Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 17th August

Today’s posting starts with Richard of Shrewsbury, who was made Duke of York a year after his birth in 1473 though he never managed to march his men to the top of the hill and back down again, given he died aged 10. American frontiersman and folk hero, (with his hat), David ‘Davy’ Crockett was unable to brag about his birthdate from 1786. Also born that year, mum to the person with numerous pubs named in her honour, (Queen Victoria), Princess Marie Luise Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, (later to become Duchess of Kent and Strathearn) started the whole Victorian thing a good 51 years before her daughter. Emperor of Ethiopia, Sahle Maryam but known as Menelik II, began his expansion plans from 1844. Film producer born Szmuel Gelbfisz before changing it to Samuel Goldfish and then settling on Samuel Goldwyn framed it just right in 1882. Sex symbol not averse to using double entendres, Mary Jane ‘Mae’ West gave her parents no sleep night after night from 1893. Singer/actress Maureen O’Hara fell into the parent trap back in 1920. Co-creator of caffeine booster drink Red Bull – Chaleo Yoovidhya didn’t find his wings when born in 1923. Having mentioned gaudy blazer and eye patch wearing jazz musician Alan George Heywood Melly on 5th July when he suffered his demise, here he is again, (minus the above), given he found his voice in 1926. Also born that year, first of a few Norwegians to get a mench today – Olympic sailer Hakon Barfod answered the bosun’s call. Poet/children’s writer and husband to Sylvia Plath, Edward James ‘Ted’ Hughes, had to write birthday letters a few years after 1930. Novelist who didn’t quite make his 86th birthday – Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul, managing to cut it down to V.S. Naipaul for the dust jacket left the middle passage in 1932. Film star with the spot who’s played everything from a Mafia member to a paranoid grandfather and plugger of some electric car bearing his name – Robert Anthony De Niro had a bloody mama in 1943. Also born that year is Welsh ex-waffler on BBC Radio 4 as well as knowing all the answers on Mastermind, (given he asks the questions), Desmond John Humphries was all the news in his family. Fourth and sixth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago – Patrick Augustus Mervyn Manning started to soak up the sunshine in 1946. Writer of well received period drama Downtown Abbey, now seen trying to look interested in the House of Lords, Julian Alexander Kitchener-Fellowes was more ‘downstairs’ in 1949. Ex-Reigate resident and previous middleweight boxing champion of the world – Alan Minter, would probably have had some halibut mornay and a drink or three in celebration of his 71st birthday, if he hadn’t sadly died in 2020. Three time F1 champion without managing to kill himself, Nelson Piquet Souto Maior left his first skid marks in 1952. Dungaree/dress wearing lead singer with 1980’s band Dexys Midnight Runners, Kevin Anthony Rowland didn’t resort to ‘Plan B’ in 1953. Real estate broker and dad to both Paris & Nicky, (along with the other two kids), Richard Howard Hilton established himself in 1955. Tight trouser and frilly shirt wearer who bagged a gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics, Robin Cousins wobbled onto the scene in 1957. Member of 80’s girl group The Go-Go’s, Belinda Carlisle had her parents leave a light on from 1958. Another person born that year is disgraced ex-head honcho of Royal Bank of Scotland who handed his gong back to Liz, Frederick Anderson ‘Fred’ Goodwin started to count his blessings. Vernon Wayne Howell, or David Koresh leader of the Branch Davidians religious sect prophesied his arrival in 1959. Having mentioned his ex-Mrs only yesterday, Hollywood actor who spouted his somewhat skewed views on the Falkland Islands, Sean Justin Penn began climbing the tree of life from 1960. One hit wonder and subsequent lower chart botherer Maria McKee was the sweetest child from 1964. Actress sadly taken from us last year, Helen Elizabeth McCrory went the full stretch in 1968. Older bro to Marky Mark – singer/actor etc., Donald Edmond Wahlberg Jr., was hanging tough in 1969. Tennis player James Spencer ‘Jim’ Courier Jr. took a drop shot in 1970. Ball kicker and diver for Arsenal before going onto plug small French cars – Thierry Daniel Henry started dribbling in 1977. Goth metal shouter Vibeke Stene saw life beyond the veil in 1978, whilst in 1980, Lena Marlin found out where she was headed. Actor with a dubious photo collection – Mark Salling gave his parents the music, child star in 1982. Dreadlocked and tattooed hyperactive rapper born Gazzy Garcia, but goes by the name Lil Pump, took a few years from 2000 to become a multi millionaire.

Death wise there aren’t a great deal to report on today, but we begin with the rather rude sounding 89th Emperor of Japan Go Fukakusa who took his robes off for the last time in 1304. Henry VIII had a busy day given he signed the death warrants of both Edmund Dudley and Richard Empson who were both killed in 1510. Admiral Robert Blake weighed anchor in 1657. King of Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg – Frederick II or Frederick the Great had a comfy ending in his armchair back in 1786. General who was Protector of Peru born José Francisco de San Martín y Matorras, but cut down to José de San Martín gave up the struggle in 1850. Dead Norwegian of the day goes to violin screecher Ole Bornemann Bull who didn’t get another fiddle after 1880. Singer Paul Williams wasn’t tempted to stay alive after 1973. Older bro to George – Israel, or Ira Gershwin as he was also known, certainly couldn’t get started again after 1983. Another person getting their second mention this year is amateur pilot and ex-resident of both the Tower of London and Spandau Prison, senior Nazi Rudolph Walter Richard Hess, actually bent his arm in 1987. Sixth President of Pakistan Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq stopped wearing his grey overcoat in 1988. Eighth President of Italy, Francesco Cossiga, didn’t get to finish his pizza in 2010. Owner of French drink company bearing his name, Patrick Ricard was toasted in more ways than one in 2012. Finally, actress Yvonne Joyce Craig left the bat cave for last time in 2015.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 16th August

