September 27 birthdays and deaths:

Michael Gambon

Michael Gambon is a renowned Irish-English actor born in 1940. He is known for his diverse roles in film, television, and theater, including his iconic portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series.

Deathyear: 2023

Hugh Hefner

Hugh Hefner revolutionized the publishing industry with Playboy magazine, founded in 1953. He infused his magazine with a mix of humor, politics, and eroticism, making him a cultural icon.

Deathyear: 2017

Cliff Burton

Cliff Burton was the American bassist and songwriter for Metallica from 1982 to 1986. He was known for his unique bass playing style, versatility, and songwriting skills. His tragic death at age 24 in a bus accident on September 27, 1986, shocked the metal community.

Deathyear: 1986

Clara Bow

Clara Bow, known as the "It Girl," was a captivating American actress who rose to fame in the 1920s. With her curly red hair and sparkling eyes, she starred in over 40 films, including "It" and "Wings," earning three Academy Award nominations.

Deathyear: 1965

David Hahn

David Hahn, born in 1976, is infamous for attempting to build a nuclear reactor in his Michigan backyard as a Boy Scout in 1995. He gathered materials from a local hospital and experimented with radioactive isotopes, sparking widespread concern and leading to a EPA investigation.

Deathyear: 2016

Walter Benjamin

Walter Benjamin (1892-1940) was a German philosopher and critic known for his work on aesthetics, culture, and history. His influential essays and literary critiques explored the intersection of art, politics, and philosophy, ultimately shaping the development of modern critical theory.

Deathyear: 1940

Jimmy Doolittle

Jimmy Doolittle was a pioneering American general and Medal of Honor recipient, born in 1896. He led the Doolittle Raid, a daring bombing mission over Japan, and rose to brigadier general.

Deathyear: 1993

Edgar Degas

Edgar Degas, a 19th-century French painter and sculptor, revolutionized Impressionism with his innovative techniques and subjects. Best known for his captivating depictions of dancers, horses, and women at work, Degas' artistic legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Deathyear: 1917

Donald O'Connor

Donald O'Connor (1925-2003) was a talented American actor, singer, and dancer known for his charming stage presence and impressive tap dancing skills. He starred in many films, including "Singin' in the Rain" and "I Love Melvin" opposite Debbie Reynolds.

Deathyear: 2003

Robert Montgomery (actor)

Robert Montgomery was a renowned American actor, singer, director, and producer born in 1904. He starred in numerous films and TV shows, including the classic TV series "Hitched," and earned an Academy Award nomination for his performance in "Here Comes Mr. Jordan" (1941).

Deathyear: 1981

Raja Ram Mohan Roy

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, a pioneer of social and educational reforms in India, fought against child marriage, caste system, and sati. Founded the Calcutta Madrassa and later the Hindu College, promoting Western education and humanitarian values.

Deathyear: 1833

George Blanda

George Blanda played 26 seasons in the NFL, setting multiple records as a placekicker and quarterback. He won two NFL Championships and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981.

Deathyear: 2010

Braxton Bragg

Braxton Bragg was a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War. He played a key role in several battles, including Chickamauga and Chattanooga. His aggressive tactics often clashed with those of other Confederate leaders, leading to tension and controversy.

Deathyear: 1876

Aimee Semple McPherson

Aimee Semple McPherson, a Canadian-American evangelist, founded the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1923. Born in 1890, McPherson became known for her charismatic preaching and healing ministry, and was dubbed the "Singing Evangelist" due to her powerful singing voice.

Deathyear: 1944

Mohammad Najibullah

Mohammad Najibullah was an Afghan physician and politician who served as the President of Afghanistan from 1987 to 1992. He led the government during the Soviet-Afghan War and was a key figure in the creation of the communist Democratic Republic of Afghanistan.

Deathyear: 1996

Felix Yusupov

Here are the 40 words about Felix Yusupov: Felix Felixovich Yusupov was a Russian aristocrat and husband of Princess Irina Alexandrovna of Russia. A member of the Cyrillic alphabet. He played a key role in the assassination of Grigori Rasputin, a close advisor to the Romanian royal family.

Deathyear: 1967

Marty Balin

Marty Balin, a founding member of the iconic rock band Jefferson Airplane, was born on January 30, 1942. With his smooth, soaring vocals, Balin brought a distinctive sound to the band's harmony-soaked rock style, crafting classic hits like "Somebody to Love" and "Today."

Deathyear: 2018

Vincent de Paul

Vincent de Paul, a French priest and saint, was born in 1581. He founded the Congregation of the Mission and the Sisters of Charity, and dedicated his life to serving the poor, sick, and marginalized. He is venerated as the patron saint of charities and volunteers.

Deathyear: 1660

James Traficant

James Traficant was an American lawyer and politician who served as a U.S. Representative from Ohio's 17th congressional district from 1985 to 2002. He was a Democrat and served as a senior member of the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Deathyear: 2014

Herbert Lom

Herbert Lom was a renowned Czech-born English actor, best known for his iconic roles in films like "The Third Man" and "The Pink Panther" series. With a career spanning over 50 years, he brought depth and nuance to his performances, earning critical acclaim and widespread recognition.

Deathyear: 2012

Jimmy McCulloch

Jimmy McCulloch was a Scottish singer-songwriter and guitarist, best known for his work with Stone the Crows and Wings. With a distinctive voice and innovative guitar style, he left a lasting impact on the music world before his untimely death at age 26.

Deathyear: 1979

Babe Didrikson Zaharias

Babe Didrikson Zaharias was a trailblazing American athlete, exceling in basketball and golf. She won two Olympic gold medals, set multiple basketball scoring records, and won 10 LPGA golf tournaments, making her a pioneering figure in women's sports.

