What Happened This Year 2018
People Who Died in 2018
Bernardo Bertolucci
A prominent figure in cinema, the Italian director and screenwriter contributed significantly to world film with a unique visual style and thought-provoking narratives. Debuting with the film 'La Commare Secca' in 1962, gained international acclaim with 'The Last Tango in Paris' in 1972, a role that sparked controversy and dialogue. Won an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film for 'The Last Emperor' in 1988. Explored themes of politics, sexuality, and identity in various works throughout his career, influencing filmmakers worldwide.
Continue ReadingIvan Mauger
A prominent speedway rider, made significant contributions to the sport through competitive achievements. Competed primarily in the 1960s and 1970s, securing a total of six World Speedway Championships. Influenced the sport's evolution with innovative techniques and training methods. Successful career included riding for various teams, most notably the New Zealand team. Continued involvement in speedway as a trainer and promoter after retirement.
Continue ReadingPhilip Roth
An influential American novelist who explored themes of identity, sexuality, and Jewish-American life. Major works include 'Portnoy's Complaint', which gained attention for its frankness about sexuality, and 'American Pastoral', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1998. Roth's writing often reflected personal experiences and cultural critiques, showcasing a deep engagement with issues of America’s social fabric. The author published numerous novels, essays, and short stories, earning a prominent position in contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingRoy Clark
An influential figure in country music, with a career spanning several decades. Gained fame as a performer on the television show 'Hee Haw', which showcased country music and rural humor. Also excelled as a musician, known for exceptional guitar and banjo playing. In addition to solo performances, collaborated with various artists throughout the years. Received recognition for contributions to music with several awards, including the Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year.
Continue ReadingCecil Taylor
Cecil Taylor was an American pianist and composer associated with avant-garde jazz. Starting in the late 1950s, he developed a unique approach to improvisation and composition, blending elements of free jazz with classical influences. Taylor formed key groups and ensembles that contributed to the evolution of jazz, pushing the boundaries of rhythm and harmonic structure. His performances were marked by a distinctive style characterized by high energy and intricate, percussive piano work. Throughout his career, Taylor recorded numerous albums and collaborated with various artists in the jazz and contemporary music scenes.
Continue ReadingKitty O'Neil
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.
Continue ReadingMarty Allen
Born in 1922, this American comedian and actor achieved recognition for a distinctive style characterized by quick wit and a memorable visual presence. Career highlights included performing in comedy clubs and on television, particularly on shows like 'Hollywood Squares' and 'The Ed Sullivan Show'. Collaborations with his partner Karon Kate Blackwell showcased a successful comedy duo act. The performer also starred in a number of films, including 'The Busy Body' and 'The Great Race'.
Continue ReadingBradford Dillman
Born in 1930, a prominent American actor and author gained recognition for roles in film and television. Played significant roles in movies such as 'The Way We Were' alongside Barbra Streisand and Robert Redford. Made guest appearances in various popular television series, including 'The Twilight Zone' and 'The Streets of San Francisco