Joan Didion

American novelist and screenwriter

Joan Didion - American novelist and screenwriter
Born

December 5th, 1934
90 years ago

Died

December 23rd, 2021
3 years ago — 87 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

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

Carrie Hamilton

American actress and singer
Born
December 5th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2002 23 years ago — 38 years old

An actress and singer, contributed to the entertainment industry through performances in various shows and music. Gained recognition for starring in the television series 'Fame' and appeared in stage productions. Collaborated with well-known artists and participated in musical performances, showcasing vocal talent. Had a successful career in the 1980s and continued to engage in creative endeavors until her passing.

Continue Reading

Francisco Javier Arana

Guatemalan Army Colonel and head of state
Born
December 5th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1949 76 years ago — 43 years old

Served as an Army colonel during a critical period in Guatemalan history. Briefly held the position of head of state in 1944 following a military coup. Focused on consolidating power and maintaining control during a tumultuous political era. His regime faced various challenges including internal dissent and opposition from reformist movements.

Continue Reading

Zhu Wen

Chinese emperor of Later Liang
Born
December 5th, 852 1172 years ago
Died
July 18th, 912 1113 years ago — 59 years old

Ascended to the throne in 907, establishing the Later Liang dynasty after the fall of the Tang dynasty. Reigned until death in 912, implementing policies to stabilize the empire and improve administration. His rise marked the beginning of the Five Dynasties period in China, a time of fragmentation and political turmoil.

Continue Reading

Kim Simmonds

Blues-rock guitarist and songwriter
Born
December 5th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2022 3 years ago — 75 years old

A Welsh blues-rock singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, gained prominence as the leader of the band Savoy Brown. Contributed significantly to the blues genre throughout the 1960s and 1970s, particularly known for the album 'Lion's Share' released in 1972. Continued to perform and record music for several decades, influencing generations of musicians within the rock and blues genres.

Continue Reading

Otto Preminger

Film director for 'Anatomy of a Murder'
Born
December 5th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1986 39 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Austria, directed numerous influential films in Hollywood after emigrating in the 1930s. Gained recognition for pushing boundaries with subject matter and storytelling techniques. Directed 'Anatomy of a Murder', which was one of the first films to depict courtroom procedures in detail. Also worked on influential films such as 'Laura' and 'The Man with the Golden Arm', the latter addressing drug addiction. Preminger was known for his strong directorial style and contributions to film production, which sometimes led to controversies within the industry.

Continue Reading

James Hinchcliffe

IndyCar racing driver and competitor
Born
December 5th, 1986 38 years ago

A prominent figure in IndyCar racing, this Canadian driver achieved notable success in the series. Winning the 2016 Indy 500 pole position highlighted a career that included multiple podium finishes. After beginning his professional career in karting, participation in various racing series led to a full-time IndyCar contract. In 2015, while racing for the Schmidt Peterson Motorsports team, a serious accident during practice for the Indianapolis 500 resulted in life-threatening injuries. Following recovery, a return to racing was marked by continued competitive performances.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on December 23rd

Robert W. Wilson

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
November 3rd, 1926 99 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2013 11 years ago — 87 years old

A businessman and philanthropist who founded the investment management firm Wilson & Associates. Contributed significantly to various educational and medical institutions through substantial donations. Advocated for progressive causes and supported organizations focused on social welfare.

Continue Reading

P. V. Narasimha Rao

Indian politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 28th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2004 20 years ago — 83 years old

This individual served as the 9th Prime Minister of India from 1991 to 1996. Policy initiatives during the tenure included significant economic reforms that liberalized the Indian economy. The leader played a crucial role in shifting India's economic strategy towards globalization and market-oriented reforms, leading to substantial growth in various sectors. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, served in various capacities in the Indian government, including Minister of Defence and Minister of Home Affairs. Advocated for political stability and development during a time of significant change in the country.

Continue Reading

Edward Schillebeeckx

Theologian and academic
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 15 years ago — 95 years old

A Belgian theologian and academic, this figure contributed significantly to theological discourse and education in the 20th century. Notable works include 'Jesus: An Experiment in Christology' and 'The Church with a Human Face'. The approach to theology emphasized the importance of personal experience and existential questions. In the realm of Vatican II, this theologian engaged critically with church teachings, bringing fresh perspectives on topics such as grace and the nature of the church. Schillebeeckx's writings influenced a generation of theologians, scholars, and lay practitioners.

Continue Reading

John Cotton

Theologian and Puritan minister
Born
December 4th, 1585 439 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1652 372 years ago — 67 years old

Born in England, a prominent minister and theologian, contributed significantly to the Puritan movement. Served as the pastor of Boston's First Church, influencing the early settlement in New England. Advocated for religious freedom and the establishment of a theocratic government based on Puritan principles. Emphasized covenant theology and the importance of a personal relationship with God in his sermons and writings. Migrated to America in search of religious liberty, playing a key role in the development of the Massachusetts Bay Colony's religious landscape.

Continue Reading

Vincent Fourcade

French interior designer, renowned for elegance
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1992 32 years ago — 58 years old

An influential interior designer specialized in creating luxurious and elegant spaces. Worked on numerous high-profile projects that showcased a blend of classic and modern styles. Established a reputation for attention to detail and sophistication in residential and commercial designs. Contributed significantly to the interior design landscape in France during the late 20th century.

Continue Reading

Caesar du Choiseul

French general and diplomat
Born
1602 423 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1675 349 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a French general and diplomat during the 17th century. Took part in military campaigns and played a vital role in French foreign relations. Contributed to the development of military strategies and policies of the time. Engaged in significant diplomatic negotiations that influenced France's standing in Europe. Held various military ranks and positions throughout the career, influencing both military and political landscapes in France.

Continue Reading