Ozzie Nelson
American bandleader and actor
Bandleader and actor gained fame through the radio and television series The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. Featured prominently alongside wife Harriet Hilliard and sons David and Ricky in the show. The series ran from 1952 to 1966, becoming one of the longest-running sitcoms in American television history. Throughout the show's duration, maintained a successful music career while contributing to the television landscape of the era.
Created and starred in The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet
Led the Ozzie Nelson Band
Influenced family sitcom genre
Other People Born on March 20th
Sviatoslav Richter
Ukrainian pianist and composer, concert artist
Born
March 20th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 82 years old
This individual was a prominent Ukrainian pianist and composer, celebrated for exceptional artistry and technical mastery. Born in 1915, he made his debut in the 1930s and quickly gained recognition in the Soviet Union. His concert tours encompassed prestigious venues internationally, and performances included collaborations with esteemed conductors and orchestras. Renowned for interpretations of works by composers such as Beethoven, Chopin, and Rachmaninoff, his recordings remain highly regarded. He also contributed to contemporary music by premiering works composed specifically for him, influencing the landscape of classical music.
Continue ReadingDinos Christianopoulos
Greek poet and writer of notable verse
Born
March 20th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1931, a significant figure in modern Greek poetry. Developed a distinctive style that combined lyrical intensity with themes of love and longing. Many works reflect personal experiences and historical context. Publications include several collections of poetry which garnered attention in both Greece and abroad.
Continue ReadingGeorge Altman
American baseball player with the Cubs
Born
March 20th, 1933 92 years ago
A professional baseball player played primarily as an outfielder. Played in Major League Baseball from 1959 to 1968. Spent significant time with the Chicago Cubs and was a member of the 1962 All-Star team. Also played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets during his career.
Continue ReadingDavid Malouf
Australian author and playwright
Born
March 20th, 1934 91 years ago
An Australian author and playwright, celebrated for contributions to literature. Wrote novels, essays, and plays, often exploring themes of identity and belonging. Achieved critical acclaim and received numerous awards for literary work. Served as a significant voice in Australian literature, bringing attention to both personal and cultural narratives.
Continue ReadingJerry Reed
Singer-songwriter and actor in country music
Born
March 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in country music and film, this artist gained recognition for distinctive guitar playing and songwriting skills. Initiated a music career in the 1950s, producing hit songs such as 'When You're Hot, You're Hot' and 'East Bound and Down', the theme song for the movie 'Smokey and the Bandit'. Also acted alongside Burt Reynolds in that film and contributed to its soundtrack. Throughout the career, collaborated with other notable musicians and received several awards for contributions to the genre, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingBettye Washington Greene
Chemist and educator in chemistry
Born
March 20th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
1995 31 years ago — 60 years old
Born in 1935, a chemist and educator focused on chemistry, particularly in the areas of chemical research and education. Contributed to various projects aimed at enhancing science education. Played a significant role in promoting diversity in the sciences, advocating for increased representation of minorities in chemistry fields. Fostering science literacy among underrepresented students became a priority, alongside mentoring young scientists and supporting community educational initiatives.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 3rd
Frank Lautenberg
American politician and Senator
Born
January 23rd, 1924 102 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 89 years old
Served as a United States Senator from New Jersey from 1982 to 2001 and 2003 to 2013. Before entering politics, engaged in a successful career in the business sector, founding a transit company. Lautenberg authored significant legislative measures, including the Lautenberg Act, which expanded gun control for domestic abusers. He was a strong advocate for environmental protection, public health, and anti-terrorism measures during his tenure in the Senate. Lautenberg's work influenced various social policies and regulations during his time in office.
Continue ReadingMuhammad Ali
Boxer and civil rights activist
Born
January 17th, 1942 84 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2016 9 years ago — 74 years old
Renowned as one of the greatest boxers of all time, this individual earned the world heavyweight title three times. In the 1960s, he became a prominent figure for his stance against the Vietnam War, refusing military service on religious grounds and facing legal challenges. His boxing career included legendary bouts, such as the 'Fight of the Century' against Joe Frazier in 1971, and the iconic 'Rumble in the Jungle' against George Foreman in 1974. Beyond the ring, this individual advocated for civil rights and humanitarian causes throughout his life.
Continue ReadingJames Arness
American actor best known for Gunsmoke
Born
May 26th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 88 years old
This American actor had a prominent career in film and television. He achieved lasting fame through the role of Marshall Matt Dillon in the television series 'Gunsmoke', which aired for 20 years from 1955 to 1975. The series was one of the longest-running prime-time shows in U.S. television history. Additionally, he portrayed the title character in the iconic science fiction film 'The Thing' released in 1951. His career in Hollywood spanned several decades, transitioning from leading film roles to television stardom.
Continue ReadingAvi Beker
Political Scientist and Academic
Born
1951 75 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 64 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of political science and academia. Served as a professor and held various academic positions in Israel, focusing on international relations, peace studies, and conflict resolution. Authored several books and articles, discussing the implications of political decisions in the Middle East and global contexts. Engaged in various conferences and discussions pertaining to peace in the region.
Continue ReadingBrian Talboys
New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1921 105 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Served as New Zealand's 7th Deputy Prime Minister between 1975 and 1978. Held the position of Minister of Education and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries during the 1970s. Contributed to various educational reforms and agricultural policies. Played a significant role in the National Party's governance and policies during his tenure.
Continue ReadingAndrew Gold
Singer-songwriter known for "Thank You for Being a Friend"
Born
August 2nd, 1951 74 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 14 years ago — 59 years old
Born in 1951, this American singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence in the 1970s. Played key roles as a session musician and solo artist. Achieved significant recognition with the hit single "Thank You for Being a Friend," which became synonymous with the television series "The Golden Girls." Also produced music for artists like Linda Ronstadt and had his own charting songs. Continued to write and record music throughout his career until his passing in 2011.
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