Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 20th September

Ancient royal of the week – Arthur, Prince of Wales/Earl of Chester/Duke of Cornwall (all roles passed on by Chas to Bill), kicks today’s posting off given he arrived in 1486. Jean-Jacques Desskines, or self proclaimed Emperor Jacques I of Haiti, was actually quite a nice baby in 1758. Chemist and physicist, (who’s not related to distilling family with the same surname) – James Dewar, inventor of the Dewar flask, (now known as the Thermos flask, and which I first heard about at school when my science teacher told me about it, but I digress), found a difference in temperature in 1842. Belgian engineer responsible for building the Paris Métro – Édouard Louis Joseph Empain came out of the dark in 1852. King of Siam, (no, not Yul Brynner), but Phra Bat Somdet Phra Poramintra Maha Chulalongkorn Phra Chunla Chom Klao Yu Hua, who managed to cut that down to Rama V, started collecting medals from 1853. Early day film director, producer, actor and screenwriter, (you see they were making up their job titles back then too), Sidney Olcott found someone slapping his back, rather than scratching it in 1873. Redhill, (Surrey), born actor, before defecting to Hollywood – Walter Kingsford was outward bound in 1881. Spiritual leader from India, Shriram Sharma Acharya was a calming influence on his parents from 1911. Stage and film actor Kenneth Gilbert More was a happy go lucky child from 1914. Co-writer of many a classic BBC sit-com from the 70’s & 80’s James ‘Jimmy’ Perry joined the old boy network in 1923. Having mentioned Rama V, (above), Ananda Mahidol or Rama VIII, King of Thailand didn’t want to miss out on things given he arrived in 1925. Well known jazz musician John Philip William Dankworth, (who was better known as Johnny Dankworth), was too cool for the blues in 1927. Italy’s most famous actress, Sofia Villani Scicolone/Sofia Lauren found it started in Rome, not Naples back in 1934. Kleptocratic military general who dictated over Nigeria – Sani Abacha joined the idile baba in 1943. Singer Hillard “Sweet Pea” Atkinson was born to laugh at tornadoes in 1945. Person with the beer named after him, Peter Hanson ‘Pete’ Coors was full of gas in 1946. Kiwi popster with 80’s group ‘The Thompson Twins’, (who weren’t called Thompson, nor were they twins), Alannah Joy Currie didn’t mess with Doctor Dream in 1957. Todd Smith Blackadder, not a friend of Lord Percy Percy, (who was mentioned two days ago), but a rugby union player had his first dummy pass in 1971. Formula One driver Juan Pablo Montoya Roldán started driving his parents round the bend from 1975. Professional road cyclist with the slightly alternative name – Vladimir Alexandrovich Karpets found it wasn’t curtains when born in 1980.

Deaths include, among many others – Antipope Paschal III obviously wasn’t anti-death from 1168. Flemish born critic Jan Gruter, (or Gruytére), he also went by the name Janus Gruterus, wasn’t so critical of dying in Heidelberg in 1627. Writer and folklorist with his brother, Jacob Ludwig Carl Grimm didn’t really have a fairy tale end to life in 1863. General Augusto Tasso Fragaso, President of Brazil – Member of the Military Junta and moustache of the year 1942, took his last look at Copacabana Beach in 1945. Finnish composer and pianist Heino Wilhelm Daniel Kaski reached his crescendo in 1957. Another Finnish composer not making it through that year, Johan Julius Christian ‘Jean’ Sibelius actually started decomposing. 126th Prime Minister of Greece, Alexandros Othonaios permanently resigned in 1970. Actor Roy Mitchell Kinnear found the heavens above in 1988. Ex-First Lady of the Soviet Union and wife of Mikhail, (he of big hats and birthmark) Raisa Maximovna Gorbacheva, (née Titarenko) stopped drinking vodka in 1999. English footballer/manager – Brian Howard Clough started having roads named after him from 2004. Tenth President of Afghanistan, (who didn’t flee the country), and probable relative of a school contemporary of mine – Burhānuddīn Rabbānī didn’t get to breath a sigh of relief in 2011. Eric Shaun Lynch later known as Eric the Midget and then Eric the Actor and sidekick to Howard Stern on his radio show signed off in 2014. Creator of both Postman Pat and Rosie & Jim – John Arthur Cunliffe found the full flat tray in 2018. Finally, singer Sarah Dash was leaving again in 2021.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 19th September

We begin today’s posting with 15th Emperor of the Roman Empire – Antoninus Fulvus Pius who was born in LXXXVI AD. King of Poland, Duke of Lithuania who also managed to get his hands on being King of France, Henry III looked a bit ruff after his birth in 1551. Next up is a Pratt, this one a leading light in the Latter Day Saint movement, Orson Pratt Sr., was a newer day saint to his family in 1811. Early day Smashie, (or was it Nicey?), Christopher Reynolds Stone, the person we have to thank for virtually all radio DJ’s who now ramble on and on over the tracks they’re supposed to be playing, put his parents in a spin back in 1882. Developer of the Van Alen Streamlined Scoring System (VASSS) for tennis, James Henry ‘Jimmy’ Van Alen II found the break point in 1902. Founder of Isshin-ryū style of Karate – Tatsuo Shimabauku started wearing white from 1908. Son of German sports car manufacturer Ferdinand Porsche Sr., Ferdinand Anton Ernst ‘Ferry’ Porsche was wheeled out in 1909. Actor and ‘singer’ along with being alleged wife beater and child abuser, born Arthur Earnest Mullord but went onto be known as Arthur Mullard, had a smashing time in 1910. Novelist who came up with Lord of the Files, William Gerald Golding was a moving target in 1911. Now retired radio/television presenter Peter Murray James/Pete Murray didn’t have the coiffured hair in 1925. Actor William Edward Hickey was the little big man in 1927. With a BAM! and a KABOOM! we see Batman actor from the 1960’s television series, William West Anderson or Adam West arrive in 1928, so let’s have an OUCH! for his mum. Character actor Derek Robert Nimmo found life begins at forty after arriving in 1930. Fellow actor, David Keith McCallum Jr., left the secret place in 1933. Having mentioned The Beatles manager, Brian Samuel Epstein, on the 27th August when he stopped representing himself, here he is again given he wanted to please, please, his parents from 1934. Actress from un-amusing sit com, ‘On The Buses’, born Ann Harrison McCall and known as Anna Karen had no reasons to forget her birthday from 1936. One half of The Righteous Brothers, William Thomas ‘Bill’ Medley was right here and now in 1940. Ellen Naomi Cohen aka Cass Elliott aka Mama Cass was winkin’, blinkin’ and noddin’ from 1941. Known for her million selling single ‘Band of Gold’, Freda Charcilia Payne found she got carried away in 1942. Actor Michael John Elphick didn’t get to hear his parents say, ‘And now the screaming starts!’ in 1946. Back to the singers – Laurence Neil ‘Lol’ Creme was good news for his parents in 1947. Act tor Jeremy Irons didn’t have a chorus of disapproval when born in 1948. Model Lesley Lawson, (née Hornby), or Twiggy branched out in 1949. Funkster and co-founder of disco band Chic, Nile Gregory Rogers got into the groove back in 1952. First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford started bumbling about in 1954. Lanky and geeky Sheffield born unofficial bottom wiggling backing dancer for Michael Jackson, Jarvis Branson Cocker didn’t remember his first time in 1963. Also born that year ex-England goal keeper who let his fair share of balls through during international tournaments, David Andrew Seaman must have learnt this trait when he slipped through the nurses hands. Saxophonist with one hit to her credit – Candy Dulfer didn’t baffle her mum after birth in 1969. Comedian who now doesn’t let his guests talk on his chat show – James Thomas ‘Jimmy’ Fallon joined the scheme in 1974.

