Harold Ramis
American filmmaker and actor, Ghostbusters
An influential figure in American comedy, worked extensively as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. Co-wrote and directed the iconic film 'Ghostbusters', along with its sequel. Also co-wrote and directed 'Groundhog Day', which became a classic in the genre. Contributed to the television series 'SCTV', gaining recognition for comedic talent. His career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in various roles within the entertainment industry.
Co-wrote and directed 'Ghostbusters'
Directed 'Groundhog Day'
Contributed to 'SCTV'
Other People Born on November 21st
Juliet Mills
Actress known for 'Nanny and the Professor'
Born
November 21st, 1941 84 years ago
An English-American actress, celebrated for work in television and film. Productions include the television series 'Nanny and the Professor' where a magical nanny influences the lives of her charges, and performances in the musical film 'The Night of the Iguana'. The actress has also been involved in stage performances, showcasing talent in various theatrical productions, contributing to a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingHeidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul
German politician and educator; Minister
Born
November 21st, 1942 83 years ago
An educator and politician served in the German Bundestag for several terms. Held the position of Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development from 1998 to 2009. Focused on international development policies and gender equality during the tenure. Advocated for sustainable development and the integration of human rights in international cooperation efforts.
Continue ReadingOlden Polynice
Basketball player and coach
Born
November 21st, 1964 61 years ago
A Haitian-American basketball player and coach played in the NBA for several teams, including the Seattle SuperSonics and the Sacramento Kings. He was selected as the 8th overall pick in the 1990 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Clippers. After his playing career, transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of young players in various capacities. Also represented Haiti in international competitions, promoting basketball in the country.
Continue ReadingBjörk
Icelandic singer-songwriter and musician
Born
November 21st, 1965 60 years ago
A prominent figure in music, an Icelandic singer-songwriter combined elements of electronic, pop, and avant-garde. Debut as a vocalist occurred in the band Sugarcubes, which gained international attention in the late 1980s. Solo career began in the 1990s, featuring a series of critically acclaimed albums, including 'Debut,' 'Post,' and 'Homogenic.' Work includes contributions to film soundtracks, notable for ‘Being John Malkovich’ and the work in ‘Dancer in the Dark’ which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Björk's innovative approach to music and distinct vocal style has influenced numerous artists.
Continue ReadingNicollette Sheridan
English actress, starred in 'Desperate Housewives'
Born
November 21st, 1963 62 years ago
Born in 1963, an English actress gained recognition for the role of Edie Britt on the television series 'Desperate Housewives', which aired from 2004 to 2012. The portrayal earned two Golden Globe nominations. Prior to this, appeared in the soap opera 'Knots Landing' from 1986 to 1993. The career included various appearances in films and television, establishing a presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingPhil Bredesen
American businessman and governor
Born
November 21st, 1943 82 years ago
A businessman and politician served as the 48th Governor of Tennessee from 2003 to 2011. Prior to the governorship, founded a successful health care company, which contributed to career in public service. Oversaw significant achievements in healthcare and education reform during time in office. Pursued initiatives to improve the state's economy and infrastructure.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 24th
Rakhat Aliyev
Kazakh politician and diplomat
Born
December 10th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2015 10 years ago — 52 years old
A prominent figure in Kazakhstan's political landscape, served as the Deputy Head of the Kazakh National Security Committee. Held various diplomatic positions, including Ambassador to Austria and a significant role within the Akmolinsk Oblast government. Involved in several political controversies and faced legal challenges before leaving Kazakhstan. After expatriating, efforts to maintain a public profile continued, but ultimately met a tragic end in 2015.
Continue ReadingClaude Shannon
Mathematician, engineer, information theory pioneer
Born
April 30th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old
A mathematician and electrical engineer, contributions to information theory laid the foundation for digital circuit design theory and telecommunications. Developed mathematical concepts for encoding information, serving as a basis for modern digital communication systems. Published landmark papers that introduced key principles of data compression and error correction. Worked at Bell Labs and influenced various fields, including computer science and cryptography. Received numerous awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Kyoto Prize.
Continue ReadingGerd von Rundstedt
German field marshal and military leader
Born
1875 150 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1953 72 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent military leader during World War II, held the rank of Field Marshal in the German Army. Participated in numerous campaigns on the Eastern and Western Fronts. Played a significant role in the Battle of France and later commanded forces during the Normandy Invasion. After the war, was taken prisoner and later released in 1948. Continued to be a significant figure in military discussions until death in 1953.
Continue ReadingRichard de la Pole
Last Yorkist claimant to English throne
Born
1480 545 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1525 500 years ago — 45 years old
Richard de la Pole was the last Yorkist claimant to the English throne during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. His claim to the throne arose from his lineage as a descendant of Edward IV. After the defeat of the Yorkists in the War of the Roses, he lived in exile, primarily in the court of Margaret of Burgundy. In 1520, he received support from Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, who recognized his claim. De la Pole's efforts to regain the throne culminated in his involvement in various plots against the Tudor monarchy. His aspirations ultimately ended with his death in a battle against the forces of King Henry VIII in 1525.
Continue ReadingTheodore Marier
Composer and educator, Boston Archdiocesan Choir School
Born
1912 113 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2001 24 years ago — 89 years old
An American composer and educator, established the Boston Archdiocesan Choir School, which aimed to train young choristers and provide a solid musical foundation rooted in Catholic tradition. Contributions to liturgical music included organizing choirs and developing educational programs that emphasized the importance of music in worship. Worked to enhance the choral repertoire and provided opportunities for young singers to perform and grow musically. Authored instructional materials and actively participated in numerous music conferences.
Continue ReadingDawn Brancheau
Senior animal trainer at SeaWorld
Born
1969 56 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2010 15 years ago — 41 years old
Worked as a senior trainer at SeaWorld, specializing in the care and training of orcas. Initiated numerous educational programs and public presentations focused on marine life. Contributed to the development of sea animal training protocols and emphasized positive reinforcement techniques. Involved in direct interactions and performances with Shamu, the park's iconic killer whale. Tragically passed away during a training session, raising awareness about marine animal safety.
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