Pauline Viardot
Soprano and composer, sang in La Traviata
Born in Paris, a celebrated soprano and composer emerged from a musical family. Initially studied under prominent vocal coaches, quickly gained recognition for exceptional vocal talent and stage presence. Collaborated with notable composers, contributing to the opera repertoire. Created leading roles in various original operas, including her own compositions. In addition to performing, focused on teaching and fostering new talent, establishing a lasting influence on vocal performance. Established vocal techniques that are still referenced today.
Performed the title role in La Traviata
Composed several operas, including Le Dernier Sorcier
Taught notable opera singers, including Emma Calvé
Other People Born on July 18th
Canelo Álvarez
Professional boxer and multiple champion
Born
July 18th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in Mexico in 1990, this professional boxer gained prominence in the sport through a series of successful title fights. He captured multiple world championships in different weight classes, showcasing remarkable skill and dedication. A significant career highlight occurred in 2018 when he won the WBA (Super), WBC, and The Ring middleweight titles against Gennady Golovkin, a bout that solidified his status as a premier boxer. In addition to his achievements in the ring, he also became a celebrated figure in boxing culture globally, contributing to the popularity of the sport in his homeland and abroad.
Continue ReadingShane Horgan
Irish rugby player and sportscaster
Born
July 18th, 1978 47 years ago
Played rugby union primarily as a winger for the Irish national team and Leinster Rugby. Featured in three Rugby World Cups and achieved significant success at the club level, including winning the Heineken Cup in 2009 with Leinster. Transitioned into sports broadcasting post-retirement, providing analysis and commentary for rugby-related events.
Continue ReadingDan O'Brien
Decathlete and Olympic gold medalist
Born
July 18th, 1966 59 years ago
Achieved success in the decathlon, winning multiple championships. Claimed the gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Set the world record for the decathlon in 1992, marking a significant achievement in the sport. Transitioned to coaching, sharing expertise with future athletes.
Continue ReadingJamie Benn
Ice hockey player, Dallas Stars captain
Born
July 18th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional ice hockey player, played as a left winger in the National Hockey League (NHL). Spent his entire NHL career with the Dallas Stars since being drafted in 2007. Served as the team captain and led on-ice strategies. Achieved significant success during the 2015-2016 season, winning the Art Ross Trophy as the league's leading scorer. Represented Canada in international competitions, including gold medal victories at the World Cup of Hockey and World Championships.
Continue ReadingDennis Lillee
Australian cricketer and coach
Born
July 18th, 1949 76 years ago
Debuted in international cricket in 1971 as a fast bowler. Played a key role in Australia's bowling attack during the 1970s and 1980s. Renowned for his distinctive bowling style and formidable pace. Achieved 355 Test wickets and was part of the Australian team that won the 1975 Cricket World Cup. After retiring, transitioned to coaching, mentoring future generations of cricketers.
Continue ReadingLee Tae-min
South Korean singer and actor from SHINee
Born
July 18th, 1993 32 years ago
Born in 1993, a prominent South Korean singer and actor gained recognition as a member of the boy band SHINee. The group debuted in 2008 and quickly rose to fame with hits such as 'Ring Ding Dong' and 'Lucifer,' showcasing a blend of pop and R&B. In addition to musical endeavors, ventured into acting, starring in the drama 'To the Beautiful You' and participating in various variety shows. Achieved success as a solo artist, releasing multiple albums and singles, further showcasing versatility and artistic development. The prominence in K-pop culture established a significant fanbase and widespread influence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 18th
Chukwuedu Nwokolo
Nigerian physician and academic leader
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old
Contributed to the field of medicine as a physician and academic, with a focus on clinical research and health care development in Nigeria. Worked extensively on advancing medical education and improving health services. Involved in numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the healthcare system and trained a generation of medical professionals. Participated in various workshops and conferences to share knowledge and expertise in the medical community.
Continue ReadingCharles Grodin
Actor and talk show host, 'Midnight Run'
Born
April 21st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2021 4 years ago — 86 years old
Grodin was an American actor and talk show host. He gained prominence for roles in films such as 'Midnight Run' and 'The Heartbreak Kid'. Grodin also hosted several talk shows, showcasing his unique style and wit. Throughout his career, he appeared in various television shows and films, garnering a dedicated fanbase. His work spanned several decades, making significant contributions to both film and television.
Continue ReadingJim Brown
American football player and actor
Born
February 17th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2023 2 years ago — 87 years old
An American football player and actor, celebrated as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. Played for the Cleveland Browns from 1957 to 1965, revolutionizing the position with his powerful running style and agility. Achieved three MVP awards and won the NFL Championship in 1964. Transitioned to acting after retirement, featuring in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Any Given Sunday'.
Continue ReadingChris Cornell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Soundgarden
Born
July 20th, 1964 61 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 52 years old
Cornell gained prominence as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the rock band Soundgarden, which played a key role in the 1990s Seattle grunge movement. The band achieved critical acclaim with albums like 'Superunknown' and 'Badmotorfinger'. In addition to his work with Soundgarden, he formed the band Audioslave, contributing to their success with hits like 'Like a Stone' and 'Cochise'. Cornell's solo career included the well-received album 'Euphoria Morning'. He was recognized for his powerful vocal range and emotional performances, earning multiple awards throughout his career including Grammys and an MTV Video Music Award. His contributions to music extended beyond his bands, with collaborations and contributions to soundtracks and tribute albums.
Continue ReadingPierre-Gilles de Gennes
Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate.
Born
October 24th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2007 18 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent physicist and academic, contributions focused on condensed matter physics and liquid crystals. Played a pivotal role in the development of the theory of liquid crystals and polymers. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1991 for discovering that methods developed for studying order phenomena in simple systems can be generalized to more complex forms of matter, in particular to liquid crystals and polymers.
Continue ReadingTony O'Reilly
Rugby player and businessman
Born
May 7th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
May 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
Played rugby union for Ireland and represented the British and Irish Lions on their 1959 tour to Australia and New Zealand. Transitioned to a successful business career, leading the H.J. Heinz Company as the managing director of its Irish operations. O'Reilly became a prominent media figure, acquiring a controlling interest in Independent News & Media, which published several major newspapers and media outlets in Ireland.
Continue Reading