In the absence of any Popes having incense wafted about in their honour, we’ll have to settle with Archbishop of Canterbury, Theodore of Tarsus who left the pulpit in 690. Danish astronomer Ole Rømer found his star in the descendent back in 1710. Original founder of bank bearing his surname – Mayer Amschel Rothschild lost interest in 1812. 20th President of the United States of America, James Abram Garfield was the second to take a bullet in 1881. Founder of children’s charity bearing his name, Thomas John Barnado found his time was up in 1905. Indian musician Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande was more than out of tune in 1860. Given I thought this was a made up name, I was somewhat surprised to see it was an actual person, Condé Montrose Nast lost his circulation in 1942. Medal winning, (Victoria Cross no less), and dam buster Wing Commander Guy Penrose Gibson bombed out in 1944. Inventor of xerography, (dry copying), Chester Floyd Carlson dried out himself from 1968. Singer/songwriter Ingram Cecil Connor III or Gram Parsons, found the other side of this life in 1973. Dead Norwegian of the day, Prime Minister Einar Gerharsen gave up serving his people in 1987. Popcorn magnate Orville Clarence Redenbacher popped his clogs in 1995. Australian singer, David Gordon Kirkpatrick became slim and dusty in 2003. Third president of Nintendo Hiroshi Yamauchi ran out of lives in 2013. Writer and younger sis to Joan, Jacqueline Jill ‘Jackie’ Collins was drop dead beautiful in 2015. World middleweight boxing champion and inspiration for film, ‘The Raging Bull’ – Giacobbe “Jake” LaMotta entered the mutual corner in 2017. Hair dye enthusiast who was second President of Tunisia – Zine El Abidine Ben Ali who cut that down to Ben Ali munched his last Tunis cake in 2019. Footballer James Peter ‘Jimmy’ Greaves went for the 3-3 formation either side of his coffin in 2021. Also not making it through 2021 is actor from Only Fools and Horses – John Spurley Chalice who started pushing up the green, green grass.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 18th September

We start both paragraphs with a Roman emperor and to this end we see Trajan march forth in 53. Following on from him, I would like to send my birthday felicitations, greetings, good wishes, congratulations etc to everyone celebrating their birthdays today although lexicographer Samuel Johnson was a child of few words in 1709. Bartolomeo Alberto Cappellari, (or Pope Gregory XVI as those in the conclave knew him), had his first audience in 1765. Breech and sash wearing King with a spilt personality – King of Denmark Christian VIII and on the other days, King of Norway as Christian Frederick was a little star in his parents eyes from 1786. Painting cousin in law to Vincent van Gough – Anthonij “Anton” Rudolf Mauve started to see everything in colour from 1838. Norwegian of the day, businessman/politician with a ship named in his honour, Richard Bernhard With was among us from 1846. James Henry ‘Jim’ Scullin, ninth Prime Minister of convicts colony, (or Australia as it’s now known), left the dispatch box in 1876. Thirteenth Prime Minister of another of Britain’s old colonies – Canada, John George Diefenbaker succeeded in being born back in 1895. Keeping with the political theme, first Prime Minister from the island of sandy beaches and pretty much endless sunshine – Mauritius, Seewoosagur ‘Chacha’ Ramgoolam made it through labour in 1900. Pete & Dud’s favourite actress Greta Lovisa Gustafsson, (or just Greta Garbo), had the inspiration to be delivered in 1905. Physicist from Redondo Beach California responsible for producing neptunium – Edwin Mattison McMillan radiated the energy from 1907. Post war CEO of Volkswagen, Kurt Lotz, beetled along in 1912. Actress Grayson Hall had one life to live from 1922. Ventriloquist who was an ex-neighbour of mine – Ray Allen let his belly do the talking from 1930. Founder of now defunct F1 team – Giancarlo Minardi didn’t know about the stop-go penalty in 1947. Politician who was Northern Ireland Secretary at the time of the Good Friday Peace Agreement – Maureen ‘Mo’ Mowlam couldn’t keep quiet after 1949. Also born that year, English footballer Peter Leslie Shilton cleared the corridor of uncertainty. Indian actress, Shabana Azmi thought she had an immaculate conception in 1950. Given his other band mates have been mentioned here, it’d be a bit unfair not to mention long fringed Douglas Glenn Colvin, who adopted the alternative moniker Dee Dee Ramone, started having pleasant dreams in 1952. Known for playing Lord Percy Percy and Captain Darling in classic BBC sit-com Blackadder, Tim McInnerny was a little darling in 1956. Former glamour model who’s now a panto star, Linda Francis Elide Lusardi started off life in 1958 wearing as many clothes as she carried on doing during her modelling days. Tony Soprano, or rather James Joseph Gandolfini Jr., became the boss of his family from 1961. Ex-footballer who did a ‘Noel’ in Nigeria, by hosting Deal or No Deal out there, John Fashanu dealt his hand by arriving in 1962. Also arriving that year, backing singer with The Human League – Joanne Catherall managed to crash through. Actress found in dull fest Game of Thrones, (among other roles) – Tara Ann Cassandra Fitzgerald started her childhood in 1967. Winner, then loser, of seven Tour de France titles, serial cheater Lance Edward Armstrong (Gunderson), was legitimately off the front in 1971. Mrs Will Smith, actress born Jada Koren Pinkett, (now with Smith tacked on to that), set it off in 1971. Another ex-English footballer – Sulzeer Jeremiah ‘Sol’ Campbell hasn’t had to defend his birthday since 1974. Retired footballer – Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, known as Ronaldo, was a striking baby from 1976. Chris Tarrant, no, not the cheeky chappie who presented the Capital Radio breakfast show and then Who Wants to Be a Millionaire for donkey’s years, but retired Aussie Rules Footballer, kicked things off in 1980. Rapper who’s slightly altered name is a quiz team favourite – Dizzee Rascal, or rather Dylan Kwabena Mills wasn’t the boy in da corner in 1984. Son of Arnie, actor/model Patrick Arnold Shriver Schwarzenegger made sure he used all the space up in the name box on his birth certificate in 1993.

