What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Kader Khan

Indian actor and screenwriter
Born
1937 88 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2018 6 years ago — 81 years old

A prolific actor and screenwriter, this individual contributed significantly to Indian cinema from the 1970s to the 2000s. With extensive work in Hindi and Urdu films, this person featured in over 300 films and was recognized for both comedic and dramatic roles. Starting a career in theatre before transitioning to cinema, credits include notable films like 'Bhookh' and 'Kuli'. This individual also co-wrote numerous successful screenplays that defined the era of masala films.

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Mary Wilson

British poet and Spouse of PM
Born
January 12th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
February 8th, 2021 4 years ago — 105 years old

Born in 1916, a prominent British poet, served as the spouse of a Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Active in literary circles, contributed significantly to poetry throughout her life. Engaged in various charitable activities and supported cultural initiatives, fostering appreciation for literature and the arts. Her role as Baroness Wilson of Rievaulx involved advocating for education and the arts, representing the interests of the arts community in the UK.

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Bruno Sammartino

Professional wrestler, WWE Hall of Famer
Born
October 6th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Italy and later moving to the United States, had a significant career in professional wrestling from the 1950s to the 1980s. Became a prominent figure in the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), widely recognized for long title reigns as champion. Revolutionized the sport with his strong style of wrestling and charismatic persona, enhancing the popularity of professional wrestling in America. Also worked as a trainer and mentor for the next generation of wrestlers throughout his career. Authored a biography detailing his life and struggles, reflecting his journey in the wrestling industry.

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Francis Lai

Accordionist and composer for film scores
Born
April 26th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 86 years old

An accordion player and composer from France, contributed significantly to film music. Gained acclaim for composing the score for the movie 'Love Story'. Collaborated with various directors and artists throughout a prolific career. Recognized for a unique ability to blend traditional accordion playing with contemporary film music, showcasing a deep understanding of melodic composition.

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Pete Shelley

Singer-songwriter and guitarist of Buzzcocks
Born
April 17th, 1955 69 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 63 years old

A singer-songwriter and guitarist, became a prominent figure in the punk rock music scene during the late 1970s. Co-founded the band Buzzcocks, which emerged from the UK punk movement. The band released influential tracks such as 'Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've)' and 'What Do I Get?'. Later pursued a solo career, achieving success with the hit single 'Homosapien' in 1981. Shelley’s songwriting often tackled themes of love and identity, making significant contributions to the punk and new wave genres. Continued to perform and release music until passing in 2018.

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Kitty O'Neil

Stuntwoman and speed record holder
Born
March 24th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 72 years old

A skilled stuntwoman, contributed to the film industry with remarkable stunts in films like 'The Bionic Woman' and 'Airport 1975'. Set a world record for the fastest woman in the world in 1976, achieving a speed of 512.71 miles per hour in a rocket vehicle. Participated in numerous television series and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Overcame significant challenges related to hearing impairment, becoming a prominent figure in stunt work.

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Jim Rodford

Bass Player for The Zombies and Argent
Born
July 7th, 1941 83 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 77 years old

An English bass player contributed to the rock and pop music scene during the 1960s and beyond. As a member of The Zombies, played on the iconic album 'Odessey and Oracle,' which featured the hit single 'Time of the Season.' Rodford later formed the band Argent, achieving success with the song 'Hold Your Head Up.' He also worked with various artists, including collaborating with former bandmates on different projects throughout his career. Rodford's influence extended through live performances and studio recordings.

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Dan Gurney

Race car driver and engineer with Eagle
Born
April 13th, 1931 93 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 87 years old

A successful race car driver and engineer, contributed significantly to motorsport engineering and performance. Competed in Formula One, NASCAR, and various sports car races. Gurney founded All-American Racers and developed the Gurney Eagle car, a notable achievement in automotive design. Achieved wins in major events including the 1967 24 Hours of Le Mans, where a Ford GT40 driven by Gurney and A.J. Foyt secured victory. Gurney introduced the concept of the victory champagne spray during the Le Mans celebration, becoming a lasting tradition in motorsport.

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Nokie Edwards

American guitarist, The Ventures member
Born
May 9th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent guitarist in the rock and roll genre, contributions included as a member of the instrumental rock band The Ventures. Helped shape the surf rock sound in the 1960s, which became influential in popular music. Recorded numerous albums and performed worldwide, gaining recognition for innovative guitar techniques and compositions. Additionally worked as a solo artist and collaborated with other musicians throughout a lengthy career.

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