What Happened This Year 1981

Born in 1981

Anja Pärson

Swedish alpine ski racer and champion
Born
April 25th, 1981 43 years ago

An alpine ski racer achieved significant success in world competitions. Competed extensively in the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup during the early 2000s, earning numerous victories. Specialized in multiple disciplines, particularly slalom and giant slalom. Won the Overall World Cup title in 2004, solidifying a place among the sport's elite. Made an impression at the Winter Olympics, earning several medals, including gold in the combined event at the 2006 Turin Games. Retired from competitive skiing in 2012 and has since contributed to the sport in various capacities, including mentoring young athletes.

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Felipe Massa

Formula 1 racing driver, 2008 championship runner-up
Born
April 25th, 1981 43 years ago

Born in Brazil, engaged in motorsport from a young age, focusing on karting before moving up to car racing categories. Competed in Formula 1 from 2002 to 2017, securing a position in notable teams including Ferrari and Williams. Achieved significant success with Ferrari, culminating in a close fight for the championship in 2008, finishing as the runner-up. Accumulated multiple race wins throughout career, showcasing consistent performance across various circuits worldwide. Retired from Formula 1 but continued to participate in other racing formats.

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Ms. Dynamite

English rapper and producer, 'A Little Deeper'
Born
April 26th, 1981 43 years ago

Emerging from London, significant contributions to the UK music scene occurred as a rapper and producer. Gained prominence in the early 2000s with the debut album 'A Little Deeper', which blended various genres including hip hop and R&B. Received critical acclaim for lyrical content and production, leading to multiple awards and recognition for work. Known for involvement in social issues, using music as a platform for advocacy.

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Caro Emerald

Pop and jazz singer, 'Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor'
Born
April 26th, 1981 43 years ago

A pop and jazz singer emerged in the late 2000s. Debuted with the album 'Deleted Scenes from the Cutting Room Floor' in 2010, which topped the Dutch charts for weeks. This album included hit singles that gained significant popularity in the Netherlands and beyond. Continued to release successful albums, blending retro and modern sounds, gaining a large following across Europe.

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Sandra Schmitt

German Alpine ski racer
Born
April 26th, 1981 43 years ago
Died
November 11th, 2000 24 years ago — 19 years old

Competed in Alpine skiing events, achieving notable rankings in multiple World Cup competitions. Represented Germany in various international competitions, including the Winter Olympics. Secured a place in the top ten in several World Cup races throughout the career, contributing to the visibility of German alpine skiing on the global stage.

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Jessica Alba

Actress and businesswoman, star of 'Sin City'
Born
April 28th, 1981 43 years ago

An American actress and businesswoman rose to prominence through a variety of roles in television and film. Gained early recognition from the television series 'Dark Angel' and achieved widespread fame with films such as 'Fantastic Four' and 'Sin City'. After her successful acting career, founded The Honest Company, focusing on non-toxic household products and baby items. The entrepreneurial venture received significant attention and grew into a well-known brand.

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George McCartney

Northern Irish footballer with West Ham
Born
April 29th, 1981 43 years ago

Played professional football predominantly as a left-back. Began his career at Sunderland, making over 100 appearances before transferring to West Ham United. Had successful stints at both clubs, showcasing defensive skills and contributing to the team's play. Returned to Sunderland later in his career. Represented the Northern Ireland national team, earning over 40 caps and participating in various qualifying matches.

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John O'Shea

Irish footballer and Sunderland defender
Born
April 30th, 1981 43 years ago

Born in 1981, one of the prominent figures in Irish football, played primarily as a defender. Began professional career at Manchester United, where tenure spanned over a decade. Contributed to significant successes, including winning five Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2008. Represented the Republic of Ireland at international level, earning over 100 caps. Transitioned to Sunderland, where continued to feature in various competitions, including the Premier League.

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Justin Vernon

Singer-songwriter and Bon Iver frontman
Born
April 30th, 1981 43 years ago

Born in 1981, a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Achieved prominence with the formation of the indie folk band Bon Iver. The debut album, 'For Emma, Forever Ago', released in 2007 garnered critical acclaim. Later albums, including 'Bon Iver, Bon Iver', won Grammy Awards. The project's sound incorporates various genres and influences, showcasing experimentation with instrumentation and vocal harmonies.

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