Deaths appear to be a bit thin on the ground, yet we start with Roman emperor – Domitian didn’t get a casino in Las Vegas named after him following his death in 96. King of Franks, who was called Louis VII failed to reign it large from 1180. Sort of dead Norwegian of the day, King Charles XV of Sweden and when not wearing the crown or ermine cape there, he was King in Norway as Carl IV found his days travelling between the two countries over in 1872. Physicist who managed to measure the speed of light, Armand Hippolyte Louis Fizeau rather ironically saw the lights go out in 1896. Co-founder of Hells Angels favourite motorbike – William Sylvester Harley left the saddlebags dangling in 1943. Co-star in The Wizard of Oz, Francis Philip Wuppermann, or just Frank Morgan, stopped keeping company from 1949. Proper dead Norwegian of the day, Olaf Leonhard Gulbransson stopped drawing on life’s experiences from 1958. Act tor Franchot Tone, jumped off the wagon train in 1968. Guitarist and singer/songwriter you either love or hate, (no guessing as to which camp I fall into), James Marshall ‘Jimi’ Hendrix, born Johnny Allen Hendrix, let someone else light his fire in 1970. Graphic designer who came up with the Nuclear Disarmament logo, Gerald Herbert Holtom had peace upon him in 1985. Portuguese sailor and President, Américo de Deus Rodrigues Tomás weighed anchor in 1987. Founder of, (another), over priced Italian fashion house – Franco Moschino had a seamless transition to death in 1994. B movie director Russell Albion ‘Russ’ Meyer didn’t get to use his clapperboard again after 2004. Boxer/actor Kenneth Howard ‘Ken’ Norton Sr, hit the ropes in 2013. Finally, associate justice of the Supreme Court of the United States – Joan Ruth Bader Ginsburg had her death affirmed in 2020.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 17th September

People born today include, among others, King Charles III of West Francia and King of Lotharingia or Charles the Simple continued the theme from 879, given his dad was Louis the Stammerer. Born Camillo Borghese or as he was known in Vatican circles, Pope Paul V, entered the world back in 1550. Bouffant haired clergyman Stephen Hales could have done with one of his inventions, the forceps, when delivered in 1677. Cardinal and hyperpolyglot – Giuseppe Caspar Mezzofanti understood people wishing him a Happy Birthday in 70 languages from 1774. First Norwegian of the day, composer with the barely pronounceable surname – Halfdan Kjerulf really did orchestrate his entrance to the world this day in 1815. Founder of car manufacturer bearing his name, David Dunbar Buick trundled along in 1854. Second Norwegian of the day, Christian Lous Lange began making history from 1869. Turban wearing, (with what looks like a false moustache stuck under his nose), Indian social activist Erode Venkata Ramasamy, or Periyar, also known as E.V.R. and Thanthai Periyar started showing some self respect in 1879. John Willard Marriott Sr., responsible for various hotels and catering companies dotted around the globe checked in for the first time in 1900. Sea dog who made it round the world’s oceans single handedly using the Clipper route, Francis Charles Chichester was buoyed along in 1901. Prime Minister before being promoted to be second President of Sri Lanka, Junius Richard Jayewardene had a united front with his mum from 1906. Commander in Chief of allied forces in Northern Europe during World War II, and non-relation to Captain Kevin Darling – Kenneth Thomas Darling started taking orders in 1909. Comedian I remember from my childhood – William George Peter Glaze had no hiding place from 1917. Actress born Dinah Nadyejda Ginsburg, before simplifying it to Dinah Sheridan managed to get cracking in 1920. Singer/songwriter with a guitar slung over his shoulder, Hiram King ‘Hank’ Williams saw the light from 1923. Actor Roderick Andrew Anthony Jude McDowell, or as his equity card stated, Roddy McDowell, didn’t get to hear the doctor say, ‘Hello down there’ when being delivered in 1928. Also born that year, radio DJ Brian Matthew wasn’t a member of the Saturday club given he arrived on a Monday. Driver of racing cars repetitively around various race tracks and non winner of the F1 championship, Sterling Craufurd Moss took pole position in 1929. Method actress and ex-Mrs Mel Brooks, Anna Maria Louisa Italianio who went on to become known as Ann Bancroft, (or Mrs. Robinson), graduated from baby in 1931 to child a few years later. Writer of book ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ – Kenneth Elton ‘Ken’ Kesey wrestled his way way through in 1935. Ex-host of boring Saturday sports programmes, Grandstand and Match of the Day before taking on Countdown, smooth talking Desmond Michael ‘Des’ Lynam was kicked into touch back in 1942. Current Prime Minister of India, Narendra Damodardas Modi led the way in 1950. ‘Comedian’/actress, Rita Rudner at least managed to get her parents laughing from 1953. Another driver of F1 cars, this one the only son of a world champion to become a world champion in the sport, Damon Graham Devereux Hill was quick off the mark in 1960. Australian director and singer Mark Anthony ‘Baz’ Luhrmann had some dream plays from 1962. Author of the Darwin Awards – Wendy Northcutt entered the gene pool in 1963. Co-creator of Sonic the Hedgehog, Yuji Naka started jumping about the place about 18 months after arriving in 1965. Diminutive singer known by her first name, Anastacia (Lyn Newkirk), wasn’t left out alone in 1968. Another singer, (well, shouter to a raving bass line), Keith Charles Flint set the world alight in 1969. South African who represented England in Rugby Union back in the early 2000’s – Michael John ‘Mike’ Catt made it through the scrum in 1971. Third Norwegian of the day, ex-extreme skier Tormod Granheim launched himself off in 1974.

As for deaths, the following failed to see the 18th September – Swiss religious reformer Heinrich Bullinger obviously had enough of reforming in 1575. Ethiopian Emperor Susenyos I who used the throne name Malay Sagad didn’t get to meet Bob Geldof given he expired in 1632. King of Spain as Philip IV and King of Portugal as Philip III, found his siesta’s gone on since 1665. Having mentioned other Native American Chiefs, it seems only right and proper to give a shout out to Cheyenne Indian leader – Roman Nose, (Wiquini), didn’t have to bother taking his teepee down down again after 1865. Pioneering photographer William Henry Fox Talbot didn’t get to leave the dark room after 1877. Flour industrialist and co-founder of company bearing his name, Charles Alfred Pilsbury wasn’t needed from 1899. Prime Minister of Greece for all of ten months, Stefanos Dragoumis has had a long recess, all of 100 years so far. Actor, John Richard Baseheart found his time limit was up in 1984. Having mentioned floral clothes designer Laura Ashley a mere ten days ago in honour of her birthday, here she is again given she took the wrong steps in 1985. Actress born Patricia Frederica Manfield and subsequently known as Patricia ‘Pat’ Phoenix has failed to rise again since 1986. Dead Norwegian of the day – Prime Minister of the country from 1989 to 1990, Jan Peder Syse lost his energy in 1997. Actor Brian Hall has been from beyond the grave since 1997. Easy listening crooner Frankie Vaughan, (born Frank Ableson), found out what’s behind that strange door in 1999. Bob Geldof’s ex-Mrs with the large arm tattoo and bleached hair, Paula Elizabeth Yates wasn’t a heroine after 2000. Having mentioned Eiji Toyoda five days ago in honour of his birth, here he is again given he ran out of juice in 2013. Singer/songwriter George Hege Hamilton IV started travelin’ light from 2014. Actress known for her role in The Sound of Music, born Charmian Anne Farnon, but known as Charmain Carr didn’t get to climb any mountains after 2016. Finally, another fantasy series writer called Terry – Terry Lee Goodkind went into darkness in 2021.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 16th September

