What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Gary Kurtz

Film producer of Star Wars series
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 2018 6 years ago — 78 years old

An influential American film producer contributed to the creation of iconic films during the 1970s and 1980s. Collaborated with George Lucas on "Star Wars" and produced the critically acclaimed "American Graffiti." Worked on projects that combined innovative storytelling with groundbreaking special effects, markedly shaping the science fiction genre. Later, produced "The Dark Crystal" and served as a producer for various other projects, demonstrating versatility in creative direction and production.

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Charles Kuen Kao

Electrical Engineer and Physicist
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 2018 6 years ago — 85 years old

An electrical engineer and physicist contributed significantly to the field of optical fiber communications. Kao developed theories and technologies that facilitated the transmission of light signals over long distances through fiber optic cables. His pioneering work laid the foundation for global telecommunications and the internet. Kao received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2009 for his achievements in this area, which fundamentally transformed modern communication systems. In addition to his research, Kao held academic positions and served as an advocate for the advancement of technology in the academic and industrial sectors.

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Marty Balin

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Jefferson Airplane
Born
January 30th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
September 27th, 2018 6 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in the counterculture music scene, contributed to the formation of the band Jefferson Airplane in 1965. The band became a defining act of the psychedelic rock era, achieving significant commercial success. Balin's songwriting and vocal contributions were central to the band's sound, especially in hits like "Somebody to Love" and "White Rabbit." He left the group in 1971 but remained involved in music, forming the band Jefferson Starship, which also gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s. His work extended beyond music into other artistic endeavors, including painting and poetry, reflecting a lifelong engagement with creative expression.

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Predrag Ejdus

Serbian actor in 'Besa' and 'Porodično blago'
Born
1947 78 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2018 6 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Serbian actor, active in film, television, and theater. Gained recognition for memorable roles in the television series 'Porodično blago' and the film 'Besa'. Ejdus also built a substantial theater career, participating in numerous stage productions. His contributions to the performing arts, particularly in Serbia, marked him as a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry before passing away in 2018.

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Otis Rush

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
April 29th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
September 29th, 2018 6 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene, this musician developed a unique style characterized by powerful vocals and expressive guitar work. Active from the 1950s onwards, the artist released several influential albums, including 'Right Place, Wrong Time' and 'Ain't Enough Comin' In'. The artist's music features a fusion of blues, jazz, and R&B elements, shaping the genre's evolution and inspiring numerous musicians.

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Kim Larsen

Danish singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
October 23rd, 1945 79 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2018 6 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1945, this musician emerged as a prominent figure in the Danish music scene. Starting his career with the band Gasolin', he contributed significantly to the rock genre in Denmark. After the band disbanded, he pursued a successful solo career, creating music that resonated with many. His ability to blend lyrical storytelling with accessible melodies garnered a devoted following. The artist also worked in film, creating soundtracks that complemented cinematic narratives. His artistic output includes several highly regarded albums that reflect various aspects of life and culture.

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Sonia Orbuch

Polish resistance fighter and educator
Born
1925 100 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2018 6 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed to the Polish resistance during the Second World War. After the war, focused on Holocaust education, sharing personal experiences and advocating for remembrance and understanding of the atrocities committed. Engaged with communities to educate about the Holocaust, aiming to combat antisemitism and promote tolerance. Worked with various organizations to ensure that history was preserved and lessons learned from the past.

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Geoffrey Hayes

Television presenter and actor of 'Rainbow'
Born
1942 83 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2018 6 years ago — 76 years old

Television presenter and actor contributed significantly to children's television in the UK. Gained recognition for presenting the popular children's show 'Rainbow', which aired from 1972 to 1992. The show featured puppetry and educational content aimed at preschool children, becoming a staple of children's programming during its run. Also appeared in various other television productions throughout the 70s and 80s, showcasing versatility in entertainment. Continued to engage with fans and the television community until passing in 2018.

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Charles Aznavour

French-Armenian singer-songwriter and actor
Born
May 22nd, 1924 100 years ago
Died
October 1st, 2018 6 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Paris to Armenian parents, a career in music and film began in the early 1940s. Gained widespread recognition for a unique blend of French chanson and pop music. His signature song, "La Bohème," highlighted the struggles and beauty of artistic life. Performed in multiple languages and toured globally, captivating audiences with emotive performances. Also had a successful acting career, appearing in films such as "The Tin Drum" and "The Voice of the Moon."

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