Peter Benchley

American author of Jaws

Peter Benchley - American author of Jaws
Born

May 8th, 1940
85 years ago

Died

February 11th, 2006
19 years ago — 65 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American author and screenwriter, notable for writing the thriller novel 'Jaws' published in 1974. The book depicts the story of a monstrous great white shark that terrorizes a beach town. The novel's immense popularity catapulted it to the top of bestseller lists and led to a major film adaptation directed by Steven Spielberg in 1975, which became a cultural sensation and established the summer blockbuster phenomenon. Benchley also wrote several other novels, including 'The Deep' and 'Beast', and served as a screenwriter for various movies. Beyond literature, Benchley became an advocate for ocean conservation.

Wrote the novel Jaws

Screenwriter for the Jaws film adaptation

Authored novels like The Deep and Beast

Other People Born on May 8th

Bill Cowher

American football coach and analyst
Born
May 8th, 1957 68 years ago

A former American football player and coach, gained recognition as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1992 to 2006. Led the team to victory in Super Bowl XL in 2006. Prior to coaching, played as a linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles. After retiring from coaching, transitioned into a career as a sports analyst, providing insights on NFL broadcasts.

Continue Reading

Edward Tompkins

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 8th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1872 153 years ago — 57 years old

Practiced law in New York and served in the state assembly. Played a significant role in advancing state legislation. Contributed to local government as a prominent figure within the community. Engaged in various legal matters throughout his career, showcasing expertise in law and governance.

Continue Reading

William Cavendish

English politician and Prime Minister
Born
May 8th, 1720 305 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1764 260 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1720, held the title of 4th Duke of Devonshire. Served as Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1756 to 1757 during the Seven Years' War. His administration struggled with military challenges and faced a turbulent political atmosphere. The duke served as a member of the Whig party, holding various political positions prior to premiership, including Lord Chamberlain and a role in the Board of Trade. His tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived, marked by the challenges of the war and political dissatisfaction. Cavendish was influential in the politics of his time, engaging in discussions regarding military strategy and international relations.

Continue Reading

Toni Tennille

Singer-songwriter, The Captain & Tennille
Born
May 8th, 1940 85 years ago

A singer-songwriter and keyboard player rose to prominence in the 1970s as part of the duo The Captain & Tennille. The duo gained widespread popularity with the hit single 'Love Will Keep Us Together,' which won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1976. Their musical style blended pop and soft rock, leading to several chart-topping albums during their career. Besides their musical contributions, they hosted their own television variety show, showcasing their talents to a broader audience. Tennille has also released solo work, including a self-titled album and various singles, further establishing her presence in the music industry.

Continue Reading

Lars Eller

Ice hockey player with Stanley Cup win
Born
May 8th, 1989 36 years ago

A professional ice hockey player from Denmark, this athlete played as a center in the National Hockey League (NHL). Debuting in the NHL, he played for teams including the St. Louis Blues and the Washington Capitals. Achieving significant success, the player contributed to the Capitals' victory in the 2018 Stanley Cup, marking a historic moment for the franchise. Throughout his career, the player showcased skills in both offensive play and defensive responsibilities, establishing a reputation as a reliable two-way player.

Continue Reading

David Keith

Actor in 'An Officer and a Gentleman'
Born
May 8th, 1954 71 years ago

Born in 1954, this American actor and director began his career in the entertainment industry in the late 1970s. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'An Officer and a Gentleman' and 'The Great Santini'. Also appeared in notable television series including '24' and 'Sons of Anarchy'. In addition to acting, directed multiple film and television projects, showcasing versatility in the industry.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on February 11th

Tom Lantos

American politician and Holocaust survivor
Born
February 1st, 1928 97 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Hungary, a Holocaust survivor migrated to the United States. Served as a Democratic member of the House of Representatives from California from 1981 to 2008. Advocated for human rights and international relations, especially concerning Eastern Europe and the Balkans. Lantos was instrumental in the establishment of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, promoting awareness of human rights abuses. He contributed significantly to discussions on U.S. foreign policy and the need for humanitarian efforts globally.

Continue Reading

Alexander Griboyedov

Russian playwright and composer of Woe from Wit
Born
January 15th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1829 196 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1795, a Russian playwright, composer, and poet contributed significantly to Russian literature and drama. Best known for the comedy 'Woe from Wit', this work satirizes the social norms and politics of the era. In addition to playwriting, engaged in diplomatic service, serving in Persia, where his life concluded tragically. This figure left a lasting influence on the development of Russian theatre.

Continue Reading

Carl Michael Bellman

Swedish poet and composer of Bacchanals
Born
February 4th, 1740 285 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1795 230 years ago — 55 years old

Born in Sweden in 1740, a prominent poet and composer emerged during the late 18th century, contributing significantly to Swedish literature and music. The body of work includes the well-known collection of songs and poems titled 'Fredmans Epistlar' and 'Fredmans Sånger.' These compositions, characterized by their vivid imagery and emotional depth, captured the spirit of his time, blending classical influences with Swedish folk traditions. Often celebrated for their reflections on life, love, and the human condition, these works remain influential in Swedish cultural history.

Continue Reading

Roger Hanin

French actor and director of 'Navarro'
Born
October 20th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 89 years old

An actor, director, and screenwriter from France. Gained prominence through performances in television series and films, particularly memorable for portraying police chief Navarro in the long-running French show 'Navarro'. Directed several films, demonstrating a wide range of creative talents. Worked in theater and was active in promoting French cinema throughout a career spanning over five decades.

Continue Reading

Sorrell Booke

Television and film actor and director
Born
January 4th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1994 31 years ago — 64 years old

Achieved prominence as an actor and director, with a career spanning multiple decades. Gained recognition for the role of Boss Hogg in the television series 'The Dukes of Hazzard'. Also had significant roles in film, including appearances in 'The Longest Yard' and 'The Fixer'. Contributed to various theater productions and engaged in voice acting for animated series. Directed stage plays and cultivated a reputation in the performing arts.

Continue Reading

Estelle Bennett

American singer and Ronettes member
Born
July 22nd, 1941 83 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2009 16 years ago — 67 years old

Active during the 1960s and 1970s, she was part of the girl group The Ronettes, which was influential in the pop and rock music scene. Their hit single "Be My Baby" became an iconic song of the era and helped pave the way for future girl groups. The Ronettes were known for their distinctive sound, style, and their association with producer Phil Spector. After the group's initial success, she faced challenges but continued contributing to music, including some solo performances and collaborations. The group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing their influence on music and culture.

Continue Reading