We begin today’s posting with star of one of Shakespeare’s plays – King Henry V of England, aka Henry of Monmouth – battled his way through in 1387. 11th Emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Houcong or Jiajing Emperor showed admirable tranquility after his birth in 1507. Two time ruling Prince of Serbia – Michael Obrenović III of Serbia started ruling his parents lives from 1823. King of Portugal, (but seemingly not the Algarves), Pedro V was hopeful people would remember his big day from 1837. Only non-British born Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Andrew Bonar Law found he took the lead in 1858. Multiple shop keeper across America, James Cash ‘JC’ Penney had the ribbon, (well, umbilical cord), cut in 1875. Engineer who’s name graced various prestigious and racing cars – Walter Owen Bentley was firing on all cylinders from 1888. Author of children’s books about Curious George – Hans Augusto Rey found out how you get there in 1898. Creator and host of Candid Camera – Allen Albert Funt didn’t look for the camera in 1914. Indian singer Madurai Shandmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi started warming up her voice from 1916. First Prime Minister of Singers, (Singapore) – Lee Kuan Yew or LKY had his BDY from 1923. Betty Joan Perske, (who’s that? I hear you ask), well, you may know her as Lauren Bacall or even Mrs. H. Bogart, had the big sleep after being delivered in 1924. Controversial Taoiseach, (or Irish Prime Minister), Charles James ‘Charlie’ Haughey earned his nickname, ‘The Great Houdini’ early on in life back in 1925. Also born that year, blues musician Riley ‘B. B.’ King plucked his way out. Peter Michael Falk, known in later life for wearing a dirty Mac and saying, ‘Just one more thing’, as Detective Columbo was just as dishevelled when born in 1927. John Augustus ‘Jack’ Kelly Jr., or just Jack King, was a complete maverick once delivered in 1927. Actress Anne (Lloyd) Francis entered the forbidden planet in 1930. Singer with Irish group The Dubliners – Joseph Ronald ‘Ronnie’ Drew was born this day in 1934 plain and simple. Public transit planner/supervisor who ended up running London’s buses/tubes and trams – Robert R. ‘Bob’ Kiley alighted successfully in 1935. By some quirk of fate, sidekick to Russ Abbott, (see next but one entry), born Sybil Dyke, but known to her fan as Bella Emberg tried to make people smile from 1937. Singer with Martha and the Vandellas – Betty Kelly had nowhere to run in 1944. ‘Comedian’ born Russell A Roberts, but known as Russ Abbot actually got some smiles after his birth in 1947. Drummer with numerous bands culminating in replacing The Who’s mad Keith Moon, Kenneth Thomas ‘Kenney’ Jones had a matched grip in 1948. Also born that year, children’s author born Julia Catherine Shields but known on book covers as Julia Donaldson found birth a squash and a squeeze. Actress Roxanne Melman, or rather Susan Diane Ruttan (née Dunsrud) made it down the helter skelter in 1949. Not the bushy bearded naturalist with a lisp, but one half of American country and pop act The Bellamy Brothers, David (Milton) Bellamy was restless this day in 1950. Someone else making it through the keyhole that year was pasta sauce maker/ex-television presenter with the extended vowels, Loyd Grossman. Hard man actor, with the Chihuahua dog, Philip Andre Rourke Jr, or just Mickey Rourke, had his fall time in 1952. Ex-singer with party band Black Lace – Alan Barton didn’t quite get to do the conga in 1953. Fellow singer, this one with The Chi-Lites, Frank Kevin ‘Tchallah’ Reed had a low key birth in 1954. Ex-presenter of Blue Peter and mum to popster Sophie, Janet Michell Ellis completed the family jigsaw for her parents in 1955. Magician named after a Charles Dickins character, David Copperfield created his first illusion in 1956. Dirge singer Richard Noel Marx was satisfied being born in 1963. Former lead singer with Britpop band Elastica – Justine Elinor Frischmann started waking up in 1969. The beauty of different countries having different versions of meanings of names means French singer Fanny Biascamano has picked up three alternative definitions to her first name from 1979. Ex-Redhill, (Surrey), resident, sort of English popster Ketevan (Katie) Melua, had her parents call off the search in 1984. Singer/songwriter Nicholas Jerry Jonas found happiness begins in 1992.

The deaths paragraph starts with a few Popes, and to this end we see Pope Martin I banish himself in 655. Next up is Pope Victor III who relinquished control in 1087. He’s followed in 1394 by Antipope Clement VII, (Robert of Geneva), who became anti-life. King of England and Ireland as James II and King of Scotland with an extra V added in front of the II, James found himself unable to pretend to live from 1701. Glass blower who came up with the alternative way of measuring temperature, Daniel Gabriel Fahrenheit was cold from 1736. Ermine caped and stocking wearer, Louis XVIII of France, probably wasn’t terribly desirable after today in 1824. Mountaineer who was first to scale the Matterhorn – Edward Whymper hasn’t been among the Tibetans since 1911. 11th Chancellor of Germany, Gustav Adolf Bauer munched his last bratwurst in 1944. Known for his work on classic Tom & Jerry cartoons, Frederick Clinton ‘Fred’ Quimby failed to produce breath after 1965. 1977 saw glam rocker Marc Bolan’s girlfriend take on a tree in Barnes in a less than rockstar car, a Mini, and lose in spectacular style. Soprano opera singer, Maria Anna Cecilia Sofia Kalogeropoulos, who took that down to Maria Callas found the rescue opera didn’t work in 1977. 1979 saw President of Afghanistan Nur Mohammed Taraki be taken out on the order of his successor, Hafizullah Amin, so no love lost there. Creator of the bikini, Louis Réard, stopped looking at young women on beaches from 1984. Singer of song that pops up at virtually every Christmas party and wedding – starting off as Two Tons O’ Fun before somewhat wisely rebranding themselves as The Weather Girls, Izora Rhodes Armstead started losing weight in 2004. Physicist credited with inventing the laser – Gordon Gould was no longer the focal point of the family from 2005. Songwriter Norman Jesse Whitfield didn’t get to hear through the grapevine as to when he’d expire in 2008. Folk singer Mary Allin Travers left Peter and Paul wondering who’d make up their threesome after 2009. Dead Norwegian of the day, Ragnhild Alexandra Lorentzen, Princess of Norway obviously had enough long cold winters given she saw her final sunset in Rio in 2012. Mum to actor Patrick, Yvonne Helen ‘Patsy’ Swayze didn’t get to have one last dance in 2013. Playwright responsible for Whose Afraid of Virginia Woolf? Edward Franklin Albee III left the American Dream in 2018. Entrepreneur/inventor Sir Clive Sinclair short circuited in 2021. Finally, Mahsa Amini upset the morality police in Iran last year.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 15th September

