Jeff Conaway

Actor in Grease and Celebrity Rehab

Jeff Conaway - Actor in Grease and Celebrity Rehab
Born

October 5th, 1950
74 years ago

Died

May 27th, 2011
14 years ago — 60 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American actor and singer, achieved prominence through roles in film and television. Played the character Kenickie in the film 'Grease', which became a cultural phenomenon. Appeared in the television series 'Taxi' as Bobby Wheeler, showcasing comedic talent. Later participated in the reality series 'Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew', which provided insight into personal struggles. Had a varied career that included stage performances and music.

Played Kenickie in 'Grease'

Appeared in 'Taxi' as Bobby Wheeler

Participated in 'Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew'

Other People Born on October 5th

Ursula Frayne

Irish-Australian nun and missionary
Born
October 5th, 1816 208 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Ireland, a nun and missionary dedicated life to education and social services in Australia. Arrived in Sydney in 1840, established the first Catholic school for girls in the country. Played a crucial role in founding the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, which focused on providing education and assistance to poor communities. Contributed to the expansion of Catholic institutions in Australia throughout the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Michael Roos

American football offensive tackle
Born
October 5th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in Estonia, played college football at Eastern Washington University. Selected by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Played as an offensive tackle for the Titans for a decade, contributing to the team's offensive line and playing in multiple seasons without missing a game. Participated in the 2008 Pro Bowl as a recognition of his performance. Helped the Titans reach the playoffs during his tenure with the team.

Continue Reading

Steve Miller

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'The Joker'
Born
October 5th, 1943 81 years ago

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist started a music career in the 1960s. Founded the Steve Miller Band, which rose to prominence during the 1970s. The band achieved commercial success with multiple hit songs and albums. 'The Joker' became a defining song of the era, showcasing a blend of rock and blues. Released several successful albums including 'Fly Like an Eagle' and 'Book of Dreams'. The music was characterized by catchy melodies and distinct guitar work, contributing to the classic rock genre. The band continues to tour and perform, maintaining a significant presence in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Michael Morpurgo

English author of children's literature
Born
October 5th, 1943 81 years ago

An English author, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to children's literature. Wrote over 100 books, with 'War Horse' achieving international acclaim. Works often focus on themes of war, peace, and animal welfare, appealing to children and adults alike. Founded the charity Farms for City Children, providing rural experiences for urban children. Received multiple awards for literary contributions, including the Whitbread Children's Book Award.

Continue Reading

Robin Lane Fox

Historian and author of ancient history
Born
October 5th, 1946 78 years ago

An English historian and author focused on ancient history, specializing in classical antiquity and its cultural impact. Contributed extensively to literature on ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing both historical and archaeological perspectives. Held a long-term position as a fellow and tutor at New College, Oxford. Authored several books, including 'Pagans and Christians' and 'The Classical World'. Participated in various academic endeavors, promoting classical studies and education.

Continue Reading

Lucien Mérignac

French fencer and Olympic champion
Born
October 5th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 68 years old

Competed in the men's individual foil event at the 1900 Summer Olympics. Secured a gold medal in the 1900 Paris Olympics, marking a significant achievement in the sport of fencing. Contributed to the development of French fencing techniques and tradition.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 27th

Giovanni Battista Beccaria

Physicist and academic, notable for studies
Born
October 3rd, 1716 308 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1781 244 years ago — 64 years old

An Italian physicist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of electricity and magnetism. His research laid foundations for future studies in these fields. Beccaria presented various theories and experiments that investigated the nature of electricity, significantly influencing the scientific community of the time. Besides academic pursuits, he was associated with the University of Turin, where he had a significant influence on the education and advancement of scientific knowledge in Italy. His work also encompassed various physical phenomena, which were published and discussed widely, establishing his reputation as a leading figure in the early exploration of physics.

Continue Reading

Massimo Vignelli

Graphic Designer known for Vignelli Associates
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2014 11 years ago — 83 years old

An Italian-American graphic designer worked primarily in the fields of design, interior design, and architecture. Established Vignelli Associates in 1971, focusing on branding, corporate identity, and product design. Advocated for modernist design principles, emphasizing simplicity and usability. Renowned for the New York City Subway map redesign in 1972, which introduced a minimalist approach to transit mapping. Contributed to various projects for high-profile clients, producing distinctive furniture and product designs.

Continue Reading

Larry Kramer

Playwright and LGBT rights activist
Born
June 25th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 27th, 2020 5 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent playwright and public health advocate, contributed significantly to the LGBT rights movement. Wrote the groundbreaking play 'The Normal Heart', which addressed the HIV/AIDS crisis and the lack of government response. Founded the Gay Men's Health Crisis, one of the first organizations to respond to the AIDS epidemic. Worked tirelessly to raise awareness and fight for the rights of those affected by HIV/AIDS through activism and advocacy.

Continue Reading

Margaret Pole

Countess of Salisbury and noble figure
Born
1473 552 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1541 484 years ago — 68 years old

Held the title of Countess of Salisbury, originating from an influential noble family in England. Connected to the royal bloodline, few other nobles had such deep ties to the Plantagenets. Served in various capacities at court, becoming a lady-in-waiting to the future queen and contributing to the political landscape during the Tudor period. Seen as a symbol of loyalty to the old dynasties during a time of political upheaval. Executed in 1541 due to her opposition to King Henry VIII's rule and the political machinations surrounding the succession.

Continue Reading

Robert Ripley

Cartoonist, founder of Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1949 76 years ago — 59 years old

American cartoonist and businessman founded Ripley's Believe It or Not!, a franchise that features unusual facts and stories from around the world. Ripley began his career in journalism and cartooning, ultimately creating the popular comic strip in 1918. The strip gained widespread popularity, leading to a series of books, radio shows, and television programs. The first Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum opened in 1933, showcasing oddities and curiosities. Ripley's work focused on showcasing the extraordinary aspects of human life and culture, blending humor with adventure, which resonated with audiences.

Continue Reading

Niccolò Paganini

Violinist and composer, 24 Caprices
Born
October 27th, 1782 242 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1840 185 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1782, this Italian violinist and composer became one of the most influential figures in Romantic music. Renowned for virtuosic technique and expressive playing, he gained fame for performances that dazzled audiences. Paganini composed numerous works for violin, including 24 Caprices for Solo Violin, which are pivotal in the violin repertoire and showcase technical prowess. Tours across Europe captivated listeners and built a reputation that often led to speculation about supernatural abilities. Health concerns and personal tragedies shaped later years, yet the legacy of compositions and performance style endured.

Continue Reading