The date August 13 holds a significant place in the history of entertainment, politics, and culture, as it marks the passing of several notable figures. While some of these individuals are widely known, others may not be as familiar to the general public. In this article, we explore the lives and legacies of 18 celebrities who passed away on this date, highlighting their birthdays, careers, and contributions to their respective fields.
18 Celebrities Died on August 13
1. Jimmy Knapp
Date of death: August 13, 2001
Jimmy Knapp (born September 4, 1933) was a prominent British trade union leader. Knapp served as the General Secretary of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) from 1983 to 2001. He was known for his strong leadership during a period of significant change in the UK’s transport industry, advocating for workers’ rights and safety. His dedication to the labor movement earned him respect across the political spectrum.
2. Ed Townsend
Date of death: August 13, 2003
Ed Townsend (born April 16, 1929) was an American singer, songwriter, and producer. He is best known for co-writing Marvin Gaye’s classic hit “Let’s Get It On.” Townsend’s career spanned several decades, during which he produced and wrote songs for numerous artists. His contributions to the music industry, particularly in the soul and R&B genres, remain influential.
3. Julia Child
Date of death: August 13, 2004
Julia Child (born August 15, 1912) was an American chef, author, and television personality who introduced French cuisine to the American public with her debut cookbook “Mastering the Art of French Cooking.” Child’s television show, The French Chef, became a groundbreaking program that made cooking accessible to millions of Americans. Her cheerful personality and passion for food made her a beloved figure in American culture.
4. David Lange
Date of death: August 13, 2005
David Lange (born August 4, 1942) was the 32nd Prime Minister of New Zealand, serving from 1984 to 1989. Lange was known for his oratory skills and his government’s anti-nuclear policy, which led to New Zealand becoming a nuclear-free zone. His leadership played a crucial role in shaping New Zealand’s modern identity, and his legacy as a political leader remains significant in the country’s history.
5. Phil Rizzuto
Phil Rizzuto
Date of death: August 13, 2007
Phil Rizzuto (born September 25, 1917) was an American Major League Baseball shortstop who played his entire 13-season career for the New York Yankees. Rizzuto was a key member of seven World Series-winning teams and was named the American League’s Most Valuable Player in 1950. After retiring as a player, he became a popular broadcaster for the Yankees, known for his catchphrase “Holy Cow!”
6. Bill Gwatney
Date of death: August 13, 2008
Bill Gwatney (born August 26, 1959) was an American politician and businessman who served as the chairman of the Arkansas Democratic Party. Gwatney was tragically murdered in his office by a lone gunman, an event that shocked the political community. His dedication to public service and his efforts to support the Democratic Party in Arkansas left a lasting impact on the state’s political landscape.
7. Edwin Newman
Date of death: August 13, 2010
Edwin Newman (born January 25, 1919) was an American newscaster, journalist, and author. He was best known for his work with NBC News, where he anchored programs such as The Today Show and NBC Nightly News. Newman was also a strong advocate for the proper use of the English language, writing several books on the subject. His career in journalism spanned over four decades, and he was widely respected for his integrity and professionalism.
8. Helen Gurley Brown
Date of death: August 13, 2012
Helen Gurley Brown (born February 18, 1922) was an American author, publisher, and businesswoman, best known as the editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan magazine. Brown revolutionized the magazine industry by transforming Cosmopolitan into a publication that embraced and celebrated women’s independence, sexuality, and empowerment. Her book, Sex and the Single Girl, became a bestseller and further solidified her influence in the feminist movement.
9. Jon Brookes
Date of death: August 13, 2013
Jon Brookes (born September 21, 1968) was an English musician and drummer for the alternative rock band The Charlatans. Brookes was a founding member of the band, and his drumming style was integral to their sound. The Charlatans enjoyed significant success in the 1990s with hits like “The Only One I Know.” Brookes’ untimely death was a loss to the music community, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to British rock music.