Births today start with fourth Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, named Zhu Gaochi, but known as Hongxi Emperor was a delicate child in 1378. Anne of Austria, born in 1573 who went onto become consort of Poland, Grand Duchess consort of Lithuania, and, not content with those titles, she also added Queen consort of Sweden to the list. Person who came up with the rules for football, (soccer) – Ebenezer Cobb Morley couldn’t understand the off side rule himself in 1831. Thomas Edward, (T.E.) Lawrence or Lawrence of Arabia, (but born in Wales), didn’t revolt when born in 1888. Disputed creator of Felix the Cat – Otto James Messmer started his one life in 1892. Sixth Prime Minister of Israel, Menachem Begin began breathing in 1913. Known for playing Davy Crockett, actor Fess Elisha Parker Jr. let out his first battle cry in 1924. Tenor saxophonist from Redhill Surrey, Dennis ‘Danny’ Moss saw his first jazz hands in 1927. Grandson to founder of Mars Inc. – Forrest Edward Mars Jr, didn’t use the dry method during birth in 1931. NASA astronaut Stuart Allen ‘Stu’ Roosa made it through the air lock in 1933. Also arriving that year, actress known for her role in Batman, born Julia Chalene Newmayer who took that down to Julie Newmar wasn’t the ‘I don’t care girl’ in 1933. Singer/actress Revoyda Frierson who found success as Ketty Lester was queen for a day from 1934. Actress from the Jaws film franchise – Lorraine Gary went from zero, (in 1937) to sixty, (in 1997). Banjo player who died in 2020 Eric Weissberg had his deliverance in 1939. Ex-shuffler of papers and pronouncer of unpronounceable names on the news, George ‘Trevor’ McDonald also made his presence known in 1939. Another journo who did pretty much the same thing but in a self named newsround for children, and now known for wearing various jumpers whilst wandering around Britain, John Raymond Craven started circulating in 1940. Having played Terrance Aubrey ‘Boycie’ Boyce in BBC sit-com ‘Only Fools and Horses’, John Challis was born this morning in 1942. Fashion designer Katherine Hamnett CHOSE LIFE in 1947. 13th President of Nigeria, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua convinced his mum to be born in 1951. Also born that year, real life Muppet, (performer), Richard Hunt had his first cord cut. Ex co-presenter of Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee, born Kathryn Lee Epstein – Kathryn Lee Gifford tried to get a word in from 1953. Three people were born in 1954: first up, performer with Kool & the Gang, James Warren ‘J.T.’ Taylor gave his parents something to celebrate! Next up is film director of mainly sci-fi films, (yawn), and two of the biggest grossing films, (apparently), James Francis Cameron also directed things back then. Finally, cat impressionist and ex-member of the Respect Party, now found leading the Workers Party of Britain, via his stint as leader of the All for Unity Party – George Galloway probably argued his way out. Convert to celebrity religion Kabbalah, continually changing pop star who’s shifted a few million discs over the years, Madonna, (Louise Ciccone), had her first bedtime time story in 1958. Star of American version of The Office, (which was nowhere near as good as the original), Steven John ‘Steve’ Carell found it was open season in 1962. Ex-squeeze of HRH Prince Ted who’s been on various television programmes, Eva Ulrika Jonsson made her move in 1967. Italian pedlar and Olympic gold medalist Fabio Casartelli found the slipstream in 1970. Popular Indian actor Sajid, (now Saif), Ali Khan, won the race in 1970. Founding member of country, (yawn), band – Dixie Chicks, sorry, The Chicks – Emily Burns Strayer, (née Erwin, and before Robison), found everybody knows her birthday from 1972. Also born that year, offensive and, (normally), amusing comedian Francis Martin Patrick ‘Frankie’ Boyle, (seemingly no relation to Susan), surprisingly didn’t cause any controversy when delivered. Singer/songwriter Vanessa Carlton was a pretty baby, (apparently), in 1980. Daughter whose followed her parents, (Demi & Bruce), into acting – Rumer Glenn Willis, went the whole nine yards in 1988. Actress who’s pretty much based her career in Harry Potter films, Evanna Lynch did her own Houdini act in 1991.

As for deaths, 19th century mystic Gadadhar Chatterji or Gadadhar Chattopadhyay or Ramakrishna Paramahamsa who then abbreviated it to Ramakrishna had the mystery as to when he’d die taken away from him in 1886. Pharmacist and inventor of rust busting/tooth decaying drink Coca Cola, John Pemberton went flat in 1888. Inventor of the Bunsen burner, Robert Wilhelm Eberhard Bunsen ran out of gas in 1899. Having not mentioned a Norwegian for a few days, here’s Carl Theodore Schultz to make up for it and started pushing up his daises from 1914. Scientist who co-discovered helium, Sir Norman Lockyer didn’t have the squeaky voice from 1920. Splendid moustache wearer whilst donned in his military uniform, Peter I of Serbia – King of the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes retreated in 1921. Cyclist and first organiser of banned substance fest that is the Tour de France – Henri Desgrange has been in the neutral zone from 1940. Baseball player George Herman ‘Babe’ Ruth Jr. ran himself out in 1948. Author of book ‘Gone With the Wind’, Margaret Munnerlyn Mitchell reached the end of her story in 1949. Hungarian actor who portrayed Count Dracula in the original 1931 film, Béla Ferenc Deszō Blaskó, or just Bela Lugosi had the death kiss in 1956. Las Vegas and Teddy Boy’s favourite who was the biggest male singer, (in more ways than one), Elvis Aaron Presley munched his last peanut butter and fried squirrel sarnie in his spangly jumpsuit back in 1977. Estranged wife of Rudolph Valentino, silent film actress born Harriet Ackers, but known as Jean Acker passed without comment in 1978. 13th Prime Minister of Canada John George Diefenbaker stopped ordering people about in 1979. Songwriter responsible for co-writing ‘Son of a Preacher Man’ – John David Hurley lost his rhythm in 1986. Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan started having visions of Allah in 2002. Also not making it through that year, actor, (before he was blacklisted), Jeff Corey had the premonition of death. Corrupt, human rights denier and generally deluded third President of Uganda, Idi Amin found what dying was all about in 2003. Singer with Irish folk band The Dubliners – Joseph Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Drew had a Nelson’s farewell in 2008. Princess Lalla Amina of Morocco left the tagine unwashed from 2012. Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin has been a spirit in the dark since 2018. Actor Peter Henry Fonda found the spirits of the dead in 2019. Finally, fellow thespian born Anne Veronica Maria Quayle, but known as Anna Quayle didn’t quite get her wish of, ‘Stop the World, I Want to Get Off’ in 2019.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 15th August

