What Happened This Year 2002

People Who Died in 2002

Herb Ritts

Photographer and director renowned for portraits
Born
August 13th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent photographer and director, contributed significantly to the world of fashion and celebrity photography. Worked with various magazines, producing memorable editorial images that captured the essence of the 1980s and 1990s. Developed an iconic style characterized by clean lines and stark backgrounds. Directed music videos for artists such as Madonna and Janet Jackson, helping to define the visual language of pop music in that era. Ritts' work extended to capturing timeless portraits of notable figures in the arts and entertainment worlds, leaving a lasting influence on visual aesthetics in contemporary media.

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George Roy Hill

American director of 'Butch Cassidy'
Born
December 20th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
December 27th, 2002 22 years ago — 81 years old

Acclaimed director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to American cinema during the 20th century. Major works include classics such as 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and 'The Sting', both of which received critical and commercial success. 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor with action in a Western setting. 'The Sting' showcased an intricate plot with memorable performances and won seven Academy Awards. Hill's work often involved collaboration with notable actors, enhancing the storytelling through engaging character development and direction.

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Mary Wesley

English author of bestselling novels
Born
June 24th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 90 years old

An English author, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on human relationships and social themes. Began writing later in life and achieved commercial success after the age of seventy. Published several popular novels including 'Jumping the Queue', 'The Camomile Lawn', and 'A Vintage Affair'. Wesley's work often explored the complexities of love and family dynamics.

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Eleanor J. Gibson

American psychologist and academic
Born
1910 115 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a prominent psychologist specializing in perceptual development and learning. Contributed significantly to the understanding of visual perception through groundbreaking experiments. Established the 'visual cliff' experiment, studying depth perception in infants and animals. Influenced educational psychology and developmental science, shaping theories on how children learn about their environment.

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Mary Brian

American actress from silent films
Born
February 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old

Began a career in silent films in the 1920s, transitioning to talkies with notable performances. Starred in films such as 'The Family Secret' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Represented a significant figure during the silent film era and the shift to sound films in Hollywood. Continued to perform in various film and television roles through the mid-20th century.

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Kevin MacMichael

Guitarist and songwriter for Coney Hatch
Born
1951 74 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2002 22 years ago — 51 years old

Canadian guitarist and songwriter gained recognition as a member of the rock band Coney Hatch. The band achieved commercial success in the 1980s, releasing several albums that featured hits on mainstream rock charts. MacMichael contributed significantly to the band's sound, showcasing his skills as a guitarist and songwriter. He later worked as a producer for various artists, expanding his influence within the music industry. His work is characterized by energetic guitar riffs and melodic songwriting, which has left a lasting impression on fans of the genre.

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Richard Harris

Irish actor, starred in Gladiator
Born
October 1st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2011 13 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Irish actor, he gained acclaim for performances in film and theater. Early career included significant roles in plays and films in the 1960s. Achieved international recognition for performances in 'This Sporting Life' and 'The Field'. Later starred as Albus Dumbledore in 'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone' and 'Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets'. Also appeared in 'Gladiator' as Marcus Aurelius, showcasing a range of acting skills that spanned several decades. Harris's distinctive voice and commanding presence made a lasting impression in the industry.

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Night Train Lane

American football cornerback, 1952 NFL All-Pro
Born
April 16th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 74 years old

This American football cornerback played in the NFL, primarily for the Los Angeles Rams and the Detroit Lions, from 1952 to 1965. He was selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and was named an All-Pro in 1952. Lane is recognized for his exceptional skills in pass coverage and his ability to create turnovers. His aggressive playing style and physicality made him a standout defensive player during his era.

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Fred Scolari

Basketball player for the Minneapolis Lakers
Born
March 1st, 1922 103 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 80 years old

A professional basketball player contributed to the game in the mid-20th century. Played for the Minneapolis Lakers during the early years of the NBA. Achieved notable success leading the team to multiple championships. Was recognized for shooting skills and overall gameplay, earning acknowledgment in basketball circles.

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