George Roy Hill

American director of 'Butch Cassidy'

George Roy Hill - American director of 'Butch Cassidy'
Born

December 20th, 1921
103 years ago

Died

December 27th, 2002
22 years ago — 81 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

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

Väinö Linna

Finnish author, wrote 'Under the North Star'
Born
December 20th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 71 years old

A Finnish author achieved prominence for depictions of Finnish society in the 20th century. Notably, the trilogy 'Under the North Star' explored themes of Finnish history, culture, and class struggles. Linna's works often reflected the consequences of war and societal changes in Finland, providing a narrative richness that resonated with readers. Besides novels, he also contributed essays and writings about Finnish identity, aiding in the understanding of post-war Finnish literature. The author became a significant figure in Finnish literature, influencing generations of writers and readers.

Continue Reading

Christian Wilkins

American football player, Pro Bowl selection
Born
December 20th, 1995 29 years ago

A professional American football player, played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. Contributed to the Dolphins' defense and received recognition for performance on the field. Achieved a Pro Bowl selection, showcasing talent at the position during multiple seasons.

Continue Reading

Arturo Márquez

Composer known for 'Danzón No. 2'
Born
December 20th, 1950 74 years ago

A Mexican-American composer, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music. Born in 1950, he studied at the National Autonomous University of Mexico and later at the California Institute of the Arts. His compositions reflect Mexican culture and integrate traditional elements with modern styles. 'Danzón No. 2' gained international acclaim and has been performed by various symphonies around the world. Márquez's work often features orchestral textures and vibrant rhythms, deeply rooted in Mexican cultural heritage. He has also composed operas and chamber music, showcasing a commitment to the evolution of classical music that embraces distinct cultural narratives.

Continue Reading

Robeisy Ramírez

Cuban boxer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
December 20th, 1993 31 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 Reading

Aziz Nesin

Turkish author and humorist
Born
December 20th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1995 30 years ago — 79 years old

A prolific Turkish author and humorist. Authored over 100 books including novels, short stories, and plays. Established the Nesin Foundation to support and promote education and literacy in Turkey. Often employed satire to critique social issues, reflecting personal beliefs and observations. Contributed significantly to Turkish literature, particularly in the genre of humor.

Continue Reading

Kathryn Joosten

American television actress
Born
December 20th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 2012 13 years ago — 72 years old

A television actress primarily recognized for performances in notable series. Played the role of Karen McCluskey in the series 'Desperate Housewives', earning critical acclaim. Also portrayed Dolores Landingham in 'The West Wing', contributing to the show's success and popularity. Achieved significant recognition in the entertainment industry, garnering awards and nominations for acting. Maintained an active career in television and film until passing.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 27th

Hafizullah Amin

Afghan politician and foreign minister
Born
August 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1979 45 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent Afghan educator and politician served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan. Actively participated in the People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan, promoting socialist policies. His tenure as foreign minister was marked by efforts to navigate the complexities of Afghanistan's foreign relations during a politically turbulent era. Contributed to educational reforms in Afghanistan aimed at expanding literacy and access to education. His leadership was characterized by attempts to implement radical changes within the government structure.

Continue Reading

Julian Tuwim

Polish poet and playwright, wrote 'The Locomotive'
Born
September 13th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1953 71 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1894, a significant figure in Polish literature, especially noted for works in poetry, drama, and children's literature. Tuwim was part of the Skamander group of poets, which aimed to revitalize Polish poetry. His poetry often combined humor with serious themes, making it accessible yet profound. Notably, 'The Locomotive' became a classic in Polish children's literature. Active in the interwar period and later during World War II, Tuwim contributed to the Polish cultural scene, writing plays and poetry that resonated with the challenges of his time. Following the war, he continued to write and support the arts until his death in 1953.

Continue Reading

Zona Gale

American novelist and playwright
Born
August 26th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1938 86 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1874, a prominent American novelist, short story writer, and playwright, focused on small-town life and women's issues. Gained recognition for contributions to literature during the early 20th century. Won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1921 for the play 'Miss Lulu Bett', which explored themes of personal freedom and the constraints of societal expectations. Authored various works that showcased the dynamics of small communities and the complexities of human relationships.

Continue Reading

Gaston Glock

Firearm engineer, founder of Glock
Born
July 19th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2023 1 years ago — 94 years old

Austrian firearm engineer developed the Glock pistol, a polymer-framed handgun that revolutionized the firearms industry. Founded Glock Ges.m.b.H. in the 1980s, producing the Glock 17, which gained widespread adoption by military and law enforcement agencies. The design introduced innovative safety features and consistent performance, leading to its popularity among professional users. The Glock series became a staple in both personal and professional firearm use across many countries.

Continue Reading

Robert Graham

Mexican-American sculptor
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2008 16 years ago — 70 years old

A Mexican-American sculptor, significant contributions include monumental public works and artistic representations of cultural themes. Specialized in bronze sculptures, complemented by various media. Created prominent pieces such as 'The Great Journey' at the Los Angeles International Airport and 'The Rite of Passage' located in Santa Monica, California. Influenced the art community through innovative techniques and cultural storytelling.

Continue Reading

Stevie Wright

Singer-songwriter of 'Friday On My Mind'
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in the Australian rock music scene, contributed to the establishment and popularity of pop music in the 1960s and 1970s. Led the band The Easybeats, which achieved widespread acclaim with the hit 'Friday On My Mind,' one of the first Australian songs to gain international success. Later pursued a solo career and collaborated with various artists, further influencing the music landscape. Known for dynamic performances and robust vocal style, played a pivotal role in shaping the music culture in Australia.

Continue Reading