What Happened This Year 1990

People Who Died in 1990

Jim Henson

Puppeteer and creator of The Muppets
Born
September 24th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1990 34 years ago — 53 years old

An American puppeteer, director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed to the entertainment industry through innovative puppet creations. Creator of The Muppets, which gained worldwide acclaim through television and film. Developed iconic characters such as Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Founded the Jim Henson Company, expanding the artistic realm of puppetry in both children's programming and adult entertainment. Established a legacy in puppetry that influenced generations of performers and creators.

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Sammy Davis Jr.

Singer, actor, dancer, and entertainer
Born
December 8th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1990 34 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1925, this individual was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, known for a career that spanned several decades. A member of the Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, he became famous for his performances in Las Vegas and television. The individual gained recognition for exceptional talent in singing, acting, and dancing, achieving considerable fame in music and film. Major works included performances in films such as 'Ocean's 11' and numerous musical productions. The individual also recorded popular songs, such as 'Mr. Bojangles.'

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Jill Ireland

English actress and author
Born
April 24th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1990 34 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1936, this English actress gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s through various film and television roles. Stars in 'Death Wish II' and 'The Great Escape' showcased versatility in performance. Additionally, she collaborated with her husband, Charles Bronson, on several films, enhancing her presence in the industry. Beyond acting, an accomplished author, writing several books including an autobiography detailing personal experiences.

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Rocky Graziano

Boxer and actor, World Champion
Born
January 1st, 1919 106 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1990 34 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1919, this American boxer achieved significant success in the sport during the 1940s. He fought notable bouts against greats such as Tony Zale and became the World Middleweight Champion in 1948. Transitioning to acting, he appeared in the film 'Somebody Up There Likes Me,' which depicted his life story, and also made guest appearances on television shows. His career spanned several decades, displaying both his boxing prowess and charisma on screen.

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Vic Tayback

Actor in 'Alice' television series
Born
January 6th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1990 34 years ago — 60 years old

Started a career in acting during the 1950s. Gained recognition for the role of Mel Sharples in the sitcom 'Alice', which aired from 1976 to 1985. Featured in films such as 'The Terminal Man' and 'The Stone Killer'. Appeared in various guest roles on television shows throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Worked as a voice actor and lent his voice to several animated projects. Continued to be active in acting until the early 1990s.

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Robert B. Meyner

American politician, 44th Governor of New Jersey
Born
July 3rd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1990 34 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 44th Governor of New Jersey from 1954 to 1960. Focused on expanding educational opportunities and improving the state’s infrastructure. Advocated for the creation of a state college system and supported various social programs during tenure. Prior to governorship, worked as a lawyer and served in the New Jersey State Assembly. After leaving office, remained active in political and civic affairs.

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Julius Eastman

American composer and pianist
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1990 34 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in avant-garde music, contributions spanned composition, performance, and advocacy for diversity in music. Major works include 'Stay On It', 'Femenine', and 'Evil Nigger', which sought to challenge conventional structures and narratives. Involved with ensembles like the S.E.M. Ensemble and worked collaboratively with various artists in developing contemporary soundscapes. Eastman's music often incorporated elements of minimalism, and he engaged with socio-political themes throughout his career. Despite facing challenges in recognition during his lifetime, his influence continues to resonate in contemporary classical music.

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Rex Harrison

English actor in film and theater
Born
March 5th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1990 34 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1908, this English actor became prominent in both film and theater. The stage career included performances in plays such as 'Pygmalion' and 'The King and I'. In film, acclaimed roles included Professor Henry Higgins in 'My Fair Lady', which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor. Other notable films include 'Doctor Doolittle' and 'Cleopatra'. This actor's work spanned several decades, marked by critical acclaim and a significant contribution to the performing arts.

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Robert Noyce

Co-founder of Intel Corporation
Born
December 12th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1990 34 years ago — 62 years old

An inventor and businessman, contributed to the development of the integrated circuit, which played a pivotal role in the microelectronics revolution. Co-founded Intel Corporation in 1968, which became a leading manufacturer of semiconductor chips. Noyce's innovations in silicon-based technology laid the groundwork for modern computing and contributed to the rapid growth of the personal computer industry. Noyce's work was acknowledged with various awards, including the National Medal of Technology.

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