Una Merkel

American actress in classic films

Una Merkel - American actress in classic films
Born

December 10th, 1903
121 years ago

Died

January 2nd, 1986
39 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Performers & Entertainers

Country

United States

Links & References

An actress primarily active in the early to mid-20th century, contributed to numerous films, showcasing talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. Gained prominence during the advent of sound in film, appearing in many notable productions. Played memorable characters in popular films such as 'Swing Time' and 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'. Transitioned to television in later years, continuing to showcase abilities in various guest roles throughout different series.

Portrayed a lead role in 'Swing Time'

Appeared in 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer'

Featured in 'The Heart is a Lonely Hunter'

Other People Born on December 10th

Mark Aguirre

Basketball player and coach, NBA champion
Born
December 10th, 1959 65 years ago

Played college basketball at DePaul University, where an impressive performance led to becoming the number one overall pick in the 1981 NBA Draft. Played primarily for the Dallas Mavericks and later for the Detroit Pistons. Was part of the Pistons team that won the NBA Championship in 1990. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to the development of players and teams at various levels.

Continue Reading

Sultan Kösen

Turkish farmer, tallest living person
Born
December 10th, 1982 42 years ago

Born in Turkey, a farmer gained worldwide recognition due to extraordinary height, measuring 8 feet 2.8 inches. Kösen's height resulted from a condition affecting growth hormone production. In 2011, received the title of the tallest living person from Guinness World Records. This distinction brought attention to issues related to growth disorders and featured Kösen in various media outlets, showcasing his life and experiences.

Continue Reading

Tommy Kirk

American actor in Disney films
Born
December 10th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 80 years old

An actor from the United States gained fame through performances in the 1960s, particularly in Disney films. Achievements include playing the role of 'Travis' in 'Old Yeller' and starring in 'The Shaggy Dog.' Also featured in the successful series 'The Mickey Mouse Club.' His work contributed to the popularity of family-oriented cinema during that era.

Continue Reading

Gabriela Spanic

Venezuelan actress in telenovelas
Born
December 10th, 1973 51 years ago

This Venezuelan actress became renowned for roles in popular telenovelas such as 'La Usurpadora', where a dual role captured the audience's attention. She started her career at a young age, winning beauty pageants and gaining recognition for her acting skills. Her career expanded beyond Venezuela, leading to projects in various countries, becoming a notable figure in the Latin American entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

JTG

Professional wrestler, WWE tag team champion
Born
December 10th, 1984 40 years ago

A professional wrestler, JTG competed in World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), primarily as part of the tag team Cryme Tyme. In this role, he showcased a charismatic persona and participated in various high-profile matches. JTG's in-ring career featured an entertaining style that engaged audiences. The tag team won the WWE World Tag Team Championship, making a significant mark in the tag team division. Beyond the ring, JTG also ventured into a solo career and showcased talents in various entertainment avenues.

Continue Reading

Matt Bentley

Professional wrestler and TNA star
Born
December 10th, 1979 45 years ago

Debuted in the professional wrestling scene in the early 2000s. Gained recognition for work with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA). Participated in notable feuds and storylines, showcasing skills in the ring and ability to connect with audiences. Also worked with other promotions, earning accolades and a loyal fanbase over the course of a wrestling career.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on January 2nd

Francesco Canova da Milano

Italian composer of Renaissance music
Born
August 18th, 1497 527 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1543 482 years ago — 45 years old

A significant figure in the development of Renaissance music, contributed to the lute repertoire and composed numerous pieces for various instruments and voices. Created a style that blended both improvisation and written music, influencing future composers and musicians. His works are characterized by intricate melodies and harmonic exploration, contributing to the richness of the Renaissance musical landscape. Continued to have relevance in music history due to the complexity and artistry of the compositions.

Continue Reading

George Biddell Airy

Mathematician and astronomer, Royal Astronomer
Born
1801 224 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1892 133 years ago — 91 years old

Contributions to mathematics and astronomy included significant advancements in the field of celestial mechanics and the establishment of precise astronomical measurements. Served as Astronomer Royal from 1835 to 1881, overseeing the Royal Observatory in Greenwich. Involved in the development of the Greenwich Mean Time and played a crucial role in the British Parsec to define the astronomical unit. Airy's mathematical work encompassed various topics, including optics and the theory of errors.

Continue Reading

Elizabeth Jane Howard

English author and screenwriter
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2014 11 years ago — 91 years old

An English author and screenwriter gained recognition for contributions to literature and television. Authored the acclaimed Cazalet Chronicles series, exploring family dynamics and social changes in post-war Britain. Received multiple awards for literary achievements, including the Whitbread Prize. Worked on various screenplays, enriching British television. The narrative style and character development found in novels influenced contemporary writers.

Continue Reading

Elmo Zumwalt

American admiral and naval leader
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2000 25 years ago — 80 years old

An American naval officer served as the Chief of Naval Operations from 1970 to 1974. Focused on modernizing the Navy and adapting it to the challenges of the Vietnam War, emphasized naval aviation and the importance of technology in warfare. Instituted the 'Zumwalt Doctrine,' which called for a smaller, more agile Navy capable of rapid response. Retired with a distinguished career and later became involved in various public policies concerning military and veterans' issues.

Continue Reading

Bali Ram Bhagat

Indian politician; 16th Governor of Rajasthan
Born
1922 103 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2011 14 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 16th Governor of Rajasthan from 1998 to 2003. Held multiple positions within the Indian National Congress, including Union Minister. Played a significant role in state politics and governance. Worked extensively in areas such as education and social welfare throughout a long political career.

Continue Reading

Gerda Lerner

Historian and author of women's history
Born
April 30th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

An Austrian-American historian and author, contributed significantly to the field of women's history. Played a key role in establishing women's studies as an academic discipline. Authored several influential books, including 'The Creation of Feminist Consciousness' and 'Why History Matters'. Worked as a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and was instrumental in developing a curriculum that highlighted women's contributions to history.

Continue Reading