Sarah Cracknell
English singer-songwriter with Saint Etienne
A singer-songwriter emerged in the 1990s as the lead vocalist of the band Saint Etienne. The group blended elements of pop, electronic, and indie music, achieving popularity with albums such as 'Foxbase Alpha' and 'So Tough'. Cracknell contributed to the band's distinctive sound through both her vocals and songwriting. In addition to her work with Saint Etienne, Cracknell released solo albums, showcasing her unique musical style. Collaborations with other artists further highlighted her versatility within the music industry.
Lead vocalist of Saint Etienne
Albums 'Foxbase Alpha' and 'So Tough'
Solo album 'Lippservice'
Other People Born on April 12th
John Landy
Runner and Governor of Victoria
Born
April 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 92 years old
An accomplished Australian runner, gained recognition for breaking the four-minute mile barrier in 1954, achieving a time of 3:57.9. Transitioning into politics, served as the 26th Governor of Victoria from 2001 to 2006. His athletic career included notable performances at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where he competed in the 1500 meters. Later, contributed to the development of sport and education in Victoria and was involved in various community initiatives.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Marielle
Prominent French actor in cinema
Born
April 12th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 87 years old
Graduated from the Paris Conservatory of Dramatic Art and began a notable career in film and theater. Gained recognition for performances in films such as "Les Choses de la Vie" and "Le Crabe-Tambour." Played alongside renowned directors and actors, contributing significantly to French cinema. Also appeared in successful theater productions, demonstrating versatility across mediums. For contributions to the arts, received several awards and accolades throughout the career, including the prestigious César Award.
Continue ReadingAlvin Sargent
American screenwriter of Oscar-winning films
Born
April 12th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent screenwriter contributed significantly to American cinema. Wrote screenplays for several acclaimed films, including "Paper Moon" and "Ordinary People." Both films received Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay. Also contributed to the film "The Candidate" and adapted works from other authors for the screen. His career encompassed work in both film and television, delivering scripts that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Remembered for a storytelling style that captured the complexity of human relationships.
Continue ReadingCurtis Turner
Race car driver, National 500 champion
Born
April 12th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
1970 56 years ago — 46 years old
An accomplished race car driver who gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Competed in NASCAR and participated in numerous events, winning a total of 17 races. Notable for his skill on the track and being a trailblazer in the sport during a formative period. Played a significant role in promoting stock car racing and was one of the first drivers to become a celebrity through the sport. His career was marked by both triumph and challenges, including a ban from racing that influenced the landscape of the sport. Inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in recognition of contributions to auto racing.
Continue ReadingBryan Magee
English philosopher and politician
Born
April 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 89 years old
A prominent philosopher and politician, engagement in politics began in the 1960s. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Labour Party. Contributed to public discourse on a variety of philosophical topics, including the nature of knowledge and democracy. Authored several influential works, including 'Confessions of a Philosopher' and 'The Philosophy of Schopenhauer', which examined complex philosophical ideas and made them accessible to a broader audience. Engaged in television discussions promoting philosophical thought.
Continue ReadingOliver Postgate
Animator and puppeteer for children's TV
Born
April 12th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
December 8th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old
An English animator and puppeteer, contributed significantly to children's television. Developed the iconic series Bagpuss and Noggin the Nog, which became staples of British children's programming. Utilized a unique stop-motion animation technique using puppets and models. Collaborated with Peter Firmin to create a distinctive visual style that defined many of the productions.
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