Ted Knight
Actor and comedian from 'Mary Tyler Moore'
An American actor and comedian born in 1923. Best recognized for portraying Ted Baxter, a news anchor, on the television series 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Gained critical acclaim and popularity through this role, which showcased his comedic talents. Also appeared in films such as 'Caddyshack' and had a successful voice acting career in animated series. His work in television and film left a lasting impression in the entertainment industry.
Portrayed Ted Baxter on 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'
Acted in the film 'Caddyshack'
Provided voice work for 'The Super Friends'
Other People Born on December 7th
Fiorenzo Magni
Italian professional road racing cyclist
Born
December 7th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old
Born in 1920, a professional road racing cyclist achieved significant success during the mid-20th century. Competed in the Grand Tours, notably winning the Giro d'Italia three times in 1948, 1951, and 1955. Also participated in the Tour de France, finishing notable stages, and earned recognition for his fierce competitive spirit. His career included participation in multiple World Championships, where he secured podium finishes. After retiring from competitive cycling, contributed to the sport as a team manager.
Continue ReadingLuke Donald
Professional golfer and Ryder Cup player
Born
December 7th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in England, this golfer achieved notable success on the PGA Tour and European Tour. A distinguished amateur, won the prestigious Amateur Championship in 1999. Turned professional in 2001, securing multiple victories including the 2011 PGA Championship. Achieved the world number one ranking in 2011, becoming the first player to win both the PGA Tour and European Tour money lists in the same year. Played a key role in the Ryder Cup, representing Europe multiple times.
Continue ReadingBernardo Pasquini
Italian organist and composer of operas
Born
December 7th, 1637 388 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1710 315 years ago — 72 years old
Born in 1637, this individual gained recognition as an accomplished organist and composer in the Baroque era. Training in Rome and later working in various Italian cities, contributions to music include numerous operas, oratorios, and instrumental works. Served as the organist at the church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, showcasing exceptional organ skills. Influenced the development of the keyboard style and the opera genre in Italy, with a career marked by significant performances and compositions. His music was well-received during his lifetime and continues to hold historical importance.
Continue ReadingThad Cochran
American politician and senator
Born
December 7th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
May 30th, 2019 6 years ago — 81 years old
Served as a U.S. Senator from Mississippi from 1973 to 2018. Played a significant role in various legislative initiatives, particularly in funding for education and defense. Held positions on the Appropriations Committee, influencing federal budget priorities. Prior to his Senate tenure, served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1973 until his election to the Senate. Received a law degree from the University of Mississippi after earning an undergraduate degree from the University of Mississippi as well. His tenure was marked by a commitment to bipartisan cooperation in government.
Continue ReadingGian Lorenzo Bernini
Italian sculptor and painter of Baroque art
Born
December 7th, 1598 427 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1680 345 years ago — 81 years old
Born in 1598, this Italian sculpture and painter became a leading figure in Roman Baroque art. His early works included the sculpture of 'Apollo and Daphne', showcasing dynamic movement and emotional expression. He also designed the renowned fountains in Rome, including the 'Fountain of the Four Rivers' in Piazza Navona. His architecture, exemplified by St. Peter's Basilica's baldachin, combined elements of sculpture and space, creating a cohesive visual experience. Bernini's ability to merge various artistic disciplines solidified his status as a pivotal figure in Baroque culture, influencing generations of artists.
Continue ReadingHenry Stuart
English-Scottish nobleman and consort
Born
December 7th, 1545 480 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1567 458 years ago — 21 years old
Born to the Stuart family, a significant noble lineage in Scotland, held the title of Lord Darnley. Married Mary, Queen of Scots in 1565, becoming King Consort of Scotland. The marriage was politically motivated, aimed at strengthening the claims of the Stuart dynasty. Relationship with Mary became strained, characterized by political intrigue and personal conflicts. Darnley's reputation suffered due to his actions and behavior during their union, notably his insistence on a more prominent role in governance. His murder in 1567, under mysterious circumstances, marked a decisive turn in Scottish history, inciting further turmoil and political strife.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Louis Muhlstock
Polish-Canadian painter and artist
Born
April 23rd, 1904 121 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2001 24 years ago — 97 years old
Born in Poland and later emigrated to Canada, engaged in painting with a focus on landscape and abstraction. Worked primarily in oil and watercolors, showcasing a blend of representational and abstract elements in art. Participated in numerous exhibitions across Canada and internationally. Authored a book reflecting on the techniques of painting and the evolution of his artistic style.
Continue ReadingJeanie MacPherson
American actress and screenwriter
Born
May 18th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1946 79 years ago — 60 years old
An actress and screenwriter contributed to the early film industry. Active in the 1910s and 1920s, she appeared in and wrote for silent films. Collaborated with prominent directors and actors of the era, shaping the narrative structure of early cinema. MacPherson’s work displayed a strong understanding of storytelling and character development. Most noted for writing the screenplay for the classic film 'The Sheik', which starred Rudolph Valentino, a significant film of its time that contributed to the popularity of romantic adventure stories in cinema. Also performed in numerous silent films, establishing a career that spanned both acting and writing.
Continue ReadingGeorg Wittig
Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 16th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1987 38 years ago — 90 years old
A German chemist contributed significantly to organic chemistry, particularly in the area of phosphorus chemistry. Developed the Wittig reaction, a method for synthesizing alkenes from aldehydes or ketones and phosphonium ylides. Served as a professor at the University of Heidelberg. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1979 for advancements in organic synthesis.
Continue ReadingFrederick Reines
Physicist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
March 16th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1998 27 years ago — 80 years old
Contributions to particle physics included the discovery of the neutrino. Collaborated on experiments at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and later at the University of California, Irvine. Published over 200 scientific papers and mentored numerous students throughout an academic career. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1995 for work in detecting neutrinos.
Continue ReadingCharles Lindbergh
Aviator and first solo nonstop transatlantic flight
Born
February 4th, 1902 124 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1974 51 years ago — 72 years old
Transatlantic aviator and explorer completed the first solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. The historic flight took place on May 20-21, 1927, in the Spirit of St. Louis, traveling from New York City to Paris. This achievement significantly advanced the field of aviation and captured the world's imagination. Lindbergh became an international celebrity, receiving numerous accolades for the accomplishment. Later, he contributed to various aviation advancements and engaged in humanitarian efforts.
Continue ReadingNeil Simon
Playwright and screenwriter of Broadway hits
Born
July 4th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2018 7 years ago — 91 years old
A prominent playwright and screenwriter, contributions included multiple Broadway productions and film adaptations. Early works included 'The Odd Couple' and 'Barefoot in the Park'. Won several Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama for 'Lost in Yonkers'. Adapted multiple works into successful films, solidifying a legacy in American theater.
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