Lew Grade
Film producer and television executive
Born in Ukraine, Grade became a significant figure in the British television landscape. His career included founding the production company Associated Television (ATV), which produced a range of popular programs. He played a pivotal role in bringing many iconic series to the screen, including 'The Avengers' and 'Thunderbirds'. As an influential producer, he also ventured into film production, contributing to movies like 'The Italian Job'. His contributions to the industry earned him numerous accolades and recognition.
Founded Associated Television (ATV)
Produced 'The Avengers' and 'Thunderbirds'
Contributed to the film 'The Italian Job'
Other People Born on December 25th
Emi Takei
Actress and singer from Japan
Born
December 25th, 1993 31 years ago
Born in 1993, this individual gained prominence in the Japanese entertainment industry as an actress, model, and singer. The career began with modeling and led to appearances in popular television dramas and films, establishing a strong presence in both fields. Achievements include lead roles in series such as 'Kamen Rider', which gained widespread attention and attracted a dedicated fan base. Additionally, ventured into music, releasing singles that showcased vocal talent. This individual became recognized for dynamic performances across different mediums within the entertainment sector.
Continue ReadingNoel Redding
English singer-songwriter and bassist
Born
December 25th, 1945 79 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2003 22 years ago — 57 years old
A prominent figure in rock music, contributed as a bassist and songwriter. Gained recognition as a member of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, one of the quintessential rock bands of the 1960s. Participated in the creation of iconic albums such as 'Are You Experienced' and 'Axis: Bold as Love'. Later formed the band Fat Mattress, which added to the musical landscape of the era. Continued to perform and record music throughout the following decades, maintaining influence in the British rock scene.
Continue ReadingFrancis Dunnery
English musician and songwriter
Born
December 25th, 1962 62 years ago
A prominent figure in the British music scene, became known as the lead guitarist and vocalist of the band It Bites, which gained recognition in the late 1980s. The band released the acclaimed album 'Once Around the World' in 1988, showcasing a blend of progressive rock and pop. After leaving It Bites, embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums. Also engaged in writing music for various artists and contributed to projects spanning different genres, demonstrating versatility as a musician. Dunnery's work as a producer and songwriter for other artists further solidified his presence in the music industry.
Continue ReadingFerman Akgül
Turkish singer-songwriter and musician
Born
December 25th, 1979 45 years ago
A prominent Turkish singer-songwriter and musician, contributed significantly to the Turkish rock music scene. Gained widespread recognition as the lead vocalist of the band maNga, which formed in 2001. Achieved considerable success with the album 'maNga', which led to winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2010 with the song 'We Could Be the Same'. In addition to music, involved in various artistic projects and collaborations, enhancing the cultural landscape in Turkey.
Continue ReadingRobbie Elliott
Footballer and coach, played for Newcastle
Born
December 25th, 1973 51 years ago
A footballer and coach, Elliott played as a left-back. He began his professional career at Newcastle United, making over 100 appearances between 1991 and 1997. He contributed to the team's campaigns in the Premier League. After leaving Newcastle, he played for clubs such as Sunderland, and later pursued a coaching career. Elliott has worked with youth teams, focusing on developing future talents in football.
Continue ReadingPope Pius VI
Pope and Papal diplomat; Concordat of 1776
Born
December 25th, 1717 307 years ago
Died
1799 226 years ago — 82 years old
Papal reign spanned from 1775 to 1799. Focused on diplomatic relations during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution. Engaged in negotiations with various monarchs and states to maintain the integrity of the papacy. Strengthened the church's presence in the Americas through the Concordat of 1776 with Spain. Faced challenges from the encroaching secular powers and the rise of revolutionary sentiments, ultimately leading to imprisonment and exile by the French in 1798.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 13th
Smita Patil
Indian actress and journalist; award winner
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 31 years old
An Indian actress and journalist, celebrated for significant contributions to Indian cinema during the 1970s and 1980s. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'Bhumika', 'Manthan', and 'The Burning Train'. Received the National Film Award for Best Actress twice. Involved in journalism and wrote for various publications, focusing on social issues and women's rights. Passed away in 1986 at the age of 31, leaving behind a legacy of strong, socially aware characters in film.
Continue ReadingDon E. Fehrenbacher
American historian and author
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1997 28 years ago — 77 years old
An American historian focused on the Civil War era, significant contributions included writing extensively about Abraham Lincoln and the American political landscape of the 19th century. Served as a professor at Stanford University, specializing in American history. His scholarship contributed to a deeper understanding of political and constitutional issues during Lincoln's presidency. Authored several influential books, including 'The Dred Scott Case: Its Significance in American Law and Politics', offering critical analysis of one of the most contentious Supreme Court decisions in history.
Continue ReadingAlan Thicke
Television actor and theme music composer
Born
March 1st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Canada, an actor contributed significantly to television during the 1980s and 1990s. Starred as Jason Seaver in the popular sitcom 'Growing Pains,' which aired from 1985 to 1992. Also gained recognition for composing theme music for various television shows, including the iconic theme for 'The Different Strokes.' Pursued a career in both acting and music, becoming a familiar face on American television. Later appeared in reality television projects and talk shows, maintaining a presence in the entertainment industry until his passing.
Continue ReadingElla Baker
Civil Rights Activist and Leader
Born
December 13th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1986 39 years ago — 83 years old
Born in 1903, significant contributions to the civil rights movement occurred throughout the mid-20th century. Assisted in the founding of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960, emphasizing grassroots organizing and leadership development. Worked with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). Advocated for collective decision-making and empowerment within the African American community.
Continue ReadingAlexander Schmemann
Theologian and liturgical scholar
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1983 42 years ago — 62 years old
An Estonian-American priest and theologian, contributed significantly to Orthodox Christianity. Served as a professor at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Focused on the relationship between liturgy and the life of the Church, emphasizing the importance of worship in spiritual life. Authored several influential books, including 'For the Life of the World' and 'The Historical and Dogmatic Foundations of the Liturgical Renewal'. Participated actively in ecumenical dialogues, promoting understanding between different Christian traditions. His work has shaped modern Orthodox thought and liturgical practice.
Continue ReadingDavid Wheeler
Computer Scientist; developed early programming
Born
1927 98 years ago
Died
December 13th, 2004 21 years ago — 77 years old
English computer scientist contributed significantly to the development of programming languages and computer architecture. Developed the concepts of the subroutine and the use of binary numbers in computing. Pioneered work on the Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer (EDSAC), one of the first stored-program computers. His academic career included positions at the University of Cambridge, where he influenced generations of students and researchers in the field of computer science.
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