Nicolai Gedda
Operatic tenor with international acclaim
Acclaimed operatic tenor garnered recognition for a remarkable vocal range and the ability to perform in multiple languages. Made significant contributions to the opera world through numerous performances, particularly in roles such as the title character in Gounod's 'Faust' and Rodolfo in Puccini's 'La Bohème'. His career spanned over six decades, performing with leading opera houses globally, including the Royal Opera House and the Metropolitan Opera. Gedda also participated in numerous recordings, showcasing his vocal abilities in various operatic arias and songs, cementing his legacy in the world of classical music.
Performed at the Metropolitan Opera
Recorded a vast repertoire of operatic works
Portrayed leading roles in Gounod's 'Faust'
Other People Born on July 11th
Harold Bloom
American literary critic and scholar
Born
July 11th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
October 14th, 2019 6 years ago — 89 years old
A significant figure in literary criticism, a focus on canon formation defined much of the critical conversation. Bloom's work on the Western literary canon has influenced academic discourse on literature. Theories of influence and poetic interpretation feature prominently in writings. Authored notable texts such as 'The Anxiety of Influence' and 'The Western Canon.' Bloom taught for decades at Yale University, shaping the study of literature.
Continue ReadingN. E. Brown
English plant taxonomist specializing in succulents
Born
July 11th, 1849 176 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1934 91 years ago — 85 years old
Contributed extensively to the field of botany, particularly in the taxonomy of succulent plants. Authored several influential publications that helped classify numerous genera and species. Established the genus Aichryson and contributed to the understanding of Crassulaceae. Held a position at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, where significant botanical research was conducted.
Continue ReadingGreville Janner
Welsh-English lawyer and politician
Born
July 11th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
A prominent figure in British politics and law, served as a Labour Member of Parliament for 27 years. Involved in various legal and political causes, including children's rights and anti-racism initiatives. Held the title of Baron Janner of Braunstone, contributing to legislative developments and advocating for social justice.
Continue ReadingReg Varney
English actor and screenwriter
Born
July 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
November 16th, 2008 17 years ago — 92 years old
An English actor and screenwriter, this individual gained prominence for the role of Stan Butler in the television sitcom 'On the Buses'. The series, which aired from 1969 to 1973, centered around the comedic misadventures of a bus driver and his conductress. Beyond television, this person also starred in various films, including 'The Love Match' and 'The Man at the Top'. As a screenwriter, contributions include writing for multiple productions, showcasing a versatility in the creative field.
Continue ReadingGough Whitlam
Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
July 11th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2014 11 years ago — 98 years old
Served as the 21st Prime Minister of Australia from 1972 to 1975. Implemented significant social reforms and expanded the welfare state. Introduced policies for universal healthcare and access to education. Instrumental in abolishing the death penalty in Australia and reforming tax and social security systems.
Continue ReadingKentaro Miura
Manga artist of Berserk series
Born
July 11th, 1966 59 years ago
Died
May 6th, 2021 4 years ago — 54 years old
An influential manga artist, best recognized for creating the dark fantasy series Berserk, which began serialization in 1989. Miura's work is characterized by its intricate artwork and deep storytelling, exploring themes of fate, free will, and the human struggle. The series gained a dedicated fanbase and received critical acclaim over its long run. Miura also contributed to other works, including the manga King of Wolves and the game Thera's Advent. His influence extended beyond manga, inspiring various adaptations and works in anime and video games.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 8th
Buck Henry
American screenwriter and director
Born
December 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2020 5 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 ReadingRobert Baden-Powell
British General, Founder of Scouting
Born
February 22nd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1941 84 years ago — 83 years old
A British Army officer established the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides movements. After serving in several campaigns, including the Second Boer War, created a program that emphasized outdoor activities and community service. Founded The Scout Association in 1908, promoting skills in survival and citizenship among youth. His books on scouting included 'Scouting for Boys'.
Continue ReadingArthur Cockfield
English lawyer and politician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2007 18 years ago — 91 years old
Served as a prominent English lawyer and politician. Contributed significantly to business and innovation policies during tenure as Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills. Participated in various governmental reforms and initiatives aimed at improving economic conditions. Held important positions within the government, influencing legislative frameworks and policies related to business and industry.
Continue ReadingMelvin Calvin
Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry winner
Born
April 8th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1997 28 years ago — 85 years old
A prominent chemist and academic contributed to the understanding of the photosynthetic carbon fixation process. Research led to significant advancements in biochemistry and plant physiology. Served as a professor and researcher, influencing many students and future scientists through teaching and mentorship. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1961 for work on the Calvin cycle, a crucial biochemical pathway in photosynthesis.
Continue ReadingPatsy Garrett
Actress and singer from 'The Andy Griffith Show'
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old
An actress and singer achieved recognition through work in television and voice acting. Gained prominence for the role of Doris in 'The Andy Griffith Show' and later made appearances in various productions. Contributed vocal work for animated series, particularly known for portraying the character of 'Daphne' in 'Scooby-Doo' franchise adaptations. Involved in the entertainment industry for several decades, engaging in both acting and singing.
Continue ReadingArt Clokey
Animator of Gumby and animation pioneer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 8th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old
American animator created the character Gumby, an iconic stop-motion clay figure. Developed a distinctive style that utilized clay modeling, contributing significantly to the art of animation. Founded the production company Clokey Productions, producing educational and entertainment content. Directed and produced several animated shorts and television series throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. Gumby became a cultural icon, appearing in various merchandise, films, and spin-offs, which contributed to its popularity across generations.
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