Today, the following celebrated/are celebrating their special day of the year, and we begin with ancient royal – King Alfonso IX of Léon and Galicia gave more than four kicks during his birth in 1171. Early day civil engineer and professional road builder – John ‘Blind Jack’ Metcalf based himself in Knaresborough, Yorkshire from 1717. Diminutive French agitator and sparring partner of Wellington, born Napoléon di Buonaparte but is probably better known as Napoléon Bonaparte or Napoleon I revolutionised his parents lives in 1769. Carrying on from Napoleon, novelist Walter Scott wasn’t born in the field of Waterloo back in 1771. Keeping with the French theme, fourth President of France François Paul Jules Grévy resigned himself to being born in 1807. Founder of the British red team – James Kier Hardy laboured the point in 1856. Having mentioned a couple of children’s authors last week, here we have Edith Bland, or to use her maiden/pen name, E. Nesbit waved goodbye to her mum’s stomach in 1858. Creator of Reiki – Mikao Usui put his mum at ease in 1865. Actress with a Broadway Theatre named after her and part of the Barrymore clan – born Ethel Mae Blythe before going onto being known as Ethel Barrymore felt the call of her people in 1879. Three time Presidenti of Panama, Arnulfo Arias Madrid, was the favourite son from 1901. We have the following person to thank for having elderly people travelling at 5MPH whilst hogging the road given he invented the electric wheelchair, (among other things), George Johann Klein also took his time being born in 1904. A year later in 1905 fellow Canadian – dog musher and dog sled racer Emile St. Godard was on the right tracks. Fourth Irish Taoiseach, born John Mary Lynch, but known as Jack Lynch, left his dad to drink the black stuff from 1917. Julia Carolyn Child, (née McWilliams), aka The French Chef started out in Pasadena, California back in 1912. Sketcher of all sorts of corporate logos you take for granted, Paul Rand designed his entrance to the world in 1914. Swedish actress Signe Hasso thought heaven can wait when born in 1915, (and she did given she died in 2002). Actor Kreker Ohanian, who wisely renamed himself Mike Connors was too scared to scream in 1925. Also born that year, singer Bill Pinkney drifted through. Sixth President of Greece Konstantinos Stephanopoulos stood for the first time about nine months after his birth in 1926. Film director Nicholas Jack Roeg didn’t suffer bad timing given he arrived in 1928. Member of The Tams, Floyd Ashton didn’t know how to be young, be foolish, be happy in 1933. Star of various Carry On films before going onto Pushing Daisies, James Smith or as his equity card states, Jim Dale, has been going since 1935. Founder of the Red Army Faction – Gudrun Ensslin didn’t take her mum by surprise in 1940. Famous for playing dim-witted Baldrick in comedy series Blackadder, before starting to dig things up – Anthony ‘Tony’ Robinson had a cunning plan in 1946. Second eldest child to Queen Liz who’s continually slipping down the line of succession – Anne, Princess Royal will probably celebrate her 71st birthday by spending a bit of time with her horses and having a bit of cake, (or a sugar lump). Writer of various books, Steig Larsson started his backstory in 1954. Ex-wife to computer crasher, sorry programmer, Bill – Melinda Gates (née French), got the coding right herself in 1964. Star of un-amusing sit-com ‘Will & Grace’, Debra Lynn Messing took a literal meaning to her surname in 1968. Actor Benjamin Geza Affleck-Boldt or just Ben Affleck, would have been dazed and confused by his new surroundings in 1972. Also arriving that year, singer/songwriter of one time boy band Boyzone – Michael Christopher Charles ‘Mikey’ Graham has been celebrating his birthday no matter what. Current, (and fourth), Prime Minister of Ethiopia – Abiy Ahmed Ali is making everyone feel old given he was born in 1976. Gold medal winner at the 2004 Olympics with his horizontal bars, Igor Cassina swung into life back in 1977. Co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement, Opal Tometi didn’t campaign to arrive this day in 1984. Actress Jennifer Shrader Lawrence started bringing joy to her family from 1990.

Deaths appear to be a bit thin on the ground today, but we do start with Western Roman Emperor Flavius Honorius who is still waiting for his coins to be unearthed despite entering the earth himself in 423. Last Grand Prince of the Hungarians, whilst also being first King of Hungary – Stephen I, also known as King Saint Stephen managed to outlive all his kids before rolling over in 1038. I’ll probably upset any actors reading this by mentioning the person you shouldn’t mention, Mac Bethad Mac Findlaích or just Macbeth, King of Scotland got fed up of pinching his nose and running around in circles every time his name was mentioned from 1057. Theologian who founded a college bearing his name – Robert de Sorbon gave up marking his student’s prep in 1274. Philippa of Hainault, Queen Consort to King Edward II could have chosen a better title, although she did die in Windsor Castle in 1369, rather than a tube station on the London Underground’s Central Line. Pope born Enea Silvio Bartolomeo Piccolomini, before going on to be known as Pope Pius Il, stopped counting his blessings in 1464. Chemist who discovered anhydroorthosulphaimebenzoic acid, (or just Saccharin) – Constantin Fahlberg didn’t smell too sweet from 1910. First person to fly solo around the world who also discovered the jet stream, Wiley Hardeman Post found himself grounded in 1935. War Minister who surrendered Japan in the Second World War, Korechika Anami committed seppuku in 1945. Another famous Belgian, René Magritte made the right impression at the Purley Gates in 1967. First and fourth President of Bangladesh Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, or Bangbandhu, found he didn’t have to sing the national anthem again after 1975. Maori Queen Dame Te Atairangikaahu stopped rubbing noses in 2006. Music producer who coined the term ‘rhythm and blues’, Gerald “Jerry” Wexler was D&B in 2008. Co-founder of women’s clothing company Zara – Rosalia Mera Goyenechaea unstitched herself in 2013. Finally, also not making it through that year, Marich Man Singh Shrestha 28th Prime Minister of Nepal drank his last Gurkha beer.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 14th August

Births today begin with Catherine or Katherine of York, ninth child and sixth daughter to King Edward IV, pulled the short straw by being born at Eltham Palace in 1479. Future Pope Pius VII, Barnaba Niccoló Maria Luigi Chiaramonti started pontificating in 1740. Physicist Hans Christian Ørsted, (or Oersted) was known for his magnetic personality from 1777. Gambler/dentist and gunfighter at the O.K. Corral – John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday didn’t have a plaque erected at his birth place in 1851. Novelist responsible for scribbling The Forsyth Saga – John Galsworthy was the eldest son from 1867. Aleksander Obernovic, (not the meerkat advertising some price comparison site), but Aleksander I of Serbia turned out regally in 1876. President/Director of Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus – John Ringling North started to blow off from 1903. Co-owner of American Football team New York Giants, Wellington Timothy Mara was first down in 1916. Actress/singer Alice Margaret Ghostley wondered what’s happening in 1926. Also born that year, co-creator of Astérix the Gaul – René Goscinny, made a splash upon his arrival. Member of two legendary acts and slightly older Bill Bailey looky likey, David Van Cortlandt Crosby took a few years to remember his name from 1941. Born Melody Dawn Miller before going onto be named Caroline Smith, jockey and Mrs F Astaire, (being all of 42 years his junior) – Robyn Smith Astaire tapped her way out in 1944. Comedy actor, (if you discount the dire Pink Panther films he starred in), Stephen Glenn ‘Steve’ Martin took a leap, (or rather drop) of faith in 1945. Known for his role in classic 1970’s sit-com Are You Being Served? (whilst glossing over his role in dire sit-com Last of the Summer Wine), Trevor Gordon Bannister slid through in 1946. Also born that year, actor who had a part in Starsky & Hutch, Antonio Juan Fargas was quite a huggy baby. Tambourine and spoons player, not to mention being lead singer with electric folk, (can it get any worse?) group Steeleye Span, Madelaine Edith ‘Maddie’ Prior was under the covers in 1947. Also born that year is author who’s made a fortune out of virtually the same story line, Danielle Fernandes Dominique Schuelein-Steel very sensibly didn’t want to waste all that print on her name given she’s known as Danielle Steel and answered her mum’s prayers. Off beat cartoonist Gary Larson made it through the far side in 1950. Randy actress Gillian Taylforth started learning new tricks from 1955. Lanky basketball player, Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson Jr. slam dunked himself in 1959. Singer, ex-dancer and Mrs. A. Lloyd-Webber, Sarah Brightman didn’t make a song and dance about her birth in 1960. Having nearly won the Miss USA pageant before taking up acting, careless driver Maria Halle Berry, (who swopped her first and middle name around), had her initial casting call in 1966. Actor born Anthony Hardy before taking the professional name Adrian Lester, began the hustle in 1968. If you can tell the difference between the singers in The Scissor Sisters, you’ll know the lead, (female), singer is Ana Lynch, (or Ana Matronic), who’s parents didn’t feel like dancing in 1974. Joint holder of the Guinness World Record for longest continual role in a Australian soap opera, (yes, they’ll dole them out for anything these days), Home & Away actress Kate Ritchie wasn’t talkin’ bout her generation in 1978. Pole vaulter from the land of sharks, sunshine and Foster’s who’s one of 13 people to jump 6 metres, (or 19ft 8ins in old money), Paul Burgess strode out in 1979. Ukrainian born ex-British tennis player – Elena Sergeevna Baltacha was served to the world in 1983. Now ex-host of Radio One breakfast show – Nicholas Peter Andrew ‘Nick’ Grimshaw started to turn people off from 1984.

