Friz Freleng
Animator and director of Looney Tunes
An American animator, director, and producer contributed significantly to the creation of iconic characters and cartoons. Started working with Warner Bros. in the 1930s, Freleng directed numerous Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons. His work included famous characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig. Freleng co-created the beloved character Tweety Bird and worked on notable films including 'The Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie.' Received multiple Academy Awards for his contributions to animation and film, solidifying a prominent place in animation history.
Directed the Looney Tunes series
Co-created Tweety Bird
Won 4 Academy Awards
Other People Born on August 21st
William IV of the United Kingdom
King of the United Kingdom (1830-1837)
Born
August 21st, 1765 260 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1837 188 years ago — 71 years old
Ascended to the throne as the third son of George III. His reign saw the passage of the Reform Act 1832, which reformed the electoral system and expanded voting rights. The king supported the abolition of slavery and the establishment of the Naval Discipline Act. A keen sailor, he had a strong interest in naval matters and advocated for the Royal Navy's modernization. The period also experienced significant social and economic changes, with the Industrial Revolution transforming Britain.
Continue ReadingSimon Katich
Cricketer and coach, Test player for Australia
Born
August 21st, 1975 50 years ago
Played international cricket for Australia from 2001 to 2010, primarily as a left-handed opening batsman. Achieved significant success in Test matches, where recorded over 4,000 runs, including multiple centuries. Served as a coach for the New South Wales team and contributed to the development of younger players in the sport. In the domestic circuit, represented teams such as Western Australia and the Sydney Sixers in T20 cricket.
Continue ReadingWout Brama
Professional footballer with FC Twente
Born
August 21st, 1986 39 years ago
Played as a midfielder, primarily associated with FC Twente. Made significant contributions during the 2009–2010 season when the team won the Eredivisie title. Also represented the Netherlands at various youth levels, showcasing skills in competitive matches throughout his career.
Continue ReadingBlossom Rock
American actress with notable roles
Born
August 21st, 1895 130 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1978 47 years ago — 82 years old
An American actress, developed a career primarily in television and film during the mid-20th century. Gained recognition for the role of Grandma Addams in the television series 'The Addams Family'. Also appeared in various films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Her performances often showcased her distinctive comedic style and character work.
Continue ReadingAlex Brooks
Ice hockey player and scout
Born
August 21st, 1976 49 years ago
Played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) and several minor leagues. Also served as a scout for various teams after retiring from professional play. Contributed to both on-ice performances and talent evaluation in hockey.
Continue ReadingBrooks Wheelan
Comedian and actor from SNL
Born
August 21st, 1986 39 years ago
A comedian and actor gained recognition for performances on 'Saturday Night Live' during the 2013-2014 season. Originating from a background in stand-up comedy, contributed to various comedy festivals, showcasing a unique blend of sketch and observational humor. Pursued a career in entertainment that included appearances on late-night talk shows and voice acting in animated series. Additionally, explored comedic storytelling through a podcast platform, engaging with audiences and sharing personal anecdotes from life experiences.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 26th
Hedy Epstein
Holocaust survivor and activist
Born
August 15th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2016 9 years ago — 91 years old
Born in Germany, relocated to the United States during World War II. Survived the Holocaust and became a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice. Actively opposed the Vietnam War and supported Palestinian rights. Participated in protests and campaigns highlighting issues of injustice, discrimination, and minority rights. Her experiences during the Holocaust shaped her commitment to activism for marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingSidney Smith
Admiral and politician in England
Born
June 21st, 1764 261 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1840 185 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1764, a prominent admiral and politician served in the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. He participated in various naval engagements, including the Siege of Acre where strategic leadership played a crucial role in defending against French forces. Later, he took on political responsibilities and represented various constituencies in the Parliament. His contributions in both military and political fields were significant during a transformative period in British history.
Continue ReadingZbigniew Brzezinski
U.S. National Security Advisor
Born
March 28th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Political activist and analyst focused on U.S. foreign policy. Served as National Security Advisor to President Jimmy Carter from 1977 to 1981, influencing decisions during the Cold War era. Contributed to the establishment of a cooperative relationship with China and emphasized the importance of human rights in foreign policy. Authored several influential books on geopolitics and international relations, shaping discussions on global security. Engaged in academic and policy discussions throughout his career, serving in various think tanks and institutions.
Continue ReadingRobert Kraft
American astronomer and academic
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
An astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of pulsars and radio emissions. Served as a professor at several universities, emphasizing the importance of radio astronomy education. Conducted extensive research that improved understanding of neutron stars and their characteristics. Held various academic positions and participated in numerous astronomical projects throughout a prolific academic career.
Continue ReadingMartin Heidegger
German philosopher and existentialist thinker
Born
September 26th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1976 49 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1889, this philosopher focused primarily on ontology and metaphysics. The work Being and Time, published in 1927, introduced the concept of 'Being' and explored human existence. His thoughts on technology and being have influenced various fields, including existentialism and phenomenology. Later in career, he engaged with themes of language and poetry, altering the scope of philosophy significantly. The philosopher’s affiliations with the Nazi Party during the 1930s created controversy regarding his legacy.
Continue ReadingAndy Fletcher
English musician and Depeche Mode co-founder
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2022 3 years ago — 61 years old
A prominent English musician played keyboards for the band Depeche Mode, which was formed in 1980. The band achieved significant commercial success and is recognized as a pioneer of electronic music. Fletcher contributed to the band’s distinctive sound and was involved in their songwriting process. Depeche Mode released several critically acclaimed albums, including "Violator" and "Songs of Faith and Devotion," which garnered international acclaim and several awards. Fletcher’s role in the band continued until his death in 2022.
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