What Happened This Year 1950

Born in 1950

Angry Grandpa

Internet personality and YouTuber
Born
October 16th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 67 years old

An internet personality gained popularity through viral videos featuring rants and pranks. Established a significant online presence on YouTube with a channel that showcased family dynamics and humorous confrontations. Engaged a large audience with relatable content and unfiltered expressions. Collaborated with family to create entertaining videos that resonated with fans, resulting in a loyal following.

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Howard Rollins

American actor in 'A Soldier's Play'
Born
October 17th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1996 28 years ago — 46 years old

An actor gained prominence through performances in stage and film. Originated the role of Sergeant Vernon C. McFerson in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play 'A Soldier's Play'. Also appeared in the television miniseries ‘Roots’ and earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for the role of Sam in ‘The Watsons Go to Birmingham’. Rollins' work spanned both theater and screen, showcasing a range of characters and themes.

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Philippe Barbarin

French cardinal and religious leader
Born
October 17th, 1950 74 years ago

Appointed as Cardinal in 2003, held the position of Archbishop of Lyon. Actively engaged in the Catholic Church's response to social issues and served on various councils within the Church. Oversaw a significant archdiocese in France and participated in multiple synods and ecclesiastical events. Involved in the Church's approaches to contemporary moral questions and community support efforts.

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Sandra Reemer

Indo-Dutch singer and television presenter
Born
October 17th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1950, contributed to the Dutch music scene as a singer and television presenter. Achieved fame in the 1970s with participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, representing the Netherlands. Also known for hosting various television shows, including 'De Soundmixshow', which showcased emerging musical talent. Career spanned several decades, with numerous hits in both the Dutch and Indonesian music markets. Continued to perform and entertain until her passing in 2022.

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Wendy Wasserstein

Playwright with a Pulitzer Prize
Born
October 18th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 55 years old

An American playwright and academic, achievements include writing several acclaimed plays that explore themes of feminism, identity, and the American experience. Works include 'The Sisters Rosensweig', which focuses on the lives of three women reuniting for a birthday celebration, and 'An American Daughter', addressing the roles of women in society. Wasserstein received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1998 for the play 'The Sisters Rosensweig' and a Tony Award for Best Play in 1977 for 'The Sisters Rosensweig'.

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William Russ

Actor and director, notable for 'Boy Meets World'
Born
October 20th, 1950 74 years ago

An American actor and director, recognized for work in television and film. Portrayed the character Alan Matthews in the television series 'Boy Meets World', which aired from 1993 to 2000. Acted in various roles in films and series throughout the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to both drama and comedy genres. Directed episodes of 'Boy Meets World' and engaged in several other projects, showcasing versatility in both acting and direction.

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Chris Cannon

American politician, Congressman from Utah
Born
October 20th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
May 8th, 2024 0 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative for Utah’s 3rd congressional district from 2003 to 2009. Worked on various committees, including the Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Education and Labor. Championed issues such as education reform and immigration policy during tenure. Lost re-election in 2008, concluding a legislative career focused on conservative values and local interests.

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Tom Petty

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Free Fallin''
Born
October 20th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2017 7 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in rock music, this singer-songwriter gained fame as the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The band released several successful albums, with hits like 'American Girl' and 'Free Fallin''. Additionally, collaborated with other artists, including Jeff Lynne and Bob Dylan. The work encompassed a mix of rock, folk, and a hint of new wave, appealing to a wide audience. The career included induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, recognizing contributions to music over decades. A commitment to artistic integrity was evident throughout the career, influencing a generation of musicians.

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Ronald McNair

Physicist and Space Shuttle Astronaut
Born
October 21st, 1950 74 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 36 years old

A physicist and astronaut completed two missions with NASA as part of the Space Shuttle program. Earned a doctorate in physics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Participated in STS-41-B and STS-51-L missions. Tragically died in the Challenger disaster on January 28, 1986, while fulfilling a mission to deploy satellites and conduct scientific experiments.

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