Deaths today start with King of Scotland, (and inspiration of King Duncan in Shakespeare’s Macbeth) – Donnchad mac Crinain should have had another nickname other than ‘the Diseased’ and ‘the Sick’ from 1040. Keeping with the ancient royal theme – King of Portugal, as well as being John of Aviz, didn’t manage to get another round of golf in after 1433. Having begun the births paragraph with a Pope, it seems only right to mention Pope Pius II, (or Enea Silvio Bartolomeo Piccolomini), who had his last view of St. Peter’s Square in 1464. Inventor William Ford Robinson Stanley who filed 78 patents failed to lodge 79 given he had a heart attack in 1909. Inventor of the first commercially successful automatic dishwasher – Josephine Garis Cochrane failed to have her final wash in 1913. Poet/playwright/theatre director Bertolt Brecht was contemplating hell from 1956. Mum to Elvis – Gladys Presley left the planet in 1958. Actor Patrick Magee entered the sleep of death in 1982. Playwright John Boynton (J.B.) Priestley saw the blackout in Gretley back in 1984. Founder of overpriced sports car company bearing his name, Enzo Ferrari found himself no longer ‘II Grande Vecchio’ from 1988. Singer with The Platters, Tony Williams found heaven isn’t on earth in 1992. Singer Lillian Patricia Lita Roza never did manage to find out how much that doggy in the window was after she keeled over in 2008. Actor born Shamsher Raj Kapoor, but known as Shammi Kapoor hasn’t spent an evening in Paris since 2011. Finally, not the bookmaker, but Defence Minister for Ireland, Patrick ‘Paddy’ Power obviously powered down in 2013.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 13th August

Following on from yesterday’s wordy posting, today’s is a close second given we start in 1655 with inventor of the clarinet – Johann Christoph Denner managed to get his breathing right. Next up is Phoebe Ann Mosey, or sharpshooter Annie Oakley got her aim straight in 1860. Founder of rusting Italian car maker – Fiat, Giovanni Agnelli rumbled along in 1866. Person who literally changed the lives of billions of people around the globe, not to mention giving parents a hard time as well as giving campaigning and whinging old biddy Mary Whitehouse, (see June 13 for her entry), something else to complain about – inventor of the television John Logie Baird tuned in for the first time in 1888. Actor known for playing the Cowardly Lion in The Wizard of Oz, Bert Lahr started to meet the people from 1895. Film/television actor who dined out for years on his story about sharing screen time with Humphrey Bogart, John Regis Toomey started the wheel of life in 1898. Known for his cameo roles in his own films, London, (England), boy made good – Alfred Joseph Hitchcock kept everyone in suspense back in 1899. Inventor of internal combustion engine bearing his surname, Felix Heinrich Wankel got going in 1902. Television/film actor born Lawrence Neville Brand who dropped his first name, was a scalawag in 1920. Illegitimate communist Cuban leader with a penchant for green suits and cigars, Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz, got one over on his brother Raúl by being born five years earlier in 1926. Actor who’s gradually shortened his name over the years, Daniel Patrick Harrington Jr./Patrick Harrington Jr./Pat Harrington started to take it one day at a time from 1929. Overweight un-PC 1970’s comedian with a knack for upsetting pretty much everyone, Bernard John Manning raised his first smile in 1930. Indian food writer Madhur Jaffrey, (born Bahadur), spiced things up from 1933. Unsuccessful amateur aerial adjuster, Michael Parkinson’s favourite guest and known for having his hand up Emu’s bottom, Rodney Stephen ‘Rod’ Hull made his debut in 1935. Drug smuggler and author Dennis Howard Marks was a nice baby in 1945. Successful voice actor who’s voiced everything from the Care Bears to Look Who’s Talking, John Stocker started babbling on from 1947. Funambulist Philippe Petit was petite when he made his initial appearance in 1949. Model who married David Bailey before knocking around with Imran Khan, (the cricketer, not the lawyer) – Marie Helvin scouted the best day to arrive in 1952. Co-founder of overpriced Italian designer company with Steffano Gabbana – Domenico Mario Assunto Dolce didn’t have any bling in his life until well after his birth in 1958. Also born that year, Lanky Northern Irish singer with the distinctive look, Séan Feargal Sharkey started listening to his father. Not to be outdone, bandmate to Feargal – Michael ‘Mickey’ Bradley was the undertone given he arrived a year later in 1959. Darts chucker

Philip Douglas ‘The Power’ Taylor had the bunting out in 1960. Having mentioned various British pointers at maps whilst giving vague weather forecasters, here’s their American counterpart – Samuel James ‘Sam’ Champion found his forte after being wet and windy in 1961. Also born that year radio DJ, Stuart Maconie started to find his voice. Overworked Indian actress Sridevi Kapoor started to be wrapped in cloth in 1963. Norwegian of the day, drummer with Swedish band Europe – Jan-Håkan ‘Ian’ Haugland had his start from the dark in 1964. Retired Newcastle United footballer Alan Shearer striked it lucky in 1970. Saudi Arabian terrorist Hani Saleh Hasan Hanjour hijacked his mum’s day in 1972. Also arriving that year, CEO of sports wear company Under Armour – Kevin Plank nailed it with his birth. Cricketer and fast bowler, Shoaib Akhtar let slip in 1975. Known for his role in the Pirates of the Caribbean film franchise, (yawn), actor Damien O’Hare breezed into life in 1977. Singer/songwriter James Morrison had the awakening in 1984.

