Evel Knievel
Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.
Jumped over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium
Attempted to jump over the Snake River Canyon
Other People Born on October 17th
Rob Marshall
Director of 'Chicago' and 'Into the Woods'
Born
October 17th, 1960 65 years ago
Born in 1960, this American director, producer, and choreographer gained prominence in the film industry with a talent for musical adaptations. Collaborated with various Broadway productions before transitioning to film. 'Chicago', released in 2002, showcased a unique integration of choreography and storytelling, earning critical acclaim and winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Directed 'Memoirs of a Geisha' in 2005, which won three Oscars. 'Into the Woods', based on the Stephen Sondheim musical, was released in 2014.
Continue ReadingMike Judge
Animator and creator of Beavis and Butt-Head
Born
October 17th, 1962 63 years ago
Creator of the animated television series Beavis and Butt-Head, which debuted in 1993 and gained a cult following. Directed the film Office Space, a satirical take on corporate culture released in 1999. Co-created the animated series King of the Hill, which aired from 1997 to 2010 and received critical acclaim. Produced and directed the series Silicon Valley, exploring the tech industry in the 2010s.
Continue ReadingJay Humphries
American basketball player and guard
Born
October 17th, 1962 63 years ago
Played basketball professionally, primarily as a guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Began collegiate career at the University of Utah, achieving significant success. Entered the NBA Draft in 1985, selected by the Phoenix Suns. Contributed to the team's performance, later playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Utah Jazz. Retired after a successful career, transitioning to coaching and developing young players.
Continue ReadingNathalie Tauziat
French tennis player and Grand Slam semifinalist
Born
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago
A professional tennis player competed primarily in the 1990s. Achieved significant success on the WTA Tour, including reaching the semifinals of Wimbledon in 1998. Also represented France in various international competitions, including the Fed Cup. Ended career with a high singles ranking of World No. 16. After retirement, transitioned into coaching and tennis commentary.
Continue ReadingTommy Kendall
Race car driver and sportscaster
Born
October 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Competed in professional auto racing, achieving notable success in the Trans-Am Series. Won three consecutive championships from 1995 to 1997 while driving for various teams. Transitioned to a career in broadcasting, providing commentary and insights on motorsports. Served as an analyst for numerous events, contributing to the coverage of different racing series.
Continue ReadingRussell Gilbert
Australian comedian and actor, best known for 'The Comedy Company.'
Born
October 17th, 1959 66 years ago
Born in Melbourne, a career in entertainment spanned several decades starting in the 1980s. Gained recognition as a cast member on 'The Comedy Company,' a popular television sketch show that aired on Network Ten. Contributed as a writer and performer, showcasing comedic talents through various characters and sketches. Extended career to film and theatre, including roles in productions such as 'The Wog Boy' and 'The Wog Boy 2: The Kings of Mykonos.' Regularly appeared in radio shows and comedy festivals, engaging audiences with humor across different platforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on November 30th
Vladimir May-Mayevsky
Russian general in World War I
Born
September 15th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1920 105 years ago — 53 years old
Born in 1867, a general in the Russian Imperial Army, played a significant role during World War I. Commanded divisions on the Eastern Front, notably during the decisive engagements against German forces. Contributed to military operations aimed at enhancing Russian position in the war. His leadership was marked by extensive combat experience and strategic planning.
Continue ReadingMunetaka Higuchi
Japanese drummer and music producer
Born
December 24th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2008 17 years ago — 49 years old
Gained recognition as a skilled drummer and music producer. Played for the heavy metal band Loudness, contributing to their signature sound during the 1980s. Worked on various albums that helped the band achieve international acclaim. In addition to drumming, engaged in music production, enhancing the development of Japanese rock music. Contributed to the global expansion of the genre through performances and collaborations.
Continue ReadingJean Kent
English actress in classic films
Born
June 29th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old
An actress emerged in the British film industry during the 1940s. Gained prominence in several films, including 'The Wicked Lady' and 'The Man in the White Suit'. Also performed on stage and made numerous television appearances throughout a lengthy career.
Continue ReadingJohn Dollond
Optician and astronomer with telescopes
Born
June 21st, 1706 319 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1761 264 years ago — 55 years old
An English optician and astronomer contributed significantly to the development of telescopes. Invented the achromatic lens, which improved clarity in observing celestial bodies and helped advance the field of astronomy. Established a successful optical business and served as a member of the Royal Society. Had an enduring influence on optical science and contributed to various advancements in lens design.
Continue ReadingFernando Pessoa
Portuguese poet and literary critic
Born
June 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1935 90 years ago — 47 years old
Born in Lisbon, this individual became a prominent figure in Portuguese literature, creating several heteronyms that explored various perspectives on identity and existence. The work, 'The Book of Disquiet,' reflects deep introspection and existential thought. Through poetry and prose, significant contributions were made to modernist literature, capturing the complexities of the human experience. The unique style and philosophical themes resonate throughout his writings, leaving a lasting legacy in literary circles.
Continue ReadingCharles XII of Sweden
King of Sweden during the Great Northern War
Born
1682 344 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1718 307 years ago — 36 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1697 at the age of 15. Led Sweden in the Great Northern War against a coalition of rivals, including Russia and Denmark-Norway. Achieved notable victories at battles such as Narva in 1700 and Kliszow in 1702. Faced significant setbacks later in the war, notably at the Battle of Poltava in 1709, leading to a prolonged exile. Died in 1718 during a siege in Norway.
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