Hume Cronyn
Actor in 'Shadow of a Doubt'
Born in 1911, a Canadian-American actor, producer, and screenwriter made significant contributions to film and theater. Debuted on Broadway in 1931 and became a prominent figure in the industry. Played pivotal roles in several successful productions, showcasing talent in both drama and comedy. Collaborated frequently with wife, actress Jessica Tandy, including in the critically acclaimed play 'The Gin Game'. Appeared in notable films such as 'Shadow of a Doubt' and 'Cocoon', highlighting versatility. Engaged in television work, including guest appearances and leading roles. Received multiple awards, including a Tony Award and an Emmy Award.
Starred in 'Shadow of a Doubt'
Won a Tony Award for 'A Streetcar Named Desire'
Other People Born on July 18th
Larry McLean
Baseball player and catcher for Reds
Born
July 18th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 40 years old
Born in 1881, this Canadian-American baseball player played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. McLean debuted with the Cincinnati Reds and later played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. He was active in the league from 1903 to 1910. Over his career, he became notable for his defensive skills behind the plate and contributed to the teams he played for with both offense and defense. His tenure in professional baseball included participation in key games and seasons.
Continue ReadingRichard Leacock
Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old
A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.
Continue ReadingS. I. Hayakawa
Linguist and California Senator
Born
July 18th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1992 33 years ago — 85 years old
A Canadian-American linguist and politician, significant for contributions to linguistics and public policy. Served as a U.S. Senator representing California from 1977 to 1983. Delivered perspectives on language issues during the development of educational policies and immigrant language rights. Promoted English as the official language in various public forums and legislative efforts.
Continue ReadingArthur Friedenreich
Brazilian footballer with prolific scoring
Born
July 18th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1969 56 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent Brazilian footballer, played primarily as a forward. Achieved significant success during the early 20th century, becoming one of the first stars of Brazilian football. Gained recognition for outstanding scoring ability and technical skill on the field. Contributed greatly to club football in Brazil, particularly with the teams Paulistano and São Paulo FC. Represented Brazil in international competitions, scoring an impressive number of goals. Retired with a legacy as a pioneer in Brazilian football.
Continue ReadingM.I.A.
English rapper and producer
Born
July 18th, 1975 50 years ago
An English rapper and producer rose to prominence in the early 2000s. Her music blends various genres, including hip-hop, electronic, and world music. The debut album, 'Arular,' released in 2005, garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. The song 'Paper Planes' from the album 'Kala' achieved international recognition, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. M.I.A.'s lyrics often explored themes of war, immigration, and social issues.
Continue ReadingRudolf II
Holy Roman Emperor and patron of art
Born
July 18th, 1552 473 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1612 413 years ago — 59 years old
Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1576 until 1612. Oversaw a period marked by significant cultural and scientific advancements. Emphasized the arts and learning, fostering an environment for artists and scholars. Relocated the imperial court to Prague, turning the city into a cultural hub. Experienced challenges during his reign, including conflicts with the nobility and rising tensions in the Empire, particularly with Protestant factions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 15th
Jacques Bergerac
French actor and businessman
Born
May 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 87 years old
Began a career in acting in the 1950s, appearing in numerous films and television shows. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'The Beast of Yucca Flats'. Transitioned into a successful business career after retiring from acting. Also worked as a television producer.
Continue ReadingRaymond Devos
Belgian-French comedian and clown
Born
November 9th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
Originated from Belgium and later became a French citizen, a significant figure in comedy known for clever wordplay and unique humor. Started a career in the 1940s and frequently performed at the Olympia in Paris. Gained popularity through theatrical works and radio shows which showcased an innovative approach to humor. Also known for contributions to cinema, taking part in several films that encapsulated his comedic style. Establishing a distinctive voice in entertainment, he became a beloved figure in French culture.
Continue ReadingGlenda Jackson
Actress and British politician
Born
May 9th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old
Acclaimed for a career in both acting and politics. Achieved significant recognition as an actress, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actress for performances in 'Women in Love' and 'A Touch of Class'. Transitioned to a career in politics, serving as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Highgate from 1992 to 2015. Returned to acting after her parliamentary career, receiving accolades and awards for stage performances.
Continue ReadingDaniel Keyes
American novelist, wrote 'Flowers for Algernon'
Born
August 9th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old
Born in 1927, worked as a teacher and writer. Published short stories and novels, gaining recognition for 'Flowers for Algernon,' which began as a short story and was later expanded into a novel. This work explored themes of intelligence and human experience through the story of a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his IQ. The story received significant attention and acclaim, leading to adaptations in film and stage. Keyes also wrote other novels and contributed to the literary community through various publications and workshops.
Continue ReadingDennis O'Rourke
Australian film director and producer
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
June 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 68 years old
O'Rourke worked primarily in documentary filmmaking, focusing on social issues and indigenous culture. His notable works include 'Half Life', which explores the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, and 'The Greenhouse', which addresses the struggles of a family in Papua New Guinea. O'Rourke's films often blended artistic expression with political commentary. He also engaged with indigenous Australian subjects in various projects, showcasing their stories and perspectives. Throughout a career that spanned several decades, O'Rourke contributed significantly to the documentary genre, earning respect for his storytelling and cinematic techniques.
Continue ReadingThomas Campbell
Irish minister and theologian
Born
February 1st, 1763 262 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1844 181 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1763 in Ireland, served as a prominent minister and theologian. Played a significant role in the Restoration Movement, advocating for Christian unity and church reform. Established the Campbellites, a group seeking to restore the New Testament church's practices. Contributed to theological discourse through writings that emphasized reason and scripture as the foundation for faith. Campaigned for a return to the simple teachings of Jesus, influencing various denominations.
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