Tommy Cooper
Magician and prop comedian
A magician and prop comedian who gained popularity in the United Kingdom during the mid-20th century through television performances and stage shows. Cooper's signature style combined magic with humor, often involving misdirected props and a distinctive fez hat. His career flourished with appearances on shows such as 'The Parkinson Show' and 'It's Friday, then...'. His unique approach blended comedy with traditional magic, making performances memorable and entertaining.
Headlined shows like 'The Unforgettable Tommy Cooper'
Appeared on 'The Morecambe and Wise Show'
Presented 'The Tommy Cooper Hour' on television
Other People Born on March 19th
Laszlo Szabo
Hungarian Chess Player and Author
Born
March 19th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1998 28 years ago — 81 years old
Born in Hungary in 1917, a prominent chess player and author, gained recognition in the chess world in the mid-20th century. Achieved the title of International Grandmaster in 1950, a year after the title's inception. Contributed to chess literature with several instructional books, enhancing the knowledge of chess strategies among players. Regularly participated in international chess tournaments, representing Hungary in numerous competitions. His contributions to the game and his writings continue to influence aspiring chess players.
Continue ReadingTobias Smollett
Scottish poet and author, The Adventures of Roderick Random
Born
March 19th, 1721 304 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1771 254 years ago — 50 years old
Born in Scotland, literary contributions occurred in the 18th century, mostly characterized by satirical novels and poetry. Authored 'The Adventures of Roderick Random,' which illustrated adventures and misadventures, reflecting contemporary society. Additionally wrote 'Humphry Clinker,' showcasing epistolary form. Played a significant role in developing the English novel, blending humor with social commentary. Also known for historical works and translations, emphasizing depth in storytelling.
Continue ReadingBenito Jacovitti
Italian Illustrator and Comic Strip Artist
Born
March 19th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1997 29 years ago — 74 years old
Born in 1923, an Italian illustrator became prominent for creating comic strips that were published in various magazines. Jacovitti developed a distinctive style characterized by exaggerated characters and humorous themes. His work featured a mix of surrealism and satire, appealing to a wide audience. In addition to comic strips, he illustrated children's books and collaborated with renowned magazines. The artist's creations included beloved characters and contributed significantly to the Italian comic scene during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingHugh Watt
New Zealand Prime Minister and Engineer
Born
March 19th, 1912 113 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 68 years old
An engineer and politician, held the position of Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1972 to 1975. Represented the Labour Party and served as a Member of Parliament for several terms. Played a significant role in governmental policies and public service during tenure. Engaged with infrastructure projects relevant to engineering and contributed to the development of educational facilities.
Continue ReadingBrent Scowcroft
U.S. National Security Advisor
Born
March 19th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2020 6 years ago — 95 years old
Served as National Security Advisor during the administrations of Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush. Played a significant role in shaping U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War and the Gulf War. Worked on the transition of power after the fall of the Soviet Union and was instrumental in the orchestration of military operations. Held various positions in the private sector and academia after retiring from public service.
Continue ReadingPatrick McGoohan
Actor, director of 'The Prisoner'
Born
March 19th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
January 13th, 2009 17 years ago — 80 years old
An Irish-American actor, director, and producer gained prominence for the creation and portrayal of the lead character in the television series 'The Prisoner'. The series, which aired from 1967 to 1968, explored themes of individuality and freedom. In 1962, starred in the espionage series 'Danger Man', which contributed to a significant television career. McGoohan received two Primetime Emmy Awards for his performances, solidifying his reputation in the television industry. Later works included appearances in films such as 'Ice Station Zebra' and 'Braveheart'. McGoohan's unique approach to storytelling and character development left a lasting legacy in the genre of psychological drama.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
R. Lee Ermey
Actor and drill instructor in Full Metal Jacket
Born
March 24th, 1944 81 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2018 7 years ago — 74 years old
Served in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of staff sergeant. Transitioned to acting, portraying a drill instructor in the film Full Metal Jacket directed by Stanley Kubrick. Gained recognition for his military roles and authentic portrayal of military life. Provided commentary on military and veteran affairs in various media appearances.
Continue ReadingJean-François Paillard
French conductor of classical music
Born
April 12th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 85 years old
Born in France in 1928, a prominent conductor dedicated to classical music. Paillard established the Orchestre de Chambre Jean-François Paillard and gained recognition for innovative interpretations of Baroque music. Conducted numerous recordings and performances, collaborating with various distinguished orchestras and artists. Emphasized the importance of both orchestral precision and expressive playing.
Continue ReadingWhitey Herzog
Baseball manager and outfielder, 1982 WS Champion
Born
November 9th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2024 1 years ago — 92 years old
An accomplished baseball outfielder and manager. Managed the St. Louis Cardinals and led the team to three National League pennants and a World Series title in 1982. Previously played for the Washington Senators and the Kansas City Athletics. Developed a reputation for innovative strategies and strong leadership skills, recognized as a key figure in the evolution of modern baseball tactics. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2010 for contributions to the sport and celebrated for distinctive management style.
Continue ReadingNikolai Fyodorovich Vatutin
Russian general during World War II
Born
1901 125 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1944 81 years ago — 43 years old
A prominent military leader during World War II. Commanded the Soviet forces in key battles on the Eastern Front. Played a significant role in the defeat of Nazi forces at the Battle of Stalingrad and the subsequent offensive operations. Contributed to the liberation of key territories in Ukraine. Oversaw the planning and execution of military operations that were crucial to the Soviet Union's war efforts.
Continue ReadingRichard LeParmentier
Actor in Star Wars and screenwriter
Born
1946 80 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 67 years old
American-English actor and screenwriter had a career spanning several decades. Appeared in the original 'Star Wars' as Admiral Motti. Also featured in films such as 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' and 'Octopussy'. Worked in television, guest-starring in series including 'The New Avengers' and 'The Professionals'. Contributed to several stage productions and screenplays, showcasing a range of talents in acting and writing.
Continue ReadingRobert Musil
Austrian-Swiss author and playwright
Born
1880 146 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1942 83 years ago — 62 years old
An influential author and playwright, contributed significantly to modernist literature. Best recognized for the novel 'The Man Without Qualities', which explores the complexities of society and individual identity in the early 20th century. Wrote many essays and plays that reflected on philosophy and aesthetics. Experienced the turmoil of the Austro-Hungarian Empire's collapse, which influenced literary work.
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