We begin today’s posting with explorer who’s not only got a car, but also a mint named in his honour, Marco Polo started to map out his life from 1254. Prolific writer, (mentioned only yesterday in the second paragraph), responsible for novel Last of the Mohicans – James Fenimore Cooper, wasn’t upside down when born in 1789. 29th President of Mexico with the bushy moustache, clothes brushes on his shoulders not forgetting the excessive medals on his chest, José de la Cruz Porfirio Díaz Mori seemed to think he was born in 1830. Another politician with a rather large hairy upper lip, 27th President of the United States of America, William Howard Taft had a party every year from 1857 (well, until 1930). Founder of make up company, born Maksymilian Faktorowicz before going onto be known as Max Factor Sr., had some colour to all his cheeks in 1877. Back to politics given tenth Prime Minister of Australia Joseph Aloysius Lyons, had his first taste of labor in 1879. Founder of overpriced sports car manufacturer bearing his name, Ettore Arco Isidoro Bugatti set the wheels in motion back in 1881. President of Chile before becoming President of Government Junta of Chile, Carlos Gregorio Dávila Espinoza was unable to edit his life from 1887. Prolific writer of dull crime stories, Agatha Mary Clarissa Christie gave away the answer as to her birthdate in 1890. Last King of Italy (for all of 34 days) – Umberto II aka Umberto Nicola Tommaso Giovanni Maria di Savola was a proper ragazzino in 1904. Actress who was female lead in original King Kong film – Vina Fay Wray became a scream queen in 1907. Having mentioned other aviatrix’s, it only seems fair to mention Jean Gardner Batten who managed to hide the wind having been born in Rotorua New Zealand in 1909. Norwegian of the day and founder of golf club manufacturer PING – Karsten Solheim, tee’d off in 1911. Voice of Casper the Ghost – actress Norma McMillan appeared in 1921. Actor from both Skippy and Superman, born John Cooper Jr., and then known as Jackie Cooper was the champ in 1922. Grand slam winning tennis player Ashley John Cooper started off in white, (then brown), nappies/diapers in 1936. Wearer of the country’s sash, President of Argentina – Fernando de la Ruá started running about a year after birth in 1937. Baseball player with the rather unfortunate first name, Gaylord Jackson Perry pitched in with his birth back in 1938. Also arriving in 1938, Motown songwriter Sylvia Rose Moy didn’t know it takes two back then. Co-founder of online provider AOL, James Verlin ‘Jim’ Kimsey wasn’t an influencer back in 1939. Gap toothed politician who literally stepped into TIM’s, (That Idiot Mugabe), shoes as President of Zimbabwe – Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa had his initial coup d’état in 1942. Known for playing Agent K in the Men in Black, Tommy Lee Jones had his first big break in 1946. Also born that year, film director Oliver Stone obviously wasn’t born on the 4th July, given he’s eating birthday cake today. Founder of Diesel Jeans – Renzo Russo, was cut to size in 1955. Brendan O’Carroll, star and writer of flogged to death sitcom Mrs Brown’s Boys actually raised a smile in 1955. Singer/songwriter Jacqueline ‘Jaki’ Graham was breaking away back in 1956. Also born that year, singer who’s worked with Mike Oldfield over the years – Maggie Reilly wasn’t looking back, but moving forward. Acerbic witted, ex-tax dodging comedian with the sea lion laugh, James Anthony Patrick ‘Jimmy’ Carr had his introduction to theatres in 1972. Having mentioned her diminutive plonker of a husband on 20th August and her grandad a mere two days ago, it’s now Sophie Holloway/Dahl’s turn to get a mention given she’s now 46. Actor Edward Thomas ‘Tom’ Hardy had the day of reckoning in 1977. Person who’s death started the last large scale rioting in England, gangster Mark Duggan had a following of one, (his mum), in 1981. Ginger haired lover of fancy dress, (including his own birthday suit), younger bro to Bill and husband to demanding wife Meghan – Prince Henry (Harry) of Wales, set the nations hearts a flutter in 1984.

There’s a few deaths to mention, and we start in 1500 with first of two Archbishop of Canterbury’s to get a mench today – John Morton had his amen moment. Three time Mayor of Amsterdam, Cornelius Bicker stopped arguing in 1654. Tall hat wearing mechanical/civil engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel lit his last cigar in 1859. Bespectacled three time French Prime Minister André Pierre Gabriel Amédée Tardieu, was unable to reshuffle from 1945. Next up is the other Archbishop of Canterbury – Geoffrey Francis Fischer found his dog collar surplus to requirements in 1972. Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden, or to give him his official title ‘The King’, didn’t get to eat any more roll mop herrings for tea from 1973. Aeroplane/car manufacturer Wilhelm Emil ‘Willy’ Messerschmidt found he didn’t get very far after 1978. Sit-com actor Harold Bennett nearly made it to his 82nd birthday in 1981. Reggae DJ Prince Far I went a bit further in 1983. John William Cummins who took the slightly hipper name Johnny Ramone obviously wasn’t too tough to die in 2004. British television presenter, (and ex-RAF pilot), with the distinctive voice – Raymond Frederic Baxter didn’t get to see tomorrow’s world after 2006. Rally driver Colin Steele McRae went downhill fast in 2007. Russian Prince who’s surname sounds like a cheap brand of vodka, Nicholas Romanovich Romanov had his last toast in 2014. It’s rather ironic that calypso/soca singer Alphonsus Celestine Edmund Cassell, or as he was also known, Arrow, didn’t realise how his song hot, hot, hot come to be true in 2010. Actor Dudley Sutton entered the big sleep in 2018. Finally, singer/songwriter Richard Theodore Otcasek, who successfully cut that down to Ric Ocasek, hasn’t let the good times roll since 2019.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 14th September