Death wise, inventor of the stethoscope René Théophile Hyacinthe Laennec took his last, (laboured), breath in 1826. Artist who featured on the back of the old French 100 Franc note and probably inspired the character in TV series Happy Families, Ferdinand Victor Eugène Delacroix missed his last exhibition in 1863. ‘The Lady With the Lamp’, early nurse who tended the sick, lame, (and probably lazy), in the Crimean War Florence Nightingale could have done with one of her mates in 1910. Open space activist Octavia Hill has, has, rather ironically, been boxed in since 1912. Civil engineer involved with the design of Sydney Harbour Bridge – Arthur Lancelot Bonner (Lance) Plunkett hasn’t had to answer to ‘Colin’ since 1937. Prolific writer who penned War of the Worlds, (among others), Herbert George (H.G.) Wells wondered what was coming from today in 1946. Pseudologia fantastica sufferer who claimed to be King of Albania and to have started a political party, but in reality was an acrobat, Otto Witte fell off his perch in 1958. Founder of Bentley Motors Limited – Walter Owen Bentley MBE, reached the end of the road in 1971. Author and Nazi party admirer Henry William Williamson didn’t get to say, ‘Goodbye West Country’ in 1977. Continuing the theme of hotel founders using their names on their buildings, John Willard Marriott Sr., has had an extended stay at the Parklawn Memorial Park in Maryland. Designer responsible for the Barbie Doll, (among others) – John W ‘Jack’ Ryan took the hot wheels to the cemetery back in 1991. Disappointingly, this isn’t pervy vicar David Tudor, convicted, (and somehow subsequently cleared), of ‘inappropriate’ relations with young girls, but the non-pervy American pianist/composer David Eugene Tudor didn’t give a sheet dying in 1996. 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand David Russell Lange has experienced middle earth from 2005. Mexican actress Columba Domínguez Adalid started to dissolve in 2014. Actor who played R2D2 in dull film franchise Star Wars – Kenneth George ‘Kenny’ Baker started wombling free in 2016. Finally, country singer Nanci Caroline Griffith left a lone star state of mind in 2021.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 12th August

After a few fairly quiet days on the births front, today, the ‘glorious’ 12th, things seem to have picked up a bit. That said, we must start with King of Norway and Denmark – Christian III reigned large from 1503. Keeping with the ancient royal theme, King of The United Kingdom, Ireland and Hanover, commissioner of Brighton Pavilion and remodeller of Buckingham Palace, George IV entered the world regally in 1762. Poet who wrote original version of The Story of the Three Bears, (or just Goldilocks), Robert Southey didn’t refrain from celebrating his birthday after 1774. Mum to one of the most deluded people in history, Klara Hitler, (née Pölzl), came out arms first in 1860. Film director Cecil Blount DeMille gave his parents something to think about in 1881. Actress Marion Lorne bewitched her parents from 1883. Keith Murdoch, journalist and dad to phone hacking hack Rupert, made the news in 1886. Actor with a theatre on Broadway named in his honour, Alfred Lunt who was mentioned on the 3rd August in the deaths paragraph gets his second mention in as many weeks given he lifted the curtain in 1892. Short lived member of the Three Stooges, Joe Beeser was caught on the bounce in 1907. Actress Jane Waddington Wyatt found father knows best from 1910. Also born that year, first President of Singapore – Yusof bin Ishak found himself in a sling. Mexican comedian/actor born Mario Fortino Alfonso Moreno Reyes before going onto be known as Cantinflas had an immediate delivery in 1911. Commanding Officer of No. 617 (‘Dam Busters’) Squadron – Guy Penrose Gibson was a bouncing baby from 1918. Actor with the proper Scottish name: William Fulton Beith Mackay found himself released in 1922. Joint compilers of the Guinness Book of Records, Norris and Ross McWhirter had to share the spotlight in 1925. Film actor/director and fourth husband to Bo Derek, Derek Dullivan Harris or just John Derek didn’t lead a double life from 1926. Mathematician with the rather unfortunate surname, Jacques Tits only managed to count to two for the first few years of his life from 1930. Investor born Schwartz György, but now known as George Soros hedged his bets on arriving in 1930. Novelist/Oscar winning screenwriter, William Goldman found its boys and girls together in 1931. Given various other queens and consorts from around the world get a mention, it seems only fair Sirikit Kitiyakara joins the list as she joined us in 1932. One half of the band Sparks, (the one with the Hitler/Chaplin moustache), Ronald David ‘Ron’ Mael had a good morning in 1945. English naturalist, (not naturist), Terence Paul ‘Terry’ Nutkins didn’t grow up wild after his birth in 1946. Plucker of the strings with his bands, Mark Freuder Knopfler began the walk, (or rather crawl), of life from 1949. Singer with the high waisted trousers and long jacket, born Thomas August Darnell Browder but goes by the stage name Kid Creole hasn’t been too cool to conga since 1950. Ex-presenter of children’s programme Blue Peter Simon Groom bobbed along in 1950. Really, really unpopular French ex-President, (until the next one), François Gérard Georges Nicolas Hollande didn’t get far with his labour reforms in 1954. Frizzy haired guitarist Patrick Bruce ‘Pat’ Metheny’s parents were hoping for one quiet night from 1954. Actress Amanda Jacqueline Redman will have her next birthday in a year’s time having celebrated them since 1957. Husky voiced singer with a couple of hits to her name, Tanita Tikaram was more of a Tuesday than Thursday child in 1969. Hairy tennis player Petros ‘Pete’ Sampras had his first exhibition match in 1971. It’s thanks to would be shoe bomber Richard Reid who didn’t quite blast through in 1973 that we now have to take our shoes/belts off at airports. Actor Caleb Casey McGuire Affleck Boldt but known as Casey Affleck has been committed to celebrating his birthday this day since 1975. Boxer Tyson Luke Fury was quite placid back in 1988. Actor born LaKeith Lee Stanfield, who’s cut that down to Keith Stanfield was live cargo in 1991. Model/actress Cara Jocelyn Delevingne stormed the world in 1992.

Deaths today start with Cleopatra VII Philopator, who may have looked younger than she was given her ass milk baths, still gave up breathing in 311BC. Next up are two Popes – Pope Sixtus IV had someone else waft the incense about for him in 1484, while in 1689 Pope Innocent XI had the fire burning in his honour. Poet/painter William Blake never did manage to find a word that rhymed with dead, especially after 1827. Having dabbled with developing miner’s safety lamps, civil and mechanical engineer George Stephenson fell off the rails in 1848. Designer of rifle and founder of company bearing his surname, Eliphalet Remington found the stopping power a reality in 1861. First undisputed world chess champion Wilhelm (William) Steinitz checkmated himself in 1900. President of Dáil Éireann, (Ireland), and founder of Sinn Féin, Arthur Joseph Griffith created his very own free state in 1922. Credited with creating stainless steel, Harry Brearley probably didn’t leave a stainless bed in 1948. Writer of dull spy tales,(and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), Ian Lancaster Fleming found you only live once given he died in 1964. Head of acting clan – Henry Jaynes Fonda went on his merry way in 1982. Seeing as I mentioned Jackson Pollock yesterday when he expired, today we see Jean-Michel Basquiat who found his time was up in 1988. Cartoonist of cats – Bernard “Hap” Kliban hasn’t scratched since 1990. Acamedy award winning actress Loretta Young saw seven footprints to Satan in 2000. Creator of various boring game shows still being shown around the world, Mervyn Edward ‘Merv’ Griffin found the wheel of fortune didn’t spin in his favour back in 2007. Comb over king and quiz show host Robert Henry Robinson called his own bluff by dying in 2011. Not the ex-tax dodging comedian who laughs like a seal, but American footballer Jimmy Carr entered coffin corner in 2012. Betty Joan Perske who went onto become known as Lauren Bacall entered the big sleep in 2014. Actor Stephen Lewis has had more than one foot in the grave since 2015. Sailor who was first recorded person to sail the world without navigational aids – Marvin Charles Creamer had the black flag raised in 2020. Finally charades playing Aunt Sally, or Una Stubbs hasn’t been on a summer holiday since last year.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 11th August

