Paul Williams

Singer and choreographer for The Muppets

Paul Williams - Singer and choreographer for The Muppets
Born

July 2nd, 1939
85 years ago

Died

August 17th, 1973
51 years ago — 34 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

A prominent figure in the music and entertainment industry, contributions include writing and performing hits for various artists and television shows. Williams co-wrote iconic songs such as "Rainbow Connection" and "Evergreen". As a choreographer, worked on projects for The Muppets, contributing to the show's distinctive style. Received an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Evergreen" from the film 'A Star Is Born'. Williams' career spans decades, during which involvement in television and film remains significant.

Co-wrote 'Rainbow Connection'

Won Academy Award for 'Evergreen'

Choreographed for The Muppets

Other People Born on July 2nd

Richard Axel

Neuroscientist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 2nd, 1946 78 years ago

A prominent neuroscientist and biologist, contributed significantly to the understanding of the olfactory system. Together with a colleague, developed the groundbreaking techniques that allowed for the discovery of a large family of genes responsible for detecting odors. Research provided insights into how the brain processes smells. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2004 for these pivotal contributions, advancing the field of molecular biology.

Continue Reading

Ahmad Jamal

Jazz musician and pianist
Born
July 2nd, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent jazz musician and pianist, contributions to the genre spanned over decades. Played with a unique style that blended various elements of jazz, leading to a distinctive sound. Instrumental in the development of modal jazz and collaborated with various notable artists. Gained widespread recognition for the album "At the Pershing: But Not for Me" which showcased innovative arrangements and a rich musical experience.

Continue Reading

Mutula Kilonzo

Kenyan lawyer and politician
Born
July 2nd, 1948 76 years ago
Died
April 27th, 2013 12 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, held the position of Minister of Education in Kenya. Worked tirelessly towards education reform and was instrumental in the introduction of policies aimed at improving educational standards in the country. Became a Member of Parliament for the Makueni constituency and championed various legislative initiatives. Played a significant role in legal advocacy within Kenya's political framework, contributing to the development of several key laws. Engaged in various community initiatives focused on local development and education.

Continue Reading

Maria Theresa of Austria-Este

Austrian Archduchess and Queen
Born
July 2nd, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1849, this Austrian Archduchess served as Queen of Hungary and Croatia. Marriage to Franz Joseph I of Austria occurred in 1867, solidifying her position within the Habsburg dynasty. The establishment of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1867 marked a significant political moment in her reign. She was instrumental in promoting cultural and social reforms in Hungary, contributing to the modernization of the region.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Reaser

Actress from 'Twilight' series
Born
July 2nd, 1975 49 years ago

An American actress achieved recognition for roles in television and film. Gained prominence through the portrayal of Esme Cullen in the 'Twilight' series. Appeared in the television series 'The Haunting of Hill House' and 'Grey's Anatomy'. Received critical praise for performances across various genres.

Continue Reading

Pierre Cardin

Fashion designer and space-age styles
Born
July 2nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2020 4 years ago — 98 years old

A significant figure in the fashion industry, this Italian-French fashion designer established a global brand that emphasized futuristic designs. Innovations included ready-to-wear collections that revolutionized fashion accessibility. The designer was among the first to license products and created a unique, recognizable aesthetic defined by geometric shapes and bold colors. The brand expanded into various markets, including furniture and fragrances, ensuring a lasting presence in the commercial world of fashion.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 17th

Władysław Komar

Polish shot putter and actor
Born
April 11th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1998 26 years ago — 58 years old

Accomplished in athletics, specialized in shot put. Competed in the Olympics, winning a bronze medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games. Transitioned into acting, gaining recognition in Polish cinema. Participated in popular films, contributing to the cultural landscape of Poland.

Continue Reading

Carloman

mayor of the palace of Austrasia
Died
August 17th, 754 1270 years ago — None years old

Served as mayor of the palace in Austrasia during the 8th century. Played a crucial role in the politics of the Frankish realm, particularly in the transition period leading to the Carolingian dynasty. Notable for managing relations with the church and securing alliances through marriages. His governance helped pave the way for the strengthening of royal authority in a time of significant change in the Frankish territories.

Continue Reading

Franco Sensi

Italian businessman and politician
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2008 16 years ago — 82 years old

A businessman and politician involved in the sports sector, influential in the management of a major football club. Served as president of AS Roma, overseeing significant successes during tenure. Engaged in various social initiatives, contributing to community development. Worked to promote the football club and enhance its reputation both locally and internationally.

Continue Reading

Arthur Hiller

Film director of Love Story fame
Born
November 22nd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2016 8 years ago — 92 years old

A Canadian-American director, notable for contributions to film and television, worked extensively in both media. Directed the classic romantic drama 'Love Story', which became a cultural phenomenon in the early 1970s. Hiller also directed 'The In-Laws' and 'Silver Streak', both of which received critical acclaim. Throughout a prolific career, he became involved in several television projects, showcasing his versatility in adapting stories across genres.

Continue Reading

Pearl Bailey

Actress and singer of 'Porgy and Bess'
Born
March 29th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1990 34 years ago — 72 years old

An American singer and actress, known for contributions to theater and music from the 1930s through the 1990s. Achieved acclaim for performances in Broadway productions, particularly in 'Porgy and Bess' and 'Hello, Dolly!'. Recorded a number of successful albums and became an influential figure in both the theater and music industries. Received a Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for 'Hello, Dolly!' in 1968. Recognized for her ability to engage audiences with charisma and talent while blending comedic and dramatic performances.

Continue Reading

Shaike Ophir

Israeli actor and screenwriter
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 58 years old

Ophir was an Israeli actor and screenwriter. He gained prominence in Israeli cinema and theater. Notable works include performances in films such as 'Sallah Shabati' and 'Kazablan.' Ophir also contributed to television series, bringing his talents to a broader audience. His career encapsulated some of the changing dynamics in Israeli culture and entertainment during his time.

Continue Reading