Joan Didion
American novelist and screenwriter
An American novelist and screenwriter, significant contributions included essays and memoir writing. Notable works feature 'Slouching Towards Bethlehem' and 'The Year of Magical Thinking', exploring themes of personal loss and societal unrest. Didion's unique narrative style and sharp observations gained critical acclaim and established a lasting influence in American literature. In addition to novels, screenwriting work included adaptations such as 'Panic in Needle Park' and 'True Confessions'.
'Slouching Towards Bethlehem'
'The Year of Magical Thinking'
Screenplay for 'Panic in Needle Park'
Screenplay for 'True Confessions'
Other People Born on December 5th
Pieter Oud
Dutch politician, Minister of Finance
Born
December 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1968 58 years ago — 82 years old
Born in the Netherlands in 1886, a prominent figure in Dutch politics and academia. Served as the Minister of Finance from 1945 to 1948, playing a significant role in the post-World War II economic recovery of the Netherlands. Emphasized the importance of economic reforms and was influential in shaping fiscal policies during a critical time in Dutch history. Besides political work, also contributed to the field of history through academic pursuits.
Continue ReadingAnthony Martial
French footballer for Manchester United
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
Played as a forward in football. Developed through the youth system at Lyon before joining AS Monaco in 2013, making an immediate impact in Ligue 1. Transferred to Manchester United in 2015 for a significant fee, becoming one of the club's prominent players. Achieved success in domestic and international competitions, showcasing skills in attack.
Continue ReadingOndrej Duda
Slovak footballer and midfielder
Born
December 5th, 1994 31 years ago
A professional footballer, played as a midfielder. Career began at the youth level with Nitra before moving to the senior team, where standout performances in the top Slovak league led to a transfer to FC Copenhagen. Achieved further recognition in the German Bundesliga with Hertha BSC, contributing significantly during his time. International career includes representation for Slovakia in various tournaments, including UEFA Euro 2020.
Continue ReadingMilton H. Erickson
Psychiatrist and founder of hypnotherapy
Born
December 5th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1980 45 years ago — 78 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of psychiatry and psychology, focusing on hypnosis as a therapeutic tool. Developed a unique approach to therapy that emphasized the importance of the individual experience. Authored numerous works on the principles and practices of hypnotherapy that have been widely referenced and taught. Helped establish the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis.
Continue ReadingAlexander Sørloth
Norwegian footballer with RB Leipzig
Born
December 5th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional footballer active in forward positions, Sørloth began his career at Kristiansund before moving to Viking FK. He gained further attention at FC Midtjylland, where strong performances led to a transfer to Crystal Palace in the Premier League. Following a loan spell at Göztepe, he contributed significantly to the Turkish Super Lig with Trabzonspor, finishing as the league's top scorer. In 2021, he joined RB Leipzig, furthering his presence in one of Europe's top leagues. Sørloth also represented the national team, making appearances in international competitions.
Continue ReadingIlja Antonov
Estonian footballer with FC Flora Tallinn
Born
December 5th, 1992 33 years ago
Profession as a footballer includes playing as a midfielder. Antonov started his senior career with FC Flora Tallinn, where significant contributions were made to win multiple league titles. He represented Estonia on the national team, participating in international competitions. Antonov's career progressed through various clubs, showing consistent performance in domestic leagues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 23rd
Yusef Lateef
Saxophonist, composer of jazz fusion
Born
October 9th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 12 years ago — 93 years old
A prominent figure in jazz, played the tenor saxophone, flute, and various world instruments. Contributed to the genre by incorporating elements from African, Asian, and Middle Eastern music. Worked extensively as a solo artist and recorded numerous albums. Served as a professor at various institutions, focusing on improvisation and music theory. Recognized for efforts to bridge cultural gaps through music.
Continue ReadingSebastian Shaw
English actor and playwright of 'Star Wars'
Born
May 29th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1994 31 years ago — 89 years old
An English actor and playwright, activities spanned theater and film. Directed and produced various stage productions, contributing to the performing arts. Best recognized for portraying the character Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi'. In theater, earned respect for plays written and directed. Active in the industry from the 1930s until the 1980s.
Continue ReadingKurt Meyer
German general during World War II
Born
December 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1961 64 years ago — 51 years old
Born in Germany, a military officer played a significant role during World War II. Commanded the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, which was involved in several key battles, including the Normandy invasion. Participated in the defense of the Eastern Front and held various leadership positions throughout the conflict. After the war, faced war crime charges for actions taken during military operations.
Continue ReadingIrna Phillips
Screenwriter and soap opera creator
Born
July 1st, 1901 124 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
An American screenwriter, played a vital role in the creation of the soap opera genre. Developed several popular series throughout the mid-20th century, including 'Guiding Light' and 'As the World Turns'. Pioneered the structure and storytelling methods used in daytime television. Introduced unique elements such as character-driven plots and ongoing storylines that became staples of the genre.
Continue ReadingMarie-Marguerite d'Youville
Canadian nun and founder of Grey Nuns
Born
1701 325 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1771 254 years ago — 70 years old
Founded the Congregation of Sisters of Charity, commonly known as the Grey Nuns, in 1737. Dedicated life to serving the poor and sick in Montreal. Established the order to provide care for orphans and the underprivileged. Recognized for her charitable works and commitment to the welfare of marginalized communities. Canonized as a saint in 1990 by the Catholic Church.
Continue ReadingAlfred G. Gilman
Pharmacologist and Nobel laureate
Born
July 1st, 1941 84 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent pharmacologist and biochemist contributed significantly to the understanding of G-protein coupled receptors. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1994. Worked extensively at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where research focused on intracellular signaling. Published numerous influential scientific papers that advanced the field of pharmacology.
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