Oscar Levant
American pianist and composer
An accomplished pianist, composer, and actor, this individual gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Contributions to music included compositions for film and concert performances. Recognition also came from work in Hollywood, particularly for roles in films like 'The Barkleys of Broadway' and appearances on television shows such as 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Aside from performing, he was noted for his witty commentary and insights on the entertainment industry.
Composed music for films like 'The Bandwagon'
Performed in 'The Barkleys of Broadway'
Appeared on 'The Ed Sullivan Show'
Other People Born on December 27th
Max Lindholm
Finnish figure skater and competitor
Born
December 27th, 1990 35 years ago
Competed in figure skating at an elite level representing Finland. Participated in multiple international competitions, showcasing skills in various forms of artistic skating. Gained experience in both singles and pairs events, contributing to national and international team standings. Achieved personal best scores during championships and helped elevate the profile of Finnish figure skating on the global stage.
Continue ReadingJonathan Marchessault
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
December 27th, 1990 35 years ago
A prominent ice hockey player, this individual played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily as a forward. Drafted in 2011, the career path included stints with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Florida Panthers before joining the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017. Played a pivotal role in leading the Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. Achieved significant recognition for offensive performance and secured the Stanley Cup Championship in 2023 with the Golden Knights.
Continue ReadingChloe Bridges
Actress in The Carrie Diaries
Born
December 27th, 1991 34 years ago
This actress gained recognition for her role as Dalton Academy student Zoey in the television series 'The Carrie Diaries.' From a young age, started acting and quickly transitioned to television and film. Appeared in the film 'The Longshots' and participated in several television series, demonstrating versatility in different genres. Also starred in 'Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists' as a series regular, further establishing a foothold in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingAna Konjuh
Croatian tennis player and Grand Slam competitor
Born
December 27th, 1997 28 years ago
A professional tennis player from Croatia, achieved significant success on the junior circuit before transitioning to professional play. In 2014, won the US Open girls' singles title. Ranks among the top players in singles and doubles on the WTA tour. Reached the quarterfinals of the 2016 US Open, marking a career highlight in singles competition. Known for a powerful playing style and strong baseline game.
Continue ReadingMilos Raonic
Canadian tennis player, Wimbledon semi-finalist
Born
December 27th, 1990 35 years ago
A professional tennis player, achieved significant success on the ATP Tour. Gained prominence with strong serve and powerful groundstrokes. Reached the quarter-finals at the 2014 Australian Open and the semi-finals at Wimbledon in 2016. Ranked as high as World No. 3 in singles, marking a notable milestone in Canadian tennis history. Secured eight ATP singles titles during the career, showcasing consistent performance at various tournaments. Represented Canada in multiple Davis Cup competitions, contributing to the team's efforts at international levels.
Continue ReadingBeth Potter
Scottish triathlete and long-distance runner
Born
December 27th, 1991 34 years ago
Competed in triathlons and long-distance running events at various championship levels. Achieved recognition in multiple competitions including the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where she represented Great Britain in the triathlon. Prior to emerging in triathlon, held titles in long-distance running, showcasing talent in both track and field as well as road races.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 14th
William Stanley
English engineer and philanthropist
Born
February 2nd, 1829 197 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1909 116 years ago — 80 years old
Contributed significantly to the development of electrical technology during the 19th century. Created innovations in electrical transformers that improved power distribution. Founded the first company to manufacture transformers, which played a critical role in advancing the electrical industry. Engaged in philanthropic efforts to support education and the welfare of communities.
Continue ReadingJoe Kelley
Baseball Player and Manager
Born
December 9th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1943 82 years ago — 71 years old
Played Major League Baseball from 1891 to 1911, primarily as an outfielder. Managed teams such as the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Giants. Achieved a batting average of .317 and collected over 2,000 hits during his career. Transitioned to managing after the playing career ended.
Continue ReadingDavid Farragut
American admiral during Civil War
Born
July 5th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1870 155 years ago — 69 years old
An American naval officer served in the U.S. Navy during the American Civil War. Participated in key naval engagements, emphasizing the importance of naval power in achieving strategic objectives. Played a significant role in the capture of New Orleans in 1862 and commanded the Union fleet during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864. Recognized for the famous phrase "Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead!" during this critical battle, which contributed to a decisive Union victory.
Continue ReadingFrédéric Joliot-Curie
Nobel Prize-winning physicist
Born
March 19th, 1900 126 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1958 67 years ago — 58 years old
A prominent physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of nuclear physics. Developed the concept of artificial radioactivity along with a research partnership. Shared the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1935 for work on the synthesis of new radioactive elements. Engaged in various scientific and educational efforts throughout a distinguished career, emphasizing advancements in physical sciences.
Continue ReadingJules Romains
French author and poet
Born
August 26th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1972 53 years ago — 86 years old
An author and poet associated with the literary movement of Unanimism, which emphasized collective human experience. Created the characters of the 'Les Hommes de bonne volonté' series, a significant work spanning multiple volumes. Explored themes of society and human solidarity in various writings. Involved in the French literary and cultural scene throughout the 20th century.
Continue ReadingSpud Davis
Baseball player and manager, All-Star
Born
December 20th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1984 41 years ago — 79 years old
Played professional baseball primarily as a catcher. Competed in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1924 to 1935, representing teams including the Philadelphia Phillies and the St. Louis Cardinals. Selected for the MLB All-Star Game in 1934, showcasing exceptional skills behind the plate. Transitioned to coaching and managerial roles after playing, contributing to the sport's development at various levels.
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