What Happened This Year 1944

Born in 1944

Bo Larsson

Swedish footballer and national team player
Born
May 5th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2023 2 years ago — 79 years old

Played as a midfielder in professional football. Had a significant career at Malmö FF, contributing to the team's success in the 1970s. Played for the Swedish national team, participating in the 1970 FIFA World Cup. Noted for technical skills and playmaking abilities, leading to a lasting legacy in Swedish football.

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Masanori Murakami

Japanese professional baseball player
Born
May 6th, 1944 80 years ago

Masanori Murakami played as a pitcher in major league baseball. He debuted in 1964, becoming the first Japanese player to participate in the Major Leagues. His career in the United States included playing for the San Francisco Giants and recording a successful stint as a relief pitcher. After returning to Japan, he continued to play professionally, achieving recognition in Nippon Professional Baseball.

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Gary Glitter

English singer-songwriter and performer
Born
May 8th, 1944 80 years ago

This individual gained prominence in the 1970s as a glam rock singer. Music career began in the early 1970s with chart-topping hits. Achieved significant commercial success with singles like 'Rock and Roll Part 2' and 'Someone Else's Girl'. Developed a distinctive persona characterized by flamboyant costumes and energetic performances. Subsequently received attention for legal issues and controversies in later years.

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Marie-France Pisier

French actress in film and television
Born
May 10th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 67 years old

An actress, director, and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema. Featured in films such as "César et Rosalie," "The Inheritors," and "Mado," she showcased remarkable talent in both comedic and dramatic roles. In television, appeared in series such as "Les Déracinés." Directed several productions, including films like "La Passante du Sans-Souci." Worked extensively in theater, bringing diverse characters to life on stage. Her work received acclaim throughout her career, earning awards for her performances and contributions to film.

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Chris Patten

Politician and 28th Governor of Hong Kong
Born
May 12th, 1944 80 years ago

An English academic and politician served as the 28th Governor of Hong Kong from 1992 to 1997, overseeing the final years of British rule in the territory. Played a significant role in the transition of Hong Kong to Chinese sovereignty. After leaving Hong Kong, held positions such as the Chancellor of the University of Oxford and the Chairman of the BBC Trust. Involved in European politics as a member of the Conservative Party and served in various cabinet positions.

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Armistead Maupin

American author of 'Tales of the City'
Born
May 13th, 1944 80 years ago

An author, screenwriter, and actor, this individual is celebrated for creating the 'Tales of the City' series, which explores the lives of various characters in San Francisco. The series began as a column in the San Francisco Chronicle and later evolved into a collection of novels. The narratives address themes of sexuality, identity, and community during the 1970s and 1980s. Additionally, adaptations of these works were made into television miniseries, further expanding their reach. In the literary world, contributions to LGBTQ+ literature have gained substantial recognition, influencing both readers and writers alike.

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Gene Cornish

Guitarist and member of The Rascals
Born
May 14th, 1944 80 years ago

Born in 1944, a guitarist who gained prominence as a member of the rock band The Rascals. The band became a significant part of the 1960s music scene in the United States. They produced several hit songs including 'Good Lovin'' and 'Groovin''. In addition to performing, contributed to the band’s songwriting process. The Rascals' style blended rock, soul, and blue-eyed soul. The band's influence extended beyond their active years, and they continue to be celebrated in rock music history.

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George Lucas

Film director and producer, Lucasfilm founder
Born
May 14th, 1944 80 years ago

An American director, producer, and screenwriter, this individual founded Lucasfilm in 1971, a company that produced the iconic Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises. The first Star Wars film, released in 1977, revolutionized special effects and became a cultural phenomenon. In 1980, the sequel The Empire Strikes Back was released, gaining critical acclaim and commercial success. Additionally, this individual played a crucial role in developing new technologies for film making, particularly in sound and visual effects, which have been widely adopted in the industry. In 2012, sold Lucasfilm to The Walt Disney Company, ensuring the continuation of Star Wars and other franchises.

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David Kelly

Irish actor known for 'Waking Ned' lead role
Born
May 14th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
February 12th, 2012 13 years ago — 67 years old

An Irish actor gained recognition for performances in film and television. Featured prominently in the film 'Waking Ned Devine,' portrayed the character Ned Devine, which showcased comedic talent and established a notable place in cinema. Appeared in several television series, including 'Ballykissangel,' where played the role of the comical character. Kelly's work spanned many years, contributing to both stage and screen productions.

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