Kara DioGuardi
American singer-songwriter and producer
Achievements include writing and producing for numerous artists in the music industry. Contributed to hits like "Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson and "The Truth" by Jason Aldean. Served as a judge on the television series "American Idol" for several seasons. Released own music, which includes the album "Fairy Tales". Founded the nonprofit organization "Education Through Music" to support music education in schools.
Wrote "Since U Been Gone"
Produced for artists like Kelly Clarkson
Judged on "American Idol"
Other People Born on December 9th
Mackenzie Blackwood
Canadian ice hockey player and goaltender
Born
December 9th, 1996 29 years ago
Drafted 42nd overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Made professional debut with the Devils in 2018. Established as the team's starting goaltender during the 2019-2020 season. Played significant games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs as a key player for the Devils. Represented Canada at international competitions, contributing to the team's success in tournaments.
Continue ReadingBuck Henry
American screenwriter and director
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2020 6 years ago — 89 years old
An influential screenwriter, director, and actor, contributions spanned the 1960s to the 2000s. Co-created and wrote for the television series "Get Smart," which became a cultural touchstone for comedic television. Directed films including "Heaven Can Wait" and "The Graduate," receiving critical acclaim and award nominations. Served as a frequent host of "Saturday Night Live," showcasing comedic talents and writing prowess.
Continue ReadingJames Rainwater
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
December 9th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1986 40 years ago — 68 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, contributions included advancements in nuclear physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1975 for research on the structure of nuclei. Worked at Columbia University, influencing generations of students and furthering the field of physics through both teaching and research.
Continue ReadingMax Manus
Norwegian resistance leader during WWII
Born
December 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old
Served as a key figure in the Norwegian resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II. Operated with the Oslo-based group, the Norwegian Special Operations Group, focusing on sabotage missions targeting German war efforts. Participated in high-profile operations, including the sinking of the German transport ship MV Donau and the bombing of the German-controlled infrastructure in Norway. Coordinated efforts that contributed to the overall resistance movement, significantly disrupting enemy operations. After the war, became an author, documenting experiences in a widely read autobiography.
Continue ReadingKirsten Gillibrand
American politician and U.S. senator
Born
December 9th, 1966 59 years ago
Elected to the United States Senate in 2009, served as a representative for New York. Advocated for women's rights, military reform, and health care issues. Played a significant role in the Senate committees on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and Armed Services. Previously served in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 20th congressional district. Appointed to fill the vacancy left by Hillary Clinton, completed the full term and was re-elected multiple times.
Continue ReadingIrene Greenwood
Australian radio broadcaster and activist
Born
December 9th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1992 34 years ago — 93 years old
A significant figure in Australian media, one of the first female radio broadcasters contributed to the Australian Broadcasting Commission. Advocated for women’s rights and peace during a period of social change. Involved in various feminist organizations and peace movements, influencing public discourse on gender equality and social justice. Actively worked to promote women's participation in broadcasting and other professions, paving the way for future generations of women in media.
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