Ryan Coogler
Film Director of 'Black Panther'
An American film director and screenwriter gained prominence with the release of 'Fruitvale Station' in 2013. Followed by 'Creed' in 2015, which revitalized the Rocky franchise. The major breakthrough came with the release of 'Black Panther' in 2018, which became a cultural phenomenon and a significant commercial success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide. Coogler's work is characterized by strong characterization and themes of identity and social justice.
Directed 'Fruitvale Station' (2013)
Directed 'Creed' (2015)
Directed 'Black Panther' (2018)
Other People Born on May 23rd
Rosemary Clooney
American singer and actress in White Christmas
Born
May 23rd, 1928 97 years ago
Died
June 29th, 2002 23 years ago — 74 years old
A prominent singer and actress, rose to fame in the 1950s with a successful music career. Gained significant popularity through the iconic Christmas song 'White Christmas' and starred in the movie of the same name alongside Bing Crosby. Clooney's smooth vocal style and engaging performances made her a mainstay in the entertainment industry. In addition to her music and film career, she had a notable presence on television, appearing in her own show in the 1960s. Clooney's contributions to music and film have left a lasting legacy.
Continue ReadingZack Wheat
Baseball player and police officer
Born
May 23rd, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 84 years old
Played Major League Baseball primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1909 to 1926. Wheat established himself as a prominent left fielder during his career, known for his exceptional batting skills. He achieved a .317 lifetime batting average, accumulating over 2,000 hits. After retiring from baseball, Wheat served as a police officer in his hometown, contributing to the community in a different capacity following his athletic career.
Continue ReadingCharles Barry
Architect, designer of Palace of Westminster
Born
May 23rd, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1860 165 years ago — 64 years old
An English architect played a pivotal role in the development of Gothic Revival architecture. Designed the Palace of Westminster in London after the original building was destroyed by fire in 1834. Completed the iconic structure in 1876, establishing a landmark of British politics. Also designed Upper Brook Street Chapel in Manchester, showcasing neoclassical elements.
Continue ReadingFelix Steiner
SS officer and military leader
Born
May 23rd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1966 59 years ago — 69 years old
Served as a high-ranking officer in the Waffen-SS during World War II. Commanded the SS division known as the 11th SS Volunteer Panzergrenadier Division Nordland. Participated in various military operations on the Eastern Front and played a significant role during the battles in the latter stages of the war. Post-war, faced legal issues related to wartime actions.
Continue ReadingJózef Wieniawski
Polish pianist and composer of operas
Born
May 23rd, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Poland, a prominent pianist and composer focused on the Romantic era. Composed various works, including operas, orchestral pieces, and piano music. Held a significant position in music as both a performer and educator. Contributed to the development of Polish music and influenced future generations of musicians. Served as a professor at the Royal Conservatory in Brussels, where he nurtured talent and shared expertise. His works often showcased technical prowess and emotional depth, reflecting the musical trends of the period.
Continue ReadingAnnemarie Schwarzenbach
Writer and photographer of Switzerland
Born
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1942 83 years ago — 34 years old
This Swiss author and photographer contributed significantly to literature and visual arts in the 20th century. Her literary works included novels, essays, and travel writings, often exploring themes of identity and displacement. As a photographer, captured striking imagery that documented the landscapes and cultures encountered during her travels. Engaged actively with contemporary European avant-garde movements and had relationships with notable cultural figures of the time. Her life was marked by a struggle with personal challenges, including addiction, which ultimately led to her untimely death in 1942.
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