Polly Holliday
American actress from 'Alice'
Born in 1937, an American actress gained prominence for playing the character Flo in the television series 'Alice'. The character became iconic for the catchphrase 'Kiss my grits!' and contributed significantly to the show's success. Holliday also had notable roles in films and other television series, showcasing her talent beyond just one role. Throughout her career, she appeared in various productions, bringing characters to life with her distinctive style and charm.
Portrayed Flo in 'Alice'
Appeared in films like 'The Last Starfighter'
Guest-starred on 'The Twilight Zone'
Other People Born on July 2nd
Bill Tupou
Rugby league player, Tongan international
Born
July 2nd, 1990 35 years ago
Played rugby league primarily as a winger. Began professional career with the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2009. Joined the Canberra Raiders in 2013 before transferring to the New Zealand Warriors in 2015. Represented Tonga in international competitions, including the Rugby League World Cup, contributing to the team's efforts during the tournament.
Continue ReadingHans Bethe
Physicist who won Nobel Prize in Physics
Born
July 2nd, 1906 119 years ago
Died
March 6th, 2005 20 years ago — 98 years old
German-American physicist contributed significantly to quantum mechanics and nuclear physics. Played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1967 for his work on the theory of stellar nucleosynthesis, explaining how stars produce energy and elements. Additionally, served as a professor at Cornell University, influencing numerous students and research in theoretical physics.
Continue ReadingOlav V of Norway
King of Norway, Olympic sailor
Born
July 2nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old
Became King of Norway in 1957 and reigned until death in 1991. Served in the Norwegian Army during World War II and became a symbol of national unity. Participated in sailing competitions and won a gold medal in the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam. Worked to modernize the Norwegian monarchy and was known for being approachable and down-to-earth. Engaged in numerous charitable causes and emphasized the importance of social welfare.
Continue ReadingBrock Peters
Actor known for To Kill a Mockingbird
Born
July 2nd, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2005 20 years ago — 78 years old
An American actor, widely recognized for his role as Tom Robinson in the film 'To Kill a Mockingbird' (1962). This portrayal of an innocent man being unjustly accused of a crime earned critical acclaim. Peters also appeared in the classic sci-fi series 'Star Trek' as Commander Sisko's father in 'Deep Space Nine' and lent his voice to the animated film 'The Jungle Book' as the character Shere Khan. Throughout a career spanning over five decades, he participated in numerous film, television, and theater productions, showcasing a strong presence on stage and screen.
Continue ReadingChristoph Willibald Gluck
German opera composer of Orfeo ed Euridice
Born
July 2nd, 1714 311 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1787 238 years ago — 73 years old
Born in 1714, a German composer revolutionized opera with a focus on dramatic expression and unified musical structure. Gluck's operatic works broke away from the established Baroque style, emphasizing clear melodies and orchestration. Notable pieces include 'Orfeo ed Euridice,' which redefined the genre and influenced future composers. His collaborations with librettists such as Ranieri de' Calzabigi led to significant results in the operatic form, using mythological themes to convey profound emotions. Gluck's changes in opera laid the groundwork for the Classical period and inspired later figures like Mozart.
Continue ReadingHenrik Kristoffersen
Norwegian Alpine ski racer, slalom champion
Born
July 2nd, 1994 31 years ago
Competed professionally in Alpine skiing, primarily in slalom and giant slalom events. Achieved numerous victories on the World Cup circuit. Won the gold medal in slalom at the 2017 World Championships held in St. Moritz. Earned multiple World Cup season titles in slalom, establishing a prominent position in the sport. Represented Norway in several Olympic Games.
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