William Wyler

Film director, producer, and screenwriter

William Wyler - Film director, producer, and screenwriter
Born

July 1st, 1902
123 years ago

Died

July 27th, 1981
44 years ago — 79 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent film director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual directed multiple critically acclaimed films throughout a prolific career. Debut in the film industry occurred in the silent era, transitioning into sound films seamlessly. Major works include 'The Best Years of Our Lives', which received several Academy Awards, and 'Roman Holiday', a classic romantic comedy that launched the career of Audrey Hepburn. The director employed innovative storytelling and character development techniques, often collaborating with well-known actors and writers. The contributions to cinema were acknowledged with a total of three Academy Awards for Best Director.

Directed 'The Best Years of Our Lives'

Directed 'Roman Holiday'

Won three Academy Awards for Best Director

Other People Born on July 1st

Joseph Martin Sartoris

American bishop and church leader
Born
July 1st, 1927 98 years ago

Ordained a priest in 1952, served in multiple parishes before becoming a bishop. Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New Orleans in 1979, and later served as Bishop of the Diocese of La Crosse from 1986 to 2002. Focused on providing pastoral care and promoting the Catholic faith in various communities. Engaged in education and built connections within the church and local organizations.

Continue Reading

Amy Johnson

Pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
July 1st, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 38 years old

Accomplished pilot and aviation pioneer set numerous records in long-distance flying during the 1930s. Johnson gained fame by flying solo from England to Australia in 1930, completing the journey in 19 days. She participated in various air races and expeditions, showcasing her skill and determination in the male-dominated field of aviation. Her contributions to flying and her adventurous spirit inspired many in the aviation industry. Johnson's life was tragically cut short during World War II when her plane crashed while on a mission.

Continue Reading

Charlie Blackmon

Baseball player, All-Star center fielder
Born
July 1st, 1986 39 years ago

Born in 1986, this baseball player has made a significant mark as a center fielder in Major League Baseball. A key player for the Colorado Rockies, he debuted in 2011 and quickly gained recognition for his offensive capabilities. In 2017, achieved a batting title, leading the National League with a .331 batting average. Selected for multiple All-Star games, this player also garnered attention for his power hitting, recording over 30 home runs in a season. His contributions during the Rockies' playoff run added to his status within the sport.

Continue Reading

Ralph Young

American singer and actor in musicals
Born
July 1st, 1918 107 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1918, a prominent American singer and actor gained recognition for performances in musical theatre. Achieved significant success on Broadway, captivating audiences and earning acclaim for a rich baritone voice. Featured in notable productions including 'Oklahoma!' and 'Carousel'. Also made appearances in film and television, showcasing versatile talents in various genres. His contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy in American musical theatre.

Continue Reading

C. Scott Littleton

Anthropologist and academic
Born
July 1st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
November 25th, 2010 14 years ago — 77 years old

An American anthropologist focused on the study of anthropology, Littleton contributed extensively to the understanding of mythology and folklore. His work frequently explored the relationships between mythology and cultural practices. Littleton served as a professor at California State University, Dominguez Hills, where he taught various courses related to anthropology and archaeology. He held a notable position within the American Anthropological Association and published several influential works in the field, particularly on the subject of comparative mythology.

Continue Reading

Ivan Kaye

English actor in 'Game of Thrones'
Born
July 1st, 1961 64 years ago

An English actor, active in film and television, gained recognition for roles in various productions. Featured in 'Game of Thrones' as the character King Aegon IV Targaryen. Also appeared in 'Ellie and Nessa', 'The Last Kingdom', and 'Killing Time'. Career spans several decades, showcasing talent in multiple genres.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on July 27th

Frank Zamboni

Ice resurfacing machine inventor
Born
January 16th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1988 37 years ago — 87 years old

An American businessman and inventor developed the first successful ice resurfacing machine in 1949, revolutionizing the maintenance of ice rinks. This invention enhanced the quality of ice for skating and hockey, making it more accessible and safe for players. The machine became a staple in rinks across the world, enabling a more efficient way to create optimal skating conditions. The brand name Zamboni became synonymous with ice resurfacing due to its widespread adoption.

Continue Reading

R. G. Armstrong

American actor and playwright
Born
April 7th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in American theatre and film, this actor had a significant presence on both stage and screen. Work included roles in films such as 'The Great White Hope' and 'The Longest Yard', along with television appearances in series like 'The Twilight Zone' and 'Gunsmoke'. In addition to acting, also contributed as a playwright, showcasing talents in crafting narratives. Spanning a career that included performances across multiple genres, became recognized for versatility as an actor. Active in the industry for several decades, left a lasting imprint on both contemporary and classic theatrical productions.

Continue Reading

Joanna I of Naples

Queen of Naples and Sicily
Born
1326 699 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1382 643 years ago — 56 years old

Ruled as Queen of Naples from 1343 until death in 1382. Became Queen at a young age and faced numerous challenges during her reign, including internal conflicts and external threats. Expanded influence over the Kingdom of Sicily, asserting control through political alliances and military action. Engaged in the complexities of dynastic politics in Italy and was embroiled in controversies, including conflicts with the Church and fellow nobles. Her reign was marked by a struggle for power and the survival of her rule amidst turbulent socio-political circumstances.

Continue Reading

António de Oliveira Salazar

Prime Minister of Portugal
Born
April 28th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1970 55 years ago — 81 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 1932 to 1968. Oversaw the establishment of the Estado Novo regime, characterized by authoritarian rule and centralization of power. Implemented economic policies that stabilized the Portuguese economy during the interwar period, focusing on state control and corporatism. Managed and maintained colonial possessions in Africa, including Angola and Mozambique, amid rising decolonization movements. Resigned from office due to health issues in 1968 and was succeeded by Marcelo Caetano.

Continue Reading

Richard Aldington

English author and poet renowned for poetry
Born
July 8th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1962 63 years ago — 70 years old

An English author and poet, this figure was associated with the Imagist movement in poetry. Early works included collaboration with influential contemporaries. A notable novel, 'Death of a Hero', reflects experiences in World War I. This individual's body of work encompasses poetry, novels, and criticism, contributing to modern literature. In addition to writing, involvement in literary circles and friendships with prominent figures of the time marked this individual's career. The exploration of themes such as war, loss, and identity resonated throughout the literary contributions.

Continue Reading

Al Held

Abstract painter and educator
Born
October 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

An American painter and academic, this individual became a prominent figure in the field of abstract art. Work included large-scale canvases characterized by geometric shapes and bold colors. Held was a member of the New York School and contributed to the evolution of geometric abstraction from the 1960s onward. In addition to painting, engaged in teaching as a professor at notable institutions, influencing a new generation of artists. Exhibited widely across the United States and internationally.

Continue Reading