Today’s births paragraph starts with Nordic cartographer who not only mapped Greenland first, but also named places there from old folk songs, Claudius Clavus got his co-ordinates right in 1388. Physiologist Ivan Petrovich Pavlov was minus his dogs in 1894. Producer of films such as Casablanca and Gun Fight at the O.K. Corral, Aaron Blum Wolowicz, (or Harold Brent ‘Hal’ Wallis), showed true grit in 1898. Actor who starred in some of the biggest films from the 1950’s and a few years in the 60’s – John Edward ‘Jack’ Hawkins found the next of kin in 1910. Brylcreemed 25th President of Guatemala Jacobo Árbenz Guzmán took on the family name from his dad in 1913. Having mentioned Hop Along Cassidy a couple of days ago, here’s The Lone Ranger – Jack Carlton, (Clayton) Moore, rode into town back in 1914. Norwegian of the day, Harry Danielsen led the independence movement against his mum in 1936. Also born that year, snapper of the stars Terence Donovan focused on being delivered. Architect who’s responsible for The Shard in London, The New York Times Building in New York and Osaka Airport to name but three buildings, Renzo Piano made it through the bullseye window in 1937. Estonian composer Kuldar Sink found the benefits of being bathed in one from 1942. Actor born Nigel John Dermot Neill who now goes by the professional name of Sam Neill, had landfall in 1947. 181st Prime Minister of Greece, Konstantinos Alexandrou Karamanlis stood again a few minutes after his first faltering steps sometime after his birth in 1956. Second Norwegian of the day, leather/lace wearing bequiffed lead singer with A-ha, Morten Harket has had his birthday cast in steel from 1959. Namesake and mascot of Wendy’s Burgers, Melinda Lou ‘Wendy’ Morse/Thomas, pressed her way through in 1961. Prime Minister and then President of Russia, until he was ‘replaced’ by Vladimir Putin, Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev was told when his birthday would be in 1965. Singer/songwriter and frontman to 90’s group Cast – John Timothy Power has been a scally since 1967. Rival contender to D Trump in next year’s Presidential election in the US of A, Ronald Dion ‘Ron’ DeSantis has had a sunny disposition since 1978. Seeing as other members of her group have been mentioned, I guess it’s only fair Ashley Allyn Roberts wasn’t hush hush; hush hush in 1981. Tattooed and talented singer, Amy Jade Whitehouse found her day came in 1983.

As for deaths, Pope Stephen V didn’t quite get to Lourdes in time back in 891. Another war loving Syrian ruler, Imad ad-Din Zengi found his time was up in 1146. Poet and author Dante Alighieri didn’t experience an inferno upon his death in 1321. Yet another Pope, this one Pope Adrian VI took a new vow of silence in 1523. John Harvard, who’s got an Ivy League University named after him learned the hard way about death in 1638. French monk and poster boy for Moët & Chandon, Dom Pierre Pérignon went flat in 1715. Third Vice President of the United States who won the duel against Alexander Hamilton – Aaron Burr Jr., didn’t get to see his death mask in 1836. Writer of book ‘Last of the Mohicans’ – James Fenimore Cooper didn’t get buried upside down in 1851. Known not only for defeating Napoleon but also for being British Prime Minister, along with his boots, Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington had his last hurrah! in 1852. Also not making it through that year, architect who designed the interior of the Palaces of Westminster – Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin was given a 60 minute makeover before his burial. Inventor and patent holder of the calculating machine – William Seward Burroughs I found his creation surplus to requirements from 1898. Given the British PM gets a mench here, it only seems right to give the 25th President of the United States of America, William McKinley a nod as he was assassinated in 1901. First President of Czechoslovakia Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk had his ‘hoar Tuesday’ in 1937. Actress mentioned 12 days ago in the above paragraph – Barbara Jo Allen, or as she was also known, Vera Vague has missed the village barn dance since 1974. Short lived third President of Afghanistan, Nur Muhammad Taraki lost the pillow fight in 1979. Actress who graduated to royalty, Grace Patricia Kelly crashed out in 1982. Guinness drinking King of Mambo, Dámaso Pérez Prado spun round for the last time in 1989. Bow tied celebrity chef who was partial to guzzling a bottle of wine while cooking, and another whilst eating, Keith Floyd found himself burnt in 2009. Also not making it through that year was Patrick Swayze who became a ghost. Creator of various boring drawn out game shows, (think Crystal Maze), Jacques Antoine solved the conundrum in 2012. Co-founder of the Subway sandwich chain – Frederick Adrian ‘Fred’ DeLuca wasn’t freshly prepared from death in 2015. Finally, actress born Eirini Lelekou and then known as Irene Papas saw the ring of darkness in 2022.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 13th September

Today’s births paragraph starts with daughter of Roman emperor Titus, Flavia Julia Titi or just Julia Flavia started sucking grapes after her arrival in 64. Writer who came up with Robinson Crusoe – Daniel Defoe was the true born Englishman in 1660. American version of Willy Wonka, Milton Snavely Hershey was a sweet child from 1857. Norwegian of the day, sharp shooter Ole Østmo obviously got his eye in for the first time given he got through in 1866. Sixth President of Cuba, Ramón Grau San Martin initially took control in 1881. Writer John Boynton, (J.B.), Priestley became a good companion with his parents from 1894. President of the European Union, thereby having got his place on the gravy train, Sicco Leendert Mansholt was a healthy baby in 1908. Welsh born to Norwegian parents, one time respected children’s writer, (with the famous granddaughter married to diminutive plonker, (of the keys), Jamie Cullum), Roald Dhal started his tale of the unexpected in 1916. Composer and dad to electronic musician, Jean-Michel – Maurice Jarre found the big gamble paid off in 1924. Jazz singer Melvin Howard Tormé was one of the sliders this day in 1925. Prime Minister of Greece, (for all of four months), Tzannis Tzannetakis didn’t cause a crisis in his family back in 1928. Continuing with the political theme, wearer of oversized glasses and suits, ex-leader of the red team in Britain, John Smith elected to be born in 1938. Having mentioned actor Richard Dawson Kiel a mere three days ago when he passed over, here he is again, (minus his metal teeth), given he started to think big from 1939. Actress Winifred Jacqueline Fraser Bisset, was unable to stand up and be counted in 1944. Also born that year, original member of dad rock band Chicago, Peter Cetera had one clear voice from then on. Newsreader/broadcaster Carol Lesley Barnes cleared the lower third in 1944. Mountaineer and co-founder of Lowe Alpine – Jeff Lowe gave his first bidoigt in 1950. Known for having a penchant for dressing up as a cowboy whilst singing along to disco songs, village person Randy Jones was hopefully born at 5 o’clock in the morning back in 1952. Also born that year, singer Don Edward Fagenson or Don Was, had his Boo! moment. Fellow singer now found as a psychology lecturer, Denis ‘Den’ Hegarty, has been groovin’ since 1954. Current Philippine President and son of shoe enthusiast Imelda – Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr has had to answer to ‘Bongbong’ since 1957. English impressionist as a comedian, Robert Christopher Nankeville who goes by the stage name Bobby Davro, took his first bow in 1958. Founding member of family group, Sister Sledge – Joan Elize ‘Joni’ Sledge was one of the sisters in 1960. Son of Beatles drummer who likes to give the V sign behind his sunglasses, Zac Richard Starkey banged his way out in 1965. Now deceased scandal ridden cricketer and ex-squeeze of Liz Hurley, Shane Keith Warne bowled his parents over in 1969. Actress now found in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation – Louise Marie Perkins, but goes by the name Louise Lombard, had the countdown to her birth in 1970. Having mentioned her brother only yesterday, daughter of vegetarians, (vegetables have feelings too you know), Lind & Paul, stern faced fashion designer Stella Nina McCartney ventured forth in 1971. Also born that year, tennis player Goran Ivanišević found he started wearing white. Bollywood actress Mahima Chaudhry had no idea she’d become a film star all those years after being born in 1973. Acting son of Pierce – Sean Brosnan II made his debut off screen in 1983. Singer/songwriter Niall James Horan found the one direction to birth in 1993.

