Howard Rollins

American actor in 'A Soldier's Play'

Howard Rollins - Performers & Entertainers born October 17th, 1950
Born
Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An actor gained prominence through performances in stage and film. Originated the role of Sergeant Vernon C. McFerson in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'A Soldier's Play'. Also appeared in the television miniseries ‘Roots’ and earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the role of Sam in ‘The Watsons Go to Birmingham’. Rollins' work spanned both theater and screen, showcasing a range of characters and themes.

Played Sergeant Vernon C. McFerson in 'A Soldier's Play'

Received a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for role in 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham'

Featured in the miniseries 'Roots'

Other People Born on October 17th

Martin Heinrich

American politician and senator
Born
October 17th, 1971 54 years ago

Born in 1971, this individual served as a U.S. senator from New Mexico, representing the Democratic Party. Before the Senate, held the role of U.S. representative for New Mexico's 1st congressional district. Focused on various issues including energy, conservation, and military affairs during the tenure. Contributed to efforts on renewable energy policies and environmental protections, and supported legislation impacting veterans and small businesses.

Continue Reading

Don Coryell

American football coach innovated offense
Born
October 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
July 1st, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old

Coryell served as a head coach in the NFL and is recognized for developing the 'Air Coryell' offensive system. This system emphasized passing plays and revolutionized offensive strategies in professional football. Coryell coached the San Diego Chargers from 1978 to 1986 and the St. Louis Cardinals from 1973 to 1977. His coaching style enabled quarterbacks to excel and stimulated explosive offensive play.

Continue Reading

Evel Knievel

Motorcycle stuntman and daredevil
Born
October 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2007 18 years ago — 69 years old

Evel Knievel was an American motorcycle rider and stuntman recognized for performing thrilling stunts and jumps. Gaining fame in the 1960s and 1970s, achieved widespread popularity with the televised jump over 13 buses at Wembley Stadium in 1975. Known for his charismatic persona, Knievel's stunts included jumping over the Snake River Canyon in 1974, which garnered significant media attention. Injuries from various jumps shaped his career but did not deter his pursuit of adventure.

Continue Reading

Wyclef Jean

Haitian-American rapper and producer
Born
October 17th, 1969 56 years ago

A Haitian-American musician, producer, and actor emerged in the music industry as a member of the Fugees, a group that gained prominence in the 1990s. The Fugees' critically acclaimed album, 'The Score,' featured hit tracks like 'Killing Me Softly.' A successful solo career followed, with the release of popular albums, including 'The Carnival,' which showcased a fusion of hip-hop, reggae, and global beats. Also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as 'Paper Soldiers.' Engaged in charitable efforts, focusing on education and humanitarian work in Haiti, particularly following the 2010 earthquake.

Continue Reading

Childe Hassam

American painter, The Flags series
Born
October 17th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1935 90 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1859, a painter and illustrator became a prominent figure in the American Impressionist movement. Developed a unique style characterized by vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork. Worked extensively in oil and watercolor, capturing urban scenes and landscapes. The Flags series, featuring American flags draped over buildings, became iconic representations of American patriotism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Later years included participation in various exhibitions and receiving accolades.

Continue Reading

René Dif

Danish musician and Aqua vocalist
Born
October 17th, 1967 58 years ago

Born in Denmark, a musician rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of the Eurodance group Aqua. The group gained international success with their hit single 'Barbie Girl' in 1997, which topped charts in multiple countries. Their debut album, 'Aquarium', sold millions of copies worldwide. The catchy tunes and distinctive style of Aqua made a significant impact on pop music in the late 1990s. After the group disbanded, pursued solo music projects and participated in various reality television shows in Denmark.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 8th

Luther Adler

American actor in classic films
Born
May 4th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old

Debuted on Broadway in the 1920s and became a prominent figure in theater and film. Had a significant role in the 1951 film adaptation of 'The Great Gatsby'. Contributed to numerous productions throughout his career, including stage performances in 'The Brothers Karamazov'. Worked extensively in television, including a notable performance in 'The Edge of Night'.

Continue Reading

Hans Molisch

Czech-Austrian botanist and academic
Born
December 6th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1937 88 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1853, this individual made significant contributions to botany, particularly in the fields of plant physiology and ecology. He served as a professor at the University of Vienna, where he advanced research on plant biology. His work included studies on plant competition and allelopathy, exploring the chemical interactions between plants. This botanist published numerous influential papers and books, notably 'Plant Life' which summarized important findings in plant ecology and physiology.

Continue Reading

Betty Holberton

Computer pioneer and programmer
Born
March 7th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2001 24 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed to the development of early computers, particularly the ENIAC, one of the first electronic general-purpose computers. Played a pivotal role in programming the ENIAC, which was instrumental in the advancement of computing technology. Participated in the development of the UNIVAC I, the first commercially available computer in the United States. Actively engaged in promoting computing education and advocating for women's roles in computer science.

Continue Reading

Bram Behr

Surinamese journalist and activist
Born
January 18th, 1951 75 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1982 43 years ago — 31 years old

A journalist and activist engaged in Surinamese social and political issues. Contributed to various media outlets, focusing on human rights and democracy within Suriname. Actively involved in advocating for press freedom and civil liberties during challenging political climates. Established a reputation for journalistic integrity and commitment to the public interest.

Continue Reading

Dimebag Darrell

Guitarist for Pantera and Damageplan
Born
August 20th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2004 21 years ago — 38 years old

Renowned as a guitarist and songwriter, played a significant role in shaping heavy metal music. Co-founded the band Pantera, which became a prominent figure in the 1990s heavy metal scene. The band's albums, including 'Vulgar Display of Power' and 'Far Beyond Driven', achieved critical and commercial success. After Pantera disbanded, formed Damageplan, further showcasing guitar skills. Recognized for aggressive playing style and innovative techniques, influenced many guitarists. His career was tragically cut short in 2004.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Charlotte

Princess Palatine of Germany
Born
May 27th, 1652 373 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1722 303 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1652, a princess of the Palatinate, she became the Duchesse of Orléans through marriage. She served as a key figure at the French court, known for her correspondence with prominent intellectuals and politicians of the time. Elizabeth Charlotte's letters provide significant insights into the culture and politics of 17th-century France. Her life unfolded during the reign of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of court life and familial duties.

Continue Reading