing a range of emotional depth. Cuny contributed to the French cinema landscape and collaborated with various influential filmmakers, cementing his status in the performing arts.
Continue ReadingMatthew Lewis
English author and playwright, The Monk
Born
July 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1818 207 years ago — 42 years old
An English author and playwright, this figure produced some of the early examples of Gothic literature. The most recognized work is the novel 'The Monk', published in 1796, which explores themes of desire, sin, and morality through its controversial depiction of a monk's descent into depravity. His other works included plays and novels that contributed to the literary landscape of the late 18th century, but none reached the same level of notoriety as 'The Monk'.
Continue ReadingChuck Brown
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
August 22nd, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 75 years old
A significant figure in the development of go-go music, a subgenre of funk. Originated in Washington, D.C. and played a critical role in popularizing the style throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Brown's signature sound combined funk rhythms with a strong emphasis on live percussion and audience participation. Recorded numerous albums, with standout tracks like 'Bustin' Loose' achieving considerable success. His influence extended to other artists and genres, seamlessly blending funk, R&B, and hip-hop elements in performances.
Continue ReadingFrankie Librán
Baseball player, MLB World Series champion
Born
1948 78 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 65 years old
A Puerto Rican-American baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned from 1969 to 1975, with significant contributions to the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees. During his tenure, he achieved notable success, including participation in the 1977 World Series with the Yankees. Librán's athletic prowess was evident during both regular and post-season games, showcasing his skills on the mound.
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