Lee Byung-hun
South Korean actor in 'The Good, the Bad, the Weird'
Born in South Korea, an acclaimed actor gained recognition in both Korean and international cinema. Achievements include starring roles in films such as 'The Good, the Bad, the Weird', 'I Saw the Devil', and 'G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra'. Also played significant roles in the television series 'All In' and 'Mr. Sunshine'. Recipient of multiple acting awards, including the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival. Work significantly contributed to the popularity of Korean cinema globally.
Starred in 'The Good, the Bad, the Weird'
Received Best Actor Award at Cannes
Appeared in 'I Saw the Devil'
Featured in 'G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra'
Other People Born on July 12th
Gordon Pinsent
Actor and director of Away from Her
Born
July 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2023 3 years ago — 92 years old
An accomplished actor, director, and screenwriter with a prolific career spanning several decades. Notable for his work in film, television, and theater. Played the lead role in the acclaimed film 'Away from Her', which received multiple awards and nominations. Worked extensively in Canadian television, including the series 'The Red Green Show'. Directed several plays and films, contributing to the Canadian arts scene.
Continue ReadingSatoshi Ōmura
Biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 12th, 1935 90 years ago
A distinguished biochemist and academic, this individual contributed significantly to the field of microbiology and drug discovery. Isolated and characterized compounds from soil microbes, leading to the discovery of avermectin, which has been widely used to treat parasitic infections. Collaborated on research that paved the way for the development of ivermectin, a groundbreaking antiparasitic medication. Pursued an academic career that inspired subsequent generations of scientists and researchers in the realm of biochemistry and pharmacology.
Continue ReadingGuy Ligier
Race car driver and team owner
Born
July 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2015 10 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent figure in the world of motorsport, achieved success as a race car driver and founder of the Ligier team. Competed in Formula One during the 1960s and 1970s, driving for teams such as Cooper and Brabham. Transitioned to team ownership by establishing Ligier in 1976. The team went on to achieve significant success in Formula One, fielding competitive cars throughout the 1980s. Ligier also made contributions to sports car racing and other motorsport endeavors, solidifying a legacy in the automotive racing community.
Continue ReadingMark Hatfield
American politician and governor
Born
July 12th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2011 14 years ago — 89 years old
Served as the 29th Governor of Oregon from 1959 to 1967, implementing various state programs and initiatives. Elected to the U.S. Senate, served for 30 years, representing Oregon from 1967 to 1997. During tenure, focused on budgetary restraint, education, and environmental conservation. Played a significant role in promoting the preservation of public lands. Contributed to legislation related to health care and social issues.
Continue ReadingDonald E. Westlake
Author and screenwriter of crime novels
Born
July 12th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old
An American author and screenwriter contributed significantly to the literary world through over 100 published works. Primarily recognized for writing crime and mystery novels, influenced the genre with clever plots and sharp wit. His most notable work includes the Parker series, featuring the character Parker, a professional thief. Westlake also achieved acclaim in screenwriting, particularly for writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Richard Stark's novel. He received the Edgar Award multiple times, solidifying his reputation in crime fiction. His writing style combined humor and suspense, appealing to a broad audience.
Continue ReadingVan Cliburn
Pianist and Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
Born
July 12th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2013 13 years ago — 78 years old
An American pianist gained international acclaim by winning the first International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow in 1958 during the Cold War, symbolizing a cultural exchange between the United States and the Soviet Union. After this achievement, Cliburn's career flourished, leading to sold-out concerts worldwide. He became a prominent figure in classical music, known for his performances of Tchaikovsky's Piano Concerto No. 1 and Rachmaninoff's works. Later established the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, which has continued to attract talented pianists. Cliburn received multiple accolades throughout his career, including Grammy Awards and the Kennedy Center Honor.
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