Jerry Lewis
Comedian and actor from 'The Nutty Professor'
An American actor and comedian, prominent during the mid-20th century. Achievements include co-starring with Dean Martin in a successful comedy duo. Transitioned to a solo career, featuring in numerous films. A well-regarded work includes 'The Nutty Professor,' showcasing his talent for physical comedy and character transformation. In addition to film, significant contributions were made to television, with several successful specials and shows. Lewis also directed several of his films, further establishing his influence in film production and comedy.
Co-starred with Dean Martin in a comedy duo
Directed and starred in 'The Nutty Professor'
Hosted multiple television specials
Other People Born on March 16th
Leena Peisa
Keyboard player and songwriter
Born
March 16th, 1979 47 years ago
A Finnish keyboard player and songwriter gained recognition for work with the band Leningrad Cowboys. Contributed to the band's distinctive style that blends rock music with Finnish folk elements. Also known for involvement in various other musical projects and collaborations. Peisa's musical contributions extended to song arrangements, enhancing the overall sound and performance of the bands she participated in.
Continue ReadingHosea Gear
Rugby player, All Blacks winger
Born
March 16th, 1984 42 years ago
This individual played professional rugby in New Zealand and represented the national team, the All Blacks. A winger, gained recognition for speed and agility on the field. Played in multiple international series, participating in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Contributed to club success with Super Rugby teams, notably the Hurricanes and the Highlanders. Retired from professional rugby with a reputation as a skillful player.
Continue ReadingDon Blasingame
Baseball player and manager, St. Louis Cardinals
Born
March 16th, 1932 94 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 73 years old
Professional baseball player and manager, recognized for contributions to Major League Baseball. Played primarily as a second baseman, debuting with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1955. Achieved notable success with the team, participating in the 1964 World Series championship. Transitioned to a managerial role, leading various minor league teams after retirement from playing. Contributed to the development of future baseball talent during his managerial career.
Continue ReadingJalen Smith
Basketball player for Indiana Pacers
Born
March 16th, 2000 26 years ago
Professional basketball player entered the NBA in 2020 after being selected in the first round of the draft. Played college basketball for the University of Maryland, where notable achievements included earning All-Big Ten honors. Has competed in games for the Indiana Pacers and has participated in various seasons of the NBA.
Continue ReadingAndrei Stepanov
Estonian footballer and national team player
Born
March 16th, 1979 47 years ago
Played as a central defender primarily for FC Flora Tallinn. Competed internationally for the Estonia national team in numerous UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. Contributed to the club's success by winning multiple Estonian championships. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from professional play, sharing expertise with upcoming football talent.
Continue ReadingMary Hinkson
Dancer and choreographer for Martha Graham
Born
March 16th, 1925 101 years ago
Died
November 26th, 2014 11 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributed significantly to the Martha Graham Dance Company. Renowned for performances in pivotal works such as 'Appalachian Spring' and 'Night Journey'. Served as a key figure in the evolution of modern dance, participating in innovative performances that showcased the physicality and expressiveness of the form.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 20th
Joe Rosenthal
Photographer best known for iconic Iwo Jima image
Born
October 9th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2006 20 years ago — 94 years old
An American photographer, recognized for capturing the famous image of U.S. Marines raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. This photograph, taken on February 23, 1945, became one of the most reproduced images in history and played a pivotal role in boosting American morale during the war. The photograph won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945, solidifying its place in American cultural history. Rosenthal's work has been exhibited in various prestigious galleries and is part of the permanent collection of the U.S. National Archives.
Continue ReadingMeles Zenawi
Ethiopian Prime Minister and revolutionary leader
Born
May 9th, 1955 71 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2012 14 years ago — 57 years old
Served as the Prime Minister of Ethiopia from 1995 until 2012. Played a significant role in the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front, which controlled the government after the overthrow of Mengistu Haile Mariam. Implemented economic reforms that spurred growth and attracted foreign investment. Also participated in regional politics, including peace negotiations in the Horn of Africa. Advocated for the role of the African Union in addressing continental issues.
Continue ReadingB. K. S. Iyengar
Yoga Instructor and Iyengar Yoga founder
Born
1918 108 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 96 years old
An influential yoga instructor and author, established a method of yoga that emphasizes precision and alignment. Founded Iyengar Yoga, which integrates a systematic approach to the practice through the use of props. Authored several books on yoga, including 'Light on Yoga', which serves as a foundational text for many practitioners. The teachings and methodologies contributed significantly to the global spread and practice of yoga.
Continue ReadingJames Whyte
Scottish-Australian politician, 6th Premier
Born
March 30th, 1820 206 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1882 144 years ago — 62 years old
A Scottish-Australian politician served as the 6th Premier of Tasmania from 1887 to 1889. During the premiership, significant focus was placed on governance reforms and public works in the region. Whyte's tenure was marked by engagement with various social and economic issues in Tasmania, aiming to promote development and address the needs of the constituents. Prior to becoming Premier, Whyte held various positions within the government, contributing to the legislative processes of the time. His work helped shape early Tasmanian policy and administration.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Pigalle
French sculptor famous for 'Voltaire'
Born
January 26th, 1714 312 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1785 241 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent French sculptor and educator, notable contributions to the art world occurred during the 18th century. Renowned for a significant neoclassical style, approach included both monumental sculptures and smaller works in marble and plaster. Most recognized work, the statue of Voltaire, showcased the elegance of the period. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sculpture, contributing to artistic education and the progression of sculpture in France. Produced several other notable pieces, including 'The Statue of the King' and works for the royal courts. Teaching shaped the careers of many future artists, establishing a legacy in the education of sculpture in France.
Continue ReadingAnton Buslov
Astrophysicist and journalist
Born
November 4th, 1983 42 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 12 years ago — 30 years old
An astrophysicist and journalist associated with research in the field of astrophysics. Contributed to various studies and publications related to cosmic phenomena and space exploration. Engaged in science communication to enhance public understanding of astrophysical concepts. Worked with academic institutions and media outlets to disseminate knowledge on celestial events and discoveries.
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