We see ancient English Princess – Mary of York start today’s births paragraph given she was born in 1467 at Windsor Castle, well before low flying aircraft disturbed sleep there. Norwegian of the day, mathematician and chemist with no less than five awards to his name – Cato Maximilian Guldberg didn’t have to look out for Jacques Clouseau from 1836. Marie François Sadi Carnot, 4th President of the French Republic, was a dynamic child from 1837. Kijūrō Shidehara 44th Japanese Prime Minister pacified his parents in 1872. Child disliker, (even after they bought her books), Enid Mary Blyton came out nodding in 1897. Film/television actor Lloyd Benedict Nolan headed toward the unknown in 1902. 10th Prime Minister of Thailand with the numerous medal bands on his chest, Thanom Kittikachorn dictated his birthday from 1911. Cartoonist responsible for Hägar the Horrible, (among others) – Richard Arthur Allan ‘Dik’ Browne started entertaining his family from 1917. Writer of a few books – Alexander Murray Palmer ‘Alex’ Haley put his roots down in 1921. Husband to Laura and co-founder of, (now bankrupt), floral design company, Bernard Albert Ashley fashioned his entrance to the world in 1926. Film director responsible for The Amityville Horror and Cool Hand Luke to name but two, Stuart Rosenberg found himself spliced in 1927. Nearly impeached tenth President of Pakistan – Pervez Musharraf battled his way through in 1943. Careless driver and the man we have to thank for couriers not turning up on time – Frederick Wallace ‘Fred’ Smith founder of FedEx was probably late himself when born in 1944. Actor of the stage and screen, Ian Charleson was part of Scotland’s story in 1949. Steve Jobs shouting partner and co-founder of Apple Computers Stephen/Stephan Gary ‘Steve’ Wozniak downloaded successfully in 1950. Disappointingly not a relation to Paul – Hulk Hogan, (or to give him his proper name – Terry Gene Bollea), wrestler not only with the moustache but also sex tape, thankfully didn’t have all the old biddies sat bedside with their handbags on their laps cheering him on during birth in 1953. Singer/songwriter David Ian ‘Joe’ Jackson was more slippin’ than steppin’ out in 1954. Actress Embeth Jean Davidtz left the garden of redemption in 1965. Video game designer, (being responsible for Resident Evil among others) – Shinji Mikami has been in real life since 1965. Known for her role in Ugly Betty, Ashley Jensen wasn’t an extra this day in 1969. Now deceased half of rapping band ‘Kris Kross’ – Chris ‘Mac Daddy’ Kelly was alright in 1975. One hit wonder, Alexandria ‘Sandi’ Thom has been her mum and dad’s flesh and blood since 1981. Actor Christopher Hemsworth started to get to know his neighbours in 1983.

As for deaths, the following kept their appointment with the reaper – Wilfred or Wifred the Hairy, Count of Barcelona was stiff enough for a statue to be made of him in 897. First dead Norwegian of the day, Guttorm Sigurdsson, King of Norway was all of five years old when he put the oversized crown down in 1204. Son to playwright Bill, Hamnet Shakespeare survived eleven years of watching his dad’s plays before calling it a day in 1596. Second dead Norwegian of the day goes to composer Halfdan Kjerulf who knew the score by dying in 1868. Industrialist who founded a steel company using his surname and has a hall in New York City named after him, Andrew Carnegie found himself in a new casing back in 1919. Gianoberto Maria Carlo Bugatti, or just Jean Bugatti, car designer and test engineer with the family car business ran out of juice in 1939. Splatterer of paint on canvas, (and making a mint out of it), Paul Jackson Pollock spluttered his last in 1956. Virologist credited with developing a vaccine against yellow fever – Max Theiler went grey before turning white in 1972. Actor Alfred Sinclair Alderdice who found fame as Tom Drake, had a date with disaster in 1982. Singer Percy Mayfield has been unable to live the past since 1984. Fellow thespian Anne Ramsey, star of ‘The Goonies’ and ‘Throw Momma From the Train’, didn’t so much head west as goin’ south in 1988. Classic horror actor Peter Wilton Cushing joined the characters he played in 1994. Wok frying expert Kenneth Lo found himself 6ft lower in 1995. Wife to facist leader Oswald Mosley, and one of the Mitford Sisters – Diana, the Hon. Lady Mosley has managed to keep her arms straight since 2003. Founder of the Special Olympics – Dame Eunice Mary Kennedy Shriver got the gold medal in rolling over in 2009. American version of Bob Holness, (British ex-host of Blockbusters), William ‘Bill’ Rafferty has his last ‘P’ in 2012. Also dying that year, sports commentator mentioned yesterday in honour of his birth – Sid Waddell had his check out moment. It’s now been eight years since Robin Williams called it a wrap in 2014. Finally, singer/actor Trinidad López III hasn’t needed the Mexican medical man since 2020.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 10th August

