What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Jana Novotná

Czech tennis player and sportscaster
Born
October 2nd, 1968 56 years ago
Died
November 19th, 2017 7 years ago — 49 years old

A professional tennis player achieved success in both singles and doubles competitions. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1998 and was recognized for outstanding performances throughout the 1990s. Transitioned into a successful career as a sportscaster after retiring from professional play.

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Peter Berling

German actor and film producer
Born
1934 91 years ago
Died
November 20th, 2017 7 years ago — 83 years old

An actor, film producer, and writer engaged in the film industry for several decades. Contributed to multiple prominent films and television series, building a reputation within German cinema. Founded a production company that enabled various projects and collaborated with numerous filmmakers. Achieved recognition for performances in films and contributed to adaptations of literary works.

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David Cassidy

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 12th, 1950 74 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2017 7 years ago — 67 years old

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist gained prominence in the 1970s as a member of the pop group The Partridge Family. The group achieved commercial success with hit singles and a popular television show entitled 'The Partridge Family'. He also pursued a solo music career, releasing several albums that included hits like 'I Think I Love You'. In addition to music, ventured into acting, making appearances in various television shows and stage productions. Cassidy's career was marked by a dedicated fan base, particularly among young audiences during the height of his fame. Struggled with personal issues later in life, including financial troubles and health challenges.

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Dmitri Hvorostovsky

Opera singer acclaimed for Verdi roles
Born
October 16th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 7 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1962, this opera singer achieved international acclaim for powerful baritone performances. His career spanned multiple prestigious opera houses, including the Metropolitan Opera and the Royal Opera. The singer's interpretations of Verdi characters established a significant presence in the opera world. He won the BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition in 1989, which launched his illustrious career. Throughout his life, he balanced concert performances with opera appearances, maintaining a strong presence in both arenas. His work also included collaborations with prominent orchestras and a number of celebrated albums, showcasing a repertoire rich in Russian and Italian opera.

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Tommy Keene

American singer-songwriter known for albums
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 7 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in the power pop genre, the individual released multiple albums throughout a career spanning over three decades. Gained recognition in the 1980s for the albums 'Songs from the Film' and 'Based on Happy Times'. The individual's sound featured jangly guitars and melodic hooks, influencing many artists in the indie pop scene. Collaborated with notable musicians and performed extensively across the United States. Continued to create music until passing in 2017.

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Bob Avakian

Music producer and political activist
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 2017 7 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent music producer, this individual was influential in the fusion of politics and music. He founded a music label and produced various artists who resonated with social and political themes. Through works that merged hip-hop with revolutionary ideas, this producer emphasized a strong critique of capitalism and imperialism. He contributed to the development of music that sought to inspire social change. His efforts extended beyond production, engaging in public speaking to advocate for his political beliefs and vision.

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Stela Popescu

Romanian actress in theater and film
Born
December 21st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2017 7 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in Romanian cinema and theater, gained recognition during the communist era for performances in various films and television shows. Achieved significant acclaim through contributions to theatrical works and a long-standing career in entertainment. Participated in numerous popular productions that resonated with audiences, showcasing a profound talent and versatility on stage and screen. Received various accolades for roles that defined a generation of Romanian performers.

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Slobodan Praljak

Croatian general and military leader
Born
1945 80 years ago
Died
November 29th, 2017 7 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a general in the Croatian Army during the Croatian War of Independence. Held the position of Commander of the Herzeg-Bosnia military force. Engaged in various military operations during the conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Later became a political figure, serving as a member of the Croatian Parliament. Gained international attention during a war crimes trial at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), where a conviction led to a dramatic courtroom event.

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Surin Pitsuwan

Thai politician and diplomat
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
November 30th, 2017 7 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in Thai politics and diplomacy, served as the Secretary-General of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from 2008 to 2012. Holding various political roles, played a part in advancing regional cooperation and economic integration in Southeast Asia. Contributed to Thailand's political landscape as a member of the Thai parliament and held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1997 to 2000. Engaged in numerous global forums addressing human rights and sustainability issues. His work continues to influence Thai diplomacy and regional international relations.

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