November 25

Kenesaw Mountain Landis (1866-1944) served as a U.S. circuit court judge before being appointed the inaugural commissioner of Major League Baseball in 1920. Tasked with restoring integrity to the sport after the Black Sox Scandal, he wielded near-absolute authority over baseball. Landis famously banned eight players involved in the 1919 World Series fix, setting a precedent for strict disciplinary action. During his tenure, he guided baseball through the Roaring Twenties and the challenges of the Great Depression. Although his autocratic style drew criticism, his leadership helped shape the governance and enduring popularity of professional baseball.

Léon Zitrone (1914-1995) was a Russian-born journalist who became one of France's most recognizable television personalities. After emigrating to France in the 1930s, he embarked on a career in journalism and broadcasting, covering everything from political elections to royal weddings and sporting events. Zitrone co-anchored major broadcasts for TF1 and hosted popular programs including the annual New Year's Eve show. His calm demeanor and eloquent style earned him widespread acclaim and made him a trusted voice for generations of viewers. Fluent in multiple languages, he served as a cultural bridge between France and the wider world. Zitrone's longevity in the industry and his contributions to television journalism secured his legacy as a pioneer of French media.

Karel Reisz (1926-2002) was a Czech-born filmmaker and critic who became a leading figure in the British New Wave cinema movement. After fleeing Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia, he settled in Britain where he co-founded the Free Cinema movement with Lindsay Anderson. Reisz's directorial debut, 'Saturday Night and Sunday Morning' (1960), received critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of working-class life. He continued to direct celebrated films like 'The French Lieutenant's Woman' (1981) and 'The Gambler' (1974), garnering awards at international film festivals. Reisz also contributed to film criticism and education, teaching at institutions such as the London Film School. His work is remembered for its humanistic storytelling and stylistic innovation, influencing generations of filmmakers.