K. W. Devanayagam
Sri Lankan lawyer and Minister of Justice
A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, served as the 10th Minister of Justice. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Sri Lanka during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practices and contributed to legislative reforms. Participated actively in parliamentary proceedings and discussions regarding justice and legal frameworks in the country.
Served as the 10th Minister of Justice in Sri Lanka
Contributed to legislative reforms in law
Participated in parliamentary proceedings on justice
Other People Born on March 26th
Baruch Dego
Ethiopian-Israeli footballer, Maccabi Tel Aviv
Born
March 26th, 1981 45 years ago
Born in Ethiopia and later moving to Israel, played as a professional footballer primarily in the Israeli Premier League. Represented Maccabi Tel Aviv and had a notable career spanning multiple seasons. Contributed to the team's successes during his tenure.
Continue ReadingMikel Arteta
Football manager and former player
Born
March 26th, 1982 44 years ago
A football manager and former player with a career primarily in the midfield position. Played for club teams including Paris Saint-Germain, Rangers, Real Sociedad, and notably Arsenal. Transitioned to management, where took over as head coach of Arsenal in 2019. Under leadership, the team secured the FA Cup title in 2020, marking a significant achievement in the early managerial career.
Continue ReadingJameson Williams
American football wide receiver
Born
March 26th, 2001 25 years ago
Played college football at the University of Alabama, contributing to the team's 2020 National Championship victory. Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions, Williams quickly became recognized for his speed and receiving abilities. Made a notable impact in his rookie season despite limited playing time due to recovery from an injury sustained before the draft.
Continue ReadingTeddy Pendergrass
Soul singer-songwriter and performer
Born
March 26th, 1950 76 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2010 16 years ago — 59 years old
A prominent soul and R&B singer-songwriter, achieved significant success in the 1970s and 1980s. Initially served as the lead vocalist of Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, where chart-topping hits included 'If You Don't Know Me by Now'. Following a successful solo career, released several acclaimed albums, including 'Teddy Pendergrass', which featured the hit single 'Love TKO'. After a tragic accident in 1982 that left him paralyzed, continued to perform and inspire through music, releasing albums and participating in charity events. The heartfelt music and powerful performances solidified a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingNate Kaeding
American football placekicker
Born
March 26th, 1982 44 years ago
Played as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL) for the San Diego Chargers and the Miami Dolphins. Established a reputation for precision and accuracy in kicking, becoming one of the most reliable kickers during his career. Notably achieved a high field goal percentage, particularly in playoff situations. Suffered injuries that affected further playing opportunities, leading to retirement from professional football.
Continue ReadingFred Karno
English theatrical producer and manager
Born
March 26th, 1866 160 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1941 84 years ago — 75 years old
An influential figure in the early 20th century theatrical scene, contributed significantly to the development of comedy in performance. Managed and produced numerous theatrical productions, blending vaudeville and comedy styles. Developed a unique brand of farce, famously launching the careers of several prominent comedians. Also established a touring company that showcased entertainers across the United Kingdom and America.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 17th
Ralph Coates
English international footballer
Born
April 26th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2010 15 years ago — 64 years old
Played as a winger in professional football. Started the career at local clubs before joining Burnley in 1963. Made significant contributions to the team, helping them secure the FA Cup in 1962. Later transferred to Tottenham Hotspur, where achievements included winning the UEFA Cup in 1972. Represented England at the international level, earning multiple caps during the 1970s.
Continue ReadingElizabeth Garrett Anderson
Pioneering English physician and politician
Born
June 9th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1917 108 years ago — 81 years old
First woman to qualify as a physician in England. Established the New Hospital for Women in London, which provided medical care accessible to women and children. Actively participated in the women's suffrage movement and worked towards the improvement of women's rights in medicine and society. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the London School of Medicine for Women.
Continue ReadingMarisa Paredes
Spanish film actress with major roles
Born
April 3rd, 1946 80 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old
Born in 1946, a prominent Spanish film actress. Started a career in the 1970s, gaining recognition in Spanish cinema. Worked with notable directors like Pedro Almodóvar and participated in acclaimed films. Gained international acclaim through contributions to both Spanish and foreign films, showcasing strong performances across genres.
Continue ReadingOtto Graham
American football player and coach
Born
December 6th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2003 22 years ago — 82 years old
An American football player and coach excelled as a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1946 to 1955, leading the team to ten championship games and winning seven titles. After retirement, transitioned to coaching, serving as head coach for the Browns and achieving notable success. Graham's play was characterized by strong leadership and strategic understanding of the game.
Continue ReadingMarc Favreau
Canadian actor and poet
Born
November 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old
A Canadian actor and poet, this individual gained recognition for contributions to the performing arts. Favreau was particularly influential in French-language theatre and became a staple of Quebec's cultural landscape. The artistic career spanned several decades, during which numerous performances in various productions showcased poetic talent. The work engaged audiences and contributed to a vibrant cultural dialogue within the community. Additionally, the actor participated in television and contributed to various media forms, highlighting versatility in artistic expression.
Continue ReadingGregoire
Congolese chimpanzee, oldest recorded
Born
1942 84 years ago
Died
December 17th, 2008 17 years ago — 66 years old
Born in the 1960s, a chimpanzee resided at the Bobo Dioulasso Zoo in Burkina Faso. Gained recognition for longevity, becoming the oldest recorded chimpanzee in history. The chimpanzee's life spanned decades, showcasing resilience and adaptability in captivity. Survived various health challenges over the years.
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