Frances Marion
American screenwriter and novelist
A prominent screenwriter and novelist, contributed significantly to the early film industry in Hollywood. Marion began her career writing for silent films and transitioned into sound films, establishing a reputation for her compelling narratives and strong female characters. She won two Academy Awards for Best Screenplay for 'The Big House' in 1930 and 'The Champ' in 1931. Besides screenwriting, she authored novels and worked as a journalist. Marion's contributions to cinema and literature highlighted the potential of women in creative fields during a transformative period in American arts.
Won Academy Awards for 'The Big House' and 'The Champ'
Wrote screenplays for over 300 films
Pioneered strong female roles in early cinema
Other People Born on November 18th
Tom Gordon
Baseball Pitcher; 4-time All-Star
Born
November 18th, 1967 58 years ago
A professional baseball player, recognized primarily for playing as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. Career spanned from 1988 to 2009 with several teams, including the Kansas City Royals, Chicago White Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies. Achieved four All-Star selections throughout the career, showcasing skills in both starting and relieving roles. Played a significant role in team success, contributing to a turnaround for various franchises during peak performance years. Served as a mentor to younger pitchers in the latter stages of the career.
Continue ReadingSteven Moffat
Scottish screenwriter and producer, Doctor Who
Born
November 18th, 1961 64 years ago
A Scottish screenwriter and producer contributed significantly to British television. He served as a showrunner for the acclaimed series Doctor Who, revitalizing it in the 21st century. Moffat also created the series Sherlock, which received widespread critical acclaim for its modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's works. His distinctive storytelling style and intricate plots garnered a dedicated fanbase and several awards.
Continue ReadingDuncan Sheik
Singer-songwriter and composer of 'Spring Awakening'
Born
November 18th, 1969 56 years ago
A significant figure in music, this artist gained prominence with a self-titled debut album in 1996, which included the hit single 'Barely Breathing'. The artist transitioned into musical theater, contributing music and lyrics to the acclaimed Broadway production 'Spring Awakening', which won eight Tony Awards in 2007. This work, adapted from a play by Frank Wedekind, addressed themes of adolescence and social issues.
Continue ReadingGeorge Kotsiopoulos
Stylist and journalist known for fashion
Born
November 18th, 1968 57 years ago
A stylist and journalist engaged in the fashion industry, contributed to various media outlets and projects. Served as a correspondent on shows focusing on celebrity style and fashion trends. Worked with high-profile clients, providing fashion advice and styling for events. Gained recognition for expertise in fashion accessories and interior design, reflecting a keen eye for aesthetic detail in both personal and public appearance.
Continue ReadingAmelita Galli-Curci
Soprano and recording artist
Born
November 18th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1963 62 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent soprano made significant contributions to the operatic world during the early 20th century. Galli-Curci gained acclaim for performances at the Metropolitan Opera, where she showcased a wide vocal range and an emotive interpretative style. Additionally, she achieved considerable success in recording, with many of her albums remaining popular long after her performances. Her career was characterized by numerous performances in prestigious opera houses and concerts across the United States and Europe.
Continue ReadingRita Cosby
Journalist and author of 'Quiet Hero'
Born
November 18th, 1964 61 years ago
Born in 1964, a journalist and author based in the United States. Has worked as a correspondent for major news networks, including NBC News and CBS News. Cosby gained prominence for her coverage of significant political events and high-profile interviews. Authored several books, with 'Quiet Hero: Secrets From My Father's Past' detailing her father's experience in World War II as a Polish resistance fighter. Her work encompasses both news reporting and in-depth features that highlight personal stories related to war and resilience.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Heinie Manush
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
July 20th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
A professional baseball player and manager, contributed significantly to Major League Baseball from the 1920s to the 1940s. Played primarily as an outfielder for teams such as the Washington Senators, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1964. Managed minor league teams following a successful playing career.
Continue ReadingFrancis Hughes
Irish Republican hunger striker
Born
February 28th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1981 44 years ago — 25 years old
Born in 1956, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, actively participated in the struggle for Northern Ireland's unification with the Republic of Ireland. Engaged in a hunger strike in 1981 in Maze Prison, demanding political status for IRA prisoners. The hunger strike lasted 59 days, ultimately leading to his death. His actions and sacrifice became emblematic of the wider conflict during this period.
Continue ReadingJózef Piłsudski
Polish field marshal and Prime Minister
Born
December 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1935 90 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent military and political leader in Poland. Played a key role in regaining Poland's independence in 1918 after over a century of partition. Served as the country's first Chief of State and later as Prime Minister. Instrumental in the Polish-Soviet War (1919-1921), leading to the decisive victory at the Battle of Warsaw. Established Poland's military and political framework during its formative years.
Continue ReadingKai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingRobert Kerr
Sprinter and coach; Olympic athlete
Born
June 9th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1963 62 years ago — 80 years old
Born in Ireland and later moving to Canada, a prominent sprinter specialized in middle-distance events. Competed in the 1908 London Olympics, finishing fourth in the 800 meters. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from competition, contributing to the development of future athletes. Served as the head coach for Canada's Olympic track and field team, focusing on enhancing training techniques and competitive strategies for Canadian sprinters.
Continue ReadingJoris-Karl Huysmans
French author, wrote Against Nature
Born
February 5th, 1848 178 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1907 118 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent 19th-century French author and critic, contributed significantly to the Symbolist and Decadent movements. Published the novel 'À rebours' (Against Nature) in 1884, which became a defining work of the Decadent literary movement. Explored themes of aesthetics, morality, and spirituality through a detailed and often controversial narrative style. Worked as a literary critic for various publications and engaged deeply with contemporary art and literature, influencing multiple generations of writers and artists.
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