August 24 marks the passing of numerous distinguished individuals whose contributions have shaped various fields. From renowned artists to influential thinkers, this date is a poignant reminder of the legacy left by these remarkable people. Here’s a detailed look at twenty-one celebrities who passed away on August 24 and their impact on their respective domains.
21 Famous People Died on August 24
1. John Jacob Rhodes
Date of Death: August 24, 1997
John Jacob Rhodes (born December 4, 1916) was an influential American politician and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Serving Arizona’s 1st congressional district from 1953 to 1983, Rhodes was known for his legislative work and leadership as the House Minority Leader. His long tenure in Congress was marked by his commitment to conservative principles and significant contributions to U.S. politics.
2. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Date of Death: August 24, 2004
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross (born July 8, 1926) was a Swiss-American psychiatrist best known for her pioneering work on the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Her seminal book, “On Death and Dying,” has profoundly impacted how people understand and cope with terminal illness and bereavement. Kübler-Ross’s work continues to influence the fields of psychology and palliative care.
3. Kaleth Morales
Date of Death: August 24, 2005
Kaleth Morales (born February 9, 1984) was a Colombian singer and songwriter renowned for his contributions to the vallenato music genre. His modern take on traditional vallenato earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Morales’s untimely death was a significant loss to Latin American music, but his innovative approach to vallenato endures in his recordings.
4. Cristian Nemescu
Date of Death: August 24, 2006
Cristian Nemescu (born May 31, 1979) was a Romanian film director and screenwriter whose work gained critical acclaim for its originality and depth. His film “California Dreamin’” won numerous awards and established him as a rising star in international cinema. Nemescu’s career was tragically cut short, but his innovative storytelling left a lasting impression on the film industry.
5. Aaron Russo
Aaron Russo
Date of Death: August 24, 2007
Aaron Russo (born February 14, 1943) was an American film producer, director, and political activist. He is best known for producing films such as “The Rose” and “Trading Places.” Russo also became known for his political activism, advocating for personal freedoms and government transparency. His contributions to both the entertainment industry and political discourse are remembered through his work and advocacy.
6. Tristram Ogilvie Cary
Date of Death: August 24, 2008
Tristram Ogilvie Cary (born January 14, 1925) was a British composer and music educator. His work, which includes music for theater, film, and television, is recognized for its innovation and influence. Cary’s contributions to the field of music, particularly in the realm of electronic and experimental compositions, have left a lasting impact on contemporary music.
7. Toni Sailer
Date of Death: August 24, 2009
Toni Sailer (born November 7, 1935) was an Austrian alpine ski racer and Olympian, often referred to as the “blond arrow” for his skiing prowess. Sailer won three gold medals at the 1956 Winter Olympics and became a symbol of skiing excellence. His achievements on the slopes and his influence on the sport are remembered fondly by skiing enthusiasts worldwide.
8. Satoshi Kon
Date of Death: August 24, 2010
Satoshi Kon (born October 12, 1963) was a Japanese film director, animator, and screenwriter known for his innovative and influential work in anime. His films, such as “Perfect Blue” and “Paprika,” are celebrated for their complex narratives and stunning visual style. Kon’s contributions to anime have earned him a place as a visionary in the world of animation.
9. Mike Flanagan
Date of Death: August 24, 2014
Mike Flanagan (born October 20, 1962) was an American sports broadcaster known for his work as a commentator and analyst in various sports. His insightful commentary and engaging presentation style made him a respected figure in sports journalism. Flanagan’s work in broadcasting left a notable impact on sports media.
10. Pauli Ellefsen
Pauli Ellefsen
Date of Death: August 24, 2015
Pauli Ellefsen (born April 8, 1931) was a Faroese politician and activist known for his efforts in promoting Faroese culture and autonomy. His work in politics and cultural advocacy contributed to the development and recognition of Faroese identity. Ellefsen’s legacy includes his contributions to both Faroese society and its cultural heritage.
