Origins & Early Life

Mitr Chaibancha (Thai: มิตร ชัยบัญชา, RTGS: Mit Chaibancha; 28 January 1934 – 8 October 1970) was a Thai film actor. He acted in 266 films from 1956 to 1970. He died on 8 October 1970 at Dongtan Beach, Jomtien, South Pattaya, after falling from a helicopter during the filming of a stunt for the final scene of Insee Thong (Golden Eagle). At the height of his career in the 1960s, Mitr, along with Petchara Chaowarat, made a string of hit films that packed cinemas.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Of the 75 to 100 films produced each year by the Thai film industry during this period, Mitr starred in nearly half of them. Mitr was born into poverty, named Bunting ("abandoned by destiny") by a monk. His parents separated when he was an infant. His father was a non-commissioned police officer. His mother came to Bangkok for work as a greengrocer and a better financial position.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

At age 8, Mitr moved to Bangkok's Nang Loeng neighborhood to live with his newly-married mother, where he took the surname Phumhem. He learned Muay Thai, became the lightweight champion for his school in 1949 and 1951 and went on to win three more titles. After finishing secondary school, he studied at Phra Nakhon...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Alan Arkin — Contemporary (Born in 1934) (1934): Esteemed American actor, filmmaker, and musician with a seven-decade career.
• Baby Face Nelson — Contemporary (Died in 1934) (1934): Notorious American bank robber, known for his youthful appearance and partnership with John Dillinger.
• Bill Russell — Contemporary (Born in 1934) (1934): Center for the Boston Celtics, a 12-time champion and basketball legend.
• Abraham Maslow — Contemporary (Died in 1970) (1970): Pioneering American psychologist known for the Hierarchy of Needs and self-actualization theory.
• Alan Shearer — Contemporary (Born in 1970) (1970): English football legend, record goalscorer, and respected pundit.
• Allen Lane — Contemporary (Died in 1970) (1970): Pioneering British publisher who founded Penguin Books, bringing literature to the masses.
• Alan Alda — Shared historical date (01-28 · Born) (1936): Esteemed American actor celebrated for M*A*S*H and decades of versatile performances.
• André the Giant — Shared historical date (01-28 · Died) (1993): French wrestler and actor, famed for his colossal size and wrestling career.
• Anne-Marie Duff — Shared historical date (10-08 · Born) (1970): Acclaimed British actress known for roles in Shameless and The Virgin Queen.
• Bruno Mars — Shared historical date (10-08 · Born) (1985): Pop icon known for retro showmanship and versatile songwriting.
• 1934 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1934
• January 28 (01-28) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on January 28
• 1970 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1970
• October 8 (10-08) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on October 8