Kirsty MacColl
Singer-songwriter; 'Fairytale of New York'
An English singer-songwriter, notable for contributions to the music industry throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Released multiple albums including 'Kite' and 'Electric Landlady'. The song 'Fairytale of New York', a duet with Shane MacGowan of The Pogues, became a Christmas classic. In addition, composed songs for other artists and gained recognition for her distinctive voice and style. Tragically, died in 2000 at the age of 41 following a boating accident in Mexico.
Released the hit song 'Fairytale of New York'
Launched acclaimed albums such as 'Kite' and 'Electric Landlady'
Collaborated with artists like Billy Bragg and The Pogues
Other People Born on October 10th
Martin Kemp
English singer-songwriter and bass player
Born
October 10th, 1961 64 years ago
A bassist and singer-songwriter gained prominence as a member of the band Spandau Ballet. Formed in the late 1970s, the band achieved significant commercial success during the 1980s with hits like "True" and "Gold." In addition to music, ventured into acting, appearing in television series and films. Established a career in television, serving as a presenter and participating in various reality shows, further solidifying a presence in both music and entertainment industries.
Continue ReadingSarah Lancashire
English actress known for 'Happy Valley'
Born
October 10th, 1964 61 years ago
An English actress and director, received acclaim for performances in television and theatre. Gained prominence with the role of Raquel Watts in the long-running soap opera 'Coronation Street'. Later starred in the critically acclaimed series 'Happy Valley', earning several awards and nominations for her portrayal of Catherine Cawood. Worked in theatre, showcasing versatility across various genres. Directed productions, further expanding contributions to the arts.
Continue ReadingJolanda de Rover
Dutch competitive swimmer and Olympian
Born
October 10th, 1963 62 years ago
Competed in swimming events during the 1980s and earned recognition for performances in major championships. Represented the Netherlands in the Olympics and various international competitions. Specialized in butterfly and freestyle strokes, achieving notable success in European and World Championships.
Continue ReadingHenry Cavendish
Physicist and chemist, discovered hydrogen
Born
October 10th, 1731 294 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1810 216 years ago — 78 years old
A physicist and chemist contributed to the understanding of gases and chemical composition. Conducted experiments that established hydrogen as a distinct element, originally naming it 'inflammable air'. Known for the precise measurement of the Earth's density, Cavendish conducted the renowned Cavendish experiment in 1798, which allowed calculations of the gravitational constant. His meticulous data collection and analysis laid foundational work for later developments in chemistry and physics.
Continue ReadingCrystal Waters
Singer-songwriter and music producer
Born
October 10th, 1961 64 years ago
Born in 1961, this artist gained acclaim in the music industry during the early 1990s. Waters released the hit singles including 'Gypsy Woman (She's Homeless)' and '100% Pure Love', both of which showcased a blend of house music and pop. Her work contributed significantly to the house music scene, and she collaborated with various artists and producers throughout her career. In addition to her singing career, Waters also worked as a songwriter and producer, influencing the genres of dance and electronic music.
Continue ReadingTommy Fine
Baseball player and businessman
Born
October 10th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 91 years old
Played professional baseball as a pitcher for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the Philadelphia Athletics. Made his Major League debut in 1938. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retiring from baseball. Contributed to the development of various local enterprises following sports career.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 18th
Mark Felt
FBI Agent and Watergate Informant
Born
August 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2008 17 years ago — 95 years old
Served as an associate director of the FBI and played a pivotal role in the Watergate scandal as an anonymous whistleblower. Provided information to journalists that led to the exposure of the scandal involving President Richard Nixon's administration. Felt's revelations regarding illegal activities by government officials were crucial in the investigation. After years of anonymity, he publicly revealed his identity in 2005.
Continue ReadingSam Wanamaker
American actor and director of stage
Born
June 14th, 1919 107 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1993 32 years ago — 74 years old
An American actor and director, was instrumental in the reconstruction of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London. Started a career in acting during the 1940s, appearing in various films and television series. Faced difficulties during the McCarthy era due to political accusations. Transitioned to directing, with a significant focus on theater, particularly in the UK. Established the Globe Theatre Trust in 1970, which was dedicated to recreating the historic venue. The theater opened in 1997, several years after the passing of its founder.
Continue ReadingRuth Bernhard
Photographer renowned for nude art
Born
1905 121 years ago
Died
December 18th, 2006 19 years ago — 101 years old
A German-American photographer, Ruth Bernhard specialized in black-and-white photography. Her career spanned several decades, during which she produced a significant body of work focusing on the human form, particularly nudes, using natural light and careful composition. Her most acclaimed series included intimate and classical portrayals of female subjects. Bernhard also contributed to photographic education and was influential in shaping the field of fine art photography. In addition to her artistic work, she was involved in the creative process behind books, showcasing her photographs and sharing her insights on the craft.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Lamarck
Biologist and early evolution theorist
Born
August 1st, 1744 282 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1829 196 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed significantly to early biological thought. Developed the concept of inheritance of acquired characteristics, which proposed that organisms could pass traits developed during their lifetime to their offspring. Served as a soldier before embarking on a scientific career. Held academic positions, notably at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris. His work laid groundwork for later evolutionary theories, although some ideas were later revised or challenged.
Continue ReadingYulii Borisovich Khariton
Russian physicist and academic
Born
February 27th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1996 29 years ago — 92 years old
Significant contributions were made to nuclear physics and the development of the Soviet atomic bomb. Khariton led the scientific research for the Soviet atomic bomb project from its inception. His work included theoretical calculations and experimental methods that were crucial to the success of the project. He served as a prominent academic figure in the Institute of Applied Physics and held various important roles in Soviet scientific institutions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingPaul Tortelier
Cellist and composer of note
Born
March 21st, 1914 112 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1990 35 years ago — 76 years old
A distinguished cellist and composer, contributed significantly to the world of classical music. Held memberships in prominent orchestras and taught at renowned conservatories. Frequently performed with various orchestras, bringing cello repertoire to diverse audiences. Composed original works that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Promoted the art of cello through inspiring performances and educational efforts.
Continue Reading