Les Blank

Documentary filmmaker and producer

Les Blank - Documentary filmmaker and producer
Born

November 27th, 1935
89 years ago

Died

April 7th, 2013
12 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent American director and producer, noted for a body of work that celebrates culture, music, and the arts. Focused on documentary filmmaking, his style incorporated immersive storytelling and vibrant visuals. Major works include the award-winning documentary 'Marley' which explores the life of reggae musician Bob Marley. His films often highlighted regional cultures, showing traditional music and the lives of ordinary people. Throughout his career, Blank contributed significantly to the documentary genre, influencing both filmmakers and audiences with his unique approach to storytelling.

Directed 'Marley' (2012)

Produced 'Always for Pleasure' (1978)

Other People Born on November 27th

Xavi Torres

Spanish footballer with notable midfield skills
Born
November 27th, 1986 38 years ago

Born in 1986, this Spanish footballer specialized as a midfielder. He commenced his professional career with Valencia CF, where he contributed to the team's successes in domestic and European competitions. Later, he played for clubs such as Elche CF and CD Tenerife. Renowned for his passing ability and tactical intelligence, he became a key player in several leagues. He also represented the Spanish national team at various levels.

Continue Reading

Gordon S. Wood

American historian and author
Born
November 27th, 1933 91 years ago

An influential historian specializing in the American Revolutionary period, contributions center around the analysis of the era's social, political, and economic transformations. Authored several significant works, including 'The Radicalism of the American Revolution,' which won the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1993. Served as a professor at Brown University and engaged in academic discourse on the founding principles of the United States, particularly the writings and philosophies of the Founding Fathers. Promoted a deeper understanding of the consequences of independence and democracy in America.

Continue Reading

Bad Azz

American rapper with 'Gangsta Blues'
Born
November 27th, 1975 49 years ago
Died
2019 6 years ago — 44 years old

An American rapper emerged in the 1990s, contributing to the West Coast hip hop scene. Gained recognition with the group Dogg Pound and collaborated with various artists. Released several solo albums, gaining a following for a distinct style that blended gangsta rap with personal storytelling. 'Gangsta Blues' remains one of the most popular tracks, showcasing lyrical prowess and a signature sound. The career included numerous guest appearances on albums and mixtapes, solidifying a presence in the genre until passing in 2020.

Continue Reading

Buster Merryfield

English actor, best known for 'Only Fools and Horses'
Born
November 27th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 79 years old

An English actor participated in the television sitcom 'Only Fools and Horses' portraying the character Uncle Albert. His role in the series earned significant recognition and led to memorable performances that resonated with audiences. Began a career in acting later in life, transitioning from a previous occupation as a realtor. Made several appearances on other television programs, building a reputation within the entertainment industry. Continued to engage with fans until retirement.

Continue Reading

Bradley Zimmer

American baseball player with the Indians
Born
November 27th, 1992 32 years ago

Born in 1992, this baseball player played primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball. Drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the first round of the 2014 MLB Draft, made his debut in 2017. Played for the Indians until 2021 and later joined other teams. Known for notable speed on the bases and defensive skills in the outfield, contributed to team successes during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Charles Scott Sherrington

Neurophysiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 27th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1952 73 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent neurophysiologist and pathologist, contributions included significant research on the functions of the nervous system. Sherrington's work provided foundational insights into reflexes and synaptic transmission, including the identification of the concept of the synapse. His studies on the spinal cord and brain helped elucidate how signals are transmitted within the nervous system. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1932 for discoveries in the physiology of the nervous system, which remain influential in neuroscience. Leadership roles included serving as a professor and head of the Department of Physiology at the University of Oxford.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on April 7th

Victor Argo

American actor in 'Taxi Driver'
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2004 21 years ago — 70 years old

An American actor contributed to film and theater, particularly celebrated for performances in 'Taxi Driver' and 'The King of Comedy'. Argo collaborated with numerous acclaimed directors and showcased a talent for portraying complex characters, often in gritty urban settings. The body of work includes participation in various independent films and television projects, reflecting a strong presence in the industry throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

Continue Reading

Lee Brilleaux

Musician; frontman of Dr. Feelgood
Born
1952 73 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1994 31 years ago — 42 years old

An English singer-songwriter and guitarist played a key role in the pub rock scene of the 1970s. As the frontman of the band Dr. Feelgood, produced a gritty and energetic style that helped define the genre. The band's debut album, 'Down by the Jetty,' showcased a raw sound that captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. Known for the signature song 'Milk and Alcohol,' which highlighted the band's influence in the rhythm and blues revival. Continued to perform and record with the band until his death in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in British rock music.

Continue Reading

Bob Kennedy

Baseball player and manager
Born
August 18th, 1920 104 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1943 to 1955. Teams included the Washington Senators, Chicago White Sox, and Detroit Tigers. Transitioned into coaching and management, taking on roles with teams such as the New York Mets and the Seattle Mariners. Managed the Mariners during the 1980 season. Later served as a scout for several teams, contributing to player recruitment and development.

Continue Reading

Bolesław Jerzy II of Mazovia

Duke of Mazovia and prince of Poland
Born
1308 717 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1340 685 years ago — 32 years old

Ruled as Duke of Mazovia, a historical region in Poland, during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Provided leadership during a period of fragmentation in the Polish state, focusing on consolidating power and territorial control. Engaged in political alliances and military conflicts with neighboring regions, impacting the dynamics of power in Central Europe. Also participated in the administration of the Polish church and the enforcement of law and order across the duchy. His reign is marked by efforts to stabilize and expand Mazovia amidst external pressures.

Continue Reading

William Lisle Bowles

English poet and literary critic
Born
1762 263 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1850 175 years ago — 88 years old

Bowles was an English poet and literary critic whose works contributed significantly to English Romantic poetry. Bowles gained recognition for his sonnets and pastoral poetry. His most acclaimed work includes the collection 'The Grave' published in 1812. In addition to his poetry, Bowles's critique of Alexander Pope's poetry influenced the literary discussions of his time. His views on poetry emphasized emotion and nature, aligning with the Romantic ideals of the era.

Continue Reading

Georgy Shonin

Ukrainian-Russian astronaut and general
Born
August 3rd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1997 28 years ago — 61 years old

Served as a general and pilot, and became an astronaut. Flew on the Soyuz T-7 mission in 1983, contributing to the scientific research conducted aboard the Salyut 7 space station. Participated in a significant Soviet space program aimed at understanding the effects of space travel on humans. Engaged in various military roles throughout his career, highlighting a blend of aviation and space exploration.

Continue Reading