What Happened This Year 2008
People Who Died in 2008
Ron Lancaster
Played quarterback for the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the Canadian Football League (CFL), winning the Grey Cup in 1966. Transitioned to coaching, becoming head coach for multiple teams including the Roughriders and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 1982 for contributions to the sport both as a player and coach.
Continue ReadingEarl Palmer
Pioneered the rhythm and blues genre as a session drummer, contributing to the sound of numerous hit records during the 1950s and 1960s. Collaborated with renowned artists such as Fats Domino and Little Richard, helping define the New Orleans sound. Worked with various record labels, recording tracks that became foundational to rock and roll and popular music. His drumming style influenced countless musicians and drummers in multiple genres.
Continue ReadingThomas Dörflein
Worked as a zookeeper at the Berlin Zoo, caring for various animals. Gained international recognition for raising a polar bear cub named Knut after its mother rejected it in 2006. Created programs for public engagement and education about wildlife. Provided round-the-clock care for the cub, which drew significant attention and led to broader discussions about animal welfare in captivity. Knut became a global sensation and was featured in numerous media outlets, significantly raising awareness about polar bears and zoo preservation.
Continue ReadingPeter Leonard
An Australian journalist and author contributed to various publications. Worked for notable newspapers and news services, specializing in political reporting and international affairs. Authored several books that provided critical insights into significant events and figures in Australian history. Maintained a strong presence in journalism throughout a career that spanned several decades until retirement.
Continue ReadingMickey Vernon
Played first base in Major League Baseball from 1939 to 1960. Primarily associated with the Washington Senators, also played for the Boston Red Sox and the Cleveland Indians. Achieved All-Star status twice during career. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, contributing to various teams in MLB.
Continue ReadingIrene Dailey
Raised in New York City, an American actress had a career spanning several decades in theater, television, and film. The career began on Broadway with performances in productions such as 'The Voice of the Turtle' and 'The Night of the Iguana.' Transitioning to television, the actress gained recognition for roles in soap operas including 'As the World Turns' and 'Another World,' earning two Daytime Emmy Awards. The film career included appearances in movies like 'The Swimmer' and 'The Sporting Life.'
Continue ReadingPaul Newman
An acclaimed actor, director, and producer, this individual gained prominence in the film industry with leading roles in movies such as 'Cool Hand Luke', 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid', and 'The Verdict'. Alongside a successful acting career, established a food company that donated profits to charity. Known for philanthropy efforts through the establishment of a foundation supporting children's causes. Received numerous accolades including an Academy Award for Best Actor for the film 'The Color of Money'.
Continue ReadingMarc Moulin
A keyboard player, producer, and journalist was influential in the Belgian music scene. Active in the 1970s and 1980s, contributed to various genres including jazz, funk, and electronic music. Founded the band Placebo, which released several acclaimed albums. Produced and collaborated with other notable artists, enriching the Belgian music landscape.
Continue ReadingHenri Pachard
Active primarily in the adult film industry, this director and producer contributed significantly to the genre from the 1970s through the 1990s. He gained attention for directing a large number of adult films, often emphasizing production quality and storytelling. His work included collaborations with numerous well-known performers and production companies, which helped shape the adult entertainment landscape during his career.
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