Lou Thesz
Professional wrestler and trainer
A significant figure in the world of professional wrestling, revolutionized the wrestling style and contributed to its popularity. Worked as a wrestler and trainer, influencing many future generations of wrestlers. Held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship multiple times and was pivotal in the establishment of various wrestling promotions. His legacy includes extensive contributions to the technical aspects of wrestling and the training of several wrestlers who later found success in the industry.
Held the NWA World Heavyweight Championship three times
Pioneered techniques that became standards in wrestling
Trained numerous future wrestling stars
Other People Born on April 24th
Laura Kenny
English Olympic track cyclist
Born
April 24th, 1992 34 years ago
Accomplished track cyclist from England, excelled in both individual and team events. Competed in the Olympics, securing multiple gold medals. Specializes in the omnium and team pursuit disciplines. Made significant contributions to the British cycling team, achieving impressive results in World Championships and European Championships, establishing a reputation as one of the leading cyclists in her field.
Continue ReadingHugh Dowding
Scottish Air Marshal and WWII leader
Born
April 24th, 1882 144 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1970 56 years ago — 87 years old
An influential figure in the Royal Air Force, led the sector in defending Britain during World War II. Oversaw the development of strategies and technologies that contributed to the success of the Battle of Britain. Played a crucial role in organizing fighter command operations, emphasizing the importance of radar technology. His leadership and tactical decisions helped to secure air superiority against the Luftwaffe.
Continue ReadingPhil Robertson
Television personality and hunter
Born
April 24th, 1946 80 years ago
Born in 1946, this individual gained prominence as a television personality through a reality series centered on duck hunting. This series showcased family dynamics and highlights from hunting expeditions. The conservation of wildlife and promotion of hunting as a lifestyle also featured prominently in the show's narrative.
Continue ReadingLydia Ko
Professional golfer, Women's PGA champion
Born
April 24th, 1997 29 years ago
A professional golfer from New Zealand. Became the youngest player to win a major championship at the age of 18 when winning the 2015 Evian Championship. Held the number one position in the Women's World Golf Rankings at a young age, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency on the course. Achieved multiple tournament victories including several major championships and is recognized as one of the top female golfers in the sport.
Continue ReadingJerry Jeudy
American football wide receiver, Denver Broncos
Born
April 24th, 1999 27 years ago
An American football wide receiver played college football at the University of Alabama, where achieved significant success. Won the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship and received the Fred Biletnikoff Award in 2018 for being the nation's most outstanding receiver. Drafted by the Denver Broncos in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. In rookie season, recorded over 800 receiving yards and secured three touchdowns.
Continue ReadingAshleigh Barty
Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
April 24th, 1996 30 years ago
An Australian tennis player achieved significant success in the sport. Winning the Wimbledon title in 2021 marked a pinnacle in a career that included a strong presence on the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) tour. Victorious in the French Open in 2019, the player excelled on both hard and clay courts. A previous stint in professional cricket contributed to a well-rounded athletic profile. Transitioning back to tennis, the player quickly rose through the rankings, culminating in securing the world No. 1 spot in 2019.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 28th
Rory Calhoun
American actor in western films
Born
August 8th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1999 27 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent figure in American cinema, this actor's career spanned several decades. He starred in numerous western films during the 1950s and 1960s, establishing a reputation as a leading man. Collaborated with noted directors and appeared in several popular television series. His work extended to producing and writing, contributing to the creative landscape of the film industry.
Continue ReadingMarcia Brown
Children's book author and illustrator
Born
July 13th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2015 11 years ago — 96 years old
An American author and illustrator of children's literature, this individual created numerous beloved picture books. Much of the work focused on stories that highlighted cultural themes and moral lessons. Several of the books received recognition and awards, including the Caldecott Medal, which honors outstanding children's book illustrations.
Continue ReadingAntônio Abujamra
Brazilian actor and theater director
Born
1932 94 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2015 11 years ago — 83 years old
A prominent Brazilian theater director and actor, primarily recognized for contributions to Brazilian theater. Founded the company 'Os Pioneiros' to promote innovative performances. Directed and performed in numerous productions, notably the adaptations of works by playwrights such as Tennessee Williams and Bertolt Brecht. Worked extensively in television, featuring in popular series and movies, helping to shape contemporary Brazilian culture.
Continue ReadingMichael Collins
American astronaut and Apollo 11 pilot
Born
October 31st, 1930 95 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2021 5 years ago — 90 years old
An American astronaut played a key role in the Apollo 11 mission, which successfully landed the first humans on the Moon in 1969. Serving as the command module pilot, operated the command module Columbia while Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin explored the lunar surface. His contributions to space exploration extended beyond Apollo 11, with earlier missions including Gemini 10. Later, engaged in public advocacy for space exploration and education, emphasizing the importance of scientific progress.
Continue ReadingJames Hylton
Race car driver with NASCAR accomplishments
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2018 8 years ago — 84 years old
Accomplished American race car driver won the 1966 NASCAR Rookie of the Year award. Competed in the NASCAR Grand National Series and participated in multiple Daytona 500 races. Achieved notable success in the 1970s, finishing in the top ten in points standings several times. Recognized for longevity in racing, participating in races for over four decades until 2018. Continued to influence the sport through mentorship.
Continue ReadingJohn Singleton
Film director of 'Boyz n the Hood'
Born
January 6th, 1968 58 years ago
Died
April 28th, 2019 7 years ago — 51 years old
A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter gained recognition for directing the groundbreaking film 'Boyz n the Hood' in 1991. The film was significant for its raw portrayal of life in South Central Los Angeles and addressed issues of race and violence. Singleton's work often explored themes related to African-American culture and identity. He became the first African-American to receive a Best Director Academy Award nomination for this debut feature. In addition to 'Boyz n the Hood', Singleton directed several other films, including 'Poetic Justice' and 'Shaft'. He also contributed to television, serving as a director and executive producer for the series 'Snowfall'.
Continue Reading