George Roy Hill
American director of 'Butch Cassidy'
Acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to American cinema during the 20th century. Major works include classics such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Sting', both of which received critical and commercial success. 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor with action in a Western setting. 'The Sting' showcased an intricate plot with memorable performances and won seven Academy Awards. Hill's work often involved collaboration with notable actors, enhancing the storytelling through engaging character development and direction.
Directed 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid'
Directed 'The Sting'
Other People Born on December 20th
Malcolm Jenkins
American football player and safety
Born
December 20th, 1987 38 years ago
Professional American football player played as a safety and contributed significantly to team defenses. Played for the New Orleans Saints and the Philadelphia Eagles. Won Super Bowl LII with the Eagles. Recognized for leadership both on and off the field. Involved in community service and activism advocating for social justice issues.
Continue ReadingPietro Raimondi
Italian composer and music theorist
Born
December 20th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1853 172 years ago — 66 years old
Born on December 20, 1786, a significant figure in the development of Italian opera and music theory, focusing on the works for both voice and instruments. Contributed to the evolution of the operatic form during the 19th century. Published important theoretical texts that discussed harmony and counterpoint, influencing future generations of composers. His operas, especially those staged in the early 1800s, showcased his ability to blend lyrical melodies with dramatic narratives. Established himself as a respected music educator.
Continue ReadingJaroslav Heyrovský
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 20th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1967 58 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent Czech chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of electrochemistry. Developed the polarography technique, which revolutionized chemical analysis by allowing the measurement of minute quantities of substances. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1959 for this work, establishing a foundation for many modern electrochemical applications. In addition to research, held various academic positions and influenced the study of chemistry in Czech universities.
Continue ReadingRobeisy Ramírez
Cuban boxer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 20th, 1993 32 years ago
A boxer recognized for achievements in amateur boxing. Competed in the featherweight division, winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics and again at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Transitioned to professional boxing, maintaining an impressive record. Gained further acclaim for victories in major boxing competitions.
Continue ReadingSuzuka Nakamoto
Japanese singer in Babymetal
Born
December 20th, 1997 28 years ago
A prominent singer emerged in the Japanese music scene in the early 2010s. Gained recognition as a member of the band Babymetal, which blends heavy metal and pop music. The group’s self-titled debut album achieved commercial success, charting internationally. Contributed to several hit singles, showcasing a unique fusion of genres. Participated in international tours and performances, furthering the band’s global reach and acclaim.
Continue ReadingFacundo Pellistri
Uruguayan footballer at Manchester United
Born
December 20th, 2001 24 years ago
Born in 2001, this Uruguayan footballer began his career at the youth academy of Montevideo-based club Peñarol. After impressing during his tenure, a transfer to Manchester United in 2020 solidified his position in European football. His skillful play as a winger caught the attention of fans and critics alike. Throughout his time, he has been utilized both in domestic league matches and European competitions, showcasing his talents on major platforms.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 27th
Robert Leke
English Earl and politician in the 1700s
Born
1654 372 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1707 318 years ago — 53 years old
Held the title of 3rd Earl of Scarsdale. Served in the House of Lords, contributing to the political landscape of England in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Engaged in various local governance matters related to Derbyshire and national political discussions. Involved in the political dynamics of the time, focusing on land management and estate affairs.
Continue ReadingAlfredo Pacheco
Salvadoran footballer and national team player
Born
1982 44 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 33 years old
Played as a defender in professional football, primarily for Alianza FC in El Salvador. Represented the national team, participating in numerous international competitions, including the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Pacheco's career spanned over a decade, marked by his consistent performances at both club and international levels until retirement.
Continue ReadingDave Henderson
Baseball player and sportscaster
Born
July 21st, 1958 67 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 10 years ago — 57 years old
A professional baseball player debuted in Major League Baseball in 1981. Played as an outfielder for several teams, including the California Angels, Seattle Mariners, and Boston Red Sox. Contributed significantly to the 1986 Red Sox team that reached the World Series. Transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting after retirement, providing analysis and commentary for various networks.
Continue ReadingFanny Cradock
Chef and television cooking presenter
Born
February 26th, 1909 117 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1994 31 years ago — 85 years old
An influential figure in British culinary arts, gained recognition for television cooking programs that showcased both traditional and modern recipes. Published numerous cookbooks, contributing significantly to the popularization of home cooking in the post-war era. Known for a distinctive style and charming persona, established a legacy in culinary television.
Continue ReadingGianna D'Angelo
American soprano and educator
Born
November 18th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
An American soprano and educator with a distinguished career in opera and vocal performance. Studied under notable vocal coaches and performed at major opera houses. Contributed significantly to the education of future generations of singers through teaching and mentorship. Emphasized the importance of vocal technique and artistry in her teachings.
Continue ReadingHyacinthe Rigaud
French painter known for portraits
Born
July 18th, 1659 366 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1743 282 years ago — 84 years old
Born in 1659, this French painter specialized in portraiture, creating works that captured the essence and elegance of his subjects. Rigaud gained prominence in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, with a style characterized by its meticulous detail and vibrant color. His most celebrated work is the portrait of King Louis XIV, which showcases the king in luxurious attire and conveys his authority. Rigaud's portraits were highly sought after by the French aristocracy and foreign dignitaries. His contributions to art were instrumental in the development of the portrait genre during this period.
Continue Reading