What Happened This Year 1986

People Who Died in 1986

Rafael Gil

Spanish director and screenwriter
Born
May 22nd, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 73 years old

Participated in the Spanish film industry, contributing as a director and screenwriter. Significant works include 'La sombra del Susurro' and 'Marianela'. Garnered acclaim for adaptation of literary works into film, presenting themes reflective of Spanish culture and society during the mid-20th century.

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Coluche

French comedian and actor, starred in 'Tchao Pantin'
Born
October 28th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent figure in French comedy, this individual founded the popular comedy character known as Coluche and significantly influenced French humor throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Alongside a successful stand-up career, the comedian starred in notable films, including 'Tchao Pantin', which earned the César Award for Best Actor. The character represented a satirical and often irreverent voice, resonating with audiences and sparking discussions on societal issues. In 1985, the individual initiated a charity campaign, 'Les Restos du Cœur', providing meals to those in need, further solidifying a legacy beyond entertainment.

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Alexander Akimov

Chernobyl reactor operator during disaster
Born
May 6th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 33 years old

Worked as a senior control room operator at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Involved in the operation during the catastrophic accident on April 26, 1986. Played a pivotal role in managing the reactor's conditions and responding to the emergency. Subsequently faced severe health issues due to radiation exposure, leading to hospitalization and eventual death as a result of the disaster's aftermath.

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Ellison Onizuka

Astronaut and engineer with NASA
Born
June 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 40 years old

An engineer and astronaut, contributed to space exploration as a NASA astronaut. Selected as one of the first members of the group of astronauts formed after the Apollo program. Flew on the Space Shuttle Discovery as a mission specialist for STS-51-L in 1986. Part of the crew that tragically lost their lives in the Challenger disaster. Worked on various missions that included research in microgravity and telecommunications. Notably the first Asian American astronaut in space.

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Tim McIntire

Actor and Singer in American Film
Born
July 19th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 42 years old

An American actor and singer, contributions spanned stage and screen. Appeared in the 1973 film "American Graffiti" as Steve Bolander and played the title role in the 1979 television film "The Great Smokey Roadblock." Additionally, performed in various theatrical productions and contributed to music, notably through his work in the country genre. His versatility allowed for engagements in both acting and musical performances throughout his career.

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André Barbeau

Neurologist focusing on brain disorders
Born
May 27th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent neurologist, contributions included research in Parkinson's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Significant work involved studying the effects of neurotoxins and neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. Engaged in numerous clinical trials to advance treatment options for various neurological disorders. Published extensively in scientific journals, influencing future research in neurology.

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