What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

John Blackwell

R&B, funk, and jazz drummer
Born
1973 52 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2017 7 years ago — 44 years old

An accomplished American drummer, contributed to the genres of R&B, funk, and jazz. Notable for work with Prince and the New Power Generation, as well as collaborations with artists such as Justin Timberlake and Sheila E. Gained recognition for energetic live performances and technical skill. His drumming style blended various influences, making significant contributions to albums and live shows. Continued to influence drummers across genres until his passing in 2017.

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Daniil Granin

Soviet and Russian author of wartime novels
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2017 7 years ago — 98 years old

An author primarily associated with Soviet literature, produced numerous novels and essays highlighting the complexities of life during and after World War II. Graduated from the Leningrad Polytechnic Institute, began a career in literature amidst the challenges of the war. His works often reflected his experiences as a soldier and his observations of society. Contributed to the literary community through both his own writings and collaborative works. The literary legacy includes profound explorations of human nature under duress, often emphasizing moral dilemmas faced during the war.

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Gene Conley

Baseball and basketball player, 3x champion
Born
November 10th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2017 7 years ago — 86 years old

Played both Major League Baseball and National Basketball Association. In baseball, played for teams including the Boston Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to the 1957 World Series championship with the Braves. In basketball, played for the Boston Celtics, winning three NBA championships during 1959, 1960, and 1961.

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Liu Xiaobo

Chinese author and Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Born
December 28th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
July 13th, 2017 7 years ago — 61 years old

An author, academic, and activist, contributed to debates on democracy and human rights in China. Played a significant role in the pro-democracy movement during the Tiananmen Square protests. Authored numerous essays advocating for political reform and freedom of expression. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2010 while imprisoned for his activism. His writings focused on the need for reform and respect for human rights in China, garnering international attention.

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Maryam Mirzakhani

Iranian mathematician and Fields Medalist
Born
May 12th, 1977 47 years ago
Died
July 14th, 2017 7 years ago — 40 years old

Contributions to mathematics included work on the theory of Riemann surfaces and hyperbolic geometry. Received the Fields Medal in 2014, making history as the first woman to earn this prestigious award. Held a position as a professor of mathematics at Stanford University, influencing both academic research and education in mathematics. Published numerous papers that advanced the understanding of complex mathematical concepts, particularly in the realm of geometry and topology.

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Martin Landau

Actor and producer in film and television
Born
June 20th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
July 15th, 2017 7 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1928, a successful career spanned over six decades, featuring a wide range of roles in both film and television. Significant contributions included portraying Rollin Hand in the television series 'Mission: Impossible' and Bela Lugosi in the film 'Ed Wood', which earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Worked extensively in theater, contributing to various productions and gaining critical acclaim. Served as a mentor to younger actors, notably during his time teaching at the Actors Studio.

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George A. Romero

Filmmaker, director of 'Night of the Living Dead'
Born
February 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
July 16th, 2017 7 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent filmmaker renowned for pioneering the zombie horror genre. Directed the influential film 'Night of the Living Dead' in 1968, which became a cultural landmark and critical success. Continued to direct several sequels, including 'Dawn of the Dead' and 'Day of the Dead'. His works often included social commentary, addressing issues such as consumerism and the human condition within horror narratives. Contributed to the development of independent horror cinema and influenced numerous filmmakers across the globe until his passing in 2017.

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Chester Bennington

American rock singer of Linkin Park
Born
March 20th, 1976 48 years ago
Died
July 20th, 2017 7 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent singer-songwriter and producer, he led the rock band Linkin Park, achieving global success with the album 'Hybrid Theory', which was certified diamond by the RIAA. This album featured hits including 'In the End' and 'Crawling', contributing to the nu-metal genre's mainstream popularity. In addition to his work with Linkin Park, he was also the lead vocalist for the band Dead by Sunrise and briefly performed with Stone Temple Pilots. His contributions to music extended to charitable work, including performances for causes like the Music for Relief foundation.

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John Heard

Actor in 'Home Alone' franchise
Born
March 7th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 71 years old

An American actor and producer, entered the film industry with a passion for theater. Achieved widespread recognition for roles in both film and television. Gained prominence through a pivotal role in the holiday classic 'Home Alone,' where played the father of the young main character. Besides film work, also featured in various television series, including 'The Sopranos.' Career spanned several decades, with performances showcasing versatility across genres from dramas to comedies.

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