Gabriel Axel
Danish actor, director of Babette's Feast
A prominent figure in Danish cinema, contributed significantly as an actor, director, and producer. Directed the film 'Babette's Feast', which won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 1988. The film is celebrated for its rich storytelling and deep thematic elements. Also acted in various Danish films and television series, establishing a notable presence in the entertainment industry.
Directed 'Babette's Feast', winning an Oscar
Acted in numerous Danish films and series
Other People Born on April 18th
Grigory Sokolov
Pianist acclaimed for classical performances
Born
April 18th, 1950 75 years ago
Born in 1950, this Russian pianist and composer gained recognition for exceptional performances of classical repertoire. Early training included studies at the Leningrad Conservatory, which fostered a profound understanding of music. Competitions such as the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1966, where first prize was awarded, showcased remarkable talent. Over the decades, extensive international touring occurred, with multiple concerts at prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall and the Vienna Musikverein. Recordings of works by Chopin, Beethoven, and Rachmaninoff further contributed to reputation as one of the leading pianists of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Continue ReadingRobert Christgau
Music journalist and critic
Born
April 18th, 1942 83 years ago
Pioneered rock music criticism, contributing to publications such as The Village Voice. Developed a distinctive method of music evaluation, incorporating a grading system for albums. Authored influential books and essays on music and culture. Served as a significant voice in discussions about popular music and its intersection with society.
Continue ReadingKarl Josef Becker
German cardinal and theologian
Born
April 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church and contributed extensively to theological discussions and academia. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council, helping shape modern Catholic doctrine. Worked in various capacities within the church, including as a professor of theology, influencing generations of theologians and clerics. Authored numerous texts on theology and philosophy, fostering dialogue on faith and reason.
Continue ReadingWilliam Debenham
Founder of Debenhams department store
Born
April 18th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1863 162 years ago — 69 years old
Established a retail business in 1778 that eventually evolved into the department store chain Debenhams. Expanded operations and opened multiple locations throughout England. The business became well-recognized for its wide range of goods and innovative approach to retailing.
Continue ReadingMelissa Joan Hart
American actress and director
Born
April 18th, 1976 49 years ago
An actress and director, worked in television and film. Gained prominence for starring in the sitcoms 'Clarissa Explains It All' and 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'. Directed episodes of various television series, showcasing versatility in her career. Participated in multiple television projects targeted at family audiences, establishing a significant presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingEric McCormack
Actor from Will & Grace
Born
April 18th, 1963 62 years ago
Born in Toronto, a Canadian-American actor gained prominence through a significant role in a popular television series. Featured as Will Truman in the sitcom 'Will & Grace', which aired from 1998 to 2006 and was later revived. The show received critical acclaim and multiple awards during its run. Demonstrated versatility by engaging in various acting projects, including drama series and films.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 9th
George "Gabby" Hayes
Actor in western films and television
Born
May 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1969 56 years ago — 83 years old
An American actor and singer, became prominent in the Western genre during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved fame through roles in films like 'Stagecoach' and 'The Trail of the Lonesome Pine'. Starred in numerous B-movies and became a familiar face for portraying sidekicks, particularly in films featuring stars such as John Wayne. Transitioned into television with roles in series like 'The Gabby Hayes Show', which showcased his personality and storytelling ability, further solidifying his popularity.
Continue ReadingPrincess Margaret
Countess with influential royal role
Born
August 21st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2002 23 years ago — 71 years old
A member of the British royal family, served as the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II. Played a significant role in the royal family during her lifetime, often representing the monarchy at official events. Engaged in numerous charitable activities and supported various causes, including arts and culture. Her personal life attracted media attention, notably her relationship with photographer Anthony Armstrong-Jones, which led to marriage. The couple had two children before their eventual divorce. Often attended public functions and was recognized for her style and elegance.
Continue ReadingSushil Koirala
Nepalese politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 12th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2016 9 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 37th Prime Minister of Nepal from February 2014 to August 2015. Led the Nepali Congress party and participated in the country's peace process after a decade-long civil war. Played a significant role in drafting the 2015 Constitution of Nepal, which aimed to establish democratic governance and rights for citizens. Held various positions within the Nepali Congress and was actively involved in the political landscape of Nepal for several decades.
Continue ReadingChick Corea
Jazz composer and pianist
Born
June 12th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2021 4 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in jazz music, his career spanned over five decades. Contributed to the development of jazz fusion through innovative compositions and collaborations. Formed the influential band Return to Forever, blending jazz with rock, Latin, and classical elements. Experimented with various musical styles and worked with numerous notable musicians throughout his career. Corea's contributions to music earned various awards, including several Grammy Awards.
Continue ReadingPaul Laurence Dunbar
American author and poet with notable works
Born
June 27th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1906 119 years ago — 33 years old
An American author, poet, and playwright, he gained prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His literary career began with the publication of 'Oak and Ivy' in 1893, which featured a blend of standard English and dialect. Dunbar's work encapsulated African American life and culture, often highlighting themes of struggle and resilience. He became the first influential African American poet and received recognition during his lifetime for his contributions to literature. His poems and writings addressed complex issues related to race and identity. He worked tirelessly to elevate the voices of African Americans in literature and became an integral figure in the Harlem Renaissance.
Continue ReadingJohn Frederick
Duke of Pomerania, military leader
Born
May 5th, 1582 443 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1600 425 years ago — 17 years old
Born into the House of Greifswald, this nobleman inherited the title of Duke of Pomerania after the death of his father. He played a significant role in the complex political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during the late 16th century. His reign included military engagements and alliances, particularly in relation to the Protestant Reformation. He faced challenges from rival noble families and sought to maintain the autonomy of Pomerania. His governorship was marked by efforts to solidify control over the region, navigating both internal conflicts and external threats. The legacy includes influence over local governance and territorial disputes that shaped the region's future.
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