John Cassavetes, American actor, director, and screenwriter (died 1989)

John Nicholas Cassavetes was an American filmmaker and actor. He began as an actor in film and television before helping to pioneer modern American independent cinema as a writer and director, often self-financing, producing, and distributing his own films. He received nominations for three Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and an Emmy Award.

December 9 is the 343rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar; 22 days remain until the end of the year.