What Happened This Year 1950

Born in 1950

Ken Griffey Sr.

Baseball player, 3-time All-Star
Born
April 10th, 1950 75 years ago

One of the prominent figures in Major League Baseball, this individual played primarily as an outfielder. Career spanned from 1969 to 1991, featuring tenures with the Cincinnati Reds and the Seattle Mariners. Achieved notable success as a member of the Cincinnati Reds, contributing to their 1975 and 1976 World Series championships. Also participated in multiple All-Star games and was recognized for exceptional batting skills.

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Eddie Hazel

Guitarist with Parliament-Funkadelic
Born
April 10th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 42 years old

An influential guitarist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the funk genre. Gained recognition as a member of the band Parliament-Funkadelic, participating in groundbreaking musical productions. His innovative guitar work featured prominently on iconic tracks, showcasing a distinctive style that combined rock with funk influences. Collaborated with various artists and worked on solo projects, building a legacy within the music community. Remains a celebrated figure for contributions to the development of funk music during the 1970s.

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Joyce Banda

Malawian politician, 4th president
Born
April 12th, 1950 75 years ago

Banda served as the fourth president of Malawi from 2012 to 2014, following the death of Bingu wa Mutharika. She was the first female president in Malawi and in Southern Africa. Prior to her presidency, she held various ministerial positions including Minister of Gender, Child Welfare, and Community Services. Banda founded the Joyce Banda Foundation, focusing on women's rights and education. She completed her education in the United States and began her career in business before entering politics.

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Flavio Briatore

Businessman and Formula One manager
Born
April 12th, 1950 75 years ago

An Italian businessman became prominent through involvement in the Formula One motor racing industry. Managed the Benetton Formula racing team during the 1990s, leading to significant successes. In 2005 and 2006, managed the Renault team, achieving back-to-back World Championships with drivers Fernando Alonso. Expanded business interests into sectors such as luxury goods and hospitality, establishing successful ventures in various countries. Notable for a distinctive management style and a high-profile persona within both motorsport and business circles.

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David Cassidy

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 12th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 67 years old

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1970s as a member of the pop group The Partridge Family. The group achieved commercial success with hit singles and a popular television show entitled 'The Partridge Family'. He also pursued a solo music career, releasing several albums that included hits like 'I Think I Love You'. In addition to music, ventured into acting, making appearances in various television shows and stage productions. Cassidy's career was marked by a dedicated fan base, particularly among young audiences during the height of his fame. Struggled with personal issues later in life, including financial troubles and health challenges.

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William Sadler

American actor - The Shawshank Redemption
Born
April 13th, 1950 75 years ago

An American actor began his career on stage before transitioning to film and television. Gained acclaim for roles in several notable productions. Appeared in 'The Shawshank Redemption' as Heywood, contributing to the film's critical success. Also played significant roles in 'Die Hard 2' and 'Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey'. Featured in multiple television series, including 'Roswell' and 'The Green Mile'.

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Tommy Raudonikis

Rugby league player and coach
Born
April 13th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
April 7th, 2021 4 years ago — 70 years old

Played professional rugby league, primarily for Western Suburbs Magpies and New South Wales. Achieved recognition as a tough and skilled halfback during his playing career. Transitioned into coaching, leading various teams and contributing to the development of the sport in Australia. Served as a coach for state and club teams, influencing the next generation of players.

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Ron Perlman

American actor in Hellboy series
Born
April 13th, 1950 75 years ago

An accomplished actor with a career spanning several decades, widely recognized for work in film and television. Gained prominence for portraying the character of Hellboy in the film series directed by Guillermo del Toro. Also starred in the acclaimed TV series 'Beauty and the Beast' and lent voice to various animated characters and video games. Perlman has received numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe award.

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Francis Collins

Geneticist and NIH director with genome project
Born
April 14th, 1950 75 years ago

A physician and geneticist, led the Human Genome Project, a landmark initiative that successfully mapped the entire human genome. Served as the director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) from 2009. Focused on advancing biomedical research and improving public health through the integration of genomics into clinical practices. Contributed to significant research on genetic disorders and population genetics.

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