Elia Kazan

Theater and film director, 'On the Waterfront'

Elia Kazan - Theater and film director, 'On the Waterfront'
Born

September 7th, 1909
115 years ago

Died

September 28th, 2003
21 years ago — 94 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Born in Greece and moving to the United States as a child, an influential director and producer worked in theater and film throughout the mid-20th century. Founded the Actors Studio in 1947, promoting method acting. Directed acclaimed films, including 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and 'On the Waterfront', earning critical recognition. His filmmaking often dealt with personal and social themes, leading to complex characters and narratives. In addition to directing, involved in stage productions, including several works on Broadway, showcasing significant talent in both mediums. Received multiple awards, including two Academy Awards for Best Director and was a recipient of the AFI Life Achievement Award.

Directed 'On the Waterfront'

Directed 'A Streetcar Named Desire'

Co-founded the Actors Studio

Other People Born on September 7th

Dario Argento

Italian horror film director
Born
September 7th, 1940 84 years ago

Argento began a career in cinema as a screenwriter and later became a director, noted for work in the horror genre. Pioneering the giallo subgenre, he achieved recognition for films that combined elements of horror, thriller, and mystery. His directing style is characterized by vivid visuals and intricate plots. Significant films include "Suspiria," which gained a cult following for its unsettling atmosphere, and "Deep Red," which is frequently cited as one of the finest examples of Italian horror. Argento also contributed to screenwriting for other notable works, establishing a legacy in horror film.

Continue Reading

Piri Weepu

Rugby player, 2011 World Cup champion
Born
September 7th, 1983 41 years ago

A rugby union player, competed as a half-back. Represented New Zealand in international competitions. Played for the All Blacks, earning significant accolades throughout the career. Instrumental in New Zealand's victory at the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Had a successful domestic career playing for Wellington and the Blues in Super Rugby.

Continue Reading

C. J. Dennis

Australian poet and author of 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke'
Born
September 7th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1938 86 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1876 in Australia, a poet and author gained recognition for crafting verse that captured the essence of Australian life and culture. The work 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke', published in 1915, became emblematic of the Australian literary scene. This collection featured a blend of humor, sentiment, and local dialect, appealing to a broad audience and solidifying a place in Australian literature. Throughout a prolific career, engaged with various forms of writing including poetry, short stories, and works for children, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of Australia.

Continue Reading

John Cornforth

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 7th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2013 11 years ago — 96 years old

Born in Australia in 1917, this chemist specialized in the field of organic chemistry. After relocating to England, academic pursuits flourished, leading to significant research in steroid synthesis. This work contributed to advancements in the understanding of chemical reactions and their mechanisms. Recognition culminated in receiving the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1975 for work on the chemistry of organic compounds.

Continue Reading

Michael Feinstein

American singer and pianist
Born
September 7th, 1956 68 years ago

This individual is a celebrated singer and pianist, renowned for preserving and promoting the American popular songbook. Achievements include notable performances at prestigious venues such as the Kennedy Center and the Hollywood Bowl, as well as collaborations with prominent artists. This individual has also released several albums that showcase classic American standards, contributing to a renewed interest in jazz and cabaret music.

Continue Reading

Mark Prior

Baseball pitcher with Cubs success
Born
September 7th, 1980 44 years ago

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 2002 with the Chicago Cubs. Achieved 18 wins in 2003, earning a place on the All-Star team. Played a key role in the Cubs' pitching lineup during the early 2000s. Injuries affected later career, leading to retirement in 2013 after brief stints with the San Diego Padres.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 28th

Francis Turretin

Theologian and academic, author of 'Institutes'
Born
October 17th, 1623 401 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1687 337 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to Reformed theology through the publication of 'Institutes of Elenctic Theology'. Served as a professor of theology in Geneva for many years, influencing the development of Protestant thought. His systematic approach to theology helped shape theological education and discourse, emphasizing the importance of clarity in doctrine and defense of the Christian faith.

Continue Reading

Robert Spencer

English diplomat and 2nd Earl of Sunderland
Born
September 5th, 1641 383 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1702 322 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1641, this individual played a significant role in the political landscape of 17th-century England. He served as a diplomat, holding key positions under various monarchs, including Charles II and James II. His diplomatic missions included negotiations with foreign powers, and he was part of the political discussions surrounding the English Civil War. His family held considerable influence, and he participated in the management of affairs of state during a turbulent period in English history. He held the title of 2nd Earl of Sunderland, demonstrating a lineage intertwined with the nobility. His contributions to diplomacy and statecraft have been acknowledged as part of the legacy of his family.

Continue Reading

José José

Mexican singer-songwriter and actor
Born
February 17th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2019 5 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in Latin music, this individual achieved fame as a singer-songwriter and actor. With a career spanning several decades, numerous albums were released, showcasing vocal prowess and emotional depth. The individual gained significant popularity in the 1970s and continued to influence generations of artists. The album 'El Triste' marked a pivotal moment, demonstrating exceptional vocal talent. Several television appearances, particularly in telenovelas, expanded reach and recognition, solidifying status as a cultural icon in Mexico and beyond.

Continue Reading

Nikolay Raevsky

Russian general and political figure
Born
September 25th, 1771 253 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1829 195 years ago — 58 years old

Born in Russia, a military officer gained prominence during the Napoleonic Wars. Raevsky played a significant role in key battles such as the Battle of Borodino in 1812, where he commanded the 2nd Corps of the Russian Army. Post-war, he participated in various political activities and served in the State Council, contributing to military reforms. Raevsky held the rank of General of Infantry by the end of his career, reflecting his experience and leadership in the military. His legacy includes a reputation as a prominent figure in 19th-century Russian military circles.

Continue Reading

Gloria Naylor

American novelist with 'The Women of Brewster Place'
Born
January 25th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2016 8 years ago — 66 years old

An influential novelist, notable for exploring themes of race, gender, and identity. Achieved prominence through the debut novel, 'The Women of Brewster Place,' which received critical acclaim and was adapted into a television miniseries. Other significant works include 'Mama Day' and 'Linden Hills,' which further developed complex characters and interwoven narratives that reflect African American life. Received several prestigious awards, including the National Book Award for her literary contributions.

Continue Reading

Freddie Stowers

Soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1918 106 years ago — 22 years old

Served as a soldier during World War I. Participated in the Argonne Forest offensive, demonstrating exceptional bravery in combat. Faced intense enemy fire while charging machine gun positions to rescue fellow soldiers. Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for courageous actions during the battle. Recognized as the first African American to receive the Medal of Honor for service in World War I.

Continue Reading