Peter Mayhew
Actor best known as Chewbacca
An actor and former hospital orderly, gained fame for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Wars franchise, starting with the original film in 1977. Mayhew reprised the role in several sequels and spin-offs, including The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and Revenge of the Sith. The character became iconic in popular culture, recognized for its distinct personality and presence alongside Han Solo. Mayhew was known for his towering height, standing at 7 feet 3 inches, which contributed to the character's imposing yet friendly demeanor. Outside of his acting career, Mayhew engaged in charitable work, particularly with children’s hospitals.
Portrayed Chewbacca in Star Wars series
Appeared in the film Revenge of the Sith
Other People Born on May 19th
Arthur Gorrie
Hobby shop proprietor and entrepreneur
Born
May 19th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1992 33 years ago — 70 years old
Established a successful hobby shop that became a significant resource for enthusiasts in Australia. Provided a wide range of hobby supplies and fostered a community around various hobbies, including model making and gaming. The business served as a gathering place for hobbyists and contributed to the local culture of the area.
Continue ReadingBruce Bennett
Shot putter and actor in 'Mildred Pierce'
Born
May 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2007 19 years ago — 100 years old
Active in athletics during the early to mid-20th century, a prominent shot putter represented the United States in several international competitions. Achieved significant success at the 1920 Summer Olympics, earning a silver medal. Transitioned to a successful acting career, appearing in over 170 films. Most recognized for roles in 'Mildred Pierce' and 'The Treasure of the Sierra Madre'.
Continue ReadingTina Strobos
Dutch psychiatrist and physician
Born
May 19th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2012 14 years ago — 91 years old
Worked as a physician and psychiatrist, providing mental health care and treatment during and after World War II. Strobos participated in rescuing Jewish people from Nazi persecution in the Netherlands. After the war, continued medical practice and became an advocate for mental health awareness and treatment.
Continue ReadingDick Scobee
Astronaut and Space Shuttle Commander
Born
May 19th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
1986 40 years ago — 47 years old
Born in 1939, a pilot and astronaut served in the United States Air Force before joining NASA. Participated in several significant missions, including STS-41-C and STS-51-L, where he held the position of commander. During the latter flight, the Space Shuttle Challenger tragically disintegrated shortly after launch, resulting in the loss of all crew members. Scobee's contributions to space exploration and his leadership during missions are part of his legacy.
Continue ReadingDick Slater
Professional wrestler and wrestling promoter
Born
May 19th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2018 8 years ago — 67 years old
A professional wrestler and promoter, achieved recognition in the 1970s and 1980s. Competed in major wrestling promotions including World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Also contributed as a trainer to upcoming wrestlers throughout a long career spanning multiple decades. Gained a reputation for his technical wrestling skills and charismatic persona, influencing a generation of wrestlers.
Continue ReadingCarlos Guzmán
Mexican footballer, played for Santos Laguna
Born
May 19th, 1994 31 years ago
Born in 1994, a Mexican footballer primarily played as a defender. Developed through the youth ranks of Santos Laguna, made his professional debut in 2014 and became an integral part of the team. Contributed to the squad during the Liga MX seasons and participated in the CONCACAF Champions League. Known for his defensive skills and ability to read the game, also represented Mexico at various youth levels.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 30th
Alexander Dale Oen
Norwegian competitive swimmer and champion
Born
May 21st, 1985 40 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 26 years old
Became a prominent figure in Norwegian swimming, specializing in breaststroke events. Achieved significant recognition after competing in the 2004 Summer Olympics held in Athens. Won a gold medal at the 2012 World Swimming Championships in Istanbul, marking a high point in career. Additionally, earned multiple national titles and set several Norwegian records in swimming. Tragically passed away in 2012 while preparing for the upcoming Olympics, leading to an outpouring of tributes from the sports community and fans.
Continue ReadingLester Bangs
Music journalist and rock critic
Born
December 14th, 1948 77 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1982 43 years ago — 33 years old
A prominent figure in music journalism during the 1970s, known for engaging and often controversial writings on rock music. Contributed to notable publications such as Rolling Stone, Creem, and The Village Voice. Authored several books and essays, encapsulating the ethos of rock 'n' roll culture. Bangs often blended humor and criticism, championing artists while critiquing the industry. His influential style paved the way for future music critics and left a lasting legacy in the field.
Continue ReadingOnogawa Kisaburō
Sumo wrestler, 5th Yokozuna
Born
1758 268 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1806 219 years ago — 48 years old
Became the 5th Yokozuna in the history of sumo wrestling. Gained recognition for exceptional strength and skill in the sport during the Edo period. Competed in various tournaments and achieved significant victories against leading opponents. His wrestling style and techniques influenced the sport's development and training methods.
Continue ReadingPaul Auster
American novelist and essayist
Born
February 3rd, 1947 79 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2024 1 years ago — 77 years old
An American novelist, essayist, and poet, this writer has contributed significantly to contemporary literature. Known for exploring themes of identity, existentialism, and urban life, the author's work often blends mystery and metafiction. Notable works include the novels 'The New York Trilogy' and 'Moon Palace,' both of which exhibit a unique narrative style and philosophical depth. Besides fiction, the author has penned several essays that reflect on the nature of storytelling and the challenges of life.
Continue ReadingHarry Kroto
Chemist, Nobel Prize Laureate for C60
Born
October 7th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2016 9 years ago — 76 years old
Contributions included the co-discovery of fullerenes, a significant form of carbon. The work led to the award of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996 alongside colleagues. Held academic positions at various institutions, promoting research and education in the field of chemistry. Engaged in public science outreach and advocacy for science education.
Continue ReadingBenzion Netanyahu
Historian and academic specializing in Jewish history
Born
March 25th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2012 13 years ago — 102 years old
An academic focused on Jewish history and the origins of the Spanish Inquisition, held several positions in Israeli academia. Participated in research that elucidated the cultural and historic aspects of Jews in various contexts. Contributed to several scholarly publications and lectures that analyzed historical events and figures, particularly in relation to Jewish communities in Eastern Europe and Spain. Was active in teaching and influencing generations of students in the field.
Continue Reading