Hugh Hefner

Publisher and founder of Playboy

Hugh Hefner - Publisher and founder of Playboy
Born

April 9th, 1926
99 years ago

Died

September 27th, 2017
7 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

Established Playboy Enterprises in 1953, which revolutionized men's magazines and popular culture. Hefner launched the iconic Playboy magazine featuring nude photography and articles on various topics, including interviews with influential figures. The magazine became a symbol of the sexual revolution in the 1960s and 1970s. Hefner also expanded the brand into television and lifestyle, influencing media and entertainment.

Founded Playboy magazine in 1953

Created the Playboy brand including clubs and merchandise

Advocated for sexual liberation and free speech

Other People Born on April 9th

René Burri

Photographer & journalist, Magnum Photos member
Born
April 9th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2014 10 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1933 in Switzerland, Burri developed an early interest in photography and studied at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich. He began his career as a photojournalist and later joined Magnum Photos in 1959. Burri's work primarily focused on documenting significant historical events and influential figures. His photographs illustrated the life of renowned personalities, particularly in the realm of politics and culture. A prominent body of work includes iconic images of Che Guevara and the architectural marvels of Brazil. Burri's photographs often mingled documentary style with artistic sensibility. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his important contributions to photojournalism and photography.

Continue Reading

Wallace McCain

Businessman, founder of McCain Foods
Born
April 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2011 14 years ago — 81 years old

A Canadian businessman focused on the frozen food industry, achieved prominence through the establishment of McCain Foods in 1957, which grew to become one of the largest producers of frozen French fries and other frozen food products worldwide. The company was instrumental in expanding the market for frozen foods and transformed the global agriculture supply chain. His leadership position helped shape the business landscape in the food industry throughout Canada and beyond.

Continue Reading

Jeff Reed

American football placekicker
Born
April 9th, 1979 46 years ago

A placekicker in American football, had a significant career in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, contributing to the team's Super Bowl XL victory. Notable for setting franchise records in field goals made and extra points. His professional career also included time with the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Jets. Reed's consistency and reliability in high-pressure situations solidified his reputation in the sport.

Continue Reading

Lil Nas X

Rapper and singer of 'Old Town Road'
Born
April 9th, 1999 26 years ago

Born in 1999, a rapper and singer gained prominence with the viral hit 'Old Town Road,' which blended country and rap elements. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 19 consecutive weeks, breaking records in the process. Following the success of the debut single, the artist released a debut EP titled '7,' which included tracks like 'Panini' and 'Rodeo.' Recognized for blending genres and challenging norms, the artist became a prominent figure in contemporary music, and received various awards including Grammy Awards. The artist's influence extends beyond music, engaging in discussions about identity and representation in the industry.

Continue Reading

Habiba Ghribi

Tunisian long-distance runner, 2013 champion
Born
April 9th, 1984 41 years ago

A long-distance runner from Tunisia, achieved prominence in international athletics primarily in the 3000 meter steeplechase. Competed in multiple World Championships and Olympic Games. Secured a gold medal at the 2013 World Championships held in Moscow, marking a historic victory for Tunisia in this event. Established national records and contributed to the development of athletics in Tunisia through participation in various championships.

Continue Reading

Aulis Sallinen

Composer of 'The Last Temptations'
Born
April 9th, 1935 90 years ago

Born in Finland, a significant figure in contemporary classical music, contributed widely to opera and orchestral works. Sallinen studied at the Sibelius Academy and furthered his education in the United States. His career as a composer took off in the 1970s, notably with the opera 'The Last Temptations,' which received critical acclaim. In addition to operas, he wrote symphonies and chamber music, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements. Sallinen also held a position as a professor, influencing future generations of composers and musicians.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on September 27th

Marty Balin

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Jefferson Airplane
Born
January 30th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2018 6 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the counterculture music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. The band became a defining act of the psychedelic rock era, achieving significant commercial success. Balin's songwriting and vocal contributions were central to the band's sound, especially in hits like "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit." He left the group in 1971 but remained involved in music, forming the band Jefferson Starship, which also gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s. His work extended beyond music into other artistic endeavors, including painting and poetry, reflecting a lifelong engagement with creative expression.

Continue Reading

Jimmy Doolittle

American aviation pioneer and general
Born
December 14th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1993 31 years ago — 96 years old

Born in 1896, a notable aviator and military leader. Served in the Army Air Forces during World War II. Developed the surprise Doolittle Raid on Tokyo in 1942, which was the first air raid to strike the Japanese archipelago. This mission provided a significant morale boost for the United States. Awarded the Medal of Honor for exceptional bravery and leadership. Became a prominent figure in aviation, contributing to advancements in flight technology and safety. His legacy is remembered through numerous awards and honors in aviation.

Continue Reading

Robert Arnauld d'Andilly

French writer and translator of classics
Born
May 28th, 1589 436 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1674 350 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in 17th century France, contributed significantly to literature and translation efforts. Associated with the Port-Royal Abbey, influenced the Jansenist movement through writings. Translated classical works, emphasizing ethical and philosophical discussions. Played a vital role in the literary environment of the time, promoting rigorous intellectual discourse.

Continue Reading

Mohammad Najibullah

Afghan physician and politician
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1996 28 years ago — 49 years old

Served as the seventh President of Afghanistan from 1986 until the fall of the communist regime in 1992. Prior to presidency, worked as a physician and held several key political positions within the government. Led efforts to stabilize Afghanistan during a turbulent period marked by conflict and political strife. After the fall of the communist government, faced opposition and remained active in Afghan politics until the rise of the Taliban.

Continue Reading

Syed Ahmed

Indian author and politician, Governor
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 70 years old

An author and politician served as the 16th Governor of Manipur. Contributions to literature included writings that reflected cultural and societal themes of India. Engaged in political activities influenced by the desire for social reform and community development. Held various positions within the government that aimed to enhance local governance and community engagement.

Continue Reading

Gracie Fields

English actress and singer, comedy star
Born
January 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

Fields was an English actress and singer who gained prominence during the early to mid-20th century. She starred in a number of films, including 'Sing As We Go' and 'Looking on the Bright Side'. Additionally, Fields achieved success in theatrical performances and music, particularly in the genre of music hall. Her talent and charisma made her a beloved figure in entertainment.

Continue Reading