10. Frans Brüggen
Frans Brüggen
Date of death: August 13, 2014
Frans Brüggen (born October 30, 1934) was a Dutch conductor, recorder player, and baroque flutist. Brüggen was one of the leading figures in the revival of early music and historically informed performance. He co-founded the Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century, which specialized in performances of music from the Baroque and Classical periods. Brüggen’s influence as a musician and conductor extended far beyond the Netherlands, earning him international acclaim.
11. Françoise Mallet-Joris
Date of death: August 13, 2016
Françoise Mallet-Joris (born July 6, 1930) was a Belgian novelist and member of the Académie Goncourt. Her novels often explored themes of love, identity, and societal norms, with a focus on the complexities of human relationships. Mallet-Joris received numerous literary awards during her career and was regarded as one of Belgium’s most important contemporary writers.
12. Kenny Baker
Date of death: August 13, 2016
Kenny Baker (born August 24, 1934) was an English actor and musician, best known for his portrayal of R2-D2 in the Star Wars franchise. Standing at just 3 feet 8 inches tall, Baker brought the beloved droid to life in six of the original Star Wars films. His work in the series made him a fan favorite and earned him a place in cinematic history.
13. Somnath Chatterjee
Date of death: August 13, 2018
Somnath Chatterjee (born July 25, 1929) was an Indian lawyer and politician who served as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament, from 2004 to 2009. Chatterjee was known for his impartiality and fairness as Speaker, earning respect from members of all political parties. His long and distinguished career in Indian politics made him one of the most respected figures in the country.
14. Kip Addotta
Date of death: August 13, 2019
Kip Addotta (born June 16, 1944) was an American comedian known for his witty wordplay and satirical songs. Addotta appeared on numerous television shows, including The Tonight Show and The Mike Douglas Show, where his unique brand of humor earned him a loyal following. His comedy albums and performances continue to be appreciated by fans of classic stand-up comedy.
15. Eric Hughes
Date of death: August 13, 2020
Eric Hughes (born May 5, 1952) was a British professional rugby league footballer and coach. Hughes played as a center and winger, and later became a successful coach, guiding several teams to victory in domestic competitions. His contributions to the sport of rugby league were significant, and he remains a respected figure in the rugby community.
16. Charlie Johnson
Charlie Johnson
Date of death: August 13, 2021
Charlie Johnson (born July 24, 1949) was an American professional football player who played as an offensive lineman in the National Football League (NFL) for the Philadelphia Eagles and the Minnesota Vikings. Johnson was a key player on the offensive line and was known for his strength and consistency. After retiring from playing, he continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor.
see also: 17 Celebrities Born on August 13
17. Nanci Griffith
Date of death: August 13, 2021
Nanci Griffith (born July 6, 1953) was an American singer-songwriter and musician, known for her blend of folk and country music. Griffith’s distinctive voice and storytelling ability earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. She won a Grammy Award for her album Other Voices, Other Rooms and was known for hits such as “Love at the Five and Dime.” Her music continues to inspire artists and listeners alike.
18. Piero Angela
Date of death: August 13, 2022
Piero Angela (born December 22, 1928) was an Italian television host, science journalist, and writer. Angela was one of Italy’s most respected and beloved figures, known for his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible to the general public. He hosted and produced numerous educational television programs, including Quark and Superquark, which became staples of Italian television. His work in science communication earned him numerous awards and accolades.
Conclusion
August 13 has been a date of loss for many fields, including entertainment, politics, and sports. The individuals highlighted in this article each left an indelible mark on the world, whether through their music, writing, leadership, or performances. While they may no longer be with us, their contributions continue to influence and inspire, reminding us of the enduring impact of their lives and work.
FAQs:
What Anniversaries and Holidays Are Celebrated on August 13?
August 13 is International Left-Handers Day, a day to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of left-handed individuals around the world.
What Are Some Significant Events That Happened on August 13?
One of the most notable events that took place on August 13 is the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961.
Who Were Some Other Notable Figures Who Died on August 13?
In addition to the 18 celebrities mentioned, other notable figures who died on August 13 include Japanese author Yukio Mishima (1970) and British actor Patrick Macnee (2015).