Joe Alaskey
Voice actor in animated series
An American actor specialized in voice work, contributed to numerous animated television series and films. Provided voices for characters such as Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck in various Looney Tunes productions. Also voiced characters in shows like 'Duck Dodgers' and 'The Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries'. Alaskey was recognized for his ability to mimic the iconic voices created by previous voice actors, particularly Mel Blanc. In addition to voice acting, he appeared in live-action roles on television.
Voiced Bugs Bunny in various productions
Provided voices for Daffy Duck and Porky Pig
Starred in 'Duck Dodgers' series
Other People Born on April 17th
Ronald H. Miller
Theologian and author on Christian theology
Born
April 17th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 73 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of Christian theology through academic writings and teachings. Served as a professor at several institutions, influencing students and promoting theological discourse. Authored numerous books, focusing on the intersection of faith and contemporary issues.
Continue ReadingJohn McCririck
English journalist and horse racing pundit
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in horse racing journalism, McCririck contributed to various publications and television programs. Worked extensively with ITV and Channel 4, providing insights and analysis for racing enthusiasts. Known for distinctive style characterized by his hats and flamboyant personality. Participated in several reality TV shows, including 'Celebrity Big Brother'. Also wrote columns for various newspapers, sharing perspectives on the racing industry and betting.
Continue ReadingDon Kirshner
Songwriter and music producer for The Monkees
Born
April 17th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2011 14 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent songwriter and music producer, contributed significantly to the music industry during the 1960s and 1970s. Developed and produced catchy songs for various artists and bands. Managed The Monkees, creating hit songs that topped the charts. Established Kirshner Productions to nurture young talents. Involved in the creation of the TV show 'Don Kirshner's Rock Concert', which showcased numerous prominent musical acts.
Continue ReadingNick Hornby
English novelist and screenwriter
Born
April 17th, 1957 68 years ago
Born in 1957, this English novelist, essayist, lyricist, and screenwriter gained recognition for works exploring themes of music, relationships, and adolescent experiences. The debut novel, "Fever Pitch," detailed a passionate obsession with football, blending autobiography and sports commentary. Subsequent novels, including "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," garnered critical acclaim and were adapted into successful films, further establishing a career in screenwriting. Contributions to music journalism and various essays displayed an ongoing engagement with popular culture. The collaboration with musician Ben Folds resulted in a musical adaptation of "High Fidelity."
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian nun and founder of schools
Born
April 17th, 1620 405 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1700 325 years ago — 79 years old
A French-Canadian nun established the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal in the 17th century. This religious community focused on the education of young girls and played a critical role in the development of educational institutions in New France. Additionally, she was involved in missionary work and the spiritual life of the early settlers. Canonized as a saint in 1982, her contributions to education and religious life are commemorated in various institutions in Canada.
Continue ReadingAnja Silja
German soprano and actress in opera
Born
April 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Born in Germany, a renowned soprano and actress emerged in the world of opera. Extensive career included performances in major opera houses worldwide. Achieved acclaim for portrayals in works such as 'Salome' and 'Ariadne auf Naxos'. Also participated in various theatrical productions, showcasing versatility across genres. Collaborated with several prestigious orchestras and conductors, significantly contributing to the operatic repertoire.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on February 3rd
Ernst Mayr
Biologist and ornithologist
Born
July 5th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2005 20 years ago — 100 years old
A prominent figure in the field of evolutionary biology and ornithology, this individual contributed significantly to systematics and species concepts. Authored several influential works, including 'Systematics and the Origin of Species,' which shaped modern taxonomy. Served as a professor at Harvard University and engaged in extensive studies of tropical birds during field research in the Caribbean and South America. Played a vital role in enhancing the understanding of speciation processes.
Continue ReadingYvette Guilbert
Singer and actress in cabaret
Born
January 20th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1944 81 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent figure in the Parisian cabaret scene, contributions spanned singing and acting. Gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly remembered for performances at the famous Moulin Rouge. Established a unique style that blended theatrical elements with music. Worked with notable composers, producing distinctive songs that reflected contemporary themes. Also performed in operetta and recorded numerous songs, helping to popularize French chanson.
Continue ReadingBalram Jakhar
Indian politician and Governor of Madhya Pradesh
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2016 9 years ago — 93 years old
Served as an Indian lawyer and politician, holding the position of the 23rd Governor of Madhya Pradesh from 1993 to 1998. Elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India's Parliament, Jakhar represented the Firozpur constituency multiple times and played a significant role in agricultural issues in the country. His tenure in the Lok Sabha included serving as the Speaker from 1980 to 1984, overseeing parliamentary proceedings during a crucial period. Jakhar's political career was marked by involvement in various legislative initiatives.
Continue ReadingBen Gazzara
Actor in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof'
Born
August 28th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 81 years old
An American actor and director, gained recognition for performances in both film and theater. Rose to prominence with roles in 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' and 'The Killing of a Chinese Bookie'. Directed and starred in various stage productions and films, showcasing a range of complex characters. His career spanned over six decades, featuring work in both independent and mainstream cinema. Contributed as a creative force behind numerous productions and remains celebrated for a distinctive style in acting.
Continue ReadingWilliam D. Coolidge
Physicist and engineer known for X-ray tube
Born
October 23rd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 101 years old
Contributions to physics and engineering included significant advancements in X-ray technology. Developed the Coolidge tube, an innovation that improved X-ray imaging quality and efficiency, which played a crucial role in medical diagnostics. Work in the field of thermionic emission led to further exploration in electron microscopy. Registered numerous patents during a prolific career, contributing to both academic and practical aspects of engineering.
Continue ReadingNasim Hasan Shah
Chief Justice of Pakistan
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as Chief Justice of Pakistan from 1991 to 1994. Had a prominent legal career, contributing to significant judicial decisions and reforms within the Pakistani legal system. Played a key role in cases related to constitutional law and civil rights.
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