Jerry Zucker
Director of 'Airplane!' and 'The Naked Gun'

Born
March 11th, 1950
75 years ago
Died
April 12th, 2008
17 years ago — 58 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A director, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include co-directing the comedy 'Airplane!' and directing 'The Naked Gun' series. Collaborated with David Zucker and Jim Abrahams to create a brand of absurdist humor. Founded Zucker Productions and produced various works in television and film. Later projects included directing the romantic comedy 'Ghost,' which received critical acclaim and box office success.
Co-directed 'Airplane!'
Directed 'Ghost'
Directed 'The Naked Gun' series
Other People Born on March 11th
Douglas Adams
An English author and playwright contributed significantly to science fiction literature. The most notable work is 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' originally a radio series and later adapted into books, television, and film. The series gained a large following and is recognized for its wit and satirical take on science fiction and modern society. Adams also wrote 'Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency,' which showcased his humor and inventive storytelling. In addition to writing, he worked as a script editor and contributed to several projects, including the television series 'Doctor Who.' Adams passed away in 2001.
Continue ReadingTorquato Tasso
A prominent Italian poet and educator, contributed significantly to the literary scene during the late Renaissance. Best recognized for the epic poem 'Jerusalem Delivered', which explores themes of religious conflict and heroism. Tasso also engaged in various correspondences with notable intellectuals of his time and participated in the literary circles of Italy. His work not only reflected the cultural atmosphere of the period but influenced future generations of poets and writers. Additionally, he faced personal struggles including periods of imprisonment and mental health issues that affected his career and output.
Continue ReadingDominique Sanda
Born in 1951, raised in France, established a career in modeling and acting during the 1970s. Gained recognition for starring in Bernardo Bertolucci's film 'The Conformist' in 1970, which became a significant part of cinematic history. Also appeared in '1900', another Bertolucci film, where collaboration with established actors showcased her versatility. Besides her film work, Sanda became a prominent figure in fashion, working with top designers and appearing in major magazines. Primarily associated with Italian and French cinema, she made her mark as an influential figure in both modeling and acting.
Continue ReadingMichal Handzuš
A skilled ice hockey player, played as a center in the National Hockey League. Career spanned from 1995 to 2016, including significant time with teams such as the Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and Philadelphia Flyers. Represented Slovakia in international competitions, contributing to the national team's success and earning a silver medal at the 2000 IIHF World Championship. His playing style combined offensive talent with reliable defensive play, making an impact in both league and international settings.
Continue ReadingThora Birch
An American actress, producer, and director began acting at a young age. Gained recognition for roles in films such as Ghost World and American Beauty. Achieved significant acclaim for performances, receiving nominations for prestigious awards during her career. Also ventured into production and directing, expanding her contributions to the film industry.
Continue ReadingLeroy Jenkins
A pioneering figure in the world of avant-garde music, contributed significantly to the development of free jazz and contemporary classical styles. Studied at the University of Wisconsin and later collaborated with notable musicians within the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. Jenkins was a member of the renowned string quartet, the Black Artists Group, which played a crucial role in the St. Louis arts scene during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Composed a variety of works that fused improvisation with classical forms, gaining recognition for both performances and original compositions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 12th
Roberto Cavalli
A prominent Italian fashion designer and inventor, made significant contributions to the fashion industry through innovative designs and unique prints. Established a luxury fashion brand that became synonymous with bold prints and a flamboyant lifestyle. Pioneered the use of animal prints in high fashion and introduced a distinctive bohemian style in clothing. Expanded the brand to include accessories, fragrances, and home decor, making a lasting impact on modern fashion.
Continue ReadingCecilia Colledge
An English-American figure skater achieved significant success in the mid-20th century. Competed in singles events and excelled in national and international competitions. Won a bronze medal at the 1932 Winter Olympics held in Lake Placid and earned multiple titles at the World Figure Skating Championships. Transitioned into coaching, influencing the next generation of skaters.
Continue ReadingPatrick Hillery
An influential physician and politician served as the 6th President of Ireland from 1976 to 1990. A graduate of University College Dublin, specialization in medicine led to a prominent career in public health. The political journey began in 1957 as a member of the Fianna Fáil party, contributing to various government roles, including Minister for Health and Minister for Foreign Affairs. During the presidency, focused on promoting peace and reconciliation in Ireland. A noted advocate for social justice and education, the tenure included significant participation in international diplomatic efforts.
Continue ReadingCharlie Murphy
An actor and comedian, gained prominence through stand-up comedy and notable television appearances. Gained attention for performances on the sketch comedy show 'Chappelle's Show', where iconic sketches featured alongside Dave Chappelle. Also appeared in films such as 'Night at the Museum' and 'The Nutty Professor'. Worked as a writer and performer, contributing to various comedy projects throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingIlario Bandini
An Italian racing driver and businessman competed in Formula One during the 1960s. Bandini participated in a total of 29 Grand Prix events, driving for teams such as Ferrari and Cooper. He secured two podium finishes, securing third place at the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix and fourth at the 1968 Canadian Grand Prix. His racing career was marked by his skill on the track and a significant early emphasis on safety. Bandini's life ended tragically after a crash during the 1967 Monaco Grand Prix, leading to serious injuries sustained later in the race. In addition to racing, he engaged in business ventures centered around the motorsport industry.
Continue ReadingRobert MacNeil
A Canadian-American journalist and author, contributed significantly to television journalism. Co-founded PBS’s 'The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour', which set a standard for news broadcasting with its in-depth analysis. Also worked with the CBC before moving to the U.S. and has authored several books, including a historical narrative about the Vietnam War. His career spanned several decades, earning numerous accolades for journalistic excellence.
Continue Reading