Jason Bernard
American actor in 'In the Heat of the Night'
An American actor, active during the late 20th century, featured prominently in film and television. Notable roles included appearances in the series 'In the Heat of the Night,' where significant contributions were made. Engaged in various theatre productions, showcasing talent across multiple genres. Participated in a range of roles that demonstrated versatility, gaining respect among peers and audiences alike.
Portrayed Captain Ed Hall in 'In the Heat of the Night'
Appeared in 'The Twilight Zone' series
Featured in 'Roots: The Next Generations'
Other People Born on May 17th
Sebastian Kneipp
Therapist and pioneer of hydrotherapy
Born
May 17th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1897 128 years ago — 76 years old
A German priest and therapist, focused on natural healing methods, developed a holistic approach combining hydrotherapy, exercise, diet, and herbal medicine. Established a wellness philosophy known as the Kneipp Method, emphasizing the importance of water treatments for health. Constructed a health resort in Bad Wörishofen, where treatments and teachings attracted numerous followers. Published several books detailing his methods, which contributed to the spread of natural healing practices in Europe.
Continue ReadingDave Abbruzzese
Rock drummer for Pearl Jam
Born
May 17th, 1968 57 years ago
Born in 1968, a rock drummer and songwriter contributed to the Seattle music scene. Played with Pearl Jam from 1991 to 1994, featuring on the band's iconic album 'Vs.' Released in 1993, this album achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart. After departing from Pearl Jam, continued to collaborate with various artists and bands, contributing to their musical projects. In addition to drumming, engaged in songwriting and performance across different genres.
Continue ReadingMohamed Nasheed
Maldivian politician and environmental advocate
Born
May 17th, 1967 58 years ago
A lawyer and politician, served as the 4th President of the Maldives from 2008 to 2012. Played a crucial role in promoting democracy in the Maldives following the introduction of a multi-party system. Advocated for climate change awareness and environmental sustainability, gaining international recognition for efforts to combat rising sea levels affecting the island nation. After resigning from the presidency, continued to be active in politics and environmental advocacy.
Continue ReadingMenno Oosting
Dutch tennis player; ATP singles champion
Born
May 17th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1999 26 years ago — 34 years old
Competitor in men's tennis during the late 20th century. Won the Dutch National Championships in 1980. Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of world No. 51. Played in major tournaments including Wimbledon and the US Open. Transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of future tennis players after retiring from professional competition.
Continue ReadingQueen Máxima of the Netherlands
Dutch Royal and Queen Consort
Born
May 17th, 1971 54 years ago
Born on May 17, 1971, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, served as a consultant for the United Nations and worked in the financial sector before marrying the Dutch crown prince in 2002. Became Queen Consort upon the ascension of her husband in 2013. Engaged in various social issues including microfinance, cultural integration, and education, promoting well-being and financial inclusion in the Netherlands and abroad.
Continue ReadingQusay Hussein
Iraqi soldier and politician
Born
May 17th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 37 years old
Served as a key military leader and politician in Iraq. Held the position of the Vice Chairman of the Iraqi Revolutionary Command Council. Managed various state security and military operations during the regime of Saddam Hussein. Oversaw significant military campaigns and internal security measures. Played a crucial role in the regime's efforts to consolidate power and maintain control over Iraq's internal affairs.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 16th
Ellis Kinder
Baseball player for Boston Red Sox
Born
July 26th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 54 years old
A professional baseball player with a primary focus on pitching. Played in Major League Baseball from 1945 to 1953, representing teams including the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago White Sox. Achieved significant success as a starting pitcher, contributing to the performance of his teams during his career. Notably played a crucial role in the pitching rotation for the Red Sox during multiple seasons, demonstrating consistency on the mound.
Continue ReadingLaurel Martyn
Ballerina and Choreographer with acclaim
Born
July 23rd, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
An Australian ballerina and choreographer, celebrated for contributions to dance in Australia. Trained at the National Theatre Ballet School and performed with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Founded the Australian Ballet School, shaping future generations of dancers. Created numerous ballets, blending classical techniques with Australian themes. Collaborated with notable Australian artists and contributed to the development of contemporary dance in the region.
Continue ReadingWalter Farley
Author of The Black Stallion series
Born
June 26th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 67 years old
An American author, Farley gained recognition through the creation of The Black Stallion series, which captivated young readers with its tales of adventure and the bond between a boy and a wild horse. The first book, published in 1941, became a classic and laid the groundwork for a series that included numerous sequels and adaptations. Farley's work inspired a generation of animal lovers and equestrians, alongside the movie adaptations of his books, which further popularized the story. Beyond The Black Stallion, Farley wrote several other novels and contributed to the field of children's literature, emphasizing themes of friendship and perseverance.
Continue ReadingArt Blakey
Jazz drummer and bandleader, founded Jazz Messengers
Born
October 11th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1990 35 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in jazz, played in various bands before forming the Jazz Messengers in the late 1940s. The Jazz Messengers became a training ground for many notable jazz musicians. Blakey was known for his powerful drumming style and innovative approach to jazz performance. His band recorded numerous acclaimed albums and contributed to the development of hard bop, a subgenre of jazz that incorporates elements of rhythm and blues and gospel music.
Continue ReadingBarbara Billingsley
Actress in sitcom Leave It to Beaver
Born
December 22nd, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 2010 15 years ago — 94 years old
An American actress gained recognition for the role of June Cleaver in the television series Leave It to Beaver, which aired from 1957 to 1963. The character became a symbol of the ideal suburban housewife. Billingsley also made appearances in other television shows and films, including The Care Bears Movie and various game shows. Her work extended into voice acting, where she voiced characters in animated series. Despite numerous roles, the iconic character of June Cleaver remained the most significant in defining her career.
Continue ReadingMario Del Monaco
Italian tenor known for opera performances
Born
July 27th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1982 43 years ago — 67 years old
Born in Italy, a prominent tenor emerged as a significant figure in the world of opera. Gained acclaim for powerful vocals and dramatic performances, frequently appearing on notable stages such as La Scala in Milan. Achieved international recognition for roles in operas including 'Aida' and 'Carmen'. Left a lasting legacy in the operatic community, admired for interpretations of Verdi and Puccini characters.
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