What Happened This Year 2008

People Who Died in 2008

Deborah Jeane Palfrey

American madam involved in escorting
Born
March 18th, 1956 68 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 52 years old

Operating an escort service in Washington, D.C., managed a well-known brothel in the 1990s and early 2000s. Gained significant media attention during a 2007 scandal involving high-profile clients. Faced legal challenges that included charges of racketeering and conspiracy. Maintained a public persona through interviews and media appearances discussing the escort industry and its operations. Passed away in 2008.

Continue Reading

Yves Saint Laurent

Fashion Designer, co-founded Yves Saint Laurent
Born
August 1st, 1936 88 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent fashion designer, contributed significantly to the fashion industry. Co-founded the luxury fashion house Yves Saint Laurent in 1961. Revolutionized women's fashion by introducing tuxedos for women and other androgynous designs. Created iconic collections that blended high fashion with ready-to-wear styles, shaping modern fashion. Retired in 2002 after a successful career spanning over four decades.

Continue Reading

George Habash

Palestinian politician, PFLP founder
Born
August 1st, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent Palestinian politician, founded the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) in 1967. Played a significant role in advocating for Palestinian rights and engaged in leftist revolutionary activities. Contributed to the Palestinian national cause through political representation and armed struggle, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s. Served as the PFLP's leader until later years and influenced various Palestinian factions and movements.

Continue Reading

Nappy Brown

R&B singer-songwriter with blues influence
Born
October 12th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1929, this singer-songwriter contributed significantly to the rhythm and blues genre. Rose to prominence in the 1950s with a blend of R&B and gospel influences. Released the hit single 'Don't Be Ashamed' which gained popularity on the charts. His music featured a unique vocal style characterized by energetic delivery and emotional depth. Continued to perform and record over several decades, influencing younger generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Don LaFontaine

Voice actor and movie trailer narrator
Born
August 26th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent voice actor, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the film industry through iconic movie trailers. Recorded over 5,000 trailers and became the voice of the genre. Collaborated with numerous major studios, creating a distinct style known for its dramatic flair. Developed a signature opening line, 'In a world...', which became a hallmark of movie trailers. Also lent voice to commercials and television promos, establishing a dominant presence in voiceover work during the 1980s and 1990s. LaFontaine's work led to a lasting influence on voice acting and trailer production.

Continue Reading

Davey Graham

Guitarist and songwriter, Folk Roots
Born
November 26th, 1940 84 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 68 years old

Influenced the development of folk music and acoustic guitar styles during the 1960s. Contributed to the British folk scene and known for pioneering the use of alternate tunings. Released several albums that showcased guitar techniques and songwriting abilities, blending elements of folk, blues, and jazz. Collaborated with various artists and maintained a significant presence in live performances throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Christopher Allport

American actor known for 'The 13th Floor'
Born
June 17th, 1947 77 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 61 years old

An American actor with a career spanning several decades in film and television. Gained recognition for his role in the science fiction thriller 'The 13th Floor'. Participated in various television series, including 'Murder, She Wrote' and 'The Love Boat'. Worked extensively in theater and was involved in voice acting as well. Contributions encompassed a range of genres and formats, showcasing versatility in performance.

Continue Reading

Christodoulos of Athens

Greek archbishop and religious leader
Born
January 17th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Athens and all Greece from 1998 until passing in 2008. Played a significant role in the Greek Orthodox Church, influencing both ecclesiastical and public life. Engaged in interfaith dialogue and cultural issues during tenure. Advocated for the Orthodox faith and addressed contemporary societal concerns, including moral values and education.

Continue Reading

Gerald Arpino

Dancer and choreographer of Joffrey Ballet
Born
January 14th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent dancer and choreographer, contributed significantly to the world of ballet. Co-founded the Joffrey Ballet in 1956, which became renowned for its innovative works. Created over 50 original ballets, showcasing a blend of classical ballet and contemporary dance. Served as the artistic director of the Joffrey Ballet, shaping its artistic vision for decades. Worked with various notable companies and artists, enhancing the visibility of ballet in the United States and beyond.

Continue Reading