What Happened This Year 2017
People Who Died in 2017
Umberto Lenzi
An influential figure in the Italian film industry, focused primarily on the horror and action genres. Made significant contributions to the giallo film movement and was also involved in producing spaghetti westerns. Initiated a distinctive style that blended elements of commercial cinema with artistic expression. Directed cult films including 'Seven Blood-Stained Orchids' and 'Nightmare City'. Throughout a prolific career, also worked on various television projects and documentaries.
Continue ReadingGeorge Young
Born in Scotland in 1946, this guitarist and songwriter was a member of The Easybeats, a band that gained significant popularity in the 1960s. After the band's breakup, transition into producing was undertaken, contributing to the sound of rock music through various projects. A notable achievement includes producing the early albums of AC/DC, helping to define the hard rock genre. The prowess in both performance and production established a lasting legacy in the music industry.
Continue ReadingPaul Weitz
An actor, director, producer, screenwriter, and playwright. Directed films like 'About a Boy', 'In Good Company', and 'Little Fockers'. Worked in theater as a co-writer of the Broadway musical 'If/Then'. Also acted in series such as 'The Last O.G.' and 'One Day at a Time'.
Continue ReadingWalter Lassally
A prominent cinematographer, contributed significantly to the world of film with a career spanning several decades. Worked on notable titles including 'The Loneliness of the Long Distance Runner,' 'The Hill,' and 'The Go-Between.' Achieved recognition for expertise in capturing visual narratives and received an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for the film 'The Go-Between.'
Continue ReadingRobert Guillaume
Acclaimed actor and singer, celebrated for role as Benjamin Siegler in the television series 'Benson' and as the voice of Rafiki in Disney's 'The Lion King'. Started career on stage, winning a Tony Award for performance in the musical 'Purlie'. Appeared in numerous television series and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Also contributed as a director and producer, showcasing talents beyond acting. Influential in portraying African American characters in a positive light during a time of limited representation.
Continue ReadingFats Domino
Fats Domino was a prominent American singer-songwriter and pianist, born in 1928. He became a leading figure in the development of rock and roll music, blending rhythm and blues with pop elements. His career spanned several decades, with many hits on the Billboard charts. His signature sound featured a distinctive voice and boogie-woogie piano style, which resonated with audiences. Individual songs and albums achieved significant commercial success, securing his place in music history.
Continue ReadingGirija Devi
An esteemed Indian classical vocalist, contributed significantly to the genre of thumri in Hindustani music. Elevated the art form through performances and through teaching many students. Celebrated for her emotive singing style, which emphasized the nuances of the thumri form. Participated in numerous concerts and music festivals both nationally and internationally. Received various accolades for contributions to Indian classical music, including the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan awards.
Continue ReadingKim Joo-hyuk
Active in the South Korean entertainment industry, this actor earned acclaim for performances in both film and television. Notable works include the television series 'Strongest Deliveryman' and 'Descendants of the Sun', as well as films like 'My Wife Got Married' and 'Silenced'. The actor displayed versatility across various roles and genres, contributing significantly to the Korean wave in entertainment until passing away in 2017.
Continue ReadingAboubacar Somparé
Served as a prominent figure in Guinea's political landscape during the early 2000s. Held the position of Minister of Justice and contributed to the country's legal reforms. Worked within the Democratic Party of Guinea and advocated for democratic governance. Played a role in the 2010 presidential elections and participated in various political dialogues aimed at national progress.
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