James Arness
American actor best known for Gunsmoke
This American actor had a prominent career in film and television. He achieved lasting fame through the role of Marshall Matt Dillon in the television series 'Gunsmoke', which aired for 20 years from 1955 to 1975. The series was one of the longest-running prime-time shows in U.S. television history. Additionally, he portrayed the title character in the iconic science fiction film 'The Thing' released in 1951. His career in Hollywood spanned several decades, transitioning from leading film roles to television stardom.
Portrayed Marshall Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke
Starred in The Thing (1951)
Other People Born on May 26th
Monique Gagnon-Tremblay
Canadian politician, Deputy Premier of Quebec
Born
May 26th, 1940 85 years ago
An academic and politician, held various positions within the Government of Quebec. Served as Deputy Premier from 2003 to 2007. Contributed to several significant policy initiatives and legislative reforms during tenure. Participated actively in the development of the Liberal Party’s strategy and platforms. Engaged in educational and health reforms, advocating for improved services and resources in Quebec.
Continue ReadingWilliam Bolcom
American composer and pianist
Born
May 26th, 1938 87 years ago
An American composer and pianist, recognized for contributions to contemporary classical music and popular genres. Bolcom studied at the University of Washington and later at the University of Michigan. He has composed operas, art songs, and works for piano and orchestra. Bolcom's collaborations with various artists have led to multiple Grammy Awards.
Continue ReadingPhilip Michael Thomas
Actor best known for Miami Vice
Born
May 26th, 1949 76 years ago
An American actor, recognized for portraying Ricardo Tubbs on the television series Miami Vice from 1984 to 1989. This role helped define a new era in television, blending crime drama with stylish aesthetics. Additionally, contributed to the music industry with the release of a solo album that coincided with the height of his television fame. His performance in Miami Vice earned both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, establishing a significant cultural footprint during the 1980s.
Continue ReadingCliff Drysdale
Tennis player and sportscaster
Born
May 26th, 1941 84 years ago
A professional tennis player and sportscaster, achieved significant success in the 1960s. Competed in singles and doubles on the ATP tour. Reached the singles final of the Australian Open in 1965. Transitioned to a successful broadcasting career, providing analysis and commentary for various tennis events. Served as an analyst for ESPN and other networks, contributing to increased awareness of the sport.
Continue ReadingImants Kalniņš
Latvian composer of symphonic works
Born
May 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Born in 1941, a prominent Latvian composer contributed significantly to the country's contemporary music scene. He studied at the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music and developed a distinct style that blends traditional Latvian folk music with modern classical elements. Throughout his career, a variety of works were created, including symphonies, choral music, and operas. The composer also engaged extensively with film scores, enhancing Latvian cinema. His work has been recognized and performed both nationally and internationally, solidifying his position in Latvian and Baltic music.
Continue ReadingJim Dobbin
Scottish microbiologist and politician
Born
May 26th, 1941 84 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 73 years old
A microbiologist and politician from Scotland served as the Member of Parliament for Dunfermline and West Fife from 1997 to 2015. Engaged in health-related initiatives, focused on areas such as HIV and AIDS, contributing to public health policy within the UK Parliament. Actively participated in various parliamentary committees. Worked on scientific research, collaborating with experts in the field of microbiology.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 3rd
Andrew Gold
Singer-songwriter known for "Thank You for Being a Friend"
Born
August 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1951, this American singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence in the 1970s. Played key roles as a session musician and solo artist. Achieved significant recognition with the hit single "Thank You for Being a Friend," which became synonymous with the television series "The Golden Girls." Also produced music for artists like Linda Ronstadt and had his own charting songs. Continued to write and record music throughout his career until his passing in 2011.
Continue ReadingJack Kevorkian
Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate
Born
May 26th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 83 years old
A pathologist and author, contributed to the euthanasia debate in the United States. Developed a machine known as the 'Mercitron' to assist terminally ill patients in self-administering lethal doses of medication. Conducted over 130 assisted suicides during the 1990s, bringing significant media attention to the topic. Wrote several books discussing the ethics of assisted suicide. Faced legal challenges, resulting in a 1999 murder conviction and a prison sentence that ended in 2007.
Continue ReadingAnna Neagle
English actress and singer in film.
Born
October 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1986 39 years ago — 81 years old
Achieved prominence in the British film industry during the early to mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in musical and dramatic roles. Starred in iconic films including 'Nell Gwynn' and 'The Lady with a Lamp', showcasing both acting and singing talents. Served as a producer, thereby influencing film production during her career.
Continue ReadingJózef Czyrek
Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
July 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
An economist and politician from Poland, served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Oversaw significant diplomatic initiatives during a transformative period in Polish history. Engaged in negotiations and efforts to strengthen Poland's presence on the international stage. Played a key role in shaping Poland's foreign policy strategies during the late 20th century.
Continue ReadingKarl Eduard Zachariae von Lingenthal
German lawyer and legal scholar
Born
December 24th, 1812 213 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1894 131 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1812, a prominent lawyer and jurist contributed extensively to the development of German law. Engaged in legal academia and served in various judicial capacities. Authored key legal texts that became essential references in German jurisprudence. His works focussed on civil law and administrative justice, shaping contemporary understanding and application of these fields within Germany.
Continue ReadingBrigitte Bierlein
former Austrian chancellor
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2024 1 years ago — 75 years old
Served as the Chancellor of Austria from May 2020 to January 2021. First woman to hold the position in Austrian history. Led a caretaker government following the collapse of the previous coalition. Focused on managing the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating political challenges during her term.
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