Harry Langdon

American actor and director of silent films

Harry Langdon - American actor and director of silent films
Born

June 15th, 1884
141 years ago

Died

December 22nd, 1944
80 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

Started in vaudeville, progressing to silent films, contributed to the evolution of comedy in cinema. Worked with notable figures such as Frank Capra. Directed and starred in several successful short films. Transitioned to sound films but faced challenges adapting to the new medium. Continued to work in film and television into the later years.

Starred in the silent film 'The Strong Man'

Directed and starred in numerous short films

Other People Born on June 15th

Neil Patrick Harris

Actor and singer from 'How I Met Your Mother'
Born
June 15th, 1973 52 years ago

An American actor and singer, achieved fame through the role of Barney Stinson on the television series 'How I Met Your Mother', which aired from 2005 to 2014. A versatile performer, also starred in the Broadway musical 'Hedwig and the Angry Inch' and the film 'Gone Girl'. Hosted several awards shows including the Tony Awards and the Emmy Awards, showcasing a strong presence in both live theater and television. Received recognition for voice-over work in animated series such as 'Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas'. As a magician, contributed to theatrical performances and magic shows, blending entertainment across multiple genres.

Continue Reading

Lash LaRue

Actor and producer in Western films
Born
June 15th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1996 29 years ago — 78 years old

An American actor and producer, gained recognition for roles in Western films during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in movies featuring a distinctive style and an iconic cowboy persona. Appeared in several films and television series that featured classic Western themes. Transitioned into producing, contributing to the development of Western genre cinema.

Continue Reading

Riccardo Paletti

Formula One racing driver
Born
June 15th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 24 years old

Competed in Formula One from 1980 to 1982. Entered the sport with the Osella team, making his debut at the 1980 Monaco Grand Prix. Throughout his career, participated in several Grand Prix races, showcasing his skills in a highly competitive environment. Tragically, Paletti's career was cut short due to a fatal accident during the 1982 Canadian Grand Prix. His contributions to the sport are remembered by fans and racing enthusiasts.

Continue Reading

Bayley

Professional wrestler and WWE champion
Born
June 15th, 1989 36 years ago

A professional wrestler achieved prominence in WWE, performing under the ring name Bayley. Made her debut in this organization in 2013. Gained recognition for her role in the women's division, winning multiple championships. Claimed the WWE Raw Women's Championship and the SmackDown Women's Championship. Played a pivotal role in popularizing women's wrestling alongside fellow competitors.

Continue Reading

Ramón López Velarde

Mexican poet and author of 'Zodiac'
Born
June 15th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1921 104 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1888, a significant figure in early 20th-century Mexican literature, contributed to the literary movement known as Modernismo. Authored several celebrated poems, with 'Zodiac' standing out as a pivotal work that explored themes of love, identity, and nature. Worked as a journalist and advocated for cultural and political causes through writing. His poetry is characterized by rich imagery and emotional depth, earning a lasting legacy in Mexican literature.

Continue Reading

Jaki Byard

Jazz pianist and composer; 'The Piano' album
Born
June 15th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, this pianist and composer contributed significantly to the genre through both performance and composition. Studied at the Conservatory of Music in Boston and became known for blending various styles, including jazz, classical, and avant-garde. Worked with numerous well-known artists throughout the career, including Charles Mingus and Mingus's band. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'The Piano', which showcased innovative techniques and improvisational skills. Taught at several institutions, influencing many young musicians through education.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 22nd

Vitellius

Roman emperor during Year of the Four Emperors
Born
September 24th, 15 2010 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 69 1955 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 15 AD, ascended to power during a tumultuous period known as the Year of the Four Emperors. Vitellius became emperor in 69 AD following the defeat of Otho. His reign was marked by extravagance and excess, which fueled dissatisfaction among the military and populace. His rule lasted for a brief eight months before being overthrown by Vespasian, leading to his eventual execution. The political instability and civil conflict during this era characterized his tenure as emperor.

Continue Reading

Diomedes Díaz

Colombian vallenato singer-songwriter
Born
May 26th, 1957 68 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2013 11 years ago — 56 years old

Born in La Guajira, one of the leading figures in vallenato music, contributed significantly to the genre's popularity in Colombia and beyond. Released numerous albums and singles throughout career, with themes often revolving around love and life experiences. Achieved commercial success with hits such as 'Oye Bonita' and 'La muerte de un gallero'. His work garnered multiple awards, including the Latin Grammy Award. He had a significant influence on the development of modern vallenato music, integrating traditional rhythms and contemporary styles.

Continue Reading

Gilda Gray

Actress and dancer of Ziegfeld Follies fame
Born
October 24th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1959 65 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1901, this Polish-American actress, singer, and dancer gained fame in the early 20th century. Rose to prominence as a star of the Ziegfeld Follies, a series of theatrical revues known for their elaborate production numbers. Featured in popular films during the silent and early sound eras, including 'The Love Parade' and 'Hollywood Nights'. Made significant contributions to the art of jazz dancing and popularized the 'shimmy' dance move, which became a cultural phenomenon in the 1920s. Later performances included successful appearances in stage revues and musicals. Continued to perform until her later years, showcasing a commitment to her craft.

Continue Reading

Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer

Spanish poet and playwright of Rima.
Born
February 17th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1870 154 years ago — 34 years old

A significant figure in Spanish literature, this individual contributed extensively to poetry and drama during the 19th century. Renowned works include the collection 'Rimas', which explores themes of love, nature, and existential reflection. The playwright also penned 'La venta de los gatos', highlighting social issues of the time. His literary style influenced subsequent generations of writers, marking a shift towards modernism in Spanish literature.

Continue Reading

Mary Burchell

Author and activist for children's rights
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1986 38 years ago — 82 years old

An English author and activist focused on children's rights. Wrote numerous novels, particularly in the romance genre, with a primary readership in the mid-20th century. Advocated for children's education and welfare, contributing to various organizations and initiatives aimed at improving living conditions for children. Additionally, engaged in literary activities that raised awareness of social issues.

Continue Reading

Percivall Pott

English surgeon and pioneering anatomist
Born
January 6th, 1714 311 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1788 236 years ago — 74 years old

An English surgeon, significant contributions were made in the field of surgery and anatomy. Developed Pott's fracture nomenclature, which became a standard in medical terminology. Proposed theories regarding the connection between occupational hazards and health issues, particularly with chimney sweeps and scrotal cancer. Authored influential medical texts, including 'Chirurgical Observations,' which provided insights into surgical practices of the time. The establishment of surgical principles and techniques laid foundational aspects for future surgical practices.

Continue Reading