José Wilker
Brazilian actor and director
An influential actor, director, and producer in Brazilian cinema and television. Started career in the late 1960s with performances in various telenovelas and films. Gained prominence for roles in popular shows such as 'Dancing with the Stars' and films like 'Bye Bye Brazil.' Served as a director and producer, contributing significantly to the arts in Brazil. His work has played a crucial role in shaping Brazilian cultural narratives.
Starred in the film 'Bye Bye Brazil'
Directed and produced several acclaimed telenovelas
Other People Born on August 20th
David O. Russell
American director of 'Silver Linings Playbook'
Born
August 20th, 1958 67 years ago
An acclaimed director and screenwriter, acclaimed for works that often combine humor and drama. Directed notable films including 'Silver Linings Playbook', 'American Hustle', and 'The Fighter'. Achieved critical and commercial success, with several Academy Award nominations and wins. 'Silver Linings Playbook' received eight Oscar nominations, and 'American Hustle' also garnered ten nominations, highlighting a focus on complex characters and intricate storytelling.
Continue ReadingJim Trenton
Radio host and actor
Born
August 20th, 1953 72 years ago
American radio host and actor gained recognition through the radio show in the 1990s, where engaging discussions on current events and entertainment took place. Transitioned into acting with appearances in various television series. Developed a following for unique commentary and comedic style that resonated with audiences. Continued to contribute to media through both radio and acting roles.
Continue ReadingGus Macdonald
Scottish academic and politician
Born
August 20th, 1940 85 years ago
An academic and politician served as Minister for the Cabinet Office in the UK government. Contributed to public service and policy development through various governmental roles, focusing on civil service reform and governance improvement. Engaged in academic endeavors with a background in political science, influencing discussions on public administration and governmental structure.
Continue ReadingSky Saxon
Singer-songwriter and bassist of The Seeds
Born
August 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2009 16 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in the 1960s garage rock scene, contributed to the genre as the lead singer and bassist of the band The Seeds. The group achieved significant success with the hit single 'Pushin' Too Hard,' which reached the Billboard Hot 100. The band's psychedelic sound and distinctive style influenced many musicians and contributed to the development of punk rock. In addition to recording albums, remained active in the music scene for decades, performing at various venues and festivals. His work remains relevant in discussions of 1960s rock music.
Continue ReadingAl López
Baseball player and manager, Hall of Famer
Born
August 20th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
October 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 97 years old
A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, this individual had a successful career as both a player and a manager. As a catcher, played for the Brooklyn Dodgers, Boston Braves, and Chicago White Sox. Transitioned to managing, leading teams such as the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Indians. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977 for outstanding contributions to the sport. Served as the first Hispanic manager in the American League, breaking barriers in baseball management.
Continue ReadingEero Saarinen
Architect; designed the Gateway Arch
Born
August 20th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
1961 65 years ago — 51 years old
A Finnish-American architect and furniture designer, contributed significantly to modern architecture with innovative designs. Notable works include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, which has become an iconic symbol of the city. Other significant projects include the TWA Flight Center at John F. Kennedy International Airport and the Dulles International Airport terminal. As a furniture designer, produced several famous pieces, particularly during the mid-20th century, that emphasized curvilinear shapes and modern materials. Saarinen's work has influenced the design of public spaces and structures.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 5th
Yevgeny Seredin
Swimmer; participated in Olympics
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 48 years old
A Russian swimmer specialized in freestyle events. Competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, representing Russia in the 4x100 meter freestyle relay. Secured several national championships throughout the career. Continued to participate in international competitions until retirement from the sport.
Continue ReadingPasquale Macchi
Roman Catholic archbishop
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old
Served as the archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Pesaro. Participated in significant theological discussions and contributed to various church initiatives during tenure. Recognized for dedication to pastoral care and community service within the archdiocese.
Continue ReadingAnge-Félix Patassé
Central African politician and president
Born
January 25th, 1937 89 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2011 14 years ago — 74 years old
An engineer and politician served as the 5th President of the Central African Republic from 1993 to 2003. Patassé's presidency was marked by efforts to stabilize the nation and improve governance amid challenges such as economic turmoil and civil unrest. Prior to his presidency, he held various government positions, showcasing a long-standing commitment to public service. Following his presidency, he faced political exile but remained an influential figure in Central African politics until his death.
Continue ReadingJohan Falkberget
Norwegian author of folk tales
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 88 years old
A prominent Norwegian author wrote several works reflecting the life and culture of rural Norway. Worked primarily in the genres of novels, short stories, and plays. Gained recognition for a literary portrayal of mining communities and the struggles of the working class. Contributed significantly to Norwegian literature through depictions of nature and the human condition. His notable works often explore themes of heritage, identity, and the natural environment.
Continue ReadingLee Petty
Race car driver, three-time NASCAR champion
Born
March 14th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2000 25 years ago — 86 years old
A prominent figure in the history of stock car racing, contributed significantly to the sport's development in the 1940s and 1950s. Won three NASCAR Grand National championships in 1954, 1958, and 1959. Participated in a total of 1,100 races, achieving a record of 54 wins during his career. Played a vital role in establishing the Petty family legacy in racing, which continued with his son Richard Petty and grandson Kyle Petty.
Continue ReadingGene Pitney
Singer-Songwriter known for 'Twenty Four Hours From Tulsa'
Born
February 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1940, significant contributions to pop music occurred during the 1960s. Established a career as both a singer and songwriter, blending rock and roll with traditional pop. Achieved chart success with hit singles such as 'Town Without Pity' and 'The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance'. Notable for a distinctive voice and emotive delivery. Worked with numerous artists, writing and producing songs that further expanded his influence in the music industry. Continued to perform for several decades, gaining a dedicated fan base.
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