What Happened This Year 2017

People Who Died in 2017

Chris Wiggins

Canadian actor in 'The Starlost'
Born
January 13th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 86 years old

An English-born Canadian actor who gained recognition for work in television and film. Notably starred in the Canadian science fiction series 'The Starlost' as the character Devon. Also lent talent to various roles in productions such as 'The Canadian Conspiracy' and 'The Incredible Hulk'. Active in the industry for several decades, contributing to both live-action performances and voice work.

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William Goodhart

English lawyer and politician
Born
January 18th, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician in England, played a significant role in the legislative processes during his career. Served as a member of the House of Lords after being made a life peer in 1997. Was involved in various legal and political reforms, contributing his expertise to discussions on civil liberties and human rights. Also held key positions in several legal organizations and was influential in shaping policies within the British legal framework.

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Pete Hamilton

Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 82 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 75 years old

A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.

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Joseph Nicolosi

Clinical psychologist specializing in therapy
Born
January 21st, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 70 years old

A clinical psychologist, contributed to the field of psychology through the development of reparative therapy, aimed at changing sexual orientation. Founded the Thomas Aquinas Psychological Clinic in California, which became a training center for therapists practicing this approach. Authored several books, including 'Healing Homosexuality' and 'A Parent's Guide to Preventing Homosexuality'. Engaged in public discourse on the subject of sexual orientation and therapy, frequently appearing in media to discuss controversial topics related to homosexuality and psychotherapy.

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Habib Thiam

Senegalese politician and prime minister
Born
January 21st, 1933 92 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Senegal from 1981 to 1983. Played a key role in the government under President Abdou Diouf. Focused on economic reforms and development policies aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector. Engaged in international diplomacy to strengthen Senegal's position in West Africa.

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Carlos Humberto Romero

President of El Salvador
Born
February 29th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the President of El Salvador from 1972 to 1977. His administration is marked by a focus on modernization and economic development amid increasing social unrest. Governed during a time of significant political turmoil, characterized by human rights violations and repression of opposition. Held power through a military-backed regime and faced criticism for the handling of dissent. His presidency ended with a coup led by leftist rebels, leading to further conflict in the country.

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Gauri Lankesh

Indian journalist and activist
Born
January 29th, 1962 63 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 55 years old

A journalist and activist prominent in India. Focused on social justice issues, including caste discrimination and women's rights. Edited a Kannada-language weekly newspaper that criticized extremist ideologies. Advocated for freedom of the press and was known for opposing the rise of Hindu nationalism. Assassinated in 2017, sparking widespread protests and calls for justice.

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Shelley Berman

American comedian and actor
Born
February 3rd, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in the world of comedy and acting. Gained widespread recognition in the 1960s through stand-up performances and appearances on television. Released successful comedy albums, including 'Shelley Berman's America', which earned a Grammy Award. Appeared in television series such as 'Below The Belt' and had a notable role as Larry's father in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'. His contributions to comedy during a transformative era solidified his position in the entertainment industry.

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Zurab Sotkilava

Operatic tenor with acclaimed performances
Born
March 12th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent operatic tenor from Georgia, dedicated much of his career to the performance of classic operas. Gained recognition for powerful performances at renowned opera houses. Collaborated with various orchestras and participated in international competitions, achieving noteworthy accolades. Held positions at leading opera companies and performed under notable conductors. His contributions to the operatic repertoire left a significant mark in the field.

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