What Happened This Year 2006

People Who Died in 2006

Wendy Wasserstein

Playwright with a Pulitzer Prize
Born
October 18th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
January 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 55 years old

An American playwright and academic, achievements include writing several acclaimed plays that explore themes of feminism, identity, and the American experience. Works include 'The Sisters Rosensweig', which focuses on the lives of three women reuniting for a birthday celebration, and 'An American Daughter', addressing the roles of women in society. Wasserstein received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1998 for the play 'The Sisters Rosensweig' and a Tony Award for Best Play in 1977 for 'The Sisters Rosensweig'.

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Moira Shearer

Ballet dancer and actress in The Red Shoes
Born
January 17th, 1926 99 years ago
Died
January 31st, 2006 19 years ago — 80 years old

This individual was a prominent ballerina and actress, gaining recognition for her role in the film The Red Shoes. Trained at the Sadler's Wells Ballet School, performance career included dancing for the Royal Ballet. Transitioned to film, where The Red Shoes gained critical acclaim and won two Academy Awards. Her artistry combined classical ballet with acting, leading to notable performances on stage and screen. With a career spanning decades, involvement in both dance and film left a lasting legacy.

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Al Lewis

Actor and activist, Grandpa Munster
Born
1923 102 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old

An American actor and activist, gained widespread recognition for portraying Grandpa Munster in the television series 'The Munsters.' In addition to a successful acting career, Lewis engaged in various political and social causes, advocating for the rights of individuals and promoting progressive policies. He also hosted a talk show called 'The Al Lewis Show,' where he discussed issues pertinent to the public. Over the years, he remained a notable figure in entertainment and activism until his passing in 2006.

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Betty Friedan

Author and feminist activist
Born
February 4th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

An influential feminist activist and author, she wrote 'The Feminine Mystique' in 1963, a work that challenged traditional gender roles and contributed to the second wave of feminism in the United States. This book sparked widespread discussions on women's rights and issues related to gender equality. In 1966, she co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW), which aimed to advocate for equal rights for women in various sectors of society. Her writings and public speeches highlighted the need for women's liberation and examined the societal expectations placed on women, particularly in domestic roles. Throughout her career, she engaged with various social and political movements to promote gender equality.

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Norma Candal

Puerto Rican-American actress in telenovelas
Born
April 10th, 1927 97 years ago
Died
February 5th, 2006 19 years ago — 78 years old

An actress gained recognition in the entertainment industry through roles in various telenovelas. Notable performances included leading roles in 'Cassandra' and 'Los Díaz de Sábado.' With a career spanning several decades, contributions to the genre inspired many aspiring actors. She became a prominent figure in American and Latin American television, celebrated for her performances and dedication to the craft.

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Princess Durru Shehvar of the Ottoman Empire

Last Ottoman princess with historical prominence
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 92 years old

Born into the Ottoman royal family, this individual spent most of her life in exile following the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. She resided in France and later settled in Turkey. Active in several charitable organizations, she contributed to cultural preservation and women's rights initiatives. Her lineage was part of a once-powerful dynasty that ruled over large parts of Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. After her father's death, she became one of the last representatives of the Ottoman dynasty, participating in various community events and maintaining ties with royal circles. Throughout her life, she upheld the traditions of the imperial family while engaging in public life in Turkey and beyond.

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Elton Dean

Saxophonist and producer, Soft Machine
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent English saxophonist and songwriter, contributed significantly to the jazz and progressive rock scenes. Played with the band Soft Machine, becoming an influential figure in the Canterbury sound. Produced and collaborated with various artists, showcasing innovative musical styles throughout the career. Continued to perform and record music until the later years.

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Akira Ifukube

Japanese composer of film scores
Born
May 31st, 1914 110 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent composer in the genre of film music, contributed significantly to the sound of Japanese cinema. Best recognized for composing the scores for the Godzilla film series, starting with the original 1954 film. Work combined traditional Japanese musical elements with Western classical styles, creating a unique auditory experience. In addition to film scores, also composed symphonic works, chamber music, and operas, showcasing a wide-ranging aptitude for different musical forms.

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Freddie Laker

Aviation entrepreneur, founded Laker Airways
Born
August 6th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
February 9th, 2006 19 years ago — 83 years old

A pilot and businessman founded Laker Airways, pioneering low-cost transatlantic air travel. Launched the first no-frills airline service between the UK and the US in 1977. The airline became popular for its budget fares and innovative approaches to air travel. Despite facing significant competition and regulatory challenges, Laker Airways became a significant player in the aviation industry.

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