Phil Donahue
Television talk show host and producer
A television talk show host and producer played a central role in pioneering the daytime talk show format. The career began in local television before launching a nationally syndicated program, 'The Phil Donahue Show', in 1970. The show became one of the longest-running talk shows in history, renowned for addressing controversial topics and encouraging audience participation. This innovative format set the stage for future talk shows and established a new genre of programming.
Created 'The Phil Donahue Show', running for 29 years
Introduced audience interaction in talk shows
Influenced many subsequent talk show formats
Other People Born on December 21st
Peter Mohyla
Ruthenian Orthodox metropolitan and saint
Born
December 21st, 1596 429 years ago
Died
1646 380 years ago — 50 years old
Born in 1596, a significant figure in the Ruthenian Orthodox Church. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of educational institutions, including the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. Focused on church reforms and the promotion of Orthodox Christianity in Eastern Europe. Engaged in theological debates and advocated for the unification of Orthodox and Catholic churches during a time of political turmoil. Passed away in 1647 and recognized as a saint in Eastern Orthodox Christianity.
Continue ReadingCharlie McAvoy
Ice hockey player for Boston Bruins
Born
December 21st, 1997 28 years ago
Professional ice hockey player played defense for the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted by the Bruins in the first round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. Contributed to the team reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2019 and participated in multiple playoff campaigns. Served as a key player on the defensive line, known for strong skating and passing skills.
Continue ReadingOtis
Professional wrestler, WWE Superstar
Born
December 21st, 1991 34 years ago
A professional wrestler with notable performances in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Rose to prominence as part of the tag team Heavy Machinery, which included his partner Tucker Knight. Achieved recognition for entertaining matches and charismatic personality. Competed in various high-profile events including WrestleMania, showcasing wrestling skills and comedic timing. Also held the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship, contributing to the division's popularity.
Continue ReadingMark Ingram II
American football player, 2011 Heisman Trophy winner
Born
December 21st, 1989 36 years ago
Played college football at the University of Alabama, where won the Heisman Trophy in 2009. Was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. Played running back for the Saints and contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XLIV. Later joined the Baltimore Ravens, where continued to excel in the running game. Known for powerful running style and ability to contribute in passing game. Retired with notable career achievements.
Continue ReadingLuke Brooks
Australian rugby league player
Born
December 21st, 1994 31 years ago
Played as a halfback in the National Rugby League (NRL) for the Wests Tigers. Made his first-grade debut in 2013 and quickly established himself as a key player for the team. Contributed to the Wests Tigers' attack with significant playmaking skills and tactical awareness. Selected for the NSW State of Origin squad in 2019, representing New South Wales at the elite level.
Continue ReadingBen Chilwell
Footballer, UEFA Champions League winner
Born
December 21st, 1996 29 years ago
A professional footballer played as a left-back for Chelsea in the Premier League. Developed through the youth system at Leicester City, made first-team debut in 2015. Contributed to Leicester's historic Premier League title in 2016. Transferred to Chelsea in 2020, where played a key role in securing the UEFA Champions League title in 2021. Additionally represented England at various youth levels before making senior national team debut in 2020.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 18th
Albert Murray
American author and literary critic
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
Contributed significantly to American literature through a focus on African American culture and identity. Developed a critical perspective that highlighted the connections between jazz and literary forms. Authored several influential works including 'The Omni-Americans' and 'South to a Very Old Place'. Worked as a critic and essayist, engaging with popular culture and literature through a reflective lens.
Continue ReadingJean Kahn
French lawyer and civil rights activist
Born
1929 97 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 12 years ago — 84 years old
Played a significant role in advocating for civil rights in France and worked with various organizations to promote social justice. Contributed to the legal framework regarding individual liberties and public policies. Engaged in numerous campaigns focused on minority rights, anti-racism, and civil liberties throughout a lengthy career in law. Held leadership positions in several human rights organizations and served on advisory panels concerning human rights issues.
Continue ReadingJesse Robredo
Filipino politician, Secretary of the Interior
Born
May 27th, 1958 67 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2012 13 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 23rd Secretary of the Interior and Local Government in the Philippines from 2010 until his death in 2012. Implemented significant reforms in local governance and promoted transparency and accountability in government operations. Prior to this, held the position of mayor of Naga City for over 19 years, where focused on urban development and community empowerment. Advocated for disaster risk reduction and emergency preparedness during his tenure. His leadership style and dedication to public service earned him respect throughout the nation.
Continue ReadingBruce Forsyth
Television host and entertainer
Born
February 22nd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
An English singer and television host, contributed significantly to entertainment over several decades. Gained widespread popularity through hosting the BBC show 'Strictly Come Dancing' and the game show 'The Generation Game'. His career spanned numerous roles in variety shows, showcasing talent in music and comedy. Built a reputation for engaging performances and charismatic presence on television, appealing to a wide audience base. Forsyth also participated in multiple theater productions and musical performances, demonstrating versatility in the entertainment field. His work led to numerous awards and honors recognizing a long-standing commitment to the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingGordon Faber
American politician and soldier, Mayor
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2014 11 years ago — 84 years old
Served as the 39th Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon, from 1993 to 2005. Had a distinguished career in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Colonel. Engaged in local politics following military service, contributing to community development and urban planning in Hillsboro. Remarkably oversaw significant growth and development in the city during tenure as mayor, focusing on infrastructure and public services. Involved in various local organizations and initiatives to enhance community well-being.
Continue ReadingAlain Delon
Actor, producer, screenwriter of French cinema
Born
November 8th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 1 years ago — 88 years old
An influential figure in European cinema, an actor, producer, and screenwriter emerged in the late 1950s. Gained prominence through roles in iconic films such as 'Purple Noon', 'The Leopard', and 'The Samurai'. Known for portraying complex characters with a firm yet charismatic demeanor. Produced several films and opened a production company. Contributed to fashion and style in cinema, becoming a cultural icon in France and beyond.
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