Given the births paragraph starts with his daughter, here’s her old man Roman Emperor Titus who became ex-Roman Emperor Flatus in 81. King of England and Ireland, King of Spain, King of Portugal, King of Naples and Sicily whilst also maintaining the title Duke of Milan, Philip II of Spain made the transition to marble in 1598. 52nd Prime Minister of France René Goblet swopped the cabinet for a coffin in 1905. Dad to cartoonists Roy and Walt, Elias Charles Disney was rubbed out in 1941. Another cartoonist, William Heath Robinson, (the one with the term named after him), ran out of ingenuity in 1944. Hoodie wearing rapper Lesane Parish Crooks, but answered to the name Tupac Amaru Shakur whilst on stage, had seen better dayz in 1996. 33rd President of Columbia Julio César Turbay Ayala ran out of his countries marching powder in 2005. Dwarf bodybuilder Aditya ‘Romeo’ Dev let himself go in 2012. Actor known for playing hard men – Frank Vincent Gattuso Jr., found the last exit to Brooklyn in 2017. Singer/songwriter born Edward Joseph Mahoney, but known as Eddie Money only needed one ticket, (instead of two), to paradise in 2019. Baseball executive, (being principal owner/president of the Philadelphia Phillies) – Robert Ruliph Morgan “Ruly” Carpenter III was no longer caught napping after this day in 2021. Finally, film director Jean-Luc Godard hasn’t been able to ask, ‘How’s it going?’ since 2022.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 12th September

King of France not called Louis, but Francis – starts today’s posting given he started leading the way in 1494. Explorer with a river named after him, (just ask pilot Chesley Burnett ‘Sully’ Sullenberger about it) – Henry Hudson, slipped down the birth canal in 1565. Inventor who designed the rolling printing press – Richard March Hoe led a continuous life from 1812 until 1886. Inventor of the machine gun bearing his name, Richard Jordan Gatling successfully discharged himself in 1818. Herbert Henry Asquith the British Prime Minister who led, (though not literally), the country into World War One, was pretty liberal about his birth in 1852. Actor and cabaret singer who probably would have attracted the interest of Operation Yewtree – Maurice Auguste Chevalier was born with a smile in 1888. John Candy looky likey, actor William Gilbert Barron/William ‘Billy’ Gilbert started the sternutation process shortly after birth in 1894. Dinner suited/white bow tie wearing 21st Prime Minister of Brazil, Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveria experienced the rhythm for the first time in 1902. Adolf Hitler’s favourite athlete, American jogger James Cleveland ‘Jesse’ Owens found his legs in 1913. Also born that year, Eiji Toyoda who introduced Toyota cars around the world drove his way through. Wok enthusiast who sold a few cookery books – Kenneth Lo had his first zhû moment in 1913. Known for playing Q in dull film franchise James Bond, Desmond Wilkinson Llewelyn found the world was enough in 1914. Act tor Ian Holm Cuthbert, who knocked off the Cuthbert bit, showed his parents the browning version of his nappies, (diapers), from 1931. Cricketer with the pencil moustache and quiff, Waqar Hasan was all out in 1932. Actress best known for playing Sue Ellen in overdone soap opera Dallas – Linda Gray didn’t find out what happens when the cradle falls in 1940. Also born that year smoking model known for plugging Marlboro ciggies – Wayne McLaren didn’t drag out his arrival. Large framed ‘The Walrus of Love’, smooch merchant Barry White wobbled into being back in 1944. Not wanting to be left out, singer with the Foundations – Colin Young must have thought at some point from 1944, ‘I’m going to be a rich man’. Living Norwegian of the day, actor Bjørn Floberg gave his parents insomnia in 1947. Irish Taoiseach, or ‘Chief’ in his mother language, Patrick Bartholomew ‘Bertie’ Aherne was first past the, (bed), post in 1951. Actress known for her role in The Thorn Birds, (among others) – Rachel Claire Ward entered the big house in 1957. Another person arriving that year, film score composer Hans Zimmer didn’t need a frame. Stephen Merchant looky likey – Benjamin Scott ‘Ben’ Folds frontman of defunct group bearing his name, unfolded himself in 1966. Actor Paul William Walker IV was the young and the restless in 1973. Also born that year, activist Tarana Burke started saying, ‘Me too’ when asked who’s celebrating their birthday this day. Son of Paul and fruitarian ready meal queen Linda, who was chief tambourine, (or was it triangle?) player in Wings – James Louis McCartney saw the available light in 1977. Singer/actress Jennifer Kate Hudson was in the spotlight back in 1981. Another actor from dull series Game of Thrones – Alfie Evan Allen hasn’t hit 66 yet given he only arrived in 1986. Korean singer with the grey hair Kim Nam-joon now known as ‘RM’ has been battling the war of hormone since 1994.

Death wise, Étienne Aubert or Pope Innocent VI had ten years of leading the faithful, (along with the sick, lame and lazy), before calling time in 1362. Second King of Portugal and the Algarves – Afonso VI entered the history books in 1643. Lexiographer with a thesaurus named in his honour, Peter Mark Roget passed away, was no more, be taken, breathed his last, (other terms are available in his book) from 1869. 22nd Prime Minister of France – François Pierre Guillaume Guizot finally took his left hand out of his jacket in 1874. Fourth Prime Minister of Australia, Sir George Houstoun Reid found a sunny spot in Putney Vale Cemetery, London in 1918. Actor who played Hopalong Cassidy or to give him his proper name, William Laurence Boyd, hopped off his mortal coil in 1972. Anti-apartheid activist Stephen Bantu ‘Steve’ Biko lost consciousness and movement whilst starting to see black in 1977. Actor who played Norman Bates in Psycho – Anthony Perkins found autumn, not winter, kills in 1992. Actor Harold Sidney Innocent has been God’s outlaw since 1993. Fellow thespian William Raymond Stacy Burr was unable to rebound in 1993. Having mentioned the 21st President of Brazil, (above), here’s the 29th one to balance things out as Ernesto Beckmann Geisel marched off in 1996. Actor born Gary Kenneth Grant and then getting an equity card as Gary Olsen has been on a pilgrim’s rest since 2000. The man in black John R. ‘Johnny’ Cash had his own ring of fire in 2003. Australian rules footballer Robert Berrima ‘Bob’ Quinn heard the final siren in 2008. Cockney splutterer and communist ex-editor of various red top rags, Derek Jameson ran out of headlines in 2012. Inventor of noise reduction system bearing his name, Ray Milton Dolby found everything went very quiet in 2013. Northern Irish tub thumper and excitable politician Ian Richard Kyle Paisley, Baron Bannside, lost his followers in 2014. Also not making it through 2014, act tor Donald Sinden entered the black tent. Finally, non-flat pack furniture designer and restauranteur Sir Terence Orby Conran wrote a book in 2007 about ‘How to live in small spaces’, something he’s had to do since 2020.

