Jim Henson
Puppeteer and creator of The Muppets
An American puppeteer, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed to the entertainment industry through innovative puppet creations. Creator of The Muppets, which gained worldwide acclaim through television and film. Developed iconic characters such as Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Founded the Jim Henson Company, expanding the artistic realm of puppetry in both children's programming and adult entertainment. Established a legacy in puppetry that influenced generations of performers and creators.
Created The Muppets
Produced Sesame Street
Other People Born on September 24th
Perry Jones
American basketball player, NBA player
Born
September 24th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in 1991, this basketball player played college basketball for the Baylor Bears. During his time, he contributed to the team's successful run, including reaching the Elite Eight in the 2012 NCAA Tournament. Following college, this player was selected in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Throughout his career, he played for other teams in the NBA, including a stint with the Thunder's G League affiliate.
Continue ReadingJeff Karstens
Baseball pitcher with Pittsburgh Pirates
Born
September 24th, 1982 43 years ago
A professional baseball player played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Debuted with the New York Yankees in 2006 before joining the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2010. Delivered solid performances during his tenure with the Pirates, contributing significantly to the team's pitching rotation. Known for effective control and ability to induce ground balls, pitched multiple seasons with the Pirates, participating in the team’s resurgence in competitive play. Retired after the 2013 season.
Continue ReadingJonathan Soriano
Spanish footballer and top goalscorer
Born
September 24th, 1985 40 years ago
A Spanish footballer, celebrated for playing as a striker. Developed talent at FC Barcelona's youth academy, making appearances for the senior team. Transferred to FC Red Bull Salzburg, where notable achievements included leading the Austrian Bundesliga in scoring. Later played for clubs such as Al-Hilal and Girona FC, contributing goals in key matches.
Continue ReadingMatthew Connolly
English footballer and defender
Born
September 24th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional footballer played as a defender. Began his career at Arsenal, contributing to youth teams. Moved to Cardiff City in 2010, where played pivotal roles during key seasons. Also played for teams such as QPR and AFC Bournemouth, demonstrating consistency in defensive skills. Featured in various competitions including the EFL Cup and FA Cup.
Continue ReadingJoe Locke
Manx actor in 'Heartstopper'
Born
September 24th, 2003 22 years ago
An actor gained recognition for the role of Charlie Spring in the Netflix series 'Heartstopper', based on the webcomic by Alice Oseman. The character's story centers on themes of friendship, love, and acceptance during teenage years. This role marked a significant point in the actor's career, showcasing talent in portraying complex younger characters in contemporary storytelling. The performance received acclaim for its authenticity and emotional resonance, contributing to the show's popularity.
Continue ReadingBen Platt
Actor and singer in 'Dear Evan Hansen'
Born
September 24th, 1993 32 years ago
An American actor, singer, and songwriter, achieved prominence through a major role in the musical 'Dear Evan Hansen'. The performance in the title role earned a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 2017. Additional recognition came through the portrayal of Benji in the 'Pitch Perfect' film series. Solo music career included the release of the album 'Sing to Me Instead' in 2019, showcasing songwriting and vocal ability.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 16th
Kalle Hakala
Finnish politician and parliament member
Born
March 18th, 1880 146 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1947 79 years ago — 67 years old
Served as a member of the Finnish Parliament for the National Coalition Party. Participated actively in political discussions and legislative processes during a significant period in Finland's national development. Contributed to the formulation of policies impacting various sectors, including education and social welfare. Engaged in efforts to promote national interests and represent constituents' views in parliamentary sessions.
Continue ReadingWilliam Adams
Sailor and navigator of Japan
Born
September 24th, 1564 461 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1620 406 years ago — 55 years old
Born in 1564 in England, played a significant role in early European exploration of Japan. Joined the Dutch East India Company and became one of the first Westerners to reach Japan. Established a relationship with Tokugawa Ieyasu and was appointed to an important position in the shogun's court. Provided advice on Western technology and trade, aiding in the social and cultural exchanges between Japan and Europe. Adams's experiences were later described in the book 'The Twelve Gates', contributing to the understanding of Japan during the early 17th century.
Continue ReadingHank Jones
American jazz pianist and composer
Born
July 31st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
May 16th, 2010 16 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent jazz pianist and composer, contributed significantly to the jazz genre. Worked as a bandleader and collaborated with various notable musicians throughout a long career in music. Recorded extensively and performed with prominent artists including Ella Fitzgerald and Dizzy Gillespie. Gained recognition for improvisational skills and style in both trio and big band formats. Received several awards for contributions to jazz, including a Grammy Award.
Continue ReadingEmperor Wu of Jin
Chinese emperor during the Jin dynasty
Died
May 16th, 290 1736 years ago — None years old
Ruled as the first emperor of the Jin dynasty, establishing the dynasty in 265 AD. His reign marked the end of the Three Kingdoms period and the unification of China. He implemented significant political reforms, promoted Confucianism, and strengthened the central government. The emperor's military campaigns expanded territory and ensured the stability of his regime. His rule faced numerous challenges, including internal strife and external threats, which shaped the subsequent history of China.
Continue ReadingJan Tarnowski
Polish noble and military leader
Born
1488 538 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1561 465 years ago — 73 years old
Tarnowski served as a prominent military leader and statesman in Poland during the 16th century. His military career included significant roles during the wars against the Ottoman Empire and the Muscovite state. He held the title of Voivode of Podolia, overseeing military operations and local governance. Tarnowski became known for his strategic prowess in battles and was influential in various political affairs. His leadership in defense of Polish territories contributed to the stability of the region during a tumultuous period in history.
Continue ReadingJoseph Strauss
Engineer, co-designer of Golden Gate Bridge
Born
January 9th, 1870 156 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1938 88 years ago — 68 years old
An American engineer, contributed to the design of the Golden Gate Bridge, a suspension bridge that spans the Golden Gate Strait. Construction began in 1933, and the bridge was completed in 1937, becoming an iconic symbol of San Francisco and an architectural marvel. Strauss utilized innovative techniques and helped advance engineering practices during the time. His work on the bridge is celebrated for its art deco details and engineering significance. After the completion of the Golden Gate Bridge, Strauss continued to work on various other projects, further establishing his reputation in the field of civil engineering.
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