11. Julie Harris
Date of Death: August 24, 2013
Julie Harris (born December 2, 1925) was an American actress celebrated for her extensive work in theater and television. Her performances in productions such as “The Bell Jar” and “I Am a Camera” earned her acclaim and numerous awards. Harris’s contributions to the performing arts have made her a beloved and influential figure in American theater.
12. Justin Wilson
Date of Death: August 24, 2015
Justin Wilson (born April 29, 1954) was a renowned American chef and television personality. Known for his Southern cuisine and charismatic presence on television, Wilson brought the flavors of Louisiana to a wide audience. His cookbooks and television shows continue to influence and inspire culinary enthusiasts.
13. Michel Butor
Date of Death: August 24, 2016
Michel Butor (born September 14, 1926) was a French novelist and essayist known for his experimental and innovative writing style. His works, including “La Modification,” contributed to the development of the nouveau roman literary movement. Butor’s influence on modern literature is significant, reflecting his creative approach to narrative and structure.
14. Roger Tsien
Date of Death: August 24, 2016
Roger Tsien (born February 1, 2006) was an American chemist who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2008 for his work on green fluorescent protein (GFP). His research has had a profound impact on molecular and cell biology, aiding in the development of fluorescent markers used in various scientific applications. Tsien’s contributions to chemistry and science have been groundbreaking.
15. Walter Scheel
Walter Scheel
Date of Death: August 24, 2016
Walter Scheel (born July 8, 1919) was a German politician who served as President of West Germany from 1974 to 1979. Scheel was known for his efforts in foreign policy and his role in the promotion of European integration. His leadership and diplomatic work have been instrumental in shaping post-war Germany and Europe.
16. Charlie Robertson
Date of Death: August 24, 2018
Charlie Robertson (born January 11, 1928) was a renowned American baseball player and coach. His career, including stints with the Chicago White Sox, left a lasting impact on Major League Baseball. Robertson’s achievements on the field and contributions to the sport have been remembered by fans and the baseball community.
17. Adrian Swire
Date of Death: August 24, 2018
Adrian Swire (born April 22, 1940) was a British businessman and philanthropist known for his work in the transportation industry. His leadership in various business ventures and his philanthropic efforts have contributed to his recognition in the business and charitable sectors. Swire’s legacy includes his influence on both industry and community.
see also: 20 Celebrities Born on August 23
18. Paul Wolfisberg
Date of Death: August 24, 2019
Paul Wolfisberg (born July 21, 1940) was a Swiss-born American engineer and educator known for his work in the field of mechanical engineering. His contributions to engineering education and research have been recognized for advancing the understanding of mechanical systems and their applications. Wolfisberg’s impact on engineering education remains notable.
19. Charlie Watts
Date of Death: August 24, 2021
Charlie Watts (born June 2, 1941) was the iconic drummer for The Rolling Stones. Known for his steady rhythm and influential drumming style, Watts was a key member of one of rock music’s most legendary bands. His contributions to music and his role in shaping the sound of The Rolling Stones have left an enduring legacy in rock history.
20. Hissène Habré
Date of Death: August 24, 2021
Hissène Habré (born October 13, 1942) was a Chadian dictator whose regime was marked by human rights abuses and repression. After being overthrown, Habré was later tried and convicted of crimes against humanity. His death marks the end of a controversial and tumultuous chapter in Chad’s history.
21. Arleen Sorkin
Date of Death: August 24, 2023
Arleen Sorkin (born October 14, 1955) was an American actress and television personality known for her role on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives” and her voice work as Harley Quinn in “Batman: The Animated Series.” Sorkin’s contributions to television and animation have made her a cherished figure in entertainment.
Conclusion
August 24 has been a significant date in the history of many influential individuals across various fields. From groundbreaking scientists and pioneering artists to renowned athletes and political figures, these celebrities have made indelible marks on their respective domains. Their legacies continue to resonate, reminding us of their contributions and the lasting impact they have had on the world.
FAQs
What Anniversaries and Holidays Are Celebrated on August 24?
August 24 is observed as several significant anniversaries and holidays. Notably, it marks the Feast of St. Bartholomew, a Christian feast day honoring the Apostle Bartholomew. In addition, August 24 is associated with historical events and cultural observances in various regions.