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

Famous & Infamous Births & Deaths 11th September

People born today include, among others, poet who came up with the words for Rule, Britannia! – James Thompson wasn’t a member of the grotesque club in 1700. Wonderfully named explorer Mungo Park, (who was seventh out of thirteen children), landed on earth in 1771. Lens manufacturer Carl Zeiss made it through the wide aperture in 1816. Notorious American murderer Hawley Harvey Crippen wasn’t left hanging in 1862 – he had to wait until 1910 for that to happen. Writer of once scandalous book, Lady Chatterley’s Lover – David Herbert (D.H.) Lawrence joined the merry go round in 1885. Composer and winner of an Oscar for best original score in The Wizard of Oz, Herbert P. Stothart heard optimistic voices back in 1885. Voice of Goofy the dog, (one who I thought was a silent character) – Vance DeBar ‘Pinto’ Colvig was certainly making some noise this day in 1892. Song writer of ‘You Are My Sunshine’ and politician James Houston ‘Jimmie’ Davis wondered, ‘Is it Too Late Now?’ in 1899. Husband of shoe enthusiast Imelda and 20th President of Indonesia, Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralin Marcos Sr., got used to strong willed women from 1917. Also born that year, actor known for playing tic prone Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus in the Pink Panther film franchise, Herbert Charles Angelo Kuchačevič ze Schluderpacheru, or just Herbert Lom, found the screaming started. Another one of the notorious Mitford Sisters – Jessica Lucy Freeman-Mitford didn’t get to experience the American way of birth in 1917. No relation to Dr. Crippen above, (as far as I know), more law abiding citizen Robert Laurel ‘Bob’ Crippen, the NASA astronaut blasted off in 1937. Co-founder of frustrating computer programme company Adobe, (the one that constantly asks if you want to update it), Charles M. ‘Chuck’ Geschke downloaded in 1939. Literally one hit wonder singer with the Kingsmen – Jack Brown Ely was up and away in 1943. German ball kicker Franz Anton Beckenbauer didn’t join the fahrstuhlmannschaften club in 1945. Ex-Charlwood, (Surrey), resident and World Champion Grand Prix motorcycle racer Barry Steven Frank Sheene made it through the chicane in 1950. Another Surrey resident, this one from Redhill – mathematician Richard David Gill started counting from 1951. Relative to writer Herman Melville, Richard Melville Hall, or Moby to his fans, had more hair in 1965 than he does today, (it must be his diet). Also born that year is long necked odd faced dictator responsible for the on-going immigrant crisis emanating from his war torn country, Bashar al-Asad didn’t cling on too long back then. Cyclist with the odd bike and world hour record holder – Graham Obree found the fall line in 1965. Not my ex-work colleague with the same name, but Australian Olympic rower – Simon Burgess bobbed along in 1967. Another person born that year, singer/actor Joseph Harry Fowler Connick Jr., was a happy little elf. Singer/songwriter and ex-front man with The Verve, now happily warbling by himself – Richard Paul Ashcroft was handed the keys to the world in 1971. There appears to be a question as to whether tubby un-amusing comedian born Michael Pennington but known as Johnny Vegas has celebrated his birthday either today or on the 5th September since 1971. Christopher Brian ‘Chris’ Bridges, who somewhat wisely goes by the name ‘Ludacris’, had his release therapy in 1977. Co-conspirator of the Columbine High School massacre – Dylan Klebold didn’t need the anti-splash curtains in 1981. Singer/songwriter and founding member of country music band Lady A – Charles Burgess Kelley was unable to say, ‘Hello world’ in 1981. Wide eyed Indian actress Shriya Saran Bhatnagar, who’s known only as Shriya, made her debut in 1982. Exiled Belarusian politician, Sviatlana Heorhiyeuna Pilipchuk presided over events in 1982. Norwegian of the day is reverse baseball cap wearing DJ, Kygo – or, to give him his full name, Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll actually started out in Singapore back in 1991.

The deaths paragraph starts with Philip of Artois who found his days of drinking lager with wife beating qualities over in 1298. 108th Emperor of Japan, Emperor Go-Mizunoo was unable to sit with his legs crossed after 1680. Co-founder of family merchant banking business, (which carried on until 1995 when a certain Nick Leeson took one risk too many and it collapsed), Sir Francis Baring, 1st Baronet, ran out of credit in 1810. Vegetarian temperate member Reverend Sylvester Graham found his non drinking vegetable diet didn’t do him any favours in 1851. Miserable looking seventh President of Argentina Domingo Faustino Sarmiento stopped eating steak in 1888. Dead Norwegian of the day, Olympic medal winning sharp shooter Ole Østmo certainly wasn’t on target in 1923. Wearer of Karakuls, lawyer who gave that up to go onto found Pakistan, born Mohammedali Jinnahbhai but known as Muhammad Ali Jinnah adjourned in 1948. Second Prime Minister of South Africa, Jan Christiaan Smuts cleaned up his act after 1950. Founder of Toastmasters International, (people found banging gavels at weddings) – Ralph C Smedley was toast himself in 1965. Co-founder of Delta, (Don’t Ever Leave The Airport) Airlines, Collett E. Woolman lost his directional stability in 1966. Slap head First Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, Nikita Khrushchev took his finger off the button in 1971. Having mentioned cartoonist Max Fleischer on the 19th July when he entered the world, here he is again given ended up permanently erased in 1972. 30th President of Chile, Salvador Guillermo Allende Gossens left his mark in 1973. Writer of children’s books – Charles Roger Hargreaves has been Mr Dead from 1988. Actress Jessica Alice Tandy entered the still of the night in 1994. It wouldn’t be right not to mention all the innocent victims in the September 11th terrorist attacks who tragically lost their lives in 2001. Theatre director Sir Peter Reginald Frederick Hall has been the wrong side of the park since 2017. Husky voiced stage, film and television actress Fenella Fielding kept to one of her film titles, ‘Drop dead darling’ in 2018. Finally, one half of Spanish pop group Baccara María Mendiola gave up rereleasing ‘Yes Sir I Can Boogie’ this day in 2021.

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