Tony Verna
Television director, inventor of instant replay
Pioneered innovations in sports broadcasting, particularly creating the instant replay technique that transformed how viewers experienced live sports. Worked as a director and producer for various television shows, contributing significantly to the evolution of sports media. This invention allowed for highlights and critical plays to be seen again immediately, enhancing the overall viewer experience. His career included directing numerous award-winning projects.
Invented instant replay for television
Directed broadcasts of major sporting events
Other People Born on November 26th
Ernie Coombs
Television host of Mr. Dressup
Born
November 26th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
September 18th, 2001 24 years ago — 73 years old
A television host, known for creating and starring in the children's show 'Mr. Dressup', which aired on CBC Television from 1967 to 1996. The program featured interactive storytelling, puppetry, and arts and crafts, engaging a generation of Canadian children. Coombs utilized various characters, including the iconic puppets Casey and Finnegan, to teach important values and stimulate creativity. His work significantly shaped children's programming in Canada during his active years.
Continue ReadingJackie Trail
Tennis player and Grand Slam competitor
Born
November 26th, 1980 45 years ago
Played professional tennis, achieving significant recognition on the WTA Tour. Competed in several Grand Slam tournaments including the US Open and the Australian Open. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of No. 28 in the world. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of upcoming tennis players.
Continue ReadingEugène Ionesco
Playwright of 'The Bald Soprano'
Born
November 26th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1994 32 years ago — 84 years old
Born in Romania and later becoming a naturalized French citizen, Ionesco emerged as a leading figure in the Theater of the Absurd. Early works were marked by innovative use of language and themes of existentialism. The play 'The Bald Soprano' debuted in 1950 and established a unique theatrical style characterized by nonsensical dialogue and illogical situations. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Ionesco's plays were often staged in major theaters across Europe and the United States, contributing to the international recognition of absurdist drama. His work addressed themes of alienation, communication breakdown, and the absurdity of human existence.
Continue ReadingInge King
Australian Sculptor, known for major public works
Born
November 26th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 100 years old
Born in Germany and later relocating to Australia, this sculptor gained recognition for public art installations and her significant contributions to the Australian arts scene. Involved in various art movements, she created monumental sculptures that often incorporated themes from nature and abstraction. An early member of the Australian Sculptors Society, her works were featured in several exhibitions, showcasing her talent and unique vision. The artist's work remains prominent in public spaces, appreciated for its scale and aesthetic appeal.
Continue ReadingHarry Carson
American football linebacker and Super Bowl champion
Born
November 26th, 1953 72 years ago
A professional American football player, this individual played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for the New York Giants from 1976 to 1988. During this tenure, achieved significant recognition for performance on the field and leadership qualities. Contributed to the team's victory in Super Bowl XXI in 1987, showcasing strong defensive skills that were crucial to the team's success. After retirement, earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006, honoring a distinguished career marked by consistent excellence and strong play.
Continue ReadingRichard Hauptmann
Murderer in the Lindbergh kidnapping case
Born
November 26th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1936 90 years ago — 36 years old
A German-American carpenter was convicted of the 1932 kidnapping and murder of Charles Lindbergh Jr., the infant son of aviator Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh. Hauptmann was arrested when authorities traced ransom money back to him. He maintained innocence throughout the trial, but the evidence presented, including a missing step ladder found at the crime scene linked to him, led to a guilty verdict. The trial garnered massive media attention, marking it as one of the most publicized criminal cases in American history. Hauptmann was sentenced to death and executed in 1936.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 18th
Cecil Beaton
Photographer and costume designer
Born
January 14th, 1904 122 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1980 46 years ago — 76 years old
A celebrated photographer, painter, and costume designer, he gained recognition for his work in fashion photography as well as for his innovative costume designs for theater and film. Active in the mid-20th century, he was a prominent figure in British society and culture. He won two Academy Awards for Best Costume Design for the films 'Gigi' and 'My Fair Lady'. His photography often featured famous individuals, capturing the elegance and style of the era. Exhibitions of his works have been held worldwide, highlighting his contributions to the arts.
Continue ReadingSarah Marshall
English actress known for 'The Goonies'
Born
May 25th, 1933 93 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 80 years old
Sarah Marshall was an English actress who appeared in various films and television shows. Notable roles included performances in 'The Goonies' and 'Murder, She Wrote'. Over her career, she worked extensively in theater and gained recognition for her versatility in performing arts. Marshall also had a significant presence on British television, contributing to numerous series.
Continue ReadingRudyard Kipling
English author and Nobel laureate
Born
December 30th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1936 90 years ago — 70 years old
An author and poet, contributions include short stories, novels, and poems. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907. Wrote 'The Jungle Book,' a collection of stories about a boy raised by wolves, and 'Kim,' a novel exploring British India. Other notable works include 'Just So Stories' and 'The Man Who Would Be King.'
Continue ReadingMargarete Schütte-Lihotzky
Austrian architect, pioneer of functionalism
Born
January 23rd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2000 26 years ago — 102 years old
An architect associated with progressive design, introduced the Frankfurt Kitchen, which became a model for efficient kitchen design in modernist architecture. Worked in Vienna and collaborated with several international architects on various projects during the early to mid-20th century. Contributed to architectural discourse through writings and lectures, promoting the importance of functionality and social engagement in residential design. Engaged in political efforts against fascism, leading to temporary exile and continued work in Turkey, where undertook several educational architecture projects. Returned to Austria post-WWII to teach and practice architecture, influencing future generations.
Continue ReadingMichael Botmang
Nigerian politician, Plateau State Governor
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2014 12 years ago — 76 years old
Served as the 17th Governor of Plateau State in Nigeria from 2007 to 2008. Initially appointed following the impeachment of the former governor, led efforts to address various governance and developmental challenges in the state during a notably difficult period. Held previous positions within the state government, contributing to local leadership and political frameworks before ascending to the governorship. Engaged in initiatives focusing on education and infrastructure projects during tenure.
Continue ReadingMichel Tournier
French journalist and award-winning author
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
January 18th, 2016 10 years ago — 92 years old
A journalist and author who gained recognition for a unique literary career, primarily associated with works that explored themes of philosophy and existence. Published novels often combined elements of myth and modernity, showcasing a distinct narrative style. Significant works include 'The Ogre' and 'The Wind Spirit', which received critical acclaim and various literary awards. Contributed essays and articles to prominent publications, further establishing a reputation in both literary and journalistic circles.
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