What Happened This Year 2012

People Who Died in 2012

Pierre Juneau

Canadian broadcaster, co-founded festival
Born
October 17th, 1922 102 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 90 years old

Promoted film in Canada through various broadcasting roles, co-founded the Montreal World Film Festival, and served as the first president of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC). Worked to enhance Canadian content in media and fostered the growth of the film industry within the country. Contributed to public policy regarding broadcasting and telecommunications, establishing regulations that supported Canadian creators and productions. Involved in political advocacy aimed at improving standards in media dissemination.

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Deborah Raffin

American actress, starred in 'The World According to Garp'
Born
March 13th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 59 years old

An actress with a career spanning several decades, contributed to television and film with significant roles. Gained recognition for performances in projects that highlighted emotional depth and character complexity. Appeared in the film 'The World According to Garp' and the television series 'Rich Man, Poor Man'. Also served as an executive producer and was involved in various charitable efforts throughout life.

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Douglas Kirby

Psychologist and author on sex education
Born
October 9th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed to the field of psychology with a focus on adolescent sexual health. Developed educational programs aimed at reducing teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Authored numerous reports and studies that influenced sex education policy in schools across the United States.

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Jim Carlen

American football coach and player
Born
July 11th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 79 years old

An American football player and coach, contributed significantly to collegiate football. Served as the head coach at multiple universities, including West Virginia University and the University of South Carolina. Achieved success in coaching, leading teams to bowl games and playoff appearances. Played as a quarterback in college before transitioning to coaching, demonstrating a strong understanding of the game.

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Barry Unsworth

English-Italian author and academic
Born
August 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 82 years old

An author and academic, contributed significantly to literature through a range of novels that often explore themes of historical and social significance. Achieved recognition for works that delve into the complexities of human experience, and the impact of history on modern life. Received prestigious accolades, including the Booker Prize in 1992 for the novel 'Sacred Hunger', which examines the transatlantic slave trade and its ramifications. His writing includes both fiction and historical narratives that reflect deep research and engagement with historical contexts.

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Lou Martin

Pianist and songwriter in music production
Born
August 12th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 63 years old

A Northern Irish pianist, songwriter, and producer contributed significantly to the music scene, particularly in the rock and blues genres. Gained recognition for work with various bands and artists throughout the career and was notable for collaboration with the band 'Savoy Brown'. Influenced emerging musicians and participated in numerous live performances, showcasing exceptional talent in both playing and songwriting.

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Isuzu Yamada

Japanese actress in film and theater
Born
February 5th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 95 years old

An actress prominent in Japanese cinema, her career began in the early 1930s and extended into the 2000s. Notably starred in Akira Kurosawa's films, particularly 'Throne of Blood' and 'The Lower Depths'. Participated in numerous theatrical performances, showcasing versatile acting skills. Featured in a variety of genres across film and stage, leaving a significant mark in Japan's entertainment landscape.

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Larry L. King

American journalist and playwright
Born
January 1st, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent journalist and playwright, contributed significantly to American media and literature. Authored several works, including the play 'The Best Man'. Served as a longtime commentator for PBS. Worked with various newspapers and magazines over decades, showcasing a blend of politics and culture in writings.

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Jimmy McCracklin

Blues/R&B singer-songwriter, 'The Walkin' Blues'
Born
August 13th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in the blues and R&B genres, McCracklin began his career in the late 1940s, emphasizing a blend of rhythm and blues with traditional blues elements. He achieved considerable success with his hit single 'The Walkin' Blues,' which showcased his distinctive piano style and vocal prowess. Over the years, he recorded several albums and left a lasting influence on subsequent musicians in the genre. McCracklin's performances captured audiences across the United States, especially in clubs and festivals dedicated to blues music.

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