What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Kerry Packer

Australian media mogul & businessman
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
December 26th, 2005 20 years ago — 68 years old

Transformed the landscape of Australian media through strategic acquisitions and the creation of new broadcasting entities. Established the PBL media group, overseeing significant operations in television and publishing. Played a crucial role in the development of the Nine Network, which hosted popular programs such as the Nine News and The Footy Show. Actively supported cricket, founding World Series Cricket, which revolutionized the sport's broadcasting and commercial viability.

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Eddie Barlow

Cricketer and coach for South Africa
Born
August 12th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 65 years old

Played international cricket for South Africa from 1960 to 1972. Served as a captain and was noted for his all-round abilities. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, contributing to cricket development in South Africa. Coached various teams and was influential in nurturing young talents in the sport. Expanded knowledge of cricket through participation in commentary and analysis.

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Rona Jaffe

American novelist with The Best of Everything
Born
June 12th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2005 20 years ago — 74 years old

An American novelist achieved recognition through numerous literary works throughout the 20th century. 'The Best of Everything', published in 1958, explored the lives of young women in the workforce and became a cultural touchstone. Jaffe published several novels, many of which were adapted into films and television series. In addition to her novels, Jaffe wrote for magazines and worked as a screenwriter. The themes in her works often featured strong female characters and societal issues relevant to women. She continued to write well into her later years, contributing to the genre of women's fiction.

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Enrico Di Giuseppe

Tenor and Actor, starred in operas
Born
October 14th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2005 20 years ago — 73 years old

An American tenor and actor gained recognition in the world of opera. Associated primarily with the Metropolitan Opera, he showcased vocal prowess in a variety of leading roles. Significant performances included roles in 'La Traviata' and 'Carmen.' His contributions to the operatic repertoire and stage presence distinguished his career, leading to appearances in notable productions across the United States.

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Phillip Whitehead

Screenwriter and politician
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2005 20 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed to British television as a screenwriter and producer. Worked on the long-running series 'The Goldbergs' and 'Doctor Who'. Served as a member of Parliament representing the constituency of Batley and Spen. Engaged in political discourse and policy development, particularly in the realm of media regulation and the public broadcasting sector.

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Keith Duckworth

Engineer and founder of Cosworth
Born
August 10th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 72 years old

An English engineer, played a significant role in the automotive industry. Established Cosworth, a company well-regarded for its engineering expertise and high-performance engines. Contributed to the development of turbocharged engines that gained prominence in motorsport. Worked closely with teams in Formula One, creating some of the most successful race engines in the sport's history. Influenced the design of engines that were used by various winning teams and manufacturers.

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Raymond Mhlaba

South African anti-apartheid activist
Born
February 12th, 1920 106 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 85 years old

Participated in the anti-apartheid movement and was a member of the African National Congress. Imprisoned on Robben Island alongside Nelson Mandela for nearly 25 years. Played a significant role in the armed struggle against apartheid as part of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the ANC's military wing. After the end of apartheid, served as the Premier of the Eastern Cape from 1994 to 1996, contributing to post-apartheid governance and policy.

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Will Eisner

Comic book artist and graphic novelist
Born
March 6th, 1917 109 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 88 years old

An influential figure in the comic book industry, contributions included creating the comic book character The Spirit. Pioneered the graphic novel format with the publication of A Contract with God in 1978, which is considered one of the first graphic novels. Founded his own publishing company, the Eisner Publishing Company, and played a significant role in establishing comics as a form of literature. An educator, taught at the School of Visual Arts, focusing on comics and storytelling.

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Eknath Solkar

Indian cricketer, Test specialist
Born
March 18th, 1948 78 years ago
Died
2005 21 years ago — 57 years old

Eknath Solkar played as a cricketer for India from 1971 to 1978, primarily known for his exceptional fielding and reliable batting in the middle order. His international career included participating in 27 Test matches and 2 One Day Internationals. Solkar was particularly recognized for his outstanding catching ability, earning a reputation as one of the best close-in fielders of his time. He served as a crucial part of the Indian team that competed in the 1975 Cricket World Cup. Prior to his international career, he contributed significantly to domestic cricket, playing for Bombay. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching and contributed to the development of cricket in India.

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