What Happened This Year 1928

Born in 1928

Alastair Burnet

Journalist and news presenter
Born
July 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent journalist and news presenter, recognized for a distinguished career in British broadcasting. Worked for ITN and the BBC, contributing significantly to political reporting and current affairs. Served as the editor of the 'Daily Express' and presented coverage of major events including the Apollo 11 moon landing and various general elections. Burnet's interviewing style and in-depth analysis of political issues established a strong reputation in journalism.

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Imero Fiorentino

Lighting designer for Broadway productions
Born
July 12th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2013 11 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent American lighting designer, played a significant role in the transformation of stage lighting. Created memorable lighting designs for various notable Broadway productions, enhancing the visual storytelling through innovative lighting techniques. Contributed to the evolution of theatrical lighting, working alongside renowned directors and designers to deliver compelling visual narratives. Also involved in the teaching of lighting design, sharing expertise with future generations of designers.

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Al Rex

American musician, member of The Platters
Born
July 13th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

A musician active in the mid-20th century, contributed significantly to the sound of popular music. As a bassist, played with The Platters, a vocal group that achieved major success during the 1950s. The group is recognized for its unique blend of rhythm and blues with mainstream pop, leading to their widespread acclaim. The Platters produced classic hits that remain influential in the music industry. Their song "Only You (And You Alone)" topped charts and defined an era of American music, solidifying the group's legacy.

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Sven Davidson

Tennis player and U.S. Open champion
Born
July 13th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Sweden, a prominent United States tennis player emerged in the 1950s. Achieved notable success on the professional circuit, particularly during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Won the 1954 U.S. Open singles title, a significant accomplishment in American tennis history. Had a successful partnership in doubles as well, contributing to multiple championships. Transitioned to a coaching career, influencing future generations of tennis players.

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Johnny Gilbert

Game show host and announcer
Born
July 13th, 1928 96 years ago

A prominent American game show host and announcer, played an integral role in the television industry. Best recognized for hosting 'Wheel of Fortune' and announcing on 'The Price Is Right'. His distinctive voice became synonymous with these popular shows. Over several decades, contributions to the game show genre have been significant, gaining a loyal audience.

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Bob Crane

Actor best known for Hogan's Heroes
Born
July 13th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1978 46 years ago — 49 years old

An American actor gained prominence for portraying Colonel Hogan in the television series 'Hogan's Heroes,' which aired from 1965 to 1971. The character became iconic, representing a blend of humor and wartime resilience. Crane's career included work in films such as 'The Mystic Hours' and stage performances. Aside from acting, Crane was also an accomplished drummer and had a passion for music. His life was marked by both professional achievements and personal controversies, which were highlighted in various media narratives following his death in 1978.

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William Rees-Mogg

English journalist and public servant
Born
July 14th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 29th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the editor of The Times from 1967 to 1981. Contributed to British journalism with a focus on political and social commentary. Held positions in public service, including membership in the House of Lords. Authored several books on economics, politics, and society, articulating views on a range of topics.

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Nancy Olson

American actress in classic films
Born
July 14th, 1928 96 years ago

An actress achieved prominence in classic cinema during the 1940s and 1950s. Starred in 'Sunset Boulevard' as Betty Schaefer, a pivotal role that highlighted her talent. Appeared in 'The Absent-Minded Professor' and its sequel, contributing to Disney's legacy in live-action films. Also featured in 'The Killing' directed by Stanley Kubrick, displaying versatility across genres. Career spanned several decades with performances in television and film, showcasing a significant presence in Hollywood.

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Carl Woese

Microbiologist and biophysicist; discovered archaea
Born
July 15th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2012 12 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to microbial phylogeny and the tree of life. Developed the concept of archaea, a separate domain of life distinct from bacteria and eukaryotes. His work utilized ribosomal RNA sequencing techniques to classify organisms based on genetic material. Published the groundbreaking paper 'The Universal Tree of Life' which reshaped the understanding of evolutionary biology. Served as a professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and received numerous accolades for research in genetics and microbiology.

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