Norma Shearer
Canadian-American actress most famous for 'The Divorcee'
Born in Canada, one of early cinema's prominent actresses. Transitioned to Hollywood and gained fame during the 1920s and 1930s. Achieved significant success with roles in films such as 'The Divorcee', which won an Academy Award for Best Actress. Played pivotal roles in romance and drama films and became a leading lady at MGM Studios. Notable for her sophisticated on-screen presence and ability to portray complex characters. Contributed to the Golden Age of Hollywood, receiving accolades for performances and serving as a pioneer for women in film.
Starred in 'The Divorcee', winning an Academy Award
Appeared in 'Marie Antoinette'
Featured in 'The Barretts of Wimpole Street'
Other People Born on August 10th
V. V. Giri
Indian politician and 4th President
Born
August 10th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1980 45 years ago — 85 years old
Born in 1894, served as the 4th President of India from 1969 to 1974. Giri had a background in law, working as a lawyer before entering politics. Held various positions in the Indian government, including Minister of Labour and Governor of Uttar Pradesh. Played a significant role in advocating for labor rights and was involved in shaping policies during the post-independence era.
Continue ReadingWard Moore
American author of science fiction novels
Born
August 10th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1978 48 years ago — 74 years old
An American author specialized in science fiction, noted for contributions to the genre during the mid-20th century. Published several novels, with one of the most recognized being 'Bring the Jubilee,' which explored alternate histories. Also wrote 'The Last War,' depicting a post-apocalyptic world and societal themes. His interests in politics, history, and philosophy informed much of his writing, leading to a unique blend of speculative fiction and social commentary. Efforts in literary circles helped to pave the way for future science fiction narratives.
Continue ReadingBill Doolittle
American football player and coach
Born
August 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2014 12 years ago — 91 years old
Bill Doolittle was an American football player and coach. Doolittle played college football at the University of Maryland. Following a successful collegiate career, he transitioned into coaching, contributing to the development of future players. Doolittle's coaching career included notable stints at various colleges, where he focused on building competitive teams and developing strategies. His involvement in football spanned several decades, influencing the game at both player and coaching levels.
Continue ReadingRica Erickson
Botanist and botanical historian
Born
August 10th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
2009 17 years ago — 101 years old
A prominent Australian botanist and historian, Rica Erickson dedicated much of her life to the study of Australian flora. Significant contributions included extensive research on native plants and the development of a comprehensive publication on the topic. As an author, her works provided essential insights into the field of botany and the conservation of plant species. Erickson played a key role in promoting awareness and understanding of Australia's unique botanical heritage, participating in various botanical surveys and contributing to the education of future botanists.
Continue ReadingArne Tiselius
Nobel Prize-winning biochemist
Born
August 10th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1971 54 years ago — 69 years old
Born in Sweden, contributions to biochemistry are significant. Developed electrophoresis as a technique for separating proteins and other molecules based on their size and charge. In 1948, awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for work in protein chemistry and the development of methods for the separation of proteins, acids, and other molecules in blood and other fluids. Worked extensively in chromatography, furthering the understanding of molecular separation processes. Had a notable academic career, contributing to scientific research and education.
Continue ReadingKalevi Kotkas
High jumper and discus thrower
Born
August 10th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1983 42 years ago — 70 years old
Born in 1913, competed in athletics, specializing in high jump and discus throw. Represented Estonia and Finland in several international competitions. Achieved significant success in the 1930s and 1940s, participating in European championships. Notable for strong performances in both disciplines, contributing to Estonia's athletic prominence during that era.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 12th
Phil Bennett
Race car driver, British Touring Car Champion
Born
October 6th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2022 4 years ago — 50 years old
An accomplished race car driver, achieved prominence in the British Touring Car Championship. Competed with various teams throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, earning a reputation for skillful handling of vehicles on challenging circuits. Secured the British Touring Car Championship title, demonstrating consistent performance and strategic racing techniques. Raced for teams such as Renault and Volvo, showcasing versatility across different racing categories. Retired from professional racing but remains active in motorsport commentary and analysis.
Continue ReadingJerry West
Basketball player and executive Hall of Famer
Born
May 28th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2024 2 years ago — 86 years old
An accomplished basketball player and executive, this individual played as a guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA) primarily for the Los Angeles Lakers. Renowned for his scoring ability and defensive skills, he earned the nickname 'Mr. Clutch' for his performance in critical moments. His career with the Lakers included winning the NBA Championship in 1972, where he was also named the Finals MVP despite his team winning the title. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into a successful career as a coach and executive, contributing to the Lakers' roster as a general manager and later with the Golden State Warriors. His blueprint for talent evaluation and team building earned him respect throughout the basketball community.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Nuti
Italian actor and film director
Born
1955 71 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2023 3 years ago — 68 years old
An influential figure in Italian cinema, contributions spanned acting, directing, and writing. Established a career in the 1980s, often portraying complex characters in comedies and dramas. Directed a number of films predominantly in the 1990s, earning acclaim for works that blended humor with poignant themes. Achieved noteworthy success with films that resonated with both audiences and critics in Italy. Struggled with personal challenges in later years but left a lasting mark on the Italian film industry.
Continue ReadingJon Hiseman
English drummer with Colosseum fame
Born
June 21st, 1944 82 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2018 8 years ago — 73 years old
A prominent drummer in the British progressive rock and jazz genres, contributions included founding the band Colosseum, which formed in 1968. The band released several notable albums, with 'Valentyne Suite' being a significant work that showcased innovative jazz-rock fusion. Hiseman also played with other influential musicians and bands throughout his career, including the groups Tempest and the band’s latter incarnation, Colosseum II. His style influenced many drummers in the jazz and rock scenes during the late twentieth century.
Continue ReadingTreat Williams
American actor in 'Hair' and 'Everwood'
Born
December 1st, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2023 3 years ago — 71 years old
An American actor became recognized for performances in film and television. Achieved prominence with the film 'Hair' in 1979, capturing attention for a musical role. Later starred in the television series 'Everwood', portraying a central character and receiving acclaim for the performance. Throughout his career, appeared in various films, including 'Deep Rising' and 'Prince of the City', showcasing versatility across genres. Contributed significantly to the entertainment industry with both comedic and dramatic roles, leaving a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingNicole Brown Simpson
Restaurant employee and murder victim
Born
1968 58 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1994 32 years ago — 26 years old
Born in 1959, worked in various restaurants and was previously married to NFL player O. J. Simpson. Resided in Los Angeles, where she became a significant figure in a high-profile criminal case. Brown Simpson was found murdered in 1994, and the case garnered extensive media attention and public interest, leading to one of the most publicized trials in American history.
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