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
Samuel Ogbemudia
Nigerian army officer and politician
Born
September 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2017 9 years ago — 85 years old
An army officer and politician, contributions include service in the Nigerian Civil War and holding various governmental positions. Oversaw key political developments in Nigeria during the 1960s and 1970s, serving as the military governor of the Mid-West Region. Promoted infrastructure and social reforms in the region. Involved in shaping military and civil governance in Nigeria during a pivotal era.
Continue ReadingGeorge Blanda
American football player and kicker
Born
September 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2010 15 years ago — 83 years old
A professional football player participated in the National Football League (NFL) for 26 seasons, spending significant time with the Chicago Bears, Baltimore Colts, and Oakland Raiders. Blanda excelled as a quarterback and kicker, demonstrating versatility throughout his career. He was named to four Pro Bowls and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981. Blanda's longevity in the sport set records for pass attempts and touchdowns, contributing to his reputation as one of the game's greats. He played a pivotal role in the Raiders' success in the 1970s and is remembered for his leadership on the field.
Continue ReadingGerald Guralnik
American physicist and academic
Born
September 17th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2014 12 years ago — 77 years old
Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in particle physics. Worked on the development of the Higgs boson theory alongside others, which later influenced the discoveries at the Large Hadron Collider. Served as a professor at various academic institutions and published numerous papers on theoretical physics. Engaged in various initiatives to advance scientific research and education throughout a long academic career.
Continue ReadingEdgar Mitchell
Apollo 14 astronaut and lunar pilot
Born
September 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2016 10 years ago — 85 years old
Served as a NASA astronaut and participated in the Apollo 14 mission, which was the third successful manned mission to land on the Moon. Spent over nine hours on the lunar surface conducting scientific experiments and collecting samples. Prior to this, had a notable career in the U.S. Navy, achieving the rank of Captain and serving as a test pilot. After retirement from NASA, engaged in work focusing on consciousness research and co-founded the Institute of Noetic Sciences.
Continue ReadingJean-Claude Carrière
French actor and celebrated screenwriter
Born
September 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2021 5 years ago — 90 years old
Born in 1931, significant contributions to cinema came through collaboration with acclaimed directors such as Luis Buñuel. Wrote screenplays for films like 'The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie' and 'That Obscure Object of Desire'. Carrière acted in various productions, enhancing storyteller roles both in front of and behind the camera. His work spanned several decades, influencing French and international cinema. Carrière's literary contributions included several novels and essays, showcasing his multifaceted talent in storytelling.
Continue ReadingRobert B. Parker
Author of Spencer detective novels
Born
September 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2010 16 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 ReadingOther People Who Died on December 1st
Edward Heffron
American soldier during WWII
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2013 12 years ago — 90 years old
Served as a soldier in World War II with Easy Company, part of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. Participated in major battles including the D-Day invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. The actions of Easy Company during the war were depicted in the HBO miniseries 'Band of Brothers,' which showcased the challenges faced by the soldiers and their camaraderie. Heffron’s experiences contributed to the historical narrative of the American military during this period.
Continue ReadingArnie Robinson
American athlete, long jump champion
Born
April 7th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2020 5 years ago — 72 years old
An accomplished long jumper, excelled in athletics during the 1970s. Won a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Set a personal best of 8.35 meters during his career. Competed for the University of California, Los Angeles and won numerous championships at the collegiate level. Overcame numerous challenges to establish a prominent presence in the sport and contributed to the athletic community through mentorship.
Continue ReadingRob Blokzijl
Physicist and computer scientist
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 72 years old
Contributions spanned physics and computer science, emphasizing the development and understanding of communication networks. Played a significant role in establishing the science park at the University of Twente. Published extensively in the field of optical communications and was instrumental in advancing research methodologies. His work synthesized theoretical principles with practical applications in networking technologies.
Continue ReadingKen Berry
Actor in F Troop and Mayberry R.F.D.
Born
November 3rd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2018 7 years ago — 85 years old
An American actor, singer, and dancer, this individual became widely recognized through television and musical performances. Gained fame from roles in popular television shows such as 'F Troop' and 'Mayberry R.F.D.' The career included performances in musical theatre and guest appearances on various television series. Early career featured work in comedy and dramatic roles, showcasing versatility across genres. Later years included participation in various stage productions and a continued presence in television.
Continue ReadingGaylord Perry
Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher
Born
September 15th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
December 1st, 2022 3 years ago — 84 years old
This individual played in Major League Baseball for 22 seasons, primarily as a pitcher. A two-time Cy Young Award winner, achieved success with the San Francisco Giants, Cleveland Indians, and other teams. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991. Known for unique pitching styles, including the use of spitballs, contributed to a career total of over 3,500 strikeouts. Also served as a coach after retiring from playing, influencing new generations of pitchers.
Continue ReadingJovan Belcher
American football player, linebacker
Born
1987 39 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.
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