Welcome back! We seem to have had a few people join the second paragraph over the past few days, although you’ll have to wait until next year to see their entries as we start today’s birthdays paragraph with John the Blind, (or John of Luxembourg) – Count of Luxembourg, King of Bohemia and titular King of Poland started seeing his birthday from 1296. Commander in Chief of British land forces in the colonies during the American Civil War – William Howe, (5th Viscount Howe) didn’t put up any resistance in 1729. First Prime Minister of Italy, Camillo Paolo Filippo Giulio Benso, or just Cavour, found he was unified with his mum from 1810. Real life Willy Wonka, Henrich ‘Henri’ Nestlé missed out on infant formula given he was born in 1814 and didn’t invent it until 1867. William Willett – campaigner of daylight saving time, (and great-great-grandfather of whinging Coldplay frontman Chris Martin), lost an hour of his life from 1856. Manager of Luftschiffbau Zeppelin and commander of the first Zeppelin to circumvent the world – Hugo Eckener cut the strings in 1868. 31st President of the United States of America who was quite partial to a spot of housework, Herbert Clark Hoover pushed forth in 1874. Claimed inventor of never ending, (and cheats dream), board game Monopoly, Charles Brace Darrow passed go for the first time in 1889. Actor who worked with various big names in his career, Henry O’Neill was the personality kid from 1891. Fourth President of India – Varahagiri Venkata Giri, was an obedient child from 1894. Known for playing the Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz, John Joseph ‘Jack’ Haley was probably scared stiff upon entering the world back in 1898. Founder of guitar company bearing his name, Clarence Leondias ‘Leo’ Fender suffered some feedback when born in 1909. Also arriving that year, Sultan/King of Morocco – Mohammed Al-Khamis ben Youssef ben Hassan Al-Alaoui, who also went by the names: Sidi Mohammed ben Yusef or Mohammed V, wasn’t traded for camels. Actor Noah Lindsey Beery, (who played James Garner’s dad in The Rockford Files), was quite gung ho in 1913. Black listed actor Arthur Zwerling, or as he became known Jeff Corey, reached the outer limits in 1914. Creator of the Jimmy Dean sausage brand before going onto having a hit with ‘Big Bad John’ and his lesser known one, (which is probably just as well given its title – ‘I’m a Swinger’) Jimmy Ray Dean started bummin’ around in 1928. Singer/actor and another ex-Mr Elizabeth Taylor, Edwin Jack ‘Eddie’ Fisher was young and foolish in 1928. British judge who’s been involved with various high profile inquests, (and aunt to actor Nigel Havers), Ann Elizabeth Oldfield Butler-Sloss received her initial calling in 1933. Caress Morell, (for those in the know, or those who watch endless repeats of Dynasty on some high numbered channel), Frances Meredith Carroll or Kate O’Mara found she had no hiding place from 1939. Singer Robert Lee ‘Bobby’ Hatfield was a righteous brother in 1940. Also arriving that year, sports commentator Sid Waddell darted through. Once married to wild haired wig wearer, record producer and now dead ex-jail bird Phil – Ronnie Spector found she was the baby in 1943. Singer/songwriter with alternative Rock band Jethro Tull – Ian Scott Anderson was unable to stand up for a good few months after arriving in 1947. 32nd President of Columbia Juan Manuel Santos Calderón joined the majority in 1951. Four time married actress, (just two short of Liz Taylor then), Rosanna Lisa Arquette wasn’t switched at birth in 1959. Having name checked his ex-wife Melanie Griffith only yesterday, here’s José Antonio Domínguez Bandera, who’s shortened that to Antonio Banderas started spying on life in 1960. Author of The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins had some falling action in 1962. Known for a couple of things, (not forgetting her water feature), gardener Charlotte Elouise ‘Charlie’ Dimmock broke new ground in 1966. Heavyweight boxer Riddick Lamont Bowe has been celebrating his undisputed birthday every year since 1967. Part of the Theroux clan and ex-Mr J Anniston, actor Justin Paul Theroux has shown dedication in celebrating his birthday since 1971. Ex-English rugby union captain Lorenzo Bruno Nero ‘Lawrence’ Dallaglio began the dummy passing in 1972. Hanging on the coat tails of reality television ‘stars’ The Kardashians – Kylie Kristen Jenner has lived the life of Kylie since 1997.

As for deaths, it’s an average day but we see Conrad the Red – Duke of Lorraine, who should have been known as Conrad the Grey after 955. King of Denmark – Eric IV, also known as Eric Ploughpenny or even Eric Plowpenny, probably wishes he hadn’t gone to stay with his brother in 1250. King Ferdinand VI ‘the Learned’ of Spain started to prostrate himself properly in 1759. Younger brother to Joseph, classical composer Johann Michael Haydn left the harpsichord lid up from 1806. Philosopher Jakob Friedrich Fries had to make do with being buried in 1843. 68th Prime Minister of France Pierre Marie René Ernest Waldeck-Rousseau gave the long lunches a miss from 1904. One of the few non-humans to get a mention here, acting dog Rin Tin Tin saw his last tin of dog food in 1932. Inventor and builder of first liquid fuelled rocket – Robert Hutchings Goddard went out with a whimper in 1945. Actor/director and one of the founders of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences – Frank William George Lloyd has been the silent watcher since 1960. Actor who featured in more than 190 films – Douglas Richards Kennedy went the way of all flesh in 1973. First British climber to make it to the summit of second highest mountain, K2, before not making the descent, Alan Paul Rouse decamped permanently in 1986. Three time Panamanian President Arias Arnulfo Madrid lost his hat in 1988. First dead Norwegian of the day, Øystein Aarseth, or Euronymous, another shouter of indecipherable lyrics in a death metal band, probably mumbled something illegible before expiring in 1993. Second dead Norwegian goes to programming language whiz Kristen Nygaard, who had more than a syntax error in 2002. Sunglass wearing slap head soul singer Isaac Lee Hayes got to say goodbye in 2008. Three time Oscar winning special effects artist, Carlo Rambaldi found the hand that feeds the dead in 2012. Finally, freelance journalist Kim Wall lost her arc of visibility either today or tomorrow in 2017.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 1st August

We begin today’s posting with subject of dull 1970’s BBC series about his life as Roman Emperor – Claudius was caught up in his first sheet way back in 11BC. Fellow Roman Emperor Publius Helvius Pertinax freed himself in 126. It also seems to be a popular day for Japanese Emperors to be born, given Emperor Kögon came along in 1313 followed by Emperor Go-Komatsu in 1377. King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania Sigismund II Augustus started to learn the regal ropes in 1520. I don’t belieeve it! Welsh painter Richard Wilson was born in 1714. Lawyer and composer of lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner – Francis Scott Key started to show his allegiance from 1779. Lawyer/lieutenant general in the Battle of the Alamo – William Barret “Buck” Travis, has missed the skirmishes in the car hire receptions given he arrived in 1809. Writer known for his book Moby Dick, (and great, great, great, great uncle to American musician Moby), Herman Melville came out for air in 1819. King Alexander of Greece was a slippery one in 1893. Otto Ernest Nothling made something of his life from 1900 becoming a cricketer in the summer and a rugby union player in the winter months for Australia. Stage, film and television actor Henry Burk Jones passed his first audition in 1912. Prolific actress Marcia Mae Jones didn’t suffer the birthday blues from 1924. Very hairy composer Lionel Begleiter or Lionel Bart considered himself one of us from 1930. Not terribly amusing comedian and actor Dom DeLuise had his magic voyage in 1933. Having mentioned Yves Saint Laurent on 1st June when he died, here he is again given he was a little crinkled in 1936. Singer/songwriter with the Grateful Dead Jerome John ‘Jerry’ Garcia became the grateful living in 1942. Avi Arad owner, (after a court battle), of superhero’s comic firm was a real marvel himself in 1948. Norwegian of the day, skier Tor Håkon Holte must have been a header in 1958. Actor Adrian Dunbar was expecting Jesus, Mary and Joseph and the wee donkey during his birth in 1958, but was sadly disappointed they failed to show up. Singer with heavy metal band Def Leppard, Joseph Mark ‘Joe’ Elliott Jr., had a long, long way to go in 1959. Fifteenth, (and current), Taoiseach of Ireland, (having been elected in 2020), Micheál Martin wasn’t quite the leader in 1960. 67th Prime Minister of war torn country Syria who gave up on the task on 11th June 2020 – Imad Mohammad Deeb Khamis had his first Ba’ath in 1961. One time fireman then security guard at the dreaded LAX airport before releasing a few singles and subsequently moving onto be a chef – Artis Leon Ivey Jr., or just Coolio, charmed his family in 1963. Previous toy-boy squeeze to Cher, actor Rob Camilletti had his mum find the soap dish for him in 1964. Ex-Mr K Winslet who directed a version of the above play ‘Oliver’ – Samuel Alexander ‘Sam’ Mendes started directing his life from 1965. English cricketer with a 100 caps to his name, Graham Paul Thorpe got his timing to perfection in 1969. Proving politicians are getting younger, current President of Columbia – Iván Duque Márquez arrived in 1976. Lanky haired actor Joseph Jason Namakaeha Momoa was more than tempted to be born in 1979. Actress who went missing the other year, (but was found safe and sound) – Honeysuckle Hero Susan Weeks, started planting roots in 1979.

