Risto Jarva
Finnish director, producer, and screenwriter
Active in Finnish cinema from the 1960s until the early 1970s. Directed several notable films, including 'Kaksipäisen kotkan varjossa,' which explored themes of war and identity. Also produced the film 'Kirkastettu sydän,' showcasing his versatility in filmmaking. Contributed significantly to the development of Finnish film as a medium for addressing social issues and cultural narratives.
Directed 'Kaksipäisen kotkan varjossa'
Produced 'Kirkastettu sydän'
Other People Born on July 15th
Gabriel Iglesias
Comedian and voice actor with stand-up specials
Born
July 15th, 1976 49 years ago
A Mexican-American comedian and voice actor, started performing stand-up comedy in the 1990s. Gained popularity through the Comedy Central specials and the Netflix series 'Mr. Iglesias.' Known for a signature storytelling style and for incorporating personal anecdotes. Also voiced characters in animated films such as 'The Lion Guard' and 'Coco.'
Continue ReadingForest Whitaker
American actor and director
Born
July 15th, 1961 64 years ago
An American actor and director, achieved recognition for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence through contributions to features such as 'The Last King of Scotland', which earned an Academy Award. Also starred in 'Bird', a film about jazz musician Charlie Parker, and the television series 'The Shield'. His career encompasses a range of characters that showcase a commitment to complex roles, focusing on social and emotional themes.
Continue ReadingBuju Banton
Jamaican reggae singer with 'Boom Bye Bye'
Born
July 15th, 1973 52 years ago
Reggae singer rose to prominence in the 1990s, combining dancehall and reggae styles. Gained international attention with the hit 'Boom Bye Bye.' Released critically acclaimed albums, including 'Til Shiloh' and 'Inna Heights.' His music often addressed social issues and personal experiences. After serving time in prison, returned to music in 2018 and continued to tour and release new material, reaffirming his status in the reggae music scene.
Continue ReadingCherry
American wrestler and manager
Born
July 15th, 1975 50 years ago
Born in 1975, this individual gained recognition in the professional wrestling industry as both a wrestler and manager. Wrestled in various promotions, showcasing skills in the ring. Served as a manager for several well-known wrestlers, contributing to their storylines and character development. Gained a following for a charismatic presence and unique persona, which resonated with fans during active years in the industry.
Continue ReadingGero Miesenböck
Neuroscientist with optogenetics discovery
Born
July 15th, 1965 60 years ago
Austrian neuroscientist and educator, specializes in the field of neuroscience. Pioneered optogenetics, a technique that uses light to control neurons, allowing for precise manipulation of brain activity. This method has transformed the study of neural circuits and behavior. Served as a professor at the University of Oxford and contributed to advancements in understanding of neurological diseases. Published extensively in various scientific journals, contributing to the field's knowledge base.
Continue ReadingSteve Thomas
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
July 15th, 1963 62 years ago
An ice hockey player and coach, accomplished in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played primarily as a left winger and appeared in over 1,400 NHL games. Had notable stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Islanders, and Detroit Red Wings. Concluded a successful playing career and transitioned to coaching, where achievements include leading junior and minor league teams.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 16th
Robert Easton
American actor and screenwriter
Born
1930 96 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2011 14 years ago — 81 years old
Contributed to the film industry as an actor and screenwriter. Played a significant role in movies and television series, often portraying various characters with distinctive accents. Developed skills in dialect coaching and collaborated with several notable actors and filmmakers during a career spanning several decades. Provided language and dialect coaching for numerous films, aiding actors in achieving authentic performances.
Continue ReadingKeely Smith
American singer and actress known for 'The Tonight Show'
Born
March 9th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2017 8 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1928, a prominent American singer and actress achieved recognition through a successful career in music and television. Smith gained fame as a vocalist in the 1950s, particularly for her partnership with Louis Prima. The duo's performances blended jazz and popular styles, with Smith's powerful voice complementing Prima's energetic showmanship. Smith's appearances on national television, especially on 'The Tonight Show' during the 1960s, contributed to her widespread acclaim. She also recorded several acclaimed albums showcasing her vocal ability. Her career spanned decades, during which she became known for her exceptional skills in both singing and performing. Smith continued to entertain audiences until her later years.
Continue ReadingAileen Pringle
American actress in silent films
Born
July 23rd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 94 years old
An American actress, significant contributions were made to the silent film era during the 1910s and 1920s. Pringle appeared in over 30 films, starting her career after participating in various theatrical productions. Leading roles in films such as "The Whispering Chorus" and "The Devil's Playground" showcased her talent. Transitioning to sound films, she remained active in the industry until the late 1930s, before retiring from acting.
Continue ReadingOscar Alfredo Gálvez
Race car driver, multiple Gran Premio winner
Born
August 17th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 76 years old
A prominent race car driver from Argentina, Gálvez competed primarily in the mid-20th century. He achieved significant success in road racing, particularly in the Gran Premio Internacional del Norte and the Gran Premio de Argentina. Gálvez was instrumental in bringing attention to motorsport in South America through his remarkable driving skills and competitive spirit. His legacy includes being one of the first Argentine drivers to win major racing events in Europe, significantly contributing to the popularity of racing in Argentina.
Continue ReadingFumimaro Konoe
Japanese politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 12th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1945 80 years ago — 54 years old
Served as the 39th Prime Minister of Japan from 1940 to 1941. As Prime Minister, played a significant role during a crucial period of World War II. Advocated for military expansion and sought to strengthen Japan's position in Asia. Resigned amid increasing pressures and the changing tide of the war, later involved in post-war politics.
Continue ReadingYegor Gaidar
Russian economist and politician
Born
March 19th, 1956 69 years ago
Died
December 16th, 2009 16 years ago — 53 years old
An economist and politician, served as First Deputy Prime Minister of Russia in the early 1990s. Played a significant role in implementing economic reforms during the transition from a planned economy to a market-based economy after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Gaidar introduced radical policies that aimed to stabilize the Russian economy, including price liberalization and privatization efforts. His leadership during this tumultuous period shaped the economic landscape of post-Soviet Russia.
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