What Happened This Year 2005

People Who Died in 2005

Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen

Danish bassist and composer
Born
May 27th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 59 years old

Prominent figure in jazz music, primarily recognized for contributions as a bassist and composer. Collaborated with numerous renowned musicians throughout a prolific career, showcasing exceptional technique and creativity. Led various ensembles and participated in many international jazz festivals, highlighting the evolution of jazz expression. His recordings and performances were instrumental in popularizing modern jazz within Europe and beyond.

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Abraham Bueno de Mesquita

Dutch comedian and actor
Born
July 23rd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1918, a comedian and actor gained prominence in the Netherlands' entertainment scene. His career spanned several decades, with notable performances in both film and television. Featured in popular productions that resonated with audiences, blending humor with cultural commentary. Contributed significantly to comedic arts in Dutch cinema and theater, reflecting social contexts through satire. Continued to influence upcoming generations of performers until the end of his career.

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Cyril Fletcher

English actor and screenwriter
Born
June 25th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 92 years old

An actor and screenwriter, contributions spanned several decades in British television and film. Worked frequently in series such as 'The Frost Report' and appeared in various theatrical productions. As a screenwriter, crafted numerous sketches and comedic pieces that showcased wit and creativity. Gained recognition for work on the BBC and in the West End, maintaining a presence in popular culture throughout the mid-20th century.

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Frank Kelly Freas

Science fiction and fantasy artist
Born
August 22nd, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 83 years old

An American artist specialized in science fiction and fantasy art, contributing significantly to the genre through illustrations for books, magazines, and covers. Worked extensively with publishers, including notable contributions to Analog Science Fiction and Fact. Created iconic imagery for various science fiction authors, including Isaac Asimov and H.G. Wells. Freas's work has been recognized in various exhibitions and collections, showcasing the evolution and richness of science fiction art.

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June Bronhill

Soprano and actress of operetta
Born
June 26th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

A celebrated soprano and actress, had a prolific career in both opera and musical theatre. Gained prominence through performances in productions such as 'The Merry Widow' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Her work extended to television, where appearances in Australian productions showcased her talent to a wider audience. Contributed significantly to the arts in Australia, with a lasting legacy in operatic performances and community arts.

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Dick Weber

Professional bowler and PBA champion
Born
December 23rd, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in professional bowling, Weber competed in the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) and achieved significant accolades throughout a career spanning multiple decades. Weber won 26 PBA Tour titles, including the prestigious PBA National Championship in 1970. He was a key figure in popularizing the sport and served as a mentor to many aspiring bowlers. Weber was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 1975 and the ABC (American Bowling Congress) Hall of Fame in 1987. His contributions to the sport have influenced generations of bowlers.

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Guy Davenport

American author and literary scholar
Born
November 23rd, 1927 97 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 78 years old

This individual was a significant figure in American literature, recognized for a blend of fiction, essays, and scholarship. A teacher at several institutions, including the University of Kentucky, the work often reflected a deep engagement with classical and modern literature. He published numerous books and essays that explored the intersections of art and literature, showcasing an intellectual rigor that garnered attention. In the 20th century, contributions included critical studies and a rich array of short stories that added depth to the dialogue between modern writing and past influences.

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Gyula Hernádi

Hungarian author and screenwriter
Born
August 23rd, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1926, this individual contributed significantly to Hungarian literature and cinema. As an author, created several acclaimed works, blending realism with fictional narratives. His screenwriting efforts included several popular Hungarian films, helping shape the film industry in the country. Through both roles, he explored various themes that resonated with audiences, earning recognition within literary and cinematic circles.

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David Kossoff

English actor and screenwriter
Born
November 24th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 86 years old

An English actor and screenwriter, this individual had a prominent career in television and film from the 1950s onwards. Renowned for versatility in roles, notable works included performances in the television series 'The Adventures of Paddington Bear' and films like 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold'. Contribution to British television and film encompassed not only acting but also writing, with several screenplays to his credit. Often portrayed character roles that showcased a mix of drama and humor.

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