Phyllis Diller

Comedian and voice artist in 'The Jetsons'

Phyllis Diller - Comedian and voice artist in 'The Jetsons'
Born

July 17th, 1917
108 years ago

Died

August 20th, 2012
12 years ago — 95 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An American actress and comedian, gained recognition for a unique comedic style characterized by self-deprecating humor and eccentric persona. Started a career in the 1950s and made significant contributions to both stand-up comedy and television. Appeared in films such as 'The Pruitts of Southampton' and voiced the character of the hag in the animated series 'The Jetsons'. Diller also became a regular guest on various talk shows and entertained audiences with her distinctive laugh and energetic performances.

Voiced the character of the hag in 'The Jetsons'

Appeared in 'The Pruitts of Southampton'

Regular guest on talk shows such as 'The Tonight Show'

Other People Born on July 17th

Christina Stead

Australian author of The Man Who Loved Children
Born
July 17th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1983 42 years ago — 80 years old

An Australian author and academic, this individual gained prominence for literary works that explored complex human relationships and social issues. The most acclaimed novel, 'The Man Who Loved Children,' published in 1940, delves into family dynamics and personal struggles. Other significant works include 'The Salzburg Tales' and 'For Love Alone,' showcasing a distinctive narrative style. Throughout the life, numerous essays and articles were produced, contributing to discussions in literature and cultural criticism. Her work often reflected themes of feminism and existentialism, making substantial contributions to 20th-century literature.

Continue Reading

Osmond Borradaile

Canadian director and cinematographer
Born
July 17th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1999 26 years ago — 100 years old

Borradaile worked primarily as a director and cinematographer in the film industry. Active during the mid-20th century, he contributed to several notable productions and was particularly associated with the Canadian filmmaking community. His work in cinema included collaborations with prominent directors that resulted in critically acclaimed films. He also held a role in shaping the visual style of Canadian cinema during the 1960s.

Continue Reading

Joyce Anelay

English educator and politician
Born
July 17th, 1947 78 years ago

A British educator and politician has served as a member of the House of Lords. Baroness Anelay held the position of Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Contributions to educational policy and leadership in various committees within the House of Lords are significant aspects of her career. Engagement in discussions regarding educational reform and international relations highlights her professional focus.

Continue Reading

Quino

Cartoonist and creator of Mafalda
Born
July 17th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

A cartoonist gained recognition for creating the beloved character Mafalda, an inquisitive girl known for her critique of society and politics. Mafalda first appeared in 1964 and became a cultural icon in Argentina and beyond. The artist's work often reflected themes of social justice, political commentary, and human rights through humor and satire. Graphic works reached international audiences and were translated into many languages, contributing to the global appreciation of comic art. This cartoonist received numerous accolades for contributions to art and literature.

Continue Reading

Peter Schickele

Composer and educator, created P.D.Q. Bach
Born
July 17th, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2024 1 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American composer and educator, this individual gained recognition for comedic classical compositions, particularly those attributed to the fictional composer P.D.Q. Bach. The performance persona and works brought humor and satire to classical music, appealing to a wide audience. Education in music theory and composition shaped a successful career in both performance and teaching. Contributions to music included lectures, compositions, and arrangements, often blending traditional classical elements with innovative humor. Engagements as a conductor and host on radio further showcased expertise and creativity in music.

Continue Reading

Mark Burgess

New Zealand cricketer and footballer
Born
July 17th, 1944 81 years ago

Played cricket for New Zealand in the 1970s and was a member of the national football team. Achieved the distinction of being a dual sports representative, participating in both cricket and football at the international level. In cricket, he was primarily a right-handed batsman and a reliable wicketkeeper. His versatility in sports contributed to his reputation in New Zealand's sporting history.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 20th

Đặng Phong

Vietnamese economist and historian
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2010 14 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of Vietnam's economic history and socialist transformation. Served as a professor at the National University of Vietnam, specializing in economic history. Conducted extensive research on the historical development of Vietnam's economy from the colonial period to post-war reconstruction. Authored several influential works that examined the impact of governmental policies on economic growth and social change.

Continue Reading

Martin Opitz

German poet and composer of Baroque era
Born
December 23rd, 1597 427 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1639 385 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent poet and composer during the Baroque period, contributions to the German literary landscape included a significant role in establishing the German language in poetry. Opitz published 'Buch von der deutschen Poeterey', which laid theoretical foundations for German poetry and advocated for the use of the German language in literature. His works reflected a blend of classical influences and new forms of expression and played an essential role in the development of German drama and lyrical poetry.

Continue Reading

Norris Bradbury

Physicist and soldier influential in weapons.
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1997 27 years ago — 88 years old

Served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Played a significant role in the Manhattan Project, contributing to the development of atomic weapons. Became a prominent physicist and served as the director of Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1945 to 1970. Focused on nuclear research and oversaw various projects, including advancements in weapons technology and nuclear policy. Also contributed to academic fields as a professor at several institutions.

Continue Reading

Georg von Frundsberg

German Knight, military commander
Born
September 24th, 1473 551 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1528 496 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1473, this figure served as a prominent knight and landowner in the Holy Roman Empire. He gained recognition for his significant role in the Landsknecht mercenary army and became one of the foremost military commanders of his time. Active during the early 16th century, he contributed to various military campaigns and played a key role in the defense of the Empire against external threats. His leadership in battles led to a notable influence on military tactics and the structure of mercenary forces throughout Europe.

Continue Reading

Fred Hoyle

Astronomer, author, and creator of the term 'Big Bang'
Born
June 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2001 23 years ago — 86 years old

An English astronomer and author contributed significantly to the field of cosmology and astrophysics. Developed the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how elements are formed within stars. Authored several influential books, including 'The Black Cloud' and 'Astronomy'. Coined the phrase 'Big Bang' in 1949 to describe a competing cosmological model, although he favored a different steady-state theory. His work spanned topics such as quasars, nucleosynthesis, and the origins of life in the universe.

Continue Reading

Darya Dugina

Russian journalist and political commentator
Born
1992 33 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2022 2 years ago — 30 years old

A journalist and political commentator contributed to various media outlets, focusing on topics related to Russian political affairs. Dugina wrote extensively for a pro-Kremlin news site, providing insights on national issues and international relations. Engaged in public discourse through commentary, Dugina participated in discussions surrounding Russian identity and geopolitical matters. She was involved in several public events advocating for conservative values and Russian nationalism. Her work reflected the perspectives of those aligned with the current government.

Continue Reading