What Happened This Year 1980

People Who Died in 1980

Dorothy Stratten

Model and actress in 'Playboy' magazine
Born
1960 65 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1980 44 years ago — 20 years old

Gained recognition as a Playboy Playmate in 1979 and starred in the film 'They All Laughed'. Stratten transitioned from modeling to acting, showcasing talent in various roles. Her life was marked by tragedy, culminating in her untimely death in 1980.

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Otto Frank

Businessman, father of Anne Frank
Born
May 12th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1980 44 years ago — 91 years old

A businessman who lived in both Germany and Switzerland. Played a key role in the publication of Anne Frank's diary after the war. Worked in the family business until the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to significant challenges. Emigrated to Switzerland after the war where he dedicated efforts to promoting his daughter's legacy and raising awareness about the Holocaust.

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Joe Dassin

Singer-songwriter of French chanson music
Born
November 5th, 1938 86 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1980 44 years ago — 41 years old

Born in 1938, this artist blended American and French musical influences. He gained popularity through hit songs in the 1960s and 1970s. Major works include the international hit 'Les Champs-Élysées' and 'Alors Rêve.' His music reflects a variety of themes, resonating with audiences across different cultures. Dassin's career was marked by significant commercial success, with numerous albums released during his lifetime. He passed away in 1980, leaving a lasting legacy in the French music scene.

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James Smith McDonnell

Pilot and founder of McDonnell Aircraft
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1980 44 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in aviation, founded McDonnell Aircraft Corporation in 1939. The company became a significant player in military and commercial aircraft production. Instrumental in the development of the F-4 Phantom II, which served extensively during the Vietnam War. Led the company through rapid growth following World War II, contributing to various aerospace projects, including the Mercury and Gemini space programs alongside NASA. Retired as chairman in 1972, leaving a lasting legacy in the aviation industry.

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Yootha Joyce

English actress in 'George and Mildred'
Born
August 20th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 53 years old

An English actress gained recognition for portraying Mildred Roper in the television series 'George and Mildred', a popular spin-off from the sitcom 'Man About the House'. Joyce's career began in theatre before transitioning to television and film. She appeared in various film roles during the 1960s and 1970s, including parts in 'The Family Way' and 'The Great St Trinian's Train Robbery'. Her performance in 'George and Mildred' remains the most prominent aspect of her career, airing from 1976 to 1979. Joyce's contributions to television comedy helped define the genre in the UK during that era.

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Gower Champion

Dancer and choreographer of musicals
Born
June 22nd, 1919 105 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent American dancer and choreographer, contributed significantly to the Broadway musical scene. Collaborated on many successful productions during the mid-20th century and achieved acclaim for the choreography in 'Hello, Dolly!' and 'Bye Bye Birdie'. Championed innovative dance styles in musical theatre and created a unique partnership with his wife as a creative duo. His work left a lasting legacy on the performing arts, influencing future generations of choreographers and performers.

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Rosa Albach-Retty

German-Austrian actress, prolific performer
Born
1874 151 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1980 44 years ago — 106 years old

An accomplished actress, worked extensively in film and theater throughout the early to mid-20th century. Gained recognition for performances in films such as "Der Hauptmann von Köpenick" and "Die Fledermaus." Contributed significantly to the Austrian film industry and collaborated with various prominent directors of the era. In addition to film work, participated in numerous theater productions, showcasing versatility and talent on stage. Continued performing until later in life, leaving a lasting legacy within the German-speaking acting community.

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Tex Avery

Animator known for Looney Tunes classics
Born
February 26th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1980 44 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed to the animation industry as an animator, producer, and voice actor. Pioneered techniques in animation that shaped modern cartoons. Worked with Warner Bros. and MGM, developing iconic characters and styles. Created memorable cartoons such as 'Droopy' and 'Chilly Willy'. His distinctive approach to timing and humor influenced countless animators and remains evident in contemporary animation.

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Douglas Kenney

American satirist and co-founder of National Lampoon
Born
December 10th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1980 44 years ago — 33 years old

A satirist and writer, contributed significantly to humor through various mediums. Co-founded National Lampoon magazine, transforming it into a cultural phenomenon. Authored influential works that included 'National Lampoon's Animal House', which became a milestone in comedy films. Engaged in writing and producing for different projects that shaped comedic satire in American media.

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