René Clément
French film director and screenwriter
A prominent film director and screenwriter, this individual was a key figure in French cinema during the 20th century. His directorial debut occurred in 1946, and he achieved widespread recognition with 'La Bataille du Rail' (1946), which portrayed the French Resistance during World War II. He later directed 'Plein Soleil' (1960), an adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's novel 'The Talented Mr. Ripley,' earning acclaim for its complex psychological themes. His work often explored moral ambiguity and human nature. This individual received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Deadly Trap' (1971), reinforcing a legacy of cinematic artistry and storytelling.
Directed 'La Bataille du Rail'
Directed 'Plein Soleil'
Won Academy Award for 'The Deadly Trap'
Other People Born on March 18th
James Plaskett
Chess player and author
Born
March 18th, 1960 66 years ago
A chess player and author who competed at the grandmaster level. Represented England in international competitions. Gained recognition for noteworthy performances in tournaments throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Contributed to chess literature, writing books aimed at both beginner and advanced players. Developed a reputation within the chess community for strategic insights and analysis.
Continue ReadingBrian Scalabrine
Basketball player and sportscaster
Born
March 18th, 1978 48 years ago
An American basketball player and coach, played primarily as a forward in the NBA. Scalabrine played for the New Jersey Nets and the Boston Celtics, contributing to the Celtics' championship win in 2008. After retiring as a player, he transitioned into coaching and sports broadcasting, providing analysis and commentary on basketball games.
Continue ReadingEgon Bahr
German politician and journalist
Born
March 18th, 1922 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 93 years old
Served as a prominent German politician and journalist. Held the position of Federal Minister for Special Affairs from 1966 to 1969. Played a pivotal role in shaping the policy of Ostpolitik, which aimed at improving relations with East Germany and the Eastern Bloc during the Cold War. Contributed significantly to the diplomatic efforts between East and West Germany, facilitating dialogue and negotiations in a tense geopolitical environment.
Continue ReadingLily Collins
Actress from 'Emily in Paris'
Born
March 18th, 1989 37 years ago
An English-American actress gained recognition for roles in film and television. Rose to prominence with performances in 'The Blind Side' and 'Love, Rosie'. Starred in the acclaimed series 'Emily in Paris' which showcased the life of a young woman navigating her career in Paris. Also featured in the film 'Mirror Mirror', a reinterpretation of the Snow White story.
Continue ReadingChrister Fuglesang
Swedish physicist and astronaut
Born
March 18th, 1957 69 years ago
A physicist and astronaut, played a significant role in space exploration. Participated in two Space Shuttle missions, STS-116 and STS-128, contributing to the assembly of the International Space Station. Worked at the European Space Agency, focusing on scientific research and technology development for space exploration.
Continue ReadingKenny Lynch
Singer-songwriter and actor in England
Born
March 18th, 1938 88 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in the British music scene during the 1960s, contributed significantly to the genre with a string of hits. Achieved widespread recognition as a singer-songwriter, with compositions encompassing pop and R&B influences. Also ventured into acting, appearing in television series and films, enhancing his profile beyond music. His career featured collaborations with various artists and performances across major venues, reflecting a dynamic presence in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 17th
Giuliano de' Medici
Italian nobleman and Renaissance patron
Born
October 25th, 1453 572 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1516 510 years ago — 62 years old
An Italian nobleman and member of the prominent Medici family, played a significant role in the politics and culture of Renaissance Florence. As a patron of the arts, he supported renowned artists such as Michelangelo and Botticelli. His involvement in Florentine politics included serving as the Duke of Nemours. Giuliano's life was marked by the power struggles of the Medici family, and he was assassinated in a plot known as the Pazzi Conspiracy, which aimed to eliminate Medici influence in Florence.
Continue ReadingRobert Chambers
Scottish geologist and publisher
Born
July 10th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1871 155 years ago — 68 years old
A Scottish geologist and publisher co-founded Chambers Harrap, a notable publishing house which published works in geology and other sciences. Chambers authored 'Vestiges of the Natural History of Creation' in 1844, a controversial work that provided early arguments for evolutionary theory and garnered significant attention during its time. His contributions to geology were influential in the Victorian era, fostering public interest in scientific inquiry. Chambers also published a range of reference works and encyclopedias, impacting education in various fields.
Continue ReadingGertrude of Nivelles
Frankish abbess of Nivelles
Died
March 17th, 659 1367 years ago — None years old
An influential Frankish abbess, established the Abbey of Nivelles. Devoted life to monasticism, focusing on religious life and community welfare. Played a significant role in shaping the early Christian church in the region. Known for leadership qualities and fostering a deep spirituality among the nuns at the abbey.
Continue ReadingLance Reddick
Actor known for The Wire and Fringe
Born
June 7th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
March 17th, 2023 3 years ago — 60 years old
An American actor gained prominence through roles in several acclaimed television series and films. Reddick portrayed Cedric Daniels in the HBO series The Wire, which aired from 2002 to 2008, and played Phillip Broyles in the science fiction series Fringe from 2008 to 2013. His career also included voice work in video games and animated series, showcasing a range of talents. Reddick's performances were marked by a commanding presence and emotional depth, leading to critical acclaim across his work in both television and cinema.
Continue ReadingHarold Harefoot
King of England during the 11th century
Died
March 17th, 1040 986 years ago — None years old
Ruled as king of England from 1037 to 1040. Ascended to the throne amidst a power struggle in the aftermath of his half-brother's death. Governed during a period marked by internal conflict and competition for the English crown. His reign was short-lived but significant in the context of early medieval English history.
Continue ReadingGeorge Parker
English astronomer and politician
Born
1695 331 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1764 262 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the 2nd Earl of Macclesfield and made significant contributions to astronomy. Established the Macclesfield Observatory, which became a leading center for astronomical research in the 18th century. Actively engaged in politics, representing the interests of his constituents.
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