Gerry Anderson
Television director of Supermarionation
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
Director, producer, and screenwriter focused on developing pioneering puppet animation techniques for television. Created several iconic series during the 1960s and 1970s, utilizing Supermarionation, a method for animating marionettes with synchronized lip movements. Achievements included the creation of television series that became cultural staples, featuring innovative visual effects and engaging storylines.
Created Thunderbirds
Produced Stingray
Developed Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons
Other People Born on April 14th
Joe Haden
American football cornerback
Born
April 14th, 1989 36 years ago
Played as a cornerback in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cleveland Browns and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Achieved Pro Bowl selections during multiple seasons and contributed to team defenses with significant interceptions and pass deflections. His college career was highlighted by standout performance at the University of Florida, helping secure a BCS National Championship.
Continue ReadingVebjørn Selbekk
Norwegian journalist and editor
Born
April 14th, 1969 56 years ago
Born in 1969, a journalist with a focus on political and social issues in Norway. Served as editor of the newspaper Dagen. Contributed to various media outlets, providing commentary on cultural and societal developments. Engaged in discussions regarding freedom of expression and the role of media in society.
Continue ReadingAlan MacDiarmid
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2007 19 years ago — 80 years old
Significant contributions in the field of chemistry focused on conductive polymers and organic electronics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2000 alongside two other scientists for research on electrically conductive polymers. Held academic positions at several institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania and Victoria University of Wellington. Actively contributed to advancements in materials science throughout the academic career.
Continue ReadingMahmud Esad Coşan
Turkish author and academic known for literature
Born
April 14th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2001 25 years ago — 63 years old
Born in Turkey, this individual became a prominent author and academic, contributing significantly to Turkish literature and thought. The body of work encompassed a variety of genres, including poetry, essays, and novels. This individual held positions in academia, influencing new generations of scholars and writers. As an author, themes often included culture, history, and philosophy, reflecting the complex dynamics of Turkish society. Engaged in various literary projects, this person played a crucial role in the literary circles of Turkey and maintained a lasting legacy within the academic community.
Continue ReadingPete Rose
Baseball player and manager with many hits
Born
April 14th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent baseball player and manager, contributions spanned over two decades in Major League Baseball. Played primarily for the Cincinnati Reds and achieved the record for the most hits in MLB history, totaling 4,256. Transitioned into managing, leading the Reds as player-manager during the 1980s. Controversy arose from a gambling scandal that resulted in a lifetime ban from baseball.
Continue ReadingJulie Christie
Actress and activist, Oscar winner
Born
April 14th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in India and raised in England, this actress gained prominence in the 1960s, particularly with remarkable performances in films. Key roles include a leading performance in 'Darling,' which earned an Academy Award for Best Actress. Another notable film includes 'Doctor Zhivago,' where her portrayal of Lara Antipova captured the audience's attention. Besides her career in acting, this individual has actively engaged in various humanitarian causes and has been an advocate for political issues, reflecting a commitment to social justice.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 26th
Frederic Remington
Painter and sculptor of Western themes
Born
October 4th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1909 116 years ago — 48 years old
An artist focused on the American West, contributed through paintings and sculptures that depicted cowboys, Native Americans, and cavalry scenes. Influenced by experiences in the West, pursued studies in art at Yale. Worked as an illustrator for magazines and became associated with the Romanticized view of the West. Established a unique style characterized by action and emotion. Created notable works such as 'The Cowboy' and 'The Broncho Buster,' which continue to define the imagery of the American frontier. Later in life, turned to sculpture and produced bronze pieces, several of which remain significant in Western art.
Continue ReadingErich Topp
German admiral and U-boat commander
Born
July 2nd, 1914 111 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a commander of U-boats during World War II. Achieved significant success in naval warfare against Allied shipping. Participated in multiple successful patrols in the Atlantic, contributing to the effectiveness of the German submarine campaign. After the war, Topp remained active in naval affairs and wrote about his experiences in the U-boat service.
Continue ReadingDesmond Tutu
South African Archbishop, Nobel laureate
Born
October 7th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2021 4 years ago — 90 years old
An archbishop and anti-apartheid activist played a significant role in advocating for human rights and justice in South Africa. As the first black Archbishop of Cape Town, contributed to the establishment of a multiracial democracy in the country. In 1984, received the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in peacefully opposing the apartheid regime. Dedicated work included chairing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aimed to address the atrocities committed during apartheid and promote healing in the nation.
Continue ReadingTom Smothers
Comedian and activist, The Smothers Brothers
Born
February 2nd, 1937 89 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2023 2 years ago — 86 years old
A comedian, actor, and activist achieved prominence in the 1960s as part of The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. The show combined music and comedy, reflecting counterculture themes and political satire. Smothers engaged in substantial social activism, advocating for free speech and challenging the establishment through humor and creative expression. The variety show featured various notable guests and received significant acclaim, earning several Emmy nominations. Later ventures included performances in theater and television, continuing to influence comedy.
Continue ReadingJack Benny
Actor and comedian of radio and television
Born
February 14th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1974 51 years ago — 80 years old
An actor and producer, he gained fame through radio, television, and film. A career spanning several decades included a successful radio show, 'The Jack Benny Program,' which aired from 1932 to 1955. The show transitioned to television where it continued to entertain audiences until 1965. Known for a classic comedic persona characterized by a distinct timing, he was widely regarded for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Benny also appeared in films such as 'To Be or Not to Be' and 'The Horn Blows at Midnight.' His work earned him multiple awards, including an Emmy Award for Best Comedy Series.
Continue ReadingGerald Ford
American politician and 38th President
Born
July 14th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2006 19 years ago — 93 years old
Served as the 38th President of the United States from 1974 to 1977. Assumed office following Richard Nixon's resignation amid the Watergate scandal. Prior to the presidency, held positions in the U.S. House of Representatives for nearly 25 years, including roles as Minority Leader. Implemented policies aimed at stabilizing the economy and addressed the Vietnam War's aftermath. Granting a controversial pardon to Nixon became a defining moment of the presidency. His administration focused on promoting peace and advocating for economic recovery, culminating in initiatives such as the Whip Inflation Now (WIN) campaign.
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