Sarat Pujari
Indian actor, director, and screenwriter
An actor, director, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to Indian cinema. Pujari worked in numerous films primarily in the Odia and Bengali languages. He directed multiple acclaimed films and also developed a reputation for his work in theater. Much of his career was spent focusing on regional cinema, where his storytelling and character portrayals achieved recognition among audiences. Notable for both performances and directorial efforts, he played a crucial role in promoting regional narratives and cultural themes through film.
Directed the film 'Mohana Sundari'
Acted in 'Bande Utkala Janani'
Worked extensively in Odia cinema
Other People Born on August 8th
Emperor Horikawa
Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
August 8th, 1079 946 years ago
Died
1107 918 years ago — 28 years old
Ascended to the throne in 1087 at the age of eight, serving until his death in 1107. His reign occurred during the Heian period, a time of cultural development in Japan. The government was dominated by the Fujiwara clan, which wielded significant power through regency roles. Horikawa's era saw the continuation of courtly traditions and the patronage of the arts. He presided over a court that valued poetry and literature, encouraging the creation of works that reflected the aesthetic ideals of the time. The reign faced challenges, including political intrigue and struggles for power within the noble class.
Continue ReadingWebb Pierce
Country music singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 8th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old
A prominent figure in the country music scene, this singer-songwriter gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for a honky-tonk style, produced numerous chart-topping hits. Some of the most popular songs include "In the Jailhouse Now" and "Love, Love, Love." Also created a distinctive image with flashy suits and a flashy personality. Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame for significant contributions to the genre.
Continue ReadingEmi Shinohara
Voice actress and singer, notable roles
Born
August 8th, 1963 62 years ago
Died
September 8th, 2024 1 years ago — 61 years old
Born in Japan, a prominent voice actress and singer gained recognition for work in anime and video games. Major roles include contributions to titles such as 'Shaman King', where voiced the character Yoh Asakura, and 'Yu Yu Hakusho', providing the voice for Kazuma Kuwabara. In addition to voice acting, engaged in music, releasing singles and albums that showcase vocal talents. Achievements in the industry also include participation in various voice acting awards and events, establishing a strong presence in both anime and musical realms.
Continue ReadingRichard Anderson
Actor in 'The Six Million Dollar Man'
Born
August 8th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 91 years old
An American actor and producer. Born in 1926, Anderson began his career in the 1940s. Gained widespread recognition for portraying Oscar Goldman in the television series 'The Six Million Dollar Man' and its spinoff 'The Bionic Woman'. Appeared in various film and television roles over decades, including performances in 'Forbidden Planet' and 'Perry Mason'. Transitioned into producing and continued to be active in the entertainment industry.
Continue ReadingJerry Tarkanian
College basketball coach and innovator
Born
August 8th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 11th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
An influential figure in college basketball, led the UNLV Runnin' Rebels to a national championship in 1990. Served as head coach at several universities, including Long Beach State, UNLV, and Fresno State. Tarkanian was known for his innovative coaching strategies and for bringing a fast-paced style of play to the game, which had a lasting effect on college basketball. His teams frequently made deep runs in the NCAA tournament, demonstrating consistent success. Off the court, faced various controversies regarding NCAA rules and regulations, but maintained a loyal following of players and fans.
Continue ReadingRoger Federer
Tennis player, 20-time Grand Slam champion
Born
August 8th, 1981 44 years ago
Born in Switzerland in 1981, this athlete became one of the most successful tennis players in history. Winning a total of 20 Grand Slam singles titles, achievements include eight Wimbledon championships and six Australian Open titles. Known for exceptional skill and sportsmanship, this player consistently ranked as the world number one during his career. His playing style combined powerful serves with strategic play, making matches captivating. After his retirement, he became involved in philanthropic initiatives, supporting education and sports for children.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 12th
John Smith
Scottish lawyer and Shadow Chancellor
Born
September 13th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1994 31 years ago — 55 years old
A Scottish lawyer and politician served as the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer. Participated in the Labour Party's campaigns during the 1980s and 1990s. Elected as the Member of Parliament for the relevant constituency and became a significant figure in UK politics during tenure. Advocated for various economic policies and addressed issues concerning public spending and taxation.
Continue ReadingRobert Rauschenberg
Painter and illustrator of Combines
Born
October 22nd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2008 17 years ago — 82 years old
An influential artist emerged in the mid-20th century, contributing significantly to the development of modern art. Emphasized the merger of painting and sculpture, creating a new genre known as 'Combines.' These works integrated everyday materials and objects, challenging traditional boundaries of art. Collaborated with artists such as Jasper Johns and served as a catalyst for the Neo-Dada movement. Associated with innovative uses of technology, explored printmaking and fabric arts throughout the career. Received numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts in 1993.
Continue ReadingMark Damon
Film actor and producer, produced horror films
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2024 1 years ago — 91 years old
An American film actor and producer, earned recognition during the 1960s and 1970s for contributions to the horror genre. Gained fame for performances in films such as 'Angel Face' and 'The Pit and the Pendulum.' Established a production company that specialized in low-budget horror films, achieving considerable success in international markets. After transitioning from acting to producing, focused on fostering new talent and developing innovative projects in the genre. Active in the film industry for several decades, he maintained a presence both in front of and behind the camera until recent years.
Continue ReadingErich von Stroheim
Actor and director of silent films
Born
September 22nd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 71 years old
An influential figure in early cinema, one of the first filmmakers to achieve artistic acclaim. Directed and starred in films such as "Greed" and "The Wedding March", which showcased an innovative approach to storytelling and production techniques. Contributed to the development of cinematic language through meticulous attention to detail and realism. Worked in various capacities in the film industry, including roles as an actor in major silent films. His filmmaking style paved the way for future directors in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingKai Setälä
Finnish physician and professor
Born
September 13th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2005 20 years ago — 91 years old
A Finnish physician and professor with a focus on internal medicine. Contributed significantly to the field of medicine through research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Helsinki, shaping the next generation of medical professionals. Published numerous articles in medical journals reflecting expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Played a crucial role in advancing medical practices in Finland.
Continue ReadingGerd Langguth
Political Scientist and Author
Born
May 18th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
May 12th, 2013 12 years ago — 66 years old
Born in 1946, a political scientist focused on German politics and public affairs. Served as a professor at the University of Bonn. Contributed to discussions on political parties, democracy, and electoral behavior in Germany. Authored several works on political structures and processes, establishing a significant academic presence in the field.
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