Tommy Cooper
Magician and prop comedian

Born
March 19th, 1921
104 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1984
41 years ago — 63 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United Kingdom
Links & References
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
Patricia Morison
Born in 1915, an actress and singer gained prominence in Broadway productions. Starred in the original production of 'Kiss Me, Kate' as Lilli Vanessi, which earned a Tony nomination. Also featured in productions such as 'Zenda' and 'The King and I.' Transitioned to film and television, appearing in movies like 'The Great Ziegfeld.' Worked extensively in both stage and screen, gaining recognition for a powerful voice and strong stage presence. In later years, continued to perform and participate in various interviews reflecting on a celebrated career, contributing to the arts until retirement.
Continue ReadingHakim Ziyech
Born in 1993, a professional footballer played as an attacking midfielder. Developed skills at Heerenveen and Twente in the Netherlands. Joined Ajax in 2016, contributing significantly to the team's success in the Eredivisie and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2019. Secured a transfer to Chelsea F.C. in 2020, playing a key role in the team’s 2021 UEFA Champions League victory. Represented the Moroccan national team in several international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup.
Continue ReadingDavid Ross
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball (MLB) for teams including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago Cubs. Served as manager for the Chicago Cubs. Won the 2016 World Series with the Cubs and became a key player during the championship run. Post-playing career involved transitioning to management and providing insights into the game.
Continue ReadingHugh Watt
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 ReadingGaston Lachaise
Born in France, Gaston Lachaise emigrated to the United States in 1906. His career as a sculptor flourished in New York City, where he created numerous notable pieces. Lachaise focused on themes of the human form, often using materials like bronze and marble. His works reflect a blend of classical and modern styles. One of his most recognized pieces is the sculpture 'Standing Woman,' which showcases his interest in femininity and form. Through his sculptures, Lachaise explored strength and beauty, becoming a prominent figure in the American art scene during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingPhilip Roth
An influential American novelist who explored themes of identity, sexuality, and Jewish-American life. Major works include 'Portnoy's Complaint', which gained attention for its frankness about sexuality, and 'American Pastoral', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1998. Roth's writing often reflected personal experiences and cultural critiques, showcasing a deep engagement with issues of America’s social fabric. The author published numerous novels, essays, and short stories, earning a prominent position in contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on April 15th
R. Lee Ermey
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 ReadingFriedebert Tuglas
An influential Estonian author and critic, this individual contributed significantly to the Estonian literary scene in the 20th century. Active in both literature and journalism, his works often explored themes of nationalism and identity. He was a prominent figure in the Estonian literary society and has been associated with the literary movement advocating for the use of the Estonian language in literature. Besides writing, he took part in various cultural activities and was involved in critiquing the works of his contemporaries.
Continue ReadingNikolai Fyodorovich Vatutin
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 ReadingSurya Bahadur Thapa
Served as the Prime Minister of Nepal and held office multiple times between 1961 and 1995. Played a significant role in Nepalese politics during the establishment of democracy in the country. Worked towards modernizing Nepal's political landscape and economic policies. Contributed to the fostering of relations with neighboring countries.
Continue ReadingRobert Persons
An English Jesuit priest and author played a significant role in the Catholic resistance during the Elizabethan era. Engaged in efforts against Protestant rule, focused on the promotion of Catholicism in England. Established Jesuit missions and advocated for insurrection against the state to restore Catholic governance. Wrote extensively on religious and political themes, influencing the resistance through pamphlets and treatises. Contributed to the foundation of the English College at Rome, which trained priests for missionary work in England. His writings reflected his opposition to the English crown and Elizabeth I's policies, revealing the influence of Jesuit thinking in the theological debates of the time.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Bonno
Born in 1711, significant contributions to the genre of opera took place. Served as a composer and conductor in the court of Empress Maria Theresa. Created several operas, notably 'Il mondo della luna', which received acclaim in its time. Participated actively in the theatrical culture of Vienna during the 18th century. His works characterized by lyrical melodies and engaging narratives became a part of the operatic repertoire of the period.
Continue Reading