Paul Benedict
Actor known for The Jeffersons
An American actor, recognized for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through the portrayal of Harry Bentley on the CBS sitcom The Jeffersons. Made appearances in various television shows including All in the Family and The Twilight Zone. Featured in films such as The Goodbye Girl and The Man Who Fell to Earth. Apart from acting, engaged in directing and voice work, contributing to the performing arts.
Portrayed Harry Bentley in The Jeffersons
Appeared in All in the Family
Featured in The Goodbye Girl
Other People Born on September 17th
David Souter
American Supreme Court Justice
Born
September 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1990 to 2009. Nominated by President George H.W. Bush, decisions reflected a moderate judicial philosophy. Prior to the Supreme Court, held positions on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit and served as Attorney General of New Hampshire. Retired from the Supreme Court, leaving a legacy of significant legal rulings.
Continue ReadingRobert B. Parker
Author of Spencer detective novels
Born
September 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 15 years ago — 77 years old
An American author and academic, this individual gained prominence for creating the iconic detective character Spencer, appearing in a series of novels that began in the 1970s. The Spencer series showcased a mix of traditional mystery elements with a modern, hard-boiled style. Beyond this, the individual wrote several other book series, including those featuring Jesse Stone and Sunny Randall. The prolific writer's works contributed significantly to the crime fiction genre, and many were adapted into television films. Academic pursuits included teaching writing at the university level, further influencing the next generation of authors.
Continue ReadingNigel Boocock
Motorcycle racer, competed in the GP
Born
September 17th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 78 years old
Born in England, a prominent motorcycle racer competed in Grand Prix motorcycle racing during the 1950s and 1960s. Relocated to Australia where continued racing. Achieved notable success in various competitions and was recognized for skill in speedway racing, particularly in the 1960s. Career included participation in several international events and earned respect in the motorcycle racing community.
Continue ReadingGilberto Parlotti
Motorcycle racer winning 1968 Isle of Man
Born
September 17th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1972 53 years ago — 31 years old
A prominent motorcycle racer specialized in road racing, particularly at the Isle of Man. Competed for various teams during the 1960s, showcasing exceptional skills on challenging circuits. Achieved significant placement in numerous prestigious events. Established a reputation through relentless determination and technical proficiency while racing.
Continue ReadingClaude Provost
Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
September 17th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1984 41 years ago — 50 years old
A prominent ice hockey player, had a successful career primarily with the Montreal Canadiens in the National Hockey League. Played as a right winger and contributed significantly to the team's success during the 1950s and 1960s. Actively participated in five Stanley Cup championships with the Canadiens. Later played for the Minnesota North Stars before retirement. His legacy includes being recognized for excellence in a sport that demanded teamwork and skill.
Continue ReadingDavid Huddleston
American actor in 'The Big Lebowski'
Born
September 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 85 years old
An American actor appeared in numerous films and television series over a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for a role in the cult classic film 'The Big Lebowski' as the character Jeffrey Lebowski, also known as 'The Dude.' Other notable performances included roles in 'Blazing Saddles' and the television series 'The New Adventures of Old Christine.' Provided voice work in animated projects and utilized a distinct baritone voice for various characters.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Rick Majerus
Basketball coach and analyst, NCAA success
Born
1948 77 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 64 years old
Coached several college basketball programs, most notably the University of Utah, guiding the team to the NCAA championship game in 1998. In his coaching career, achieved more than 500 victories and was recognized with multiple coaching awards. Known for innovative offensive strategies and developing players. Also served as a television analyst for ESPN, sharing expertise on the game.
Continue ReadingAlvin Ailey
Choreographer and founder of Ailey American Dance Theater
Born
January 5th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 58 years old
Ailey established a significant presence in American dance, focusing on African-American cultural experiences. He founded the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1958, which became a leading company in modern dance, showcasing a repertoire that celebrated African-American heritage. Ailey's choreography often combined elements from African-American spirituals and modern dance styles. One of the most acclaimed works, 'Revelations,' premiered in 1960 and continues to be performed worldwide, highlighting themes of struggle and triumph. Ailey's innovative approach transformed the landscape of American dance and broadened the appeal of modern dance to include audiences from diverse backgrounds.
Continue ReadingTrevor Obst
Footballer and coach in Australia
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
Played Australian rules football and later transitioned into coaching. Had a notable playing career with the East Perth Football Club in the West Australian Football League. Led the East Perth Football Club as a senior coach, contributing to the development of players and tactics in the sport. Actively participated in promoting Australian rules football at various levels.
Continue ReadingJohn F. Kurtzke
Neurologist and academic specialized in MS
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old
Contributions to neurology focused primarily on multiple sclerosis (MS). Developed the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), widely used for assessing disability in MS patients. Authored over 250 scholarly publications and played a significant role in advancing clinical understanding of the disease. Engaged in research that influenced treatment protocols and management strategies for MS. Served as a professor at several medical institutions, educating future generations of neurologists and contributing to academic discourse on neurological disorders.
Continue ReadingJovan Belcher
American football player, linebacker
Born
1987 38 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2012 13 years ago — 25 years old
Played linebacker in the National Football League for the Kansas City Chiefs. Joined the team as an undrafted free agent in 2009. Contributed significantly to the Chiefs' defense during his tenure. Had a career-high 87 tackles in the 2011 season. Tragically passed away in December 2012.
Continue ReadingDimitrios Trichopoulos
Epidemiologist and oncologist, Harvard.
Born
December 9th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2014 11 years ago — 75 years old
This individual served as an epidemiologist and oncologist, significantly contributing to cancer research and public health. Educated in Greece, the academic career included a long tenure at Harvard University, where research focused on the connection between diet, lifestyle, and cancer incidence. This person co-authored various influential studies that underscored the importance of environmental factors in cancer development. The individual also engaged in global health initiatives, promoting cancer prevention strategies through educational campaigns and collaborations with international health organizations.
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