As for deaths, King of the Franks, Louis VI of France aka the Fat, found himself on a crash diet from 1137. First holder of the title Duke of York, (now held by the lesser spotted Andrew), Edmund of Langley didn’t have to March his men up and down hills from 1402. Known for the style of buildings and furniture named after her – Anne, Queen of England, Scotland and Ireland also became known for her death in 1714. Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, John Ross, (Koo-wi-s-gu-wi in Cherokee), packed his teepee away in 1866. Continuing the Western theme, Martha Jane Cannery or Calamity Jane became deadwood from 1903. We have Donát Bánki to thank for inventing the carburetter, unfortunately for him he was unable to spark into life after today in 1922. Second President of the Philippines Manuel Luis Quezón de Molina found a nice little plot to rest his bones from 1944. Actress Frances Farmer wasn’t among the living from 1970. Fellow thespian, Strother Douglas Martin Jr. was to have his most famous line in Cool Hand Luke come true in 1980. Not to be out done by Manuel Quezón, (above), 11th President of the Philippines Maria Corazon ‘Cory’ Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino also decided to call it a day today in 2009. Baseball player, Boris Michael ‘Babe’ Martin entered the dugout in 2013. English disc jockey Michael George ‘Mike’ Smith failed to present himself from 2014. Keyboard player with Steppenwolf – John Raymond Goadsby managed to feed the fire in 2017. Finally, actor Anthony Wilford Brimley found Death Valley in 2020

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.

I’m taking a few days off as I’m going on my first holiday for three years. Please check in again next week.

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 31st July

Today’s posting starts way back in 1143 when 78th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Nijō, started having his hair pulled up. Duke of Burgundy – Philip the Good began as Philip the Noisy in 1396. 50th French Prime Minister Eugéne Henri Brisson advocated being born in 1835. Sebastian Spering Kresge founder of S. S. Kresge Company which was renamed to become Kmart Corporation was no longer free on board from 1867. Cartoon producer known for his work on classic Tom & Jerry cartoons, Frederick Clinton ‘Fred’ Quimby was quite animated in 1886. Not the dodgy used car salesman/importer as featured in Minder, but sportswriter Arthur John Daley had his first assignment in 1904. Sherry maker/taster, Jose Ignacio Domecq had the nose for a good birthday in 1914. Television producer responsible for various tedious game shows, (including Family Feud/Family Fortunes, The Price is Right and What’s My Line?), William S. ‘Bill’ Todman was a bit quizzical back in 1916. Lawyer and founder of Amnesty International – Peter Benenson, (born Peter James Henry Solomon), was himself free in 1921. Actor Donald Patrick ‘Don’ Murray started doing childish things in 1929. 6ft 9in, (2.06m in new money), actor Theodore Crawford ‘Ted’ Cassidy lurched forth in 1932. Comedian/game show host Robert ‘Roy’ Walker headlined for the first time in 1940. Younger bro of the Dimbleby clan, respected journo Jonathan Dimbleby became a public face in 1944. English act tor Richard Thomas Griffiths, (Uncle Monty in Withnail & I among other roles), started having bedtime stories read to him from 1947. Latter day David Dimbleby, Andrew William Stevenson Marr started the week in 1959. Actor and martial artist Wesley Snipes had an appearing act in 1962. Another famous Reigate resident – Quentin Leo Cook, now known as Norman Quentin Cook or Fatboy Slim found he’s come a long long way since birth in 1963. Also arriving that year, singer mentioned a few days ago in the second paragraph – Denise Johnson found she can’t go back. Older brother and fellow band member with his sisters, James Steven Ignatius ‘Jim’ Corr, left his mum breathless in 1964. Writer of dull books based on a boy wizard with round glasses, (which is where my interest in this matter finishes), Joanne ‘Jo’ Rowling or as she’s also known by the pen names J. K. Rowling and Robert Galbraith – left the chamber of secrets in 1965. Actress Amelia Fox had a few, (non), silent witnesses at her birth in 1974.

Deaths include, among others, mum to Dictator of the Roman Republic – Gaius Julius Caesar, Aurelia Cotta left her son in the limelight from 54BC. Earlier version of Justin Welby – Archbishop of Canterbury, William Courtney stopped nibbling bread and swigging wine in 1396. King of Portugal and the Algarves, John V gave up rattling his Rosary beads in 1750. Indian freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai found his ultimate freedom in 1805. 17th President of the United States of America, Andrew Johnson was unable to reconstruct himself after 1875. Prolific 19th century composer, (and the other half to Brahms), Franz Liszt, found his movements somewhat curtailed in 1886. Singer James Travis ‘Jim’ Reeves wondered is it really over? in 1964. One of the few Belgians to feature here, ex-Prime Minister Paul-Henri Spaak, didn’t get to drink another fruit beer after 1972. Indian singer Mohammad Rafi has left the backing band waiting since 1980. Actor Carl William Raisch, known for his role in The Fugitive found himself dead from this day forward in 1984. Canadian ice hockey player Albert Leduc pucked off in 1990. Second dead Belgian of the day King Baudouin I was unable to add to his honours list after 1993. Considered one of the greatest footballers England has seen, Sir Robert William ‘Bobby’ Robson obviously wasn’t too good to go down in 2009. Founder of Pukka Pies Trevor Storer must have ate all of them before keeling over in 2013. Yachtsman rescued during the 1996/97 Vendée Globe race – Tony Bullimore keeled over in 2018. Finally, six time Academy Award, ten time Golden Globe and nineteen time BAFTA award winning filmmaker Sir Alan William Parker had no hard feelings succumbing to his illness in 2020.

With thanks to http://www.onthisday.com for filling in the gaps.