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
Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi
Persian astronomer and author of 'Book of Fixed Stars'
Born
December 7th, 903 1122 years ago
Died
May 25th, 986 1039 years ago — 82 years old
A Persian astronomer and author, active during the 10th century. Authored 'Book of Fixed Stars', an influential astronomical work that cataloged stars and their locations. The work expanded on earlier Greek astronomy and introduced Arabic names for many stars. Contributed to the field of astronomy through observations and detailed star charts. His work served as a reference for later astronomers.
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 ReadingLouis Prima
Singer-songwriter, trumpet player, actor
Born
December 7th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1978 47 years ago — 67 years old
Born in 1910, this American musician was a prominent figure in the jazz and swing music scenes. Prima's career spanned several decades, with significant contributions as a singer and trumpet player. He gained popularity during the 1930s and 1940s for his energetic performances and distinctive style that blended New Orleans jazz and swing. Prima also acted in films, further showcasing his multi-talented nature. His music remains influential, and he is especially recognized for his lively hit 'Jump, Jive an' Wail'. His collaboration with the band The Witnesses added to his fame as a dynamic performer.
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 ReadingSusan Isaacs
Author with bestselling novels and screenplays
Born
December 7th, 1943 82 years ago
An American author and screenwriter, prominent in the literary and entertainment fields. Published multiple bestselling novels, including 'Compromising Positions', which blends mystery and humor. Was involved in writing screenplays, contributing to the adaptation of her novels for television and film. Worked as a columnist and wrote non-fiction, showcasing insights into contemporary culture. Engaged with various media, enhancing visibility through public appearances and contributing to discussions on writing and storytelling.
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 ReadingOther People Who Died on August 26th
Lon Chaney
Silent film actor and makeup artist
Born
April 1st, 1883 142 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1930 95 years ago — 47 years old
An American actor, director, and screenwriter, celebrated for performances during the silent film era. Achieved fame through extraordinary makeup skills and various character portrayals. Starred in iconic films such as 'The Phantom of the Opera' and 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame', showcasing a unique ability to transform appearances for roles. Contributed to the early techniques of film acting and character development, significantly influencing the horror genre in cinema.
Continue ReadingMariam Baouardy
Syrian Roman Catholic nun, canonized
Born
January 5th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1878 147 years ago — 32 years old
Born in a small village in Ottoman Syria, became a nun in the Carmelite order. Established a convent in Bethlehem and founded a Carmelite community in India. Known for mystical experiences and reported stigmata. Later canonized by the Catholic Church for her piety and dedication to the religious life.
Continue ReadingGeorge Band
Mountaineer and engineer, Everest climber
Born
February 2nd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2011 14 years ago — 82 years old
Born in England, contributions included significant achievements in both engineering and mountaineering. Climbed Mount Everest in 1953 as part of the first successful ascent of the mountain via the southern route. Participated in numerous expeditions across the world, including successful climbs of the Nanga Parbat and Kanchenjunga. Worked as an engineer on various projects throughout his career, employing technical knowledge in the field of mountaineering and the construction of high-altitude facilities.
Continue ReadingJohn J. Gilligan
American politician, 62nd Governor of Ohio
Born
March 22nd, 1922 103 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2013 12 years ago — 91 years old
Served as the 62nd Governor of Ohio from 1971 to 1975. Focused on educational reforms and environmental issues during tenure. Prior to governorship, held positions in the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate. Worked as a professor after leaving office.
Continue ReadingCharles Lindbergh
Aviator and first solo nonstop transatlantic flight
Born
February 4th, 1902 123 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 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.
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