Gordon Hunt
Voice director for animation and film
Born
1929
97 years ago
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
A voice director contributed significantly to the animation industry, guiding actors in their performances for both television and film. Worked extensively with a variety of production studios, including Warner Bros. and Disney. Directed the iconic 'Animaniacs' and 'Tiny Toon Adventures,' bringing beloved characters to life through skilled vocal performances. Also directed voice work for feature films such as 'The Iron Giant' and 'The Lion King II: Simba's Pride.' In addition to directing, mentored numerous voice actors, helping to shape their careers and improve their craft.
Directed 'Animaniacs'
Directed 'Tiny Toon Adventures'
Worked on 'The Iron Giant'
Involved in 'The Lion King II: Simba's Pride'
Other People Who Died on December 17th
Charles Winckler
Danish tug of war competitor
Born
April 9th, 1867 159 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1932 93 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent athlete in tug of war, discus, and shot put. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics, where achieved recognition for participation in the tug of war event. Contributed to Danish sports, particularly in strength athletics. Excelled in throwing events during a competitive career that spanned several years, representing Denmark in various competitions.
Continue ReadingDieter Grau
Scientist and engineer in aerospace
Born
April 24th, 1913 113 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 101 years old
Born in Germany and later moving to the United States, a prominent aerospace scientist and engineer contributed significantly to advancements in aerodynamics and fluid mechanics. Received a PhD in engineering and involved in various groundbreaking projects in aerospace technology. Worked for NASA and contributed to research that advanced space exploration efforts during the mid-20th century. His research played a vital role in improving flight safety and efficiency in aeronautical engineering.
Continue ReadingLeopold II of Belgium
Belgian King and Congo Free State founder
Born
April 9th, 1835 191 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1909 116 years ago — 74 years old
Reigned as King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Established the Congo Free State as a personal possession, which was marked by extensive exploitation of natural resources and forced labor. Under his rule, significant economic development occurred in the region, but at a devastating cost to the local population.
Continue ReadingEddie Acuff
American actor in 'Davy Crockett'
Born
June 3rd, 1903 123 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1956 69 years ago — 53 years old
Acuff was an American actor active in film and television during the mid-20th century. He appeared in numerous westerns and comedies, often taking on character roles. Notably, Acuff featured in Disney's miniseries 'Davy Crockett' as well as other films such as 'The Caddy' and 'Davy Crockett: King of the Wild Frontier'. His works were characterized by a blend of humor and adventure, contributing to the popular culture of the time.
Continue ReadingTom Wesselmann
American painter of pop art
Born
February 23rd, 1931 95 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2004 21 years ago — 73 years old
An influential American painter and sculptor, this artist was a prominent figure in the pop art movement, known for incorporating elements of commercial culture in artwork. The series Great American Nude features bold colors and simplified forms, directly addressing themes of consumerism and sexuality. Throughout a career spanning several decades, the artist explored the intersection of fine art and everyday life, often utilizing assemblage techniques. The artwork reflected modern American culture, tackling subjects from advertising to personal desire. This artist's work has been important in establishing a narrative around consumer culture in the 20th century.
Continue ReadingJames Gower
American priest and activist
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2012 13 years ago — 90 years old
Co-founded the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, Maine, focusing on environmental and social sustainability in education. Worked to integrate spirituality and activism, emphasizing community service and social justice. Engaged in various initiatives promoting ecological responsibility and education for all.
Continue Reading