Vilmos Zsigmond
Cinematographer of 'The Deer Hunter'
A cinematographer and producer, born in Hungary and later becoming a prominent figure in American cinema. Worked on significant films from the 1970s onwards. Contributed visual storytelling to numerous acclaimed projects and collaborated with notable directors. Influenced the craft of cinematography through innovative techniques and artistic vision. Won an Academy Award for the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and received multiple nominations throughout his career.
Won an Academy Award for 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'
Served as cinematographer for 'The Deer Hunter'
Worked on 'McCabe & Mrs. Miller' and 'The Last Picture Show'
Other People Born on June 16th
Aurelio Lampredi
Italian engine designer and innovator
Born
June 16th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1989 36 years ago — 71 years old
Born in Italy, this individual contributed significantly to automotive and aeronautical engineering. Early career involved work at Maserati, where design innovations in racing engines occurred. Later joined Ferrari, becoming chief engineer and leading development of powerful V12 engines. Played a crucial role in expanding Ferrari's competitive edge in Formula One racing during the 1950s and early 1960s. Created engines for several successful racing cars and aircraft, solidifying reputation in engineering circles. Contributions extended beyond engines, influencing overall vehicle design in performance and reliability.
Continue ReadingBill Cobbs
American actor in film and television
Born
June 16th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
June 25th, 2024 1 years ago — 90 years old
An American actor with a career spanning several decades. Debuted in the film industry with a role in 'The Taking of Pelham One Two Three' in 1974. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Bodyguard' and 'Night at the Museum'. Appeared in several television series, showcasing a range of characters and talents.
Continue ReadingTom Graveney
Cricketer and sportscaster
Born
June 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 2015 10 years ago — 88 years old
This individual contributed significantly to English cricket as a player and later as a sportscaster. Playing primarily as a batsman, he represented Gloucestershire and England during his career. Graveney made his Test debut in 1951 and was part of the national team during the 1950s and 1960s, earning acclaim for his elegant batting style. After retiring from playing, he transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting, where he provided commentary and insights into the game for various media outlets.
Continue ReadingKiko Loureiro
Brazilian guitarist in Megadeth
Born
June 16th, 1972 53 years ago
Born in Brazil, a guitarist gained recognition for work with the heavy metal band Megadeth. Developed a distinctive playing style that combines technical skill and melody. Released several solo albums, showcasing versatility across various genres. Participated in numerous international tours and music festivals, contributing to the global heavy metal scene.
Continue ReadingJulius Plücker
Mathematician and physicist, projective geometry
Born
June 16th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1868 157 years ago — 66 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and physics. Developed the foundations of projective geometry and made advancements in the study of algebraic functions. Conducted pioneering work in physics, particularly in cathode rays and spectrophotometry. Published many papers and was influential in shaping future research in both disciplines.
Continue ReadingMark Occhilupo
Professional surfer and world champion
Born
June 16th, 1966 59 years ago
A professional surfer, gained prominence in the 1990s for exceptional performances in competitive surfing events. Achieved the title of World Surfing Champion in 1999, showcasing remarkable talent on the World Surfing League circuit. Known for a distinctive style and ability to excel in big wave conditions. After a period of hiatus from competitive surfing, made a successful comeback, further solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on January 1st
Hephzibah Menuhin
Pianist and music educator
Born
1920 105 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1981 44 years ago — 61 years old
A celebrated pianist, she gained recognition for her performances and contributions to music education. Trained in the classical tradition, she showcased her talent across the United States and Australia. Aside from performing, she dedicated a significant portion of her life to teaching and mentoring young musicians. She was a prominent figure in the musical community and contributed to various educational programs aimed at fostering the next generation of artists.
Continue ReadingDuff Cooper
English politician and diplomat
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1954 71 years ago — 64 years old
Served as an English politician and diplomat, holding significant positions during and after World War II. Acted as the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster from 1940 to 1945. Contributed to foreign policy discussions and was involved in key political decisions of the era. Participated actively in the Conservative Party and was a member of Parliament for various constituencies. The career included the role of Minister of Information, focusing on propaganda and public communication during the war.
Continue ReadingHank Williams
American country music singer-songwriter
Born
September 17th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1953 72 years ago — 29 years old
An influential figure in country music, he gained prominence in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Williams wrote and recorded numerous hits that have become standards in the genre. His career was marked by personal struggles, which often reflected in his music. He died at a young age, but his legacy continued to grow long after his passing. Posthumously, several of his songs have been covered and celebrated by artists across multiple generations, solidifying his status as a pioneering talent in American music.
Continue ReadingAlexis Korner
Singer-songwriter and guitarist, blues innovator
Born
1928 97 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1984 41 years ago — 56 years old
A prominent figure in the British blues movement, a French-English singer-songwriter and guitarist helped introduce rhythm and blues to the UK music scene. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, formed bands such as Blues Incorporated, which featured future members of The Rolling Stones and Cream. Collaborated with artists including Cyril Davies and Charlie Watts, influencing the development of blues in Britain. Released several albums, showcasing a blend of blues and rock music. Contributed significantly to the emergence of the British rock genre, shaping the sounds of numerous musicians that followed. His work paved the way for later rock musicians to explore blues roots.
Continue ReadingPanuganti Lakshminarasimha Rao
Indian author and educator
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1940 85 years ago — 75 years old
An influential Indian author and educator, produced significant literary works in Telugu. Contributed to the educational advancement and cultural preservation of Telugu literature. Acted as a principal in educational institutions and emphasized the importance of language and literature in society. Engaged in various literary and social activities, promoting the use of Telugu in education.
Continue ReadingHelen Suzman
South African anti-apartheid politician
Born
1917 108 years ago
Died
January 1st, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old
Active in South Africa's political arena, this individual served as a Member of Parliament from 1953 to 1974. Significant contributions included vocal opposition to apartheid policies and efforts to raise awareness of human rights violations. As a member of the United Party, engaged in legislative debates and proposed reforms. Founded the Institute of Race Relations, promoting democratic values and equality. This individual also won several awards for leadership and activism, highlighting the commitment to social justice in South Africa.
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