Jane Wyatt
American actress, 'Father Knows Best'
An American actress, born in 1910, became prominent in film and television during the mid-20th century. Gained widespread recognition for the role of Margaret Anderson on the television series 'Father Knows Best', which aired from 1954 to 1960. Also appeared in films such as 'High Noon' and 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady'. Wyatt's work spanned several decades, showcasing versatility across various genres.
Portrayed Margaret Anderson in 'Father Knows Best'
Appeared in the film 'High Noon'
Starred in 'The Daughter of Rosie O'Grady'
Other People Born on August 12th
William Goldman
Screenwriter, author of Butch Cassidy
Born
August 12th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2018 7 years ago — 87 years old
An American author, playwright, and screenwriter. Crafted prominent screenplays and novels, receiving acclaim for works in film and literature. Achieved success in both mediums, showcasing a talent for storytelling. Wrote the screenplays for notable films such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'All the President's Men.' Authored the novel 'The Princess Bride,' which was adapted into a successful film. Received two Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay. Influenced the field of screenwriting with a focus on character depth and narrative structure.
Continue ReadingCharlie O'Donnell
American radio and television announcer
Born
August 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 78 years old
An American announcer worked extensively in radio and television. Gained prominence as the voice of the TV game show 'Hollywood Squares'. Served as the announcer for various other game shows and television programs throughout a career spanning decades. Developed a distinctive style and became a familiar voice to audiences across America.
Continue ReadingMiloš Jakeš
Czech communist politician and leader
Born
August 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia from 1987 until the fall of communism in 1989. Played a key role in the party's leadership during a time of significant political change in the country. After the Velvet Revolution, his political career ended as the party lost power, and he faced criticism for his actions during the regime. He later retired from political life.
Continue ReadingDale Bumpers
American politician and Governor
Born
August 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2016 9 years ago — 90 years old
Served as the 38th Governor of Arkansas from 1971 to 1975. Bumpers was a member of the Democratic Party and represented Arkansas in the United States Senate from 1975 to 1999. During gubernatorial tenure, focused on education and infrastructure improvements. Advocated for farmers and rural communities. In the Senate, Bumpers was influential in various committees and played a significant role in legislative processes.
Continue ReadingChristian III of Denmark
Danish monarch and Protestant reformer
Born
August 12th, 1503 522 years ago
Died
1559 466 years ago — 56 years old
Reigned as King of Denmark from 1534 until his death in 1559. His reign marked the establishment of Lutheranism as the state religion in Denmark. Implemented significant administrative reforms that strengthened royal authority and centralized power. Oversaw the introduction of the Reformation in Denmark, leading to the establishment of a Protestant church. The introduction of new laws and regulations sought to improve the economic conditions of the kingdom.
Continue ReadingCharles Mesure
English-Australian actor and screenwriter
Born
August 12th, 1970 55 years ago
An actor and screenwriter active in film and television. Played the role of Eric Delko in the series 'Hercules: The Legendary Journeys'. Appeared in the TV series 'The Originals' as the character Josh. Contributed to various Australian and English productions throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 20th
Calvin Griffith
Canadian-American businessman with MLB
Born
December 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1999 26 years ago — 87 years old
A businessman who served as the owner of the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball from 1961 until 1984. Griffith played a significant role in the franchise's development and relocation from Washington, D.C. to Minnesota, becoming a key figure in securing the team's new stadium. The team won the World Series in 1965 during his ownership. Griffith was known for his operations within the MLB and his influence in the league's expansion efforts in the 1960s.
Continue ReadingNaim Frashëri
Albanian-Turkish poet and translator
Born
May 25th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1900 125 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1846, a prominent poet and translator contributed significantly to Albanian literature. Active during the late 19th century, he wrote poetry that served to promote the Albanian language and culture. His works often addressed themes of national identity and sought to inspire a sense of unity among Albanians. Alongside poetry, engaged in translating significant works from Turkish and other languages into Albanian, expanding the literary landscape for his peers. His influence extended beyond literature, impacting the national awakening movement in Albania.
Continue ReadingPope Urban III
Pope and religious leader during the Crusades
Died
October 20th, 1187 838 years ago — None years old
Served as the pope from 1185 until death in 1187. Urban III faced significant challenges during his papacy, particularly relating to the Crusades. His tenure was marked by the ongoing conflicts between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land, especially in response to the fall of Jerusalem in 1187. Urban III sought to rally support for the Christian cause and was deeply involved in the affairs of the church during a period of turmoil. His papacy is often overshadowed by the events of the time, particularly the loss of Jerusalem under Saladin's leadership, which acted as a catalyst for new calls to action among Western Christendom.
Continue ReadingSteve Gaines
American singer-songwriter, guitar player
Born
September 14th, 1949 76 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1977 48 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1949, this musician rose to prominence as a guitarist and songwriter in the southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd. His contributions to the band's sound were significant during the early 1970s. He joined Lynyrd Skynyrd shortly before the release of their acclaimed album "Street Survivors". The album featured popular tracks that showcased his guitar skills and songwriting. Tragically, his career was cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1977, which also claimed the lives of several band members.
Continue ReadingMichalis Dorizas
Football player and javelin thrower
Born
April 16th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1957 68 years ago — 71 years old
Born in 1886, this Greek-American athlete excelled in both football and javelin throwing. Played for the New York Americans in American professional football. Achieved recognition for javelin throwing competitions and represented the United States in international events. Competed in various athletic meets, showcasing skills in the javelin event alongside football.
Continue ReadingJanusz Olejniczak
Classical pianist and actor; Chopin performer
Born
October 2nd, 1952 73 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2024 1 years ago — 72 years old
A classical pianist and actor with a background in film and theater, gained acclaim for performances of Frédéric Chopin's works. Participated in various prestigious piano competitions and festivals, showcasing exceptional skill and interpretation of classical music. Made significant contributions to the cultural scene in Poland and abroad through performances and recordings. Also appeared in film and television, blending musical talent with acting.
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