What Happened This Year 1961

Born in 1961

Shafin Ahmed

Bangladeshi bassist and singer-songwriter
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
July 24th, 2024 0 years ago — 63 years old

Instrumentalist and singer-songwriter contributed to the Bangladeshi rock music scene. Formed the band Aurthohin, which gained popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Released multiple albums, achieving critical acclaim. Engaged in various musical projects and collaborated with numerous artists in Bangladesh. Known for blending rock with traditional Bangladeshi sounds.

Continue Reading

Kurt Budke

Basketball coach, Oklahoma State University
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2011 13 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent basketball coach, served as the head coach for the women's basketball team at Oklahoma State University. Led the team to multiple successful seasons and secured several postseason appearances. His coaching career was marked by a focus on player development and team strategy, contributing to the growth of women's basketball at the collegiate level. Tragically, his life was cut short in an aviation accident.

Continue Reading

James Oyebola

Professional boxer and champion
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
July 27th, 2007 17 years ago — 46 years old

Competed as a professional boxer primarily in the heavyweight division during the 1990s. Fought notable athletes in the ring and gained recognition within the British boxing community. Achieved a high point in career when claimed the WBC International Heavyweight Title. Transitioned into sports commentary and engaged in various charitable endeavors after retiring from boxing. Passed away in 2007.

Continue Reading

Gary Winick

Film director and producer, 13 Going on 30
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
February 27th, 2011 14 years ago — 50 years old

Started a career in film as a production assistant before becoming a director and producer. Gained recognition with the feature film '13 Going on 30', a romantic comedy that achieved commercial success. Directed and produced several films, including 'Charlotte's Web', which is based on the classic children's book, and 'Bride Wars'. Collaborated with various actors and crews throughout the career leading to multiple successful projects. His work spanned both independent films and major studio productions.

Continue Reading

Dorothy M. Murdock

Author and historian of ancient history
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
December 25th, 2015 9 years ago — 54 years old

Specialized in the study of ancient civilizations, particularly ancient Egypt and the ancient Near East. Authored a variety of works focusing on the historical and cultural impact of these societies. Developed a reputation for detailed research and academic rigor in historical writing. Contributed to popular understanding of history through various publications.

Continue Reading

Jim LeRoy

Soldier and stunt pilot, airshow performer
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
July 28th, 2007 17 years ago — 46 years old

Served in the United States Army and pursued a career as a stunt pilot. Gained recognition for impressive aerial performances at airshows across the country. Became notable for flying in a variety of aircraft and showcasing complex aerobatic maneuvers. Tragically lost life in a flying accident during a performance in 2007.

Continue Reading

Reggie White

American football defensive end, NFL champion
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2004 20 years ago — 43 years old

Played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) from 1984 to 2000. Spent the majority of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles and the Green Bay Packers. Led the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XXXI. Received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award twice and was selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times. Played college football at the University of Tennessee.

Continue Reading

Pascal Chaumeil

Film director and screenwriter, 'Heartbreaker'
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
August 27th, 2015 9 years ago — 54 years old

Directed multiple films, combining comedy and romance. Gained recognition for the film 'Heartbreaker', which featured a storyline involving an unconventional mission to break up a wedding. Worked on various projects in both television and cinema, contributing to the French film industry. Directed the film 'The Tuche Family', achieving commercial success. Chaumeil's contributions also extended to screenwriting, collaborating with other filmmakers to craft engaging narratives.

Continue Reading

Art Porter Jr.

American saxophonist and songwriter
Born
1961 64 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1996 28 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent saxophonist and songwriter, contributions included soulful jazz compositions that showcased exceptional musical talent. Released several albums, among them 'Force of Nature' and 'Songs from the Heart', which garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following. Collaborated with various artists, further enriching the music scene. Career achievements continued until untimely passing at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in the jazz genre.

Continue Reading