Deathyear: 1956

Gracie Fields

Gracie Fields, a beloved English actress and singer, charmed audiences with her iconic soprano voice and radiant personality. Born in 1898, she became a national treasure, starring in films and theater productions, entertaining millions with her wit, charm, and infectious laughter.

Deathyear: 1979

John E. Mack

John E. Mack was a renowned American psychiatrist and author, born in 1929. He was a clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and wrote extensively on the topic of spirituality and consciousness.

Deathyear: 2004

Sylvia Pankhurst

Sylvia Pankhurst was a pioneering English activist who fought for women's suffrage. Born in 1882, she co-founded the Women's Social and Political Union and led the movement's more radical wing, advocating for militant protest and direct action to achieve women's right to vote.

Deathyear: 1960

Lloyd Nolan

Lloyd Nolan (1902-1985) was an American actor, best known for his role as Chief Jesse Hartman on the TV series "Dragnet." He also appeared in numerous films, including "The Old Man and the Sea" and "Executive Suite," showcasing his versatility as a talented and respected leading man.

Deathyear: 1985

Lorenzo Ruiz

Lorenzo Ruiz was a Filipino martyr and saint born around 1600. He was a catechist, artist, and weaver who was martyred in Japan in 1637 for refusing to renounce his faith. He was beatified in 1981 and canonized as the first Filipino saint by Pope John Paul II in 1987.

Deathyear: 1637

Engelbert Humperdinck (composer)

Engelbert Humperdinck was a German composer and educator, born in 1854. He is best known for his opera "Hänsel und Gretel."

Deathyear: 1921

S. R. Ranganathan

Sundara Ramaswamy Ranganathan, a renowned Indian mathematician, librarian, and academic, was born in 1892. He made significant contributions to mathematical research and education, while also being a pioneer in the field of librarianship in India, renowned for his work on the Colon Classification system.

Deathyear: 1972

H.D.

Here is a 40-word summary about H.D.: H.D. (1886-1961) was an American poet, novelist, and memoirist known for her avant-garde and modernist works. Her writing often explored themes of feminism, war, and personal relationships. She was a key figure in the Imagist poetry movement and was celebrated for her innovative and lyrical prose.

Deathyear: 1961

David Croft (TV producer)

David Croft was a renowned English director, producer, and screenwriter, known for creating beloved British sitcoms like "Dad's Army" and "Are You Being Served?". Born in 1922, Croft's work left a lasting impact on British comedy.

Deathyear: 2011

Doak Walker

Doak Walker was a legendary American football player, born in 1927. He was a halfback for the SMU Mustangs and a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. He was also a Heisman Trophy winner and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978.

Deathyear: 1998

Douglas Albert Munro

Douglas Albert Munro, a signalman in the United States Coast Guard, was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the invasion of Guadalcanal on September 27, 1942. He deliberately placed himself between his men and the enemy, shielding them from harm.

Deathyear: 1942

Pope Urban VII

Pope Urban VII (1521-1588) was a Roman Catholic priest and the 227th Pope from 1590 to 1590. He reigned for 13 days, making him the shortest-reigning pope in history. He attempted to reform the Church and combat corruption.

Deathyear: 1590

William Safire

William Safire was an American author, journalist, and speechwriter. He was a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist for The New York Times and a speechwriter for President Richard Nixon. He was known for his clever wordplay and witty commentary.

Deathyear: 2009

Adelina Patti

Adelina Patti (1843-1919) was a renowned Italian-French opera singer, known for her incredible vocal range and emotive performances. She debuted at 11 and went on to sing leading roles at major opera houses, earning international acclaim and becoming one of the most celebrated sopranos of her time.

Deathyear: 1919

Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria

Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria, was born in 1573. He was a skilled diplomat and strategist, known for his wise leadership and decisive decisions. He ruled Bavaria from 1597 to 1651, modernizing the state and strengthening its military.

Deathyear: 1651

Ivan Goncharov

Ivan Goncharov was a renowned Russian author and critic, born in 1812. His literary masterpiece, "Oblomov", is a quintessential representation of Russian literature's golden age.

Deathyear: 1891

"Country" Johnny Mathis

Johnny "Country" Mathis is an American singer-songwriter born in 1933. Known for his smooth, soulful voice, he has recorded in various genres, from jazz and pop to country and gospel. His hits include "Country", "Razzle Dazzle", and "Trouble in Mind".

Deathyear: 2011

Gerald Finzi

Gerald Finzi was a renowned English composer and educator, born in 1901. He is celebrated for his lyrical and expressive works, including symphonies, concertos, and choral pieces. He also taught at the Royal College of Music, shaping the next generation of British composers.

Deathyear: 1956

Pope Innocent XII

Pope Innocent XII (1615-1701) was a mild and pastoral pope who reformed the Vatican's finances and administrative systems. He expelled corrupt prelates and restored the Church's moral authority. Notably, he abolished the lucrative practice of nepotism, curbing the influence of powerful cardinal-nephews.

Deathyear: 1700

Jack Lang (Australian politician)

Here is 40 words about Jack Lang: Jack Lang was a prominent Australian lawyer and politician who served as the 23rd Premier of New South Wales from 1925 to 1927. Born in 1876, Lang was known for his progressive policies and was a key figure in shaping Australian politics during the early 20th century.

Deathyear: 1975

Tuncel Kurtiz

Tuncel Kurtiz was a renowned Turkish actor, director, and screenwriter, known for his versatility and range. Born in 1936, he made a significant impact on Turkish cinema, starring in numerous films and television shows, and earning widespread recognition for his performances.

Deathyear: 2013