Forest Whitaker
American actor and director
An American actor and director, achieved recognition for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence through contributions to features such as 'The Last King of Scotland', which earned an Academy Award. Also starred in 'Bird', a film about jazz musician Charlie Parker, and the television series 'The Shield'. His career encompasses a range of characters that showcase a commitment to complex roles, focusing on social and emotional themes.
Academy Award for Best Actor for 'The Last King of Scotland'
Starring role in 'Bird'
Role in 'The Shield'
Other People Born on July 15th
Cowboy Copas
Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 15th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 49 years old
An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, including contributions to the country music genre. Best recognized for a blend of traditional country and honky-tonk styles. Achieved popularity in the 1940s and 1950s with hits that showcased storytelling through music. Copas was part of the Grand Ole Opry, which significantly shaped country music's development. His music often featured themes of love and loss, resonating with audiences across the United States. Copas's career was tragically cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1963.
Continue ReadingMiguel Olivo
Baseball catcher and All-Star player
Born
July 15th, 1978 47 years ago
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 2000 to 2016. Team affiliations included the Seattle Mariners, Chicago White Sox, and Kansas City Royals. Achieved an All-Star selection in 2015 while with the Miami Marlins. Notable for offensive contributions as well as defensive skills behind the plate. Retired with a career batting average of .245, 104 home runs, and 411 runs batted in.
Continue ReadingJil Teichmann
Swiss tennis player with WTA titles
Born
July 15th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional tennis player from Switzerland, achieved significant success on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) Tour. Won three WTA singles titles and reached the fourth round of the 2021 French Open, marking a high point in a competitive career. Competed in both singles and doubles, contributing to Switzerland’s performance in the Billie Jean King Cup.
Continue ReadingTwinkle
English singer-songwriter with chart hits
Born
July 15th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
May 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
A singer-songwriter born in England, notable for contributions to the music scene in the late 1960s. Gained recognition with hit singles, particularly 'Golden Lights' and 'Angel of the Morning'. Her style incorporated elements of folk and pop, leading to a dedicated fan base. Continued to perform and release music decades after initial fame, showcasing resilience in the industry.
Continue ReadingJohnny Thunders
American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 15th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1991 34 years ago — 38 years old
A prominent figure in the punk rock scene, contributed to the formation of influential bands such as The New York Dolls and Hanoi Rocks. Explored rock and roll styles with a raw, energetic approach. Released several solo albums including 'So Alone' and collaborated with notable musicians. His music blended punk rock with elements of glam and rockabilly, leaving a lasting legacy in the genre.
Continue ReadingBarbara Jagiellon
Duchess consort of Saxony
Born
July 15th, 1478 547 years ago
Died
1534 491 years ago — 56 years old
Born into the Jagiellonian dynasty, served as the duchess consort of Saxony and the Margravine consort of Meissen from 1501 until death. Married to George, Duke of Saxony, established connections between the Polish and Saxon royal families. Oversaw the court and participated in regional politics. Her role in the household and patronage of arts contributed to the cultural landscape of the period.
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