John Heard
Actor in 'Home Alone' franchise
Born
Died
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American actor and producer, entered the film industry with a passion for theater. Achieved widespread recognition for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence through a pivotal role in the holiday classic 'Home Alone,' where played the father of the young main character. Besides film work, also featured in various television series, including 'The Sopranos.' Career spanned several decades, with performances showcasing versatility across genres from dramas to comedies.
Portrayed Peter McCallister in 'Home Alone'
Featured as a character in 'The Sopranos'
Other People Born on March 7th
Arthur Lee
Singer-songwriter and musician
Born
March 7th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2006 19 years ago — 61 years old
Arthur Lee was an American singer-songwriter and musician, noted for contributions to the rock band Love. The band gained prominence with the 1967 album 'Forever Changes', which is often labeled as one of the greatest albums of all time. Lee's work combined elements of folk, rock, and psychedelia. He was a pioneering figure in the music scene of the 1960s. Lee faced legal challenges and spent time in prison during the 1990s but continued to perform and record music until his passing in 2006.
Continue ReadingWilliam Boyd
Ghanaian-English author and screenwriter
Born
March 7th, 1952 73 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1972 53 years ago — 20 years old
A prominent author and screenwriter, this individual crafted acclaimed literary works and screenplays, blending intricate storytelling with rich character development. The works include novels such as 'The Blue Afternoon' and 'Any Human Face'. A strong focus on themes of identity, memory, and history characterized the writing style. Additionally, contributions to film and television include adaptations of classic literature, showcasing the versatility in the creative realm. Esteemed for both literary and screenwriting talents, this individual's career spanned decades, bridging multiple cultures and experiences.
Continue ReadingClement XIII
Pope overseeing Church during 18th century
Born
March 7th, 1693 332 years ago
Died
1769 256 years ago — 76 years old
Served as pope from 1758 to 1769. Focused on promoting the Catholic faith during a time of significant political and cultural change in Europe. Advocated for the Jesuit order, supporting its educational missions and international missions. Confronted challenges from Enlightenment thinkers and various governments opposing papal authority. His papacy is noted for the confirmation of the canonization of several saints and the issuance of important papal bulls.
Continue ReadingRik Mayall
Comedian and actor from 'The Young Ones'
Born
March 7th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 56 years old
Born in England, a prominent comedian and actor emerged in the 1980s. Co-created and starred in the cult television series 'The Young Ones', a significant influence on British comedy. Also featured in 'Bottom', which he co-wrote and performed alongside Ade Edmondson. Success in film included roles in 'Drop Dead Fred' and 'The New Statesman'. Additionally worked as a writer and screenwriter, contributing to the comedic landscape of British television. Regularly performed on stage and was recognized for his unique style of humor.
Continue ReadingIvar Ballangrud
Norwegian speed skater and Olympic champion
Born
March 7th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1969 56 years ago — 65 years old
Born in 1904, a notable speed skater represented Norway in international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s, particularly in the Winter Olympic Games. Excelled in long-distance events. Set multiple world records during his career and became one of the leading figures in the sport. His victories contributed to Norway's legacy in winter sports.
Continue ReadingTomáš Garrigue Masaryk
Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician
Born
March 7th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1937 88 years ago — 87 years old
Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician served as the first President of Czechoslovakia from 1918 to 1935. Masaryk played a significant role in the establishment of the Czechoslovak state after World War I, advocating for democracy and nationalism. His work in sociology and philosophy influenced his political career, emphasizing ethics and social justice. He contributed to the founding of Czechoslovakia by uniting various nationalist movements and negotiating with world leaders. His presidency focused on nation-building and fostering a democratic society.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
Robert Burns
Scottish poet and songwriter of 'Auld Lang Syne'
Born
January 25th, 1759 266 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1796 229 years ago — 37 years old
Born in 1759, this Scottish poet and songwriter became a central figure in Scottish literature. His works reflect the language, culture, and rural life of Scotland. Notable poems include 'Auld Lang Syne', often sung during New Year's celebrations, and 'To a Mouse', which explores themes of humanity and nature. He contributed significantly to the preservation and popularization of Scots dialect and folklore. His collections, including 'Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect', garnered attention and have been published in various editions over the centuries. His legacy continues to influence poetry and song across genres.
Continue ReadingDave Garroway
Television journalist and host of Today
Born
July 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1982 43 years ago — 69 years old
This individual was a pioneering television journalist and the original host of the NBC morning show 'Today'. Beginning in 1952, the program introduced audiences to news, weather, and entertainment segments, setting a standard for morning television. Garroway's charismatic and laid-back style resonated with viewers and contributed to the show's early success. He also hosted 'Meet the Press' and made guest appearances on various programs. His career in journalism included work on radio before transitioning to television, where he became a significant figure in the industry until retiring in the early 1970s.
Continue ReadingAlan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander
Born
November 18th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1998 27 years ago — 74 years old
An American astronaut and test pilot, made history by becoming the first American in space in 1961 during the Freedom 7 mission. Commanded the Apollo 14 mission in 1971, which successfully landed on the Moon, conducting two lunar EVAs and collecting valuable geological samples. Instrumental in testing various experimental aircraft and spacecraft, advancing human spaceflight efforts.
Continue ReadingRalph Houk
Baseball manager and player, Yankees
Born
August 9th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2010 15 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball and managed the New York Yankees. Played from 1947 to 1953. Managed the Yankees from 1961 to 1963, leading the team to a World Series championship in 1961. Also managed the Detroit Tigers and the Boston Red Sox during a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingRobert G. Ingersoll
American soldier and politician
Born
August 11th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1899 126 years ago — 65 years old
Born on August 11, 1833, one served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Later transitioned into a legal career, establishing a reputation as a prominent lawyer. Engaged in politics, one was elected to the Illinois legislature as a Republican. Advocated for secularism and free thought, earning recognition for speeches supporting civil liberties and religious freedom. Involved in the development of the modern agnostic movement, one emphasized reason and skepticism in public discourse.
Continue ReadingRuth St. Denis
Dancer and educator, Denishawn School founder
Born
January 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old
Pioneer in modern dance, contributed to the development and popularization of dance as an art form in America. Founded the Denishawn School of Dancing and Related Arts with Ted Shawn, which became a major institution for training dancers. Created numerous original works that combined various cultural influences, emphasizing the spiritual and expressive aspects of movement. Collaborated with many prominent artists and musicians, and significantly impacted the landscape of American dance through performances and teaching.
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