What Happened This Year 1980

Born in 1980

Cormac McAnallen

Irish footballer, all-Ireland winner
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 2004 21 years ago — 24 years old

Played as a Gaelic footballer for Tyrone, contributing to the team's success in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship. Debuted in 2001 and became a key player, noted for leadership and skill on the field. Represented the under-21 team before advancing to the senior squad, helping secure the 2003 All-Ireland title. Tragically passed away in 2004 at a young age, leaving a legacy within the sport.

Continue Reading

Van Tuong Nguyen

Australian drug trafficker sentenced to death
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2005 19 years ago — 25 years old

In 2002, a significant drug trafficking case involved the smuggling of heroin from Vietnam to Australia. The conviction followed the interception of 396 grams of heroin at Sydney Airport. A legal battle ensued, including appeals for clemency that ultimately failed. Nguyen was executed by lethal injection in Singapore in 2005, drawing international attention and sparking debates on drug laws and penalties.

Continue Reading

Siddharth Shukla

Indian television and film actor
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 2021 3 years ago — 41 years old

Acclaimed television and film actor, active in the Indian entertainment industry. Gained widespread recognition through performances in television series and films. Prominently featured in the daily soap opera 'Balika Vadhu' and gained further fame in 'Bigg Boss 13', where victory solidified a significant fan following. Additionally, starred in the romantic drama series 'Dil Se Dil Tak', showcasing range in acting across different genres. Shukla's career encompassed multiple facets of performance art, highlighting skill in engaging storytelling through acting.

Continue Reading

Terrence Kiel

American football player and safety
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2008 16 years ago — 28 years old

Played in the National Football League as a safety. Played for the San Diego Chargers and the Kansas City Chiefs during his career. Notable for being drafted in the second round of the 2003 NFL Draft. Contributed to teams' defensive strategies and participated in regular season games until 2007. Career ended prematurely due to injuries and off-field issues.

Continue Reading

Omid Reza Mir Sayafi

Iranian journalist and blogger
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2009 16 years ago — 29 years old

Worked primarily as a journalist and blogger in Iran. Focused on civil rights issues and freedom of expression. Committed to reporting on social and political topics despite facing significant risks. Died in custody under suspicious circumstances, drawing attention to the treatment of journalists in Iran.

Continue Reading

Virgil Abloh

Fashion designer and entrepreneur
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
November 28th, 2021 3 years ago — 41 years old

A fashion designer and entrepreneur contributed significantly to the industry through innovative designs and collaborations. Founded the luxury streetwear brand Off-White, blending high fashion with urban aesthetics. Served as the artistic director of Louis Vuitton's menswear line, becoming the first African American to hold such a position in the brand's history. Collaborated with various artists and brands, expanding the reach of contemporary fashion.

Continue Reading

Trent Acid

American professional wrestler
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
June 18th, 2010 14 years ago — 30 years old

A professional wrestler in the independent circuit, recognized for contributions to the hardcore wrestling scene. Competed in promotions such as Combat Zone Wrestling and Ring of Honor, showcasing high-flying and extreme wrestling styles. Competed frequently in tag teams, including notable partnerships that gained attention from wrestling fans. Various wrestling accolades were achieved throughout a career marked by a commitment to the craft.

Continue Reading

Lavelle Felton

American basketball player, NBA player
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2009 15 years ago — 29 years old

A professional basketball player participated in the National Basketball Association (NBA), recognized primarily for playing as a guard. Played college basketball at the University of North Carolina before entering the NBA. Played for teams such as the Seattle SuperSonics. Career in the league spanned from 2004 to 2006. Additionally, contributed to basketball internationally and in various leagues after leaving the NBA.

Continue Reading

Lee Eun-ju

South Korean actress and singer
Born
1980 45 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 2005 20 years ago — 25 years old

An accomplished actress and singer, worked in the South Korean entertainment industry. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Scarlet Letter' and 'The Uninvited'. Also starred in the television series 'The Love Story'. Passed away at a young age in 2005, leaving a significant mark on the industry through her performances.

Continue Reading