H. R. Giger
Swiss surrealist painter and designer
A Swiss painter, sculptor, and set designer, influential in the world of contemporary art and film. His work blended surrealism with biomechanical elements, culminating in the design of the iconic creature and landscapes in the film 'Alien.' Giger's unique aesthetic shaped not only cinema but also album covers and various forms of art installations. He won an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects in 1980 for his contributions to 'Alien,' establishing a legacy as an innovator in visual design in the film industry.
Designed the creature in 'Alien'
Won an Academy Award for 'Alien'
Other People Born on February 5th
Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Indian cricketer and ODI bowler
Born
February 5th, 1990 36 years ago
A prominent cricketer who represented India across formats, specializing as a right-arm fast bowler. Debuted in 2012, established reputation for swing bowling and ability to perform in critical matches. Key contributor in India's success in 2018 Test series against Australia. Played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL), securing the Purple Cap for leading wicket-taker in 2017.
Continue ReadingPatrick Roberts
English footballer with considerable club experience
Born
February 5th, 1997 29 years ago
A professional footballer played primarily as a winger. Developed in the youth system of Fulham, made a notable first-team appearance in 2014. Transferred to Manchester City in 2015, though spent much of the time on loan at various clubs including Celtic, where contributed significantly to the team's success. Known for technical skills and creativity on the field. Represented England at various youth levels, showcasing talent in national competitions.
Continue ReadingJeremy Sumpter
American actor; starred in Peter Pan
Born
February 5th, 1989 37 years ago
Started acting at a young age, starring in major productions. Gained prominence through the role of Peter Pan in the 2003 film adaptation. Achieved recognition for performances in television series and films, contributing to the entertainment industry. Sumpter also participated in various promotional events and charity work during his career.
Continue ReadingGerald Tusha
Albanian footballer with notable performances
Born
February 5th, 1991 35 years ago
Born in 1991, a professional footballer specialized in the midfield position. Started a career with Vllaznia Shkodër and later played for other clubs in Albania. Contributed significantly to his teams through consistent performances. Played in various domestic competitions, enhancing the visibility of Albanian football. Represented the national team in international fixtures.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Ryan
Tennis player, multiple Grand Slam champion
Born
February 5th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
1979 47 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent tennis player, achieved great success in the early 20th century. Competed in both singles and doubles events, amassing numerous titles throughout her career. Won the singles title at the U.S. National Championships in 1911, 1912, and 1916. Excelled in doubles, capturing multiple Wimbledon titles and contributing to team victories in international competitions. Retired from professional play, leaving a legacy of sportsmanship and dedication to the game.
Continue ReadingDonald Sanford
American-Israeli sprinter Olympic competitor
Born
February 5th, 1987 39 years ago
Competed in sprinting events representing Israel. Achieved recognition for participation in the 2012 London Olympics, competing in the 400 meters. Established a personal best time of 45.24 seconds in 2012. Competed in various international championships.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
Józef Piłsudski
Polish field marshal and Prime Minister
Born
December 5th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1935 90 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1867, a prominent military and political leader in Poland. Played a key role in regaining Poland's independence in 1918 after over a century of partition. Served as the country's first Chief of State and later as Prime Minister. Instrumental in the Polish-Soviet War (1919-1921), leading to the decisive victory at the Battle of Warsaw. Established Poland's military and political framework during its formative years.
Continue ReadingBedřich Smetana
Czech composer of classical music
Born
March 2nd, 1824 201 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1884 141 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1824, a Czech composer and pianist became a key figure in the development of Czech national music. His composition, 'The Bartered Bride,' gained international recognition for its incorporation of Czech folk themes. Smetana's work 'Má vlast' contains symphonic poems that celebrate the landscapes and history of Bohemia. Amidst his successful career, he also faced personal challenges, including hearing loss, which impacted his later compositions. His legacy endures through the influence on subsequent generations of composers in the classical genre.
Continue ReadingKai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingCornell Borchers
Lithuanian-German actress and singer
Born
March 16th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
Born in Lithuania, a prominent actress and singer emerged in post-World War II Germany. Initial performances were concentrated in theater, later transitioning to film. Gained recognition for roles in films during the 1950s, particularly featured in "The Tenth Victim" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". Contributions extended to music, where performances included popular songs that resonated with audiences across Europe. Active in both fields throughout her life, left a legacy of artistic works appreciated in both theater and cinema.
Continue ReadingPeter Gay
Historian and author of significant works
Born
June 20th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 91 years old
A German-American historian and author, contributed extensively to the field of history with a focus on modern European history. Received a Ph.D. from Columbia University and taught at various prestigious institutions. Published influential works, exploring themes of Enlightenment and the interplay between politics and culture. The work 'The Bourgeois Experience: Victoria to Freud' was pivotal in discussing the evolution of bourgeois society. Also authored biographical works on notable figures such as Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx.
Continue ReadingJános Batsányi
Hungarian-Austrian poet and author
Born
May 9th, 1763 262 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1845 180 years ago — 82 years old
Born in 1763, authored influential works in Hungarian literature. Contributed to the development of the Hungarian language in poetry and drama. Engaged in political and cultural reform movements during his lifetime, advocating for national identity and the use of Hungarian in literary forms.
Continue Reading