Morton Downey Jr.

Talk show host and pop culture figure

Morton Downey Jr. - Performers & Entertainers born December 9th, 1933
Born
Died
Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A talk show host and singer-songwriter, gained prominence in the late 1980s with a controversial format focusing on confrontational and sensational topics. Hosted 'The Morton Downey Jr. Show,' which featured heated debates and unfiltered discussions, attracting a significant audience. The show became a precursor to later tabloid talk shows, setting a tone for sensationalist television. Downey also recorded several music albums, adding to his profile as a multi-faceted entertainer. His career was marked by both popularity and controversy, often engaging in public feuds and outspoken commentary.

Hosted 'The Morton Downey Jr. Show'

Recorded multiple music albums

Other People Born on December 9th

Gregorios Xenopoulos

Greek author and playwright
Born
December 9th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1951 75 years ago — 83 years old

An influential Greek author, journalist, and playwright. Contributed significantly to 20th-century Greek literature. Wrote novels celebrating the Greek landscape and culture, often depicting the struggles of ordinary people. His works include plays that were performed in theaters across Greece, enhancing the cultural dialogue of the time. Held various positions in literary and journalistic circles, actively engaging with contemporary political and social issues in Greece.

Continue Reading

Max Manus

Norwegian resistance leader during WWII
Born
December 9th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1996 30 years ago — 82 years old

Served as a key figure in the Norwegian resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II. Operated with the Oslo-based group, the Norwegian Special Operations Group, focusing on sabotage missions targeting German war efforts. Participated in high-profile operations, including the sinking of the German transport ship MV Donau and the bombing of the German-controlled infrastructure in Norway. Coordinated efforts that contributed to the overall resistance movement, significantly disrupting enemy operations. After the war, became an author, documenting experiences in a widely read autobiography.

Continue Reading

Dalton Trumbo

American screenwriter and author
Born
December 9th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1976 49 years ago — 70 years old

An American author and screenwriter, recognized for contributions to cinema and literature during the mid-20th century. Wrote screenplays for several acclaimed films, including 'Roman Holiday' and 'Spartacus'. Trumbo was a prominent member of the Hollywood Ten, facing significant challenges due to blacklisting resulting from his refusal to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee. His career was marked by a struggle for creative freedom amid political turmoil. The release of the film 'Trumbo' in 2015 highlighted his life and legacy, bringing renewed attention to his work and the Hollywood Blacklist.

Continue Reading

Buck Henry

American screenwriter and director
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2020 6 years ago — 89 years old

An influential screenwriter, director, and actor, contributions spanned the 1960s to the 2000s. Co-created and wrote for the television series "Get Smart," which became a cultural touchstone for comedic television. Directed films including "Heaven Can Wait" and "The Graduate," receiving critical acclaim and award nominations. Served as a frequent host of "Saturday Night Live," showcasing comedic talents and writing prowess.

Continue Reading

Metius

Dutch mathematician and astronomer
Born
December 9th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1635 390 years ago — 63 years old

A mathematician and astronomer contributed to the fields of trigonometry and astronomy. Developed a star catalog and worked on improving astronomical instruments. Associated with the introduction of a novel method for surveying. Helped in the advancement of mathematical techniques in the 17th century.

Continue Reading

Margaret Brundage

Illustrator of Weird Tales magazine
Born
December 9th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1976 50 years ago — 76 years old

An American illustrator gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s through illustrations for pulp magazines. Primarily associated with Weird Tales, Brundage created iconic cover art that defined the magazine's visual identity. Her work attracted attention for its dynamic and often fantastical imagery, contributing significantly to the fantasy genre. Brundage was one of the first female illustrators to gain recognition in a male-dominated field, highlighting the blend of art and storytelling in pulp fiction. Throughout her career, she faced both challenges and opportunities, ultimately establishing a lasting legacy within the pulp magazine industry, influencing future artists and illustrators.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 12th

Ganesh Pyne

Indian painter and Illustrator
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2013 13 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent painter and illustrator, contributions focused on painting, Indian mythology, and surrealism. Worked primarily with watercolors and oils, creating intricate and emotionally charged pieces. Exhibited in various national and international galleries, displaying distinct style and themes rooted in Indian culture. Received multiple accolades for artistic achievements throughout career, significantly influencing contemporary Indian art.

Continue Reading

Zoran Đinđić

Serbian politician and Prime Minister
Born
August 1st, 1952 73 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2003 23 years ago — 50 years old

Served as the 6th Prime Minister of Serbia from January 2001 until his assassination in March 2003. Focused on reforms and integration into the European Union. Played a vital role in the overthrow of Slobodan Milošević's regime in 2000. Promoted a pro-democratic environment and advocated for market-oriented economic policies.

Continue Reading

Willie Barrow

American minister and civil rights activist
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
March 12th, 2015 11 years ago — 91 years old

Ordained as a minister, contributed significantly to the civil rights movement. Worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in various campaigns, focusing on racial equality and social justice. Served as the national chairperson of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was actively involved in numerous organizations advocating for the rights of African Americans. Barrow's efforts included addressing issues such as voting rights, education, and economic inequality, emphasizing grassroots activism and community organization.

Continue Reading

William Heinesen

Faroese author and poet
Born
1900 126 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1991 35 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in Faroese literature, contributed significantly through poetry and prose. His works often reflected the landscape and cultural life of the Faroe Islands. Published several novels and collections of poetry, garnering respect in both national and international literary circles. Served in various roles during World War II and contributed to the cultural life of the Faroe Islands post-war through writings that captured the essence of island life.

Continue Reading

Eugene Lindsay Opie

Pathologist known for diabetes research
Born
1873 153 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1971 55 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent American physician and pathologist, contributions to the understanding of diabetes were significant. Published influential research on the pathology of diabetes mellitus, shedding light on the relationship between the condition and pancreatic pathology. Served as a consultant to various medical institutions and participated in numerous medical organizations, contributing to the field's knowledge. Educated and mentored many in the field of pathology, and played a key role in advancing medical education during his career.

Continue Reading

Stefan Dragutin

Serbian King and noble ruler
Died
March 12th, 1316 710 years ago — None years old

Became King of Serbia in 1282, ruling until 1316. Established territorial expansion and influence for Serbia during the late medieval period. His reign was marked by conflict with neighboring kingdoms and internal power struggles. Adopted a Catholic faith, which introduced religious changes in a predominantly Orthodox region. Led military campaigns against the Kingdom of Hungary and maintained regional power through strategic alliances.

Continue Reading