Suzy Parker
Model and actress, featured in Vogue
Gained prominence as a model in the 1950s and became one of the first supermodels. Worked with pioneering fashion photographers like Richard Avedon and became a prominent figure in advertisements, particularly for brands like Revlon. Transitioned into acting in the 1960s, starring in films such as 'Funny Face' and 'The Best of Everything.' Featured regularly in major fashion magazines and earned recognition for her contributions to the modeling industry and film.
Pioneered modeling as a profession
Starred in 'Funny Face'
Appeared in 'The Best of Everything'
Other People Born on October 28th
Caitlyn Jenner
American decathlete and reality star
Born
October 28th, 1949 76 years ago
Competed in the decathlon at the 1976 Summer Olympics, winning the gold medal. This achievement set a world record at the time. Transitioned into a career in entertainment, appearing in the reality television series 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians.' Active in advocating for transgender rights, especially following the public transition. Involved in philanthropic efforts related to LGBTQ+ issues.
Continue ReadingJane Alexander
Actress and producer, 'The Great White Hope'
Born
October 28th, 1939 86 years ago
An actress and producer with a career spanning several decades. Gained recognition for stage performances, particularly in 'The Great White Hope,' which earned a Tony Award. Transitioned to film and television, appearing in notable projects such as 'The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial,' 'The Last Picture Show,' and 'The Ghost and Mrs. Muir.' Served as the chairwoman of the National Endowment for the Arts, advocating for the arts in the United States.
Continue ReadingWayne Fontana
English pop singer and songwriter
Born
October 28th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 75 years old
An English pop singer and songwriter, rose to prominence in the mid-1960s. Achieved significant success with the band The Mindbenders, particularly noted for the hit single 'Game of Love.' Transitioned to a solo career and continued to release music throughout the following decades. Fontana was a prominent figure in the British pop music scene during the 1960s, contributing to the era’s vibrant cultural landscape. Participated in various television programs and performances, further increasing popularity.
Continue ReadingSandy Berger
National Security Advisor to President Clinton
Born
October 28th, 1945 80 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 70 years old
Served as the 19th National Security Advisor from 1997 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. Played a key role in shaping U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding NATO expansion and the response to the 1998 embassy bombings in Tanzania and Kenya. Prior to this position, held various roles in the U.S. government and was influential in international relations during the Clinton administration.
Continue ReadingHoward Blake
Composer and conductor of film scores
Born
October 28th, 1938 87 years ago
An English composer and conductor, contributed significantly to film music and classical compositions. Gained prominence with the composition of the score for the film "The Snowman," which remains widely recognized. Worked on numerous projects for television, theatre, and film, combining classical influences with contemporary musical styles. Served as a conductor for different orchestras and ensembles across various venues.
Continue ReadingLenny Wilkens
Basketball player and coach, 1996 Hall of Fame
Born
October 28th, 1937 88 years ago
Basketball player and coach excelled in the NBA. Played for the St. Louis Hawks, Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Portland Trail Blazers. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, leading the Seattle SuperSonics to an NBA Championship in 1979. Served as head coach for several teams, including the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks. His coaching prowess earned a spot in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 3rd
Guenter Wendt
Engineer and NASA Launch Director
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2010 15 years ago — 87 years old
An engineer and launch director contributed significantly to the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. Played a vital role in the design and testing of rocket components, ensuring their reliability and safety. Worked at NASA where overseeing numerous successful missions solidified the reputation as a crucial figure in American space exploration. His work influenced operational procedures and set high standards for subsequent launch operations.
Continue ReadingCedric Brooks
Saxophonist and flute player
Born
1943 83 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 70 years old
A prominent Jamaican-American saxophonist and flute player, contributed significantly to the jazz and reggae music scenes. Brooks began his career performing with various bands in Jamaica before relocating to New York City. His work spanned numerous genres, blending jazz with reggae influences. He became associated with the band The Mystic Revelation of Rastafari and collaborated with other notable jazz musicians. In addition to live performances, he recorded multiple albums showcasing unique styles and improvisational skills. Brooks's impact on the music community is recognized through his innovative approaches and diverse collaborations.
Continue ReadingDavid Morris Kern
Pharmacist, co-inventor of Orajel
Born
1909 117 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 104 years old
Contributed to the field of pharmaceuticals through the co-invention of Orajel, a topical analgesic used to relieve oral pain. This product became widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating toothaches and other dental discomforts. Kern's work in creating Orajel also played a significant role in family healthcare by providing an accessible over-the-counter solution for pain management. Throughout the years, Orajel has remained a trusted brand in oral care, widely used across households in America.
Continue ReadingBranko Vukelić
Croatian politician, Minister of Defence
Born
1958 68 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 55 years old
Served as the 11th Minister of Defence for Croatia, overseeing military reforms and operations during a critical period in the country's post-war development. Participated in various government initiatives aimed at strengthening national security and defense capabilities. Engaged in international defense collaborations to enhance Croatia's position within NATO and European Union frameworks. Actively involved in the legislative process, contributing to the framework of laws pertaining to national defense.
Continue ReadingDanny Jones
Singer-songwriter and actor
Born
March 12th, 1986 40 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 29 years old
Singer-songwriter and actor, associated with the band McFly, which gained prominence in the early 2000s. The band's debut album, 'Room on the 3rd Floor', topped the UK Albums Chart. Contributed to the band's success with multiple hit singles and albums. Expanded career to acting, appearing in television series and various productions.
Continue ReadingJoe Astroth
Baseball player and All-Star catcher
Born
1922 104 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
An American baseball player participated as a catcher in Major League Baseball. Played for the Philadelphia Athletics and the St. Louis Cardinals across multiple seasons in the 1940s. Achieved recognition as an All-Star in 1945, showcasing significant contributions to the teams during his career. Concluded career with a total of 365 games played in the league, notable for both offensive and defensive skills behind the plate.
Continue Reading