What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Hugh Hefner

Publisher and founder of Playboy
Born
April 9th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2017 7 years ago — 91 years old

Established Playboy Enterprises in 1953, which revolutionized men's magazines and popular culture. Hefner launched the iconic Playboy magazine featuring nude photography and articles on various topics, including interviews with influential figures. The magazine became a symbol of the sexual revolution in the 1960s and 1970s. Hefner also expanded the brand into television and lifestyle, influencing media and entertainment.

Continue Reading

Daniel Pe'er

Television host and newsreader
Born
1943 82 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2017 7 years ago — 74 years old

A television host and newsreader, gained recognition for work in Israeli media. Hosted various programs and contributed to the news landscape in Israel. Known for engaging and lively presentation style that resonated with audiences. Played a significant role in the evolution of television broadcasting in the country.

Continue Reading

Tom Alter

Indian actor and filmmaker
Born
June 22nd, 1950 74 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2017 7 years ago — 67 years old

An actor and filmmaker, engaged in Hindi cinema and television, contributed significantly to the Indian film industry. Started acting career in theatre and later transitioned to film, becoming recognized for roles in various Hindi films and TV shows. Worked in the National School of Drama and gained acclaim for performances in works such as 'Gandhi', 'Shatranj Ke Khilari', and various serials. In addition to acting, involved in television and has been a face for numerous adaptations and cultural narratives.

Continue Reading

Monty Hall

Television game show host of Let's Make a Deal
Born
August 25th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2017 7 years ago — 96 years old

A Canadian television personality and game show host, contributed significantly to the genre of game shows. Developed the format and hosted the iconic game show Let's Make a Deal, which premiered in 1963. The show became celebrated for its interactive format and audience participation. Hall's engaging personality helped to popularize television game shows during the 1960s and 1970s. He continued to host and produce various shows throughout his career and remained a prominent figure in entertainment.

Continue Reading

Vladimir Voevodsky

Mathematician recognized for work in topology
Born
June 4th, 1966 58 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2017 7 years ago — 51 years old

Contributions to mathematics included work on homotopy theory and algebraic geometry. Developed the theory of univalent foundations, advocating for a simplified approach to set theory. Received the Fields Medal in 2002 for significant advancements in the field, particularly in the development of modern algebraic topology. Also held a position as a professor at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, where further research was conducted on higher category theory.

Continue Reading

Tom Petty

Singer-songwriter and guitarist, 'Free Fallin''
Born
October 20th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 2017 7 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in rock music, this singer-songwriter gained fame as the frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The band released several successful albums, with hits like 'American Girl' and 'Free Fallin''. Additionally, collaborated with other artists, including Jeff Lynne and Bob Dylan. The work encompassed a mix of rock, folk, and a hint of new wave, appealing to a wide audience. The career included induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002, recognizing contributions to music over decades. A commitment to artistic integrity was evident throughout the career, influencing a generation of musicians.

Continue Reading

Eberhard van der Laan

Dutch politician, Mayor of Amsterdam
Born
1955 70 years ago
Died
October 5th, 2017 7 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the mayor of Amsterdam from 2010 until 2017. Worked on various urban development projects and initiatives to improve the city’s infrastructure and social cohesion. Prioritized housing affordability and public safety during tenure. Had a background in law and served in the Dutch House of Representatives prior to mayorship, contributing to public policy and local governance.

Continue Reading

Ralphie May

Stand-up comedian and actor
Born
1972 53 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2017 7 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent stand-up comedian and actor, gained recognition through performances on 'Last Comic Standing' and various televised comedy specials. Known for a candid and observational style, he often addressed personal experiences and social issues in his routines. May's larger-than-life personality and distinctive voice left a lasting impression on audiences. His comedy specials aired on platforms like Comedy Central, further solidifying his popularity. Over his career, he toured extensively, performing in comedy clubs across the United States and beyond, drawing large crowds and engaging fans with his humor. May faced personal challenges, including health issues, yet continued to perform until his passing.

Continue Reading

David Marks

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
August 22nd, 1948 76 years ago
Died
October 6th, 2017 7 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1948, the career in music began in the early 1960s as a guitarist for the Beach Boys. Contributed to the band's early sound and recorded on their iconic albums such as 'Pet Sounds' and 'Surfin' U.S.A.' After leaving the band, engaged in various solo projects and collaborated with multiple artists. Later reunited with the Beach Boys and participated in tours and recordings, maintaining a connection to the band's legacy.

Continue Reading