Mitzi Gaynor
Actress and dancer from 'South Pacific'
An American actress, singer, and dancer, gained prominence during the 1950s and 1960s. Starred in the Broadway musical 'South Pacific' and the film adaptation of the same name in 1958. Appeared in several other musicals including 'Anything Goes' and 'There’s No Business Like Show Business'. Hosted numerous television specials and earned acclaim for live performances. Received a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of contributions to the entertainment industry.
Starred in 'South Pacific'
Hosted multiple television specials
Other People Born on September 4th
Denis Lindsay
South African cricketer and referee
Born
September 4th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 66 years old
Played as a wicketkeeper-batsman for South Africa in international cricket during the 1960s. He participated in seven Test matches from 1963 to 1967 and contributed significantly to the team with both his batting and wicketkeeping skills. After retiring from international cricket, he became an influential cricket referee, officiating in numerous international matches. His deep understanding of the game and experience as a player informed his refereeing decisions, earning respect within the cricketing community.
Continue ReadingBill Kenwright
Actor and Theatre Producer
Born
September 4th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 78 years old
An English actor, singer, and producer, this individual gained prominence through a successful career in theatre. Founded a production company that became renowned for staging successful theatre productions, including adaptations of classic works and original plays. Held the position of chairman for a prominent football club and was involved in various charitable endeavors throughout the career.
Continue ReadingDawn Fraser
Swimmer and Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 4th, 1937 88 years ago
A prominent Australian swimmer, achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, winning three gold medals in freestyle events. Set multiple world records during her career, becoming the first woman to swim 100 meters under one minute. Transitioned to a career in politics after retiring from swimming, serving in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly.
Continue ReadingFrank White
Baseball player and politician
Born
September 4th, 1950 75 years ago
Played as a second baseman for the Kansas City Royals from 1973 to 1990. Contributed to the team's success by helping secure the 1985 World Series Championship. After retiring from baseball, entered politics and served as the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri. Advocated for sports and education initiatives during the tenure in office.
Continue ReadingMerald "Bubba" Knight
American singer with Gladys Knight & the Pips
Born
September 4th, 1942 83 years ago
Born in 1942, a prominent American singer, part of the group Gladys Knight & the Pips. The group achieved significant success in the 1960s and 1970s with a blend of R&B and soul music. The group’s first major hit was "Midnight Train to Georgia," which won a Grammy Award. They also released numerous other successful singles, establishing a legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingMarita Ulvskog
Swedish politician, Deputy Prime Minister
Born
September 4th, 1951 74 years ago
Served as a prominent figure in Swedish politics and held the office of Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2003. Engaged in various political roles including Minister for Culture and Minister for Education. Played a key role in shaping cultural and educational policies during the early 2000s.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 17th
Giovanni Gronchi
Italian politician, 3rd President of Italy
Born
September 10th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1978 47 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 3rd President of Italy from 1955 to 1962. Played a significant role in the Italian political landscape during the mid-20th century. Held various positions within the Italian government, including Minister of Posts and Telecommunications. Focused on fostering relationships with other countries and contributing to European integration.
Continue ReadingCharlie Townsend
English cricketer and lawyer
Born
November 7th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 67 years ago — 81 years old
Achieved significant recognition in the sport of cricket during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Played for Essex and participated in 10 Test matches for England between 1902 and 1908. Developed a reputation as a formidable batsman and skilled fielder. After retiring from cricket, pursued a career in law, becoming a barrister and contributing to legal practices in London.
Continue ReadingJoan Hickson
English actress most known for Miss Marple
Born
August 5th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1998 27 years ago — 92 years old
An English actress with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence for portraying Miss Marple in the television adaptations of Agatha Christie's detective novels during the 1980s and 1990s. Appeared in various stage productions and films, showcasing a wide range of character roles. Received acclaim for performances in both the West End and on screen, establishing a strong presence in British theatre and television. Continued to work into her later years, earning respect and admiration from peers and audiences alike.
Continue ReadingNicholas Metropolis
American mathematician and physicist
Born
June 11th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1999 26 years ago — 84 years old
This individual contributed significantly to the development of computational techniques in physics. Involved in the Manhattan Project, played a key role in the creation of the first atomic bomb. Later, worked on the Monte Carlo method, a statistical approach used for numerical calculations. Held academic positions, influencing generations of mathematicians and physicists through teaching and mentorship. Collaborated with numerous notable scientists during a career that spanned several decades.
Continue ReadingRehavam Ze'evi
Israeli general and Minister of Tourism
Born
June 20th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
October 17th, 2001 24 years ago — 75 years old
Born in 1926, a general who served in the Israel Defense Forces and later entered politics. As the 9th Minister of Tourism, played a significant role in shaping Israeli tourism policy. His military career included key positions during pivotal conflicts such as the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War. Transitioned to the Knesset and became a prominent figure in the National Religious Party. Advocated for a strong security policy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Continue ReadingMargaret Mary Alacoque
French nun and mystic, sainted figure
Born
July 22nd, 1647 378 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1690 335 years ago — 43 years old
Born in France in 1647, dedicated life to religious service and mystical experiences. Joined the Visitation Order and became a significant figure in promoting devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Spent years facing trials and illnesses but continued to receive visions that reinforced her beliefs. Canonized in 1920 for contributions to Catholic spirituality, particularly in fostering the understanding of Jesus' love for humanity. Founded several convents and inspired many through writings and teachings on the Sacred Heart.
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