Malik Bendjelloul
Film director of 'Searching for Sugar Man'
Bendjelloul was a Swedish director and producer. He gained recognition for the documentary 'Searching for Sugar Man', which explored the life of musician Rodriguez and his unexpected fame in South Africa. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2012 and received critical acclaim. It was awarded the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2013. Bendjelloul's approach combined storytelling with a deep exploration of music's impact on culture and society.
Directed 'Searching for Sugar Man'
Won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature
Other People Born on September 14th
Benjamin Ingrosso
Swedish singer and songwriter
Born
September 14th, 1997 28 years ago
Began a music career at a young age, releasing debut singles that achieved commercial success. Gained wider recognition by participating in the Swedish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, where a performance led to a strong showing in 2018. Released multiple singles and an album that charted well. Established a following due to engaging performances and catchy pop melodies.
Continue ReadingJim Fanning
Baseball player and manager
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
April 25th, 2015 11 years ago — 87 years old
A baseball player and manager, Fanning's career spanned both the Major Leagues and the Minor Leagues. Fanning played as a catcher for the Chicago Cubs and later transitioned into a managerial role. Significant managerial tenure included overseeing the Montreal Expos from 1981 to 1984. Under Fanning's leadership, the Expos secured a franchise record of 95 wins during the 1981 season, which resulted in a postseason appearance. His contributions to baseball were notable in both player development and strategic game management.
Continue ReadingGary Harris
Basketball player with NBA success
Born
September 14th, 1994 31 years ago
Played college basketball at Michigan State University before entering the NBA Draft. Selected by the Chicago Bulls in the first round and immediately traded to the Denver Nuggets. Played multiple seasons with the Nuggets, contributing to the team's playoff runs. Known for scoring ability and strong defensive skills. Won a gold medal with the USA Basketball team at the FIBA U19 World Championship in 2013.
Continue ReadingDeshaun Watson
American football quarterback
Born
September 14th, 1995 30 years ago
Played college football at Clemson University, leading the team to a national championship in 2016. Drafted by the Houston Texans in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Became the youngest quarterback to start in an NFL playoff game in 2018. Achieved Pro Bowl selections in 2018 and 2019. Traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2022.
Continue ReadingHan
Rapper in K-pop group Stray Kids
Born
September 14th, 2000 25 years ago
A South Korean rapper and member of the boy group Stray Kids, active since the group's debut in 2018. The artist contributed to the songwriting and production of many tracks, showcasing a strong presence in the K-pop scene. The group's music incorporates various genres, gaining international recognition. The artist's skills in rap and performance have garnered a substantial fanbase.
Continue ReadingMartin Fourcade
French Olympic biathlete champion
Born
September 14th, 1988 37 years ago
Born in 1988, a prominent biathlete competed for France. Achieved significant success at World Championships and the Olympic Games. Secured multiple gold medals in both individual and relay events, showcasing exceptional performance in the sport. Extensive participation in World Cup circuits solidified standing as one of the leading athletes in biathlon during the peak competitive years.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 13th
Franz Kline
Abstract Expressionist painter
Born
May 23rd, 1910 116 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1962 64 years ago — 51 years old
An American painter and academic played a pivotal role in the Abstract Expressionism movement. Influenced by gestures and action painting, created large-scale works characterized by bold black strokes against a white background. Worked primarily with oil and developed a unique style that emphasized spontaneity and emotional intensity. Participated in the New York art scene and exhibited with other prominent artists of the time. Held teaching positions at several institutions and contributed to the education of future generations of artists.
Continue ReadingSamm-Art Williams
American playwright with acclaimed works
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 78 years old
A playwright and screenwriter, contributions spanned theater and film. Developed works that highlighted African American experiences and narratives. Gained recognition for the play 'Home', which depicted the struggles of a returning Vietnam veteran. Served as a scriptwriter for various television productions, showcasing talent in creating relatable and poignant characters. Engaged in the arts community through multiple workshops and mentorship programs.
Continue ReadingEarl Averill
Baseball player, All-Star outfielder
Born
May 21st, 1902 124 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2015 11 years ago — 112 years old
Played as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1929 to 1941. Averill debuted with the Cleveland Indians and later played for the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox. Earned a reputation as a power hitter and was selected as an All-Star multiple times. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975.
Continue ReadingCyril Wecht
Forensic pathologist and expert witness
Born
1931 95 years ago
Died
May 13th, 2024 2 years ago — 93 years old
A forensic pathologist served in multiple high-profile cases and provided expertise in over 40,000 autopsies. Contributed to various notable legal cases, including the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and the death of Elvis Presley. Held academic positions, including as a professor and established a career as a medical consultant for law enforcement agencies. Authored numerous publications on forensic pathology and offered services as an expert witness in court, often testifying in complex legal matters.
Continue ReadingJoseph Henry
American physicist and engineer known for electromagnetism
Born
December 17th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1878 148 years ago — 80 years old
A prominent American physicist and engineer, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. His research laid foundational principles for the development of the telegraph and other electrical devices. Henry made substantial advancements in the understanding of self-induction and mutual induction, which are crucial for the operation of inductors in electrical circuits. He also served as the first Director of the National Institute for the Promotion of Science, now part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. An influential figure in the scientific community, engaged in extensive correspondence with contemporaries such as Michael Faraday.
Continue ReadingJohan van Oldenbarnevelt
Dutch politician and statesman
Born
September 14th, 1547 478 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1619 407 years ago — 71 years old
A leading figure in the early Dutch Republic, played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Dutch state during the Eighty Years' War. Served as the Advocate of Holland from 1586 until 1619, overseeing significant political and military developments. Was instrumental in forming alliances and negotiating peace, influencing the political landscape of the era. His conflict with Maurits of Nassau, leading military commander, culminated in a power struggle that significantly affected the Dutch Republic's governance.
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