Vincent Canby
Film critic and historian for The New York Times
Served as a film critic for The New York Times from 1969 to 1993. Critiqued over a thousand films during tenure, establishing a prominent voice in American cinema journalism. Authored several books on film history, including 'The New York Times Film Guide' and 'The Film Directors'. Influenced generations of film lovers and critics through writings, including retrospective analyses of filmmakers and trends. Received the prestigious George Jean Nathan Award for Dramatic Criticism.
Critiqued films for The New York Times
Authored books on film history
Received the George Jean Nathan Award
Other People Born on July 27th
Mark Stanway
Keyboard player for a rock band
Born
July 27th, 1954 71 years ago
Born in England, the keyboard player gained recognition as a member of the rock band Magnum. The band achieved prominence in the 1980s with a series of successful albums. The player's contributions to the band's sound were integral to their style, particularly in the realm of progressive rock. Magnum became well-known for hits such as 'When the World Comes Down' and 'Start Talking Love'. During his tenure, the band released multiple albums and toured extensively across Europe.
Continue ReadingMax Scherzer
Professional Baseball Player - Three-time Cy Young Award Winner
Born
July 27th, 1984 41 years ago
A distinguished pitcher in Major League Baseball, achieved recognition for exceptional performance on the mound. Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 1st round of the 2006 MLB Draft, debuted in 2008. Played for teams including the Detroit Tigers, Washington Nationals, and New York Mets. Secured three Cy Young Awards in 2013, 2016, and 2017, establishing a reputation as one of the leading pitchers in the league. Won the World Series in 2019 with the Washington Nationals, contributing significantly to the team's success during the postseason.
Continue ReadingJonathan Rhys Meyers
Irish actor in 'The Tudors'
Born
July 27th, 1977 48 years ago
Born in 1977, this Irish actor gained prominence for his role as King Henry VIII in the television series 'The Tudors'. He started his acting career in the late 1990s and appeared in several films and television shows. Some of his notable works include 'Match Point', directed by Woody Allen, and the film 'August Rush'. He has received several award nominations throughout his career for his performances. In addition to acting, he has been involved in music and has released singles.
Continue ReadingKriti Sanon
Indian actress in Hindi cinema
Born
July 27th, 1990 35 years ago
Born in 1990, an actress gained recognition in the Hindi film industry. Made a significant debut in the film 'Heropanti' in 2014, receiving a Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Other prominent works include 'Raabta', 'Dilwale', and 'Luka Chupi'. Established a successful career with a range of commercial hits and collaborations with notable filmmakers. Continued to explore various genres and roles in the industry, showcasing versatility and talent.
Continue ReadingGeoffrey de Havilland
Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
July 27th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old
An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.
Continue ReadingGuy Carawan
American singer and musicologist
Born
July 27th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Carawan contributed significantly to the folk music revival, especially in the 1960s. A key figure in the Civil Rights Movement, he popularized the song 'We Shall Overcome' through his performances and arrangements. His work focused on preserving and promoting traditional folk music and songs, encouraging cultural appreciation and awareness. As a musicologist, Carawan conducted research on Southern Appalachian music and other regional folk traditions. He also taught music at various institutions, sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for folk music with new generations.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 15th
Zdeněk Fibich
Czech composer, known for Poem
Born
December 21st, 1850 175 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1900 125 years ago — 49 years old
A prominent Czech composer and poet, contributions spanned opera, symphonic, and chamber music. Major works include the opera 'Šárka' and the symphonic poem 'Poem', which showcased the lyrical qualities of the Czech musical landscape. Worked alongside musical circles in Prague, influencing the transition from Romanticism to early Modernism in Czech music. His compositions often integrated dramatic narratives and folkloric elements, reflecting contemporary trends and personal expression.
Continue ReadingPope Urban VI
Pope and Church leader during turmoil
Born
1318 708 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1389 636 years ago — 71 years old
Elected Pope in 1378, Urban VI faced immediate challenges, including opposition from a faction of cardinals that led to the Western Schism. Urban's papacy was marked by his efforts to reform the Church and restore ecclesiastical authority. Combatting corruption and promoting moral conduct within the clergy were central to his agenda. His election reinforced the Papal authority in Rome amid significant political and ecclesiastical turmoil. Urban VI's reign highlighted the complexities of Church politics during the late medieval period. The Great Schism that followed his election resulted in multiple claimants to the papacy, complicating the Church's unity and governance during subsequent decades.
Continue ReadingRudolf of Rheinfelden
Duke and anti-king of Germany
Born
1025 1001 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1080 945 years ago — 55 years old
Served as Duke of Swabia and gained prominence during the Investiture Controversy. Opposed Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor, and was elected anti-king by a faction of German nobles in 1077. Engaged in multiple battles against Henry IV, most notably at the battle of the Elster in 1080. Struggled for power amidst conflicts between church and state, emphasizing the tension during this period in German history. Died in battle against loyalist forces in 1080.
Continue ReadingGéraud de Cordemoy
French historian and philosopher
Born
October 6th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1684 341 years ago — 58 years old
Contributed to the fields of history and philosophy during the 17th century. Formulated ideas on the nature of reality and perception, addressing topics such as substance and the mind-body relationship. Advocated for a philosophical framework that integrated historical context. Engaged in legal practice, reflecting a multifaceted understanding of societal structures.
Continue ReadingRudy Minarcin
Baseball player and coach
Born
March 25th, 1930 96 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2013 12 years ago — 83 years old
Played professional baseball as a pitcher from 1953 to 1961. Contributed to the major leagues, specifically with the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Athletics. Transitioned into coaching after retiring from playing, guiding various teams at different levels of baseball. Served as a mentor to many young players throughout his coaching career.
Continue ReadingEdie Adams
Actress and singer from Broadway shows
Born
April 16th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2008 17 years ago — 81 years old
An American actress and singer gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Achieved recognition for performances in musicals, television shows, and films. Starred in the Broadway production of "Bells Are Ringing" and appeared in the television series "The Ed Sullivan Show" multiple times. Also received acclaim for her appearances in films such as "The Apartment," which won an Academy Award for Best Picture. Worked alongside numerous notable figures in the entertainment industry and showcased vocal talents through various recordings. Later in career, engaged in philanthropy and active support of educational initiatives.
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