Howard Ashman
Playwright and composer of musical theatre
A prominent playwright and lyricist, contributions included crafting the lyrics for beloved Disney animated films. Collaborated with Alan Menken on productions that achieved significant acclaim. Worked on projects such as 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin', leaving a lasting impact on musical theatre. Ashman's work was characterized by poignant lyrics and memorable melodies.
Wrote lyrics for 'The Little Mermaid'
Wrote lyrics for 'Beauty and the Beast'
Wrote lyrics for 'Aladdin'
Other People Born on May 17th
Dennis Hopper
Actor and director of 'Easy Rider'
Born
May 17th, 1936 90 years ago
Died
May 29th, 2010 16 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and director, contributed significantly to film and culture in the 1960s and 1970s. Directed and starred in the counterculture classic 'Easy Rider' in 1969, which became a landmark film in independent cinema. Continued to act in various films, including 'Blue Velvet' and 'Apocalypse Now'. Involved in visual art and photography, showcasing works in galleries. Received nominations and awards throughout his career, highlighting a profound connection to both acting and directing.
Continue ReadingDietmar Schönherr
Actor and director in Spanish cinema
Born
May 17th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
July 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1926, this individual worked extensively in film and television in both Austria and Spain. A significant part of the career included leading roles in the popular Spanish television series 'Veterinarios' and 'El gran teatro del mundo.' In addition to acting, direction and screenwriting were also key elements of the professional life, contributing to multiple Spanish productions. The creative endeavors spanned several decades, showcasing versatility in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingTodd Redmond
Baseball pitcher with Toronto Blue Jays
Born
May 17th, 1985 41 years ago
Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher. Made MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2013. Joined the Toronto Blue Jays, contributing to the team's pitching rotation. Spent time with other teams in minor league affiliations and earned recognition for strong performances in various games during his career.
Continue ReadingAntonio Aguilar
Mexican singer-songwriter and actor
Born
May 17th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
June 19th, 2007 19 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent figure in the Mexican music and film industry, contributed to the mariachi genre and traditional Mexican music. Wrote and produced numerous successful songs and albums while appearing in many films during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. His collaborations and performances helped popularize the mariachi style in both Mexico and the United States. Managed a successful career that included acting, producing, and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Mexico through music.
Continue ReadingJason Bernard
American actor in 'In the Heat of the Night'
Born
May 17th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1996 29 years ago — 58 years old
An American actor, active during the late 20th century, featured prominently in film and television. Notable roles included appearances in the series 'In the Heat of the Night,' where significant contributions were made. Engaged in various theatre productions, showcasing talent across multiple genres. Participated in a range of roles that demonstrated versatility, gaining respect among peers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingA. J. Casson
Canadian painter of landscape art
Born
May 17th, 1898 128 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1992 34 years ago — 93 years old
This individual contributed significantly to Canadian art as a landscape painter. Associated with the Group of Seven, a collective of artists dedicated to depicting the Canadian wilderness, this painter focused on capturing the essence of the Ontario countryside. Influenced by the natural beauty of Canada, the works feature bold colors and distinctive brushwork. This artist's career spanned several decades, with exhibitions showcasing the interplay of light and shadow in natural settings. The works continue to be celebrated for their representation of the Canadian landscape.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 14th
Howard H. Aiken
Computer scientist and engineer, Harvard Mark I
Born
1900 126 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1973 53 years ago — 73 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the development of computing technology. In the 1940s, designed and built the Harvard Mark I, one of the earliest electromechanical computers. Aiken's work at Harvard University included developing programming techniques and advocating for the use of computers in scientific research. His efforts helped to lay the groundwork for future advancements in computer science and engineering education.
Continue ReadingJack Greene
American country music singer-songwriter
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2013 13 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter gained recognition for a highly successful career spanning several decades. As a member of the Grand Ole Opry, he gained a loyal following and recorded numerous hit songs. The most notable achievement includes the classic 'There Goes My Everything,' which became a chart-topping success. Additionally, this artist contributed significantly as a songwriter and influenced the genre with his distinctive voice and guitar skills.
Continue ReadingJohn W. Cahn
Metallurgist and academic innovator
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2016 10 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of materials science, particularly in the study of phase transformations and alloy behaviors. Worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and held various academic positions. Published influential research papers that advanced the understanding of metallic systems and their properties. Awarded the National Medal of Science for exceptional contributions to metallurgical science.
Continue ReadingJean-Luc Lagardère
Businessman and media executive
Born
1928 98 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2003 23 years ago — 75 years old
An engineer and businessman, significant contributions were made to the media and aerospace industries. Founded Lagardère Group, which became a leading international media conglomerate with interests in publishing, broadcasting, and sports management. Oversaw the expansion of the company into various sectors and international markets, enhancing its growth. Played a crucial role in the privatization of the Aerospatiale-Matra group, which became a key player in the aerospace sector.
Continue ReadingJake Phelps
Skateboarder and Thrasher editor-in-chief
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
March 14th, 2019 7 years ago — 57 years old
Phelps contributed significantly to skateboarding culture as an editor for Thrasher Magazine. His tenure at Thrasher began in the 1990s, and he played a crucial role in shaping its content and direction. He was also a professional skateboarder, known for his unique style and competitive spirit. Phelps participated in various competitions and was a prominent figure in the skateboarding community, influencing a generation of skateboarders through his work and passion for the sport.
Continue ReadingA. A. Kannisto
Finnish politician and Senate member
Born
March 6th, 1876 150 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1930 96 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1876, served as a prominent Finnish politician during the early 20th century. Became a member of the Finnish Senate, contributing to significant political developments in Finland. Advocated for various social reforms and was involved in the political landscape during Finland's transition to independence. Engaged in activities that shaped the Finnish legislative framework.
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