Shirley Verrett

Soprano and actress with opera accolades

Shirley Verrett - Soprano and actress with opera accolades
Born

May 31st, 1931
94 years ago

Died

November 5th, 2010
14 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An accomplished American soprano and actress, contributions included performances in leading roles at renowned opera houses. Significant works included roles in operas such as "Carmen" and "Aida". Achievements also spanned the concert stage and Broadway, showcasing versatility in both operatic and musical theater forms. A graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles, initial career developments occurred with the New York City Opera and performance at the Metropolitan Opera.

Performed as Carmen at the Metropolitan Opera

Starred in the Broadway musical 'Porgy and Bess'

Sang leading roles in 'Aida' and 'Tosca'

Other People Born on May 31st

Henry Sidgwick

Economist and philosopher
Born
May 31st, 1838 187 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1900 124 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed to utilitarian ethics and the philosophy of education. Published 'The Methods of Ethics' in 1874, which explored ethical theory and rationality. Founded the first women's college in Cambridge, contributing to the advancement of women's education. Served as a prominent figure in discussions on morality and economics.

Continue Reading

Nate Robinson

Professional basketball player, NBA champion
Born
May 31st, 1984 41 years ago

A professional basketball player achieved recognition in the NBA, primarily playing as a guard. Notable tenure included playing for the New York Knicks, Boston Celtics, and Chicago Bulls. Highlighted by winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest three times, showcasing remarkable athleticism and leaping ability. Played a key role in the Boston Celtics' 2008 NBA Championship victory, contributing to the team's success during that season.

Continue Reading

Andrew Bailey

Baseball pitcher and 2009 All-Star
Born
May 31st, 1984 41 years ago

A professional baseball player who excelled as a pitcher. Made significant contributions to Major League Baseball teams including the Oakland Athletics and the New York Yankees. Played a key role in the Athletics' bullpen, earning selection to the 2009 All-Star Game. Achieved the title of American League Rookie of the Year in 2009. After a successful career spanning multiple seasons, transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles in baseball.

Continue Reading

Robert Richards

Australian politician, 32nd Premier
Born
May 31st, 1885 140 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1967 58 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 32nd Premier of South Australia from 1944 to 1947. Held the position of Minister for Health and Minister for Education prior to becoming Premier. Led the Liberal and Country League party during his political career. Focused on post-war recovery and development in South Australia. Involved in various legislative reforms during tenure as Premier.

Continue Reading

Archie Panjabi

British actress, Emmy Award winner
Born
May 31st, 1972 53 years ago

An actress gained recognition for performances in the television series 'The Good Wife' and 'Departure.' Received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series for work on 'The Good Wife.' Also appeared in films such as 'Bend It Like Beckham' and 'The Infidel.'

Continue Reading

Walt Whitman

American poet and author of Leaves of Grass
Born
May 31st, 1819 206 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1892 133 years ago — 72 years old

A key figure in American literature, this poet and essayist is celebrated for his groundbreaking work that explored themes of democracy, nature, and the human experience. The publication of 'Leaves of Grass' marked a significant innovation in poetic form and structure, embracing free verse and celebrating individuality and humanity. Throughout a prolific career, the author worked as a journalist and editor, contributing to the discourse of his time. The literary style and themes influenced generations of writers and poets.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 5th

Nils Liedholm

Legendary Swedish footballer and coach
Born
October 8th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2007 17 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in football, achieved success as both a player and a coach. Spent the majority of playing career with AC Milan and contributed to several championship victories. Transitioned to coaching and managed various teams, significantly influencing Swedish football. Led the national team and various club teams to numerous successes, enhancing the game's profile in Sweden.

Continue Reading

Jan Oort

Dutch astronomer and academic
Born
April 28th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1992 32 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of galaxies and the structure of the Milky Way. Proposed the existence of the Oort Cloud, a theoretical cloud of icy bodies believed to surround the solar system. Served as a professor at Leiden University and published numerous papers in astrophysics. Played a crucial role in advancing radio astronomy in the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Lane Evans

American lawyer and politician
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2014 10 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a U.S. Congressman from Illinois from 1993 to 2007. During tenure, focused on veterans' affairs, labor rights, and health care issues. Advocated for policies enhancing the welfare of veterans and worked on various legislation affecting the middle class. Retired from politics due to health issues and contributed to community initiatives in the region.

Continue Reading

Eamonn Andrews

Irish television and radio host
Born
December 19th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1987 37 years ago — 64 years old

Eamonn Andrews was a prominent Irish television and radio personality. He began his career in broadcasting with Radio Éireann and gained widespread recognition as a presenter. Andrews hosted the popular television quiz show 'What's My Line?' which became a staple of Irish television. He also became the face of several other television programs, including 'The Eamonn Andrews Show', which showcased various guests and entertainment segments. In addition to television, he had a successful career in radio, connecting with audiences across Ireland. His influence on Irish broadcasting left a lasting legacy.

Continue Reading

Louis Pienaar

South African lawyer and diplomat
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2012 12 years ago — 86 years old

A South African lawyer and diplomat held the position of Minister of Internal Affairs. Contributions to national policy and governance through legal expertise were significant during tenure in the government. Throughout a career focused on public service, fostered development of internal policies and diplomatic relations.

Continue Reading

Nora Brockstedt

Norwegian singer and Eurovision participant
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
November 5th, 2015 9 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in Norwegian music, an artist gained recognition in the 1950s. Participated in the first Eurovision Song Contest in 1956, representing Norway with the song 'Voi Voi.' Released several albums throughout her career, blending traditional Norwegian folk music with popular styles. Notable for a long-lasting career in the entertainment industry, performed at various events and television shows, earning a place in the hearts of many fans.

Continue Reading