What Happened This Year 1995

People Who Died in 1995

Doris Grau

Voice actor on The Simpsons
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1995 29 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed as a voice actor and script supervisor. Provided the voice for several characters on the animated television series The Simpsons, including the character of lunchlady Doris. Participated in various voice-over projects and was involved in the production side of animation, impacting the quality of scripts. Engaged in the advertising and commercial industry through voice work.

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Ralph Flanagan

American pianist and conductor of orchestras
Born
April 7th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1995 29 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1914, a pianist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to American orchestral music. Established a career through performance and arranging music, including popular styles of the mid-20th century. Led orchestras on national tours and recorded numerous albums, blending classical and popular genres. Achieved recognition for work on radio and television, showcasing compositions that garnered widespread appeal.

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Ronald Kray

English gangster and crime figure
Born
October 24th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 62 years old

Operated in London's East End alongside twin brother Reggie, leading the notorious Kray twins crime syndicate during the 1950s and 1960s. Engaged in various illegal activities including extortion, protection rackets, and violence. Both gained prominence in the criminal underworld and were connected to notable figures in the entertainment industry. Their reign ended with arrests and convictions in the mid-1960s. Ronald received a life sentence for murder in 1969 and spent the remainder of his life in prison, where health issues developed. Died in 1995.

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Art Kane

Photographer of 'A Great Day in Harlem'
Born
April 9th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 70 years old

An American photographer, Kane gained recognition for his work in the field of photography, particularly for the iconic image 'A Great Day in Harlem,' capturing a historic gathering of jazz musicians in 1958. This photograph featured 57 notable artists, becoming one of the most famous images in jazz history. Kane's work extended beyond just jazz and included portrait photography for various magazines. His style often blended elements of candid photography and staged compositions. Throughout his career, Kane contributed to the visual documentation of cultural movements, telling stories through his lens that resonated with audiences and music enthusiasts alike.

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Charles Ritchie

Canadian diplomat and high commissioner
Born
September 23rd, 1906 118 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 89 years old

A diplomat served as the High Commissioner of Canada in the United Kingdom. Engaged in negotiations and diplomatic relations between Canada and the UK. Contributed to various international discussions regarding trade and foreign policy. Advocate for Canada's interests during key political events in the post-World War II era.

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Alexander Knox

Actor and screenwriter in film classics
Born
January 16th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Canada and later moving to England, a career spanned several decades in film and television. Achievements included playing Franklin D. Roosevelt in 'The Last Hurrah' and had significant roles in 'The Prisoner of Zenda' and 'The Tillman Story'. Contributed as a screenwriter as well, showcasing versatility in storytelling across different mediums.

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Heiner Müller

German playwright and poet
Born
January 9th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in German theatre, this individual distinguished himself as a playwright, poet, and director. His works often reflected the political turmoil of post-war Germany. He studied at the University of Berlin and became a significant voice in contemporary theatre, especially during Germany’s divided post-war years. He held the position of artistic director at various theatres, blending his literary talents with theatrical direction. Notable works include 'Hamletmachine' and 'The Mission', which challenged conventional theatrical narratives and engaged with themes of power and oppression. His contributions to the avant-garde theatre scene shaped discussions around drama and performance in Europe.

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Derek Meddings

Special effects designer for Bond films
Born
January 15th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 64 years old

An influential British special effects designer contributed to the visual effects in several iconic films. Worked extensively in the film industry, especially noted for contributions to the James Bond series. Pioneered techniques in miniatures and practical effects during the 1960s and 1970s. Collaborated on projects that showcased advancements in special effects technology, setting high standards for future productions.

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Orlando Sirola

Italian tennis player with Grand Slam titles
Born
April 30th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 67 years old

An Italian tennis player achieved prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Won the 1959 Italian Championships and reached the semifinals of both the French Open and Wimbledon during his career. Competed in the Davis Cup, contributing to Italy's victory in 1976. Known for playing doubles alongside various partners, achieving considerable success in mixed doubles.

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