Kenneth Bulmer
American author of science fiction novels
An American author specialized in science fiction and fantasy genres. Contributed significantly to the field with a prolific output spanning several decades. Published numerous novels and short stories, often exploring themes of technology and society. Worked under various pseudonyms, including Kenneth Bulmer and others, to diversify writing styles and reach broader audiences. Some works appeared in notable anthologies and collections, highlighting contributions to speculative fiction and young adult literature.
Wrote the series 'The Tenth Planet'
Contributed to 'The Science Fiction Magazine'
Other People Born on January 14th
Mark Goodson
Game show producer, created Family Feud
Born
January 14th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1992 33 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent American game show producer, contributions included the creation of popular television games. Developed iconic formats that contributed to the landscape of television entertainment. The production company, established, became synonymous with successful game shows. Collaborated with various networks to deliver engaging content, leading to widespread viewer engagement. Recognition came from influential awards in the television industry, underscoring the significance of these creations in television history.
Continue ReadingRichard F. Outcault
Illustrator of The Yellow Kid
Born
January 14th, 1863 163 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1928 97 years ago — 65 years old
An American author and illustrator, recognized for creating the comic strip The Yellow Kid, which became a significant part of the development of the comic strip genre. The character of The Yellow Kid first appeared in the New York World in 1895, contributing to the rise of yellow journalism in American media. Outcault's work helped popularize the comic strip format, influencing future generations of artists and writers. In addition to The Yellow Kid, other notable works included Buster Brown, which further established Outcault's reputation in the field of cartooning.
Continue ReadingHal Roach
Film producer and director of comedies
Born
January 14th, 1892 134 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1992 33 years ago — 100 years old
An influential figure in early Hollywood, contributed significantly to the film industry during the silent and early sound eras. Founded the Hal Roach Studios in 1915, producing comedic short films that introduced iconic characters and series. Developed the popular 'Our Gang' series, which showcased a group of neighborhood children in humorous situations. Also produced Harold Lloyd's films and the classic comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, solidifying a legacy in comedic filmmaking.
Continue ReadingLeonardo Ortolani
Comic book creator, Rat-Man series.
Born
January 14th, 1967 59 years ago
An Italian author and illustrator, created the comic book series Rat-Man, which gained significant popularity in Italy. The series debuted in 1990 and showcased the adventures of a superhero parodied from classic comic book tropes. Ortolani's distinctive artwork and humor contributed to the comic's success, leading to various adaptations and merchandise.
Continue ReadingFrank Cowper
Yachtsman, author, and illustrator
Born
January 14th, 1849 177 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1930 96 years ago — 81 years old
Engaged in competitive yacht racing and authored several works about yachting. Contributed illustrations to books about maritime activities. Involved in the design and development of yachts and wrote extensively on sailing techniques and navigation. Played a significant role in promoting yacht racing in England during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingLudwig Ritter von Köchel
Composer and botanist with Köchel catalog
Born
January 14th, 1800 226 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1877 149 years ago — 77 years old
Austrian composer and botanist contributed significantly to both music and botany. Developed the Köchel catalog, a chronological index of the works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, which became an essential reference for classical music scholars. Engaged in plant classification and published various scientific papers focused on botany. His efforts in organizing Mozart's compositions helped in preserving and studying them, profoundly influencing the understanding of the composer's oeuvre.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Don Jardine
Professional wrestler and trainer
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2006 19 years ago — 66 years old
A Canadian professional wrestler and trainer, gained recognition during the 1970s and 1980s. Worked under the ring name 'The Spoiler' and became notable for his masked persona. Achieved success in various wrestling promotions and held multiple championships. Contributed to the development of wrestling talent as a trainer after retiring from in-ring competition.
Continue ReadingElwood V. Jensen
Biologist and academic researcher
Born
1920 106 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2012 13 years ago — 92 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of biology with a focus on hormone receptors. Developed the first methods for isolating and characterizing estrogen receptors, which advanced understanding of cellular mechanisms related to hormones. Served on faculty at multiple prestigious institutions over the course of an academic career dedicated to teaching and research. Published numerous articles and engaged in collaborative studies that furthered knowledge in endocrinology. Received recognition for contributions to the understanding of cancer biology and hormone-related diseases.
Continue ReadingNicol Williamson
Scottish actor in 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution'
Born
September 14th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 73 years old
An accomplished Scottish actor, recognized for his versatile performances in film and theater. Gained prominence with roles in productions such as 'The Seven-Per-Cent Solution' where he portrayed Sherlock Holmes and 'Excalibur' as Merlin. Most notable for a commanding stage presence and an ability to embody complex characters.
Continue ReadingYegor Gaidar
Russian economist and politician
Born
March 19th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2009 16 years ago — 53 years old
An economist and politician, served as First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia in the early 1990s. Played a significant role in implementing economic reforms during the transition from a planned economy to a market-based economy after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Gaidar introduced radical policies that aimed to stabilize the Russian economy, including price liberalization and privatization efforts. His leadership during this tumultuous period shaped the economic landscape of post-Soviet Russia.
Continue ReadingKeely Smith
American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 98 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.
Continue ReadingPeter Dickinson
Author and poet with literary accolades
Born
December 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
Born in 1927, this literary figure produced a diverse body of work encompassing novels, poetry, and children's literature. Works often blended realistic settings with fantastical elements, reflecting on themes such as identity and culture. Gained recognition for writing for both adults and younger readers. The author contributed significantly to the field of speculative fiction and was instrumental in the development of young adult literature. Such contributions helped reshape narrative structures in children's storytelling.
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