What Happened This Year 2003

People Who Died in 2003

Daniel Ceccaldi

French actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
July 25th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 76 years old

Born in France, this individual made significant contributions to theater and cinema as an actor, director, and screenwriter. The career encompassed a range of roles across different genres, appearing in popular television series and films. Frequently collaborated with prominent directors and contributed to the French film industry through both on-screen performances and behind-the-camera work. Left a lasting legacy in French cinema and theater, elevating the arts through diversified works.

Continue Reading

Laura Sadler

English actress in various television roles
Born
December 25th, 1980 44 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 23 years old

Born in 1980, an English actress gained recognition for her performances in television series. Judge John Deed and The Bill showcased her acting skills. Appeared in several other productions, often noted for her strong screen presence. Acted in both drama and comedy genres, reflecting a range of character portrayals throughout her career. Continued to be active in the entertainment industry, contributing to various projects.

Continue Reading

Barry Sheene

Motorcycle racer and sportscaster
Born
September 11th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 53 years old

Achieved fame as a motorcycle racer during the 1970s and 1980s, winning two World Championships in the 500cc category. Notable for competitive rides with Suzuki, Sheene became a prominent figure in motorcycle racing, securing a reputation for both skill and charisma. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement from racing, contributing to television coverage of motorsports. His career was marked by a series of injuries and comebacks, embodying the resilience typical of elite athletes.

Continue Reading

Michael P. Anderson

Colonel, pilot, NASA astronaut
Born
December 25th, 1959 65 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1959, a colonel in the United States Air Force and a NASA astronaut. Flew on the Space Shuttle missions STS-89 and STS-107. Served as a pilot for various military aircraft and contributed to scientific research during spaceflights. Tragically lost during the STS-107 mission, which aimed to conduct experiments in multiple scientific disciplines.

Continue Reading

Wesley Willis

Singer-songwriter and keyboard player
Born
May 31st, 1963 62 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 40 years old

An American musician and visual artist, Willis gained recognition for his unique music style that blended rock and punk elements. His songs often featured simple, repetitive keyboard melodies and expressive lyrics, addressing personal experiences and societal observations. Willis released numerous albums throughout the 1990s and 2000s, becoming a notable figure in the outsider music scene. He performed live shows across the United States and engaged audiences with his energetic performances. Additionally, he was a visual artist, creating provocative art pieces that echoed his music's themes.

Continue Reading

Willa Beatrice Player

American educator and college president
Born
August 9th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 94 years old

An influential figure in higher education, served as the first Black woman to hold the position of college president in the United States. Played a significant role in advancing educational access and opportunities for Black students. Contributed to the establishment of various academic programs aimed at supporting underrepresented communities in academia. Advocated for equity and inclusion within the educational system throughout her career.

Continue Reading

Edgar F. Codd

Computer Scientist: Relational Database Model
Born
August 19th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 80 years old

A computer scientist developed the relational model of data in 1970, which revolutionized database management systems. This model established a framework for organizing and retrieving data in a structured manner, influencing the design of modern databases. Contributions included numerous foundational concepts in database theory and practice, along with several influential publications on database management and strategies. Codd's work laid the groundwork for SQL, the standard programming language for relational databases.

Continue Reading

Émile Genest

Actor in 'The Alamo' and 'The Last Hunt'
Born
July 27th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Canada and later relocating to the United States, a career in acting began in the mid-20th century. Notable roles included performances in films such as 'The Alamo', where played a significant character, and 'The Last Hunt'. Participation in television series contributed to career longevity, with appearances in shows during the 1960s and 1970s. Contributions to Canadian theatre also marked a significant part of the career.

Continue Reading

Denis Quilley

English actor in theatre and television
Born
December 26th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1927, this actor had a prominent career in British theatre and television. Gained recognition for performances in plays and musicals, particularly for roles in productions such as 'The Comedy of Errors' and 'The Phantom of the Opera.' Transitioned from stage to screen with notable appearances in television series like 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'Midsomer Murders.' This person's work contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of British performing arts.

Continue Reading