Joe Thornton
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup finalist
Professional ice hockey player, played primarily as a center. Drafted first overall in the 1997 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins. Played for teams including the San Jose Sharks and Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved significant success during the career, including multiple All-Star selections and winning the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's most valuable player in 2006. Participated in the Stanley Cup Finals in 2016 with the San Jose Sharks.
First overall pick in the 1997 NHL Draft
Hart Memorial Trophy winner in 2006
Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 2016
Other People Born on July 2nd
Pierre Cardin
Fashion designer and space-age styles
Born
July 2nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 98 years old
A significant figure in the fashion industry, this Italian-French fashion designer established a global brand that emphasized futuristic designs. Innovations included ready-to-wear collections that revolutionized fashion accessibility. The designer was among the first to license products and created a unique, recognizable aesthetic defined by geometric shapes and bold colors. The brand expanded into various markets, including furniture and fragrances, ensuring a lasting presence in the commercial world of fashion.
Continue ReadingPolly Holliday
American actress from 'Alice'
Born
July 2nd, 1937 88 years ago
Born in 1937, an American actress gained prominence for playing the character Flo in the television series 'Alice'. The character became iconic for the catchphrase 'Kiss my grits!' and contributed significantly to the show's success. Holliday also had notable roles in films and other television series, showcasing her talent beyond just one role. Throughout her career, she appeared in various productions, bringing characters to life with her distinctive style and charm.
Continue ReadingPaul Williams
Singer and choreographer for The Muppets
Born
July 2nd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1973 52 years ago — 34 years old
A prominent figure in the music and entertainment industry, contributions include writing and performing hits for various artists and television shows. Williams co-wrote iconic songs such as "Rainbow Connection" and "Evergreen". As a choreographer, worked on projects for The Muppets, contributing to the show's distinctive style. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Evergreen" from the film 'A Star Is Born'. Williams' career spans decades, during which involvement in television and film remains significant.
Continue ReadingTyrone Guthrie
Theatrical director and actor
Born
July 2nd, 1900 125 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1971 54 years ago — 70 years old
A significant figure in the development of modern theatre, contributed to major theatrical movements in the 20th century. Directed several influential productions and was instrumental in establishing the Stratford Festival in Canada. Worked extensively in the United Kingdom and Canada, introducing innovative staging techniques and emphasizing collaborative processes in theatrical production. Recognized for the ability to bring classic works to life with fresh perspectives.
Continue ReadingChristoph Willibald Gluck
German opera composer of Orfeo ed Euridice
Born
July 2nd, 1714 311 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1787 238 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1714, a German composer revolutionized opera with a focus on dramatic expression and unified musical structure. Gluck's operatic works broke away from the established Baroque style, emphasizing clear melodies and orchestration. Notable pieces include 'Orfeo ed Euridice,' which redefined the genre and influenced future composers. His collaborations with librettists such as Ranieri de' Calzabigi led to significant results in the operatic form, using mythological themes to convey profound emotions. Gluck's changes in opera laid the groundwork for the Classical period and inspired later figures like Mozart.
Continue ReadingRon Silver
Actor and director in 'Chicago Fire'
Born
July 2nd, 1946 79 years ago
Died
March 15th, 2009 16 years ago — 62 years old
An accomplished actor and director with a career spanning several decades. Gained significant recognition for performances in television and film, including roles in 'The West Wing' and 'Chicago Fire.' Silver had a notable presence on stage, winning a Tony Award for his performance in 'Brighton Beach Memoirs.' In addition to acting, he directed and produced various projects, showcasing his talent behind the scenes. He also had a role in shaping political discourse through his public appearances and discussions.
Continue Reading