John Rhys-Davies
Welsh actor known for The Lord of the Rings
This Welsh actor and screenwriter gained recognition for his role as Gimli in the film trilogy The Lord of the Rings. He also appeared as Sallah in the Indiana Jones films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Beyond his film work, he has contributed to various television series, lending his voice to characters in animated shows and participating in live-action projects. His career spans several decades, showcasing a range of talents in acting and writing, and he is a celebrated figure in fantasy and adventure genres.
Portrayed Gimli in The Lord of the Rings trilogy
Appeared as Sallah in Raiders of the Lost Ark
Appeared as Sallah in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Other People Born on May 5th
Roger Rees
Welsh-American actor and director
Born
May 5th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 10th, 2015 10 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Wales, this individual pursued a career in acting and directing, gaining recognition for stage and television performances. A notable accomplishment includes originating the role of 'The Critic' in the acclaimed production of 'The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby' in London's West End, which won multiple Tony Awards. In addition, the portrayal of the character 'Robin Colcord' in the television series 'Cheers' further solidified his presence in American pop culture. Beyond acting, contributions to directing included acclaimed productions at major theaters.
Continue ReadingArthur Leonard Schawlow
Physicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 5th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 26 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of laser technology and optics. Earned a Ph.D. in physics from Columbia University. Worked at Bell Laboratories, where developed methods to produce laser light and co-invented the laser. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for contributions to laser spectroscopy. Later served as a professor at Stanford University. Recognized for extensive academic contributions and advancements in scientific research.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel
Nobleman and author of 'El Conde Lucanor'
Born
May 5th, 1282 743 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1348 677 years ago — 66 years old
Born into Spanish nobility in 1282, a significant figure in medieval literature and politics. Authored 'El Conde Lucanor', a collection of tales offering moral lessons, influencing both Spanish and European literary traditions. Served as the Prince of Villena and held various political roles within the Kingdom of Castile, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and power struggles of the time. Contributed to the cultural and literary landscape of medieval Spain through both governance and literature.
Continue ReadingBernard Pivot
French journalist and talk show host
Born
May 5th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2024 1 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent French journalist and talk show host, contributed significantly to the French media landscape. Created and hosted the literary talk show "Apostrophes" from 1975 to 1990, engaging authors and intellectuals in discussions about literature and culture. Later hosted "Bouillon de Culture," which focused on contemporary topics and featured interviews with a wide range of personalities. Worked as a producer and provided a platform for numerous writers and thinkers, enhancing the cultural discourse in France.
Continue ReadingLeon Czolgosz
Assassin of President William McKinley
Born
May 5th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1901 125 years ago — 28 years old
Born in 1873, became an assassin of U.S. President William McKinley. Czolgosz was influenced by anarchist ideology and believed in the necessity of violent action to challenge authority. He approached McKinley during a public event in Buffalo, New York, in September 1901 and shot him twice. McKinley succumbed to his injuries days later. Czolgosz was arrested, tried, and convicted of murder. His execution took place in 1902 in the electric chair.
Continue ReadingSøren Kierkegaard
Danish philosopher and author of works
Born
May 5th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1855 170 years ago — 42 years old
A 19th-century philosopher and writer, influential in existentialism and theology. Introduced concepts such as angst, despair, and the stages of life: aesthetic, ethical, and religious. Authored significant texts including 'Either/Or', 'Fear and Trembling', and 'The Sickness Unto Death'. His writings addressed individual experience and the human condition, often emphasizing personal faith over institutionalized religion. Kierkegaard's thoughts on choice, freedom, and responsibility laid groundwork for later existential philosophers and theologians.
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