John Schlesinger
English film director of Midnight Cowboy
A prominent English film director, active in the industry from the 1960s to the 2000s. Directed the acclaimed film 'Midnight Cowboy,' which won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1970. Worked in both film and television, with a career that also included direction of 'The Day of the Locust' and 'Marathon Man.' Received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Director for 'Midnight Cowboy.'
Directed 'Midnight Cowboy', Academy Award winner
Directed 'Marathon Man'
Directed 'The Day of the Locust'
Other People Born on February 16th
Zhang Jike
Table Tennis Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist
Born
February 16th, 1988 38 years ago
A professional table tennis player earned acclaim in the sport through numerous achievements. Won the Men's Singles title at the World Table Tennis Championships in 2011 and 2013. Clinched the gold medal in Men's Singles at the 2012 London Olympics. Achieved a Grand Slam in table tennis, winning the World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic Games.
Continue ReadingHasheem Thabeet
Basketball player and NBA draft pick
Born
February 16th, 1987 39 years ago
Born in Tanzania, a basketball player played center and was selected second overall in the 2009 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. Played college basketball at the University of Connecticut, where earned All-American honors and helped the team win the NCAA Championship in 2004. Also played for several NBA teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Houston Rockets, in addition to teams in the NBA Development League and overseas.
Continue ReadingKoffee
Jamaican reggae singer and Grammy winner
Born
February 16th, 2000 26 years ago
A prominent reggae singer and songwriter, Koffee gained international attention with her breakout single 'Toast' in 2019. The song celebrated success and resilience, showcasing her distinctive blend of reggae and dancehall. Koffee's debut EP, 'Rapture', released in 2019, earned critical acclaim and commercial popularity. In 2020, Koffee won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album, becoming the youngest person and only the second woman to receive the award. Her style and lyrical content resonate with a youthful audience, reflecting themes of empowerment and positivity.
Continue ReadingOssian Everett Mills
Academic; founded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Born
February 16th, 1856 170 years ago
Died
1920 106 years ago — 64 years old
Founded Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, a predominantly male music fraternity, in 1898. Contributed to the development of music education in the United States through academic positions. Advocated for the importance of music in education and community life. Played a significant role in establishing standards for music instruction.
Continue ReadingKim Jong Il
North Korean Supreme Leader
Born
February 16th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
2011 15 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the Supreme Leader of North Korea from 1994 until death in 2011. Assumed leadership following the death of Kim Il-sung. Led North Korea during a period marked by significant economic challenges and international isolation. Initiated nuclear weapons development, contributing to ongoing tensions with global powers. Oversaw the militarization of the country and maintained strict control over North Korean society through a system of propaganda and repression. His rule was characterized by significant human rights abuses and the continued prioritization of the military sector over economic reform.
Continue ReadingEdgar Bergen
Ventriloquist and actor with Charlie McCarthy
Born
February 16th, 1903 123 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1978 47 years ago — 75 years old
A ventriloquist and actor, this individual gained fame during the mid-20th century with the creation of the character Charlie McCarthy. Bergen's performances combined humor and innovative ventriloquism techniques, captivating audiences through radio and television. The ventriloquist's radio show, 'The Edgar Bergen-Charlie McCarthy Show,' aired from 1937 to 1956 and featured numerous guest stars. His work in film included appearances in 'The Goldwyn Follies' and 'Hollywood Hotel.' Bergen's unique talent helped to popularize ventriloquism as a form of entertainment.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 25th
Alfred Drake
American actor and singer of Broadway hits
Born
October 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1992 33 years ago — 77 years old
Born in 1914, this individual made significant contributions to American musical theatre. He gained prominence through performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Oklahoma!' and 'Kiss Me, Kate'. With a powerful baritone voice, he captivated audiences and received critical acclaim for his musical abilities. His work not only showcased his talent in acting but also in singing, leading to successful recordings and performances beyond the stage. He appeared in various films and television shows, further expanding his reach in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingMichael Johnson
Footballer and manager with coaching success
Born
July 4th, 1973 52 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2017 8 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional football primarily as a forward. Represented clubs such as Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement from playing. Managed teams including the Jamaican national team, contributing to their football development.
Continue ReadingSergio Marchionne
Businessman and Fiat-Chrysler CEO
Born
1952 74 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2018 7 years ago — 66 years old
A prominent businessman with Italian and Canadian roots, led Fiat Chrysler Automobiles as CEO for over a decade. Played a crucial role in the merger of Fiat and Chrysler, resulting in the creation of one of the world's largest automotive manufacturers. Implemented strategic transformations to revitalize struggling brands within the company. Prior to his tenure at Fiat Chrysler, also served as CEO of Ferrari and played a significant role in the company's resurgence in the luxury sports car market.
Continue ReadingR. S. Gavai
Indian politician, 18th Governor of Kerala
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 86 years old
Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in India, holding significant positions in both legal and governmental sectors. Acted as the 18th Governor of Kerala from 2004 to 2006 during a critical period in the state's political landscape. Held various roles within the Indian Congress Party, contributing to state and national politics over several decades. In addition to political roles, engaged in legal practices, influencing judicial matters in Maharashtra. Credentials include advocacy for various legal reforms and participation in legislative discussions.
Continue ReadingWalter De Maria
Sculptor and drummer known for 'The Lightning Field'
Born
October 1st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2013 12 years ago — 77 years old
An American sculptor and musician who gained recognition for large-scale installations that explore the relationship between space and perception. De Maria created 'The Lightning Field' in New Mexico, a site-specific artwork consisting of 400 stainless steel poles arranged in a grid. Additionally, contributed to the art music scene as a drummer, performing with influential musicians in the 1960s. His work blended minimalist aesthetics with environmental considerations, becoming a prominent figure in the Land Art movement.
Continue ReadingMartin Indyk
Diplomat and former U.S. ambassador
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 73 years old
Served as the U.S. Ambassador to Israel from 1995 to 1997 and again from 2000 to 2001. Played a significant role in U.S.-Israel relations and Middle East peace negotiations. Worked as a special assistant to the president and senior director for Middle Eastern affairs on the National Security Council. Co-founded the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, contributing to the dialogue on U.S. foreign policy in the region. Collaborated with both Republican and Democratic administrations, shaping diplomatic strategies in the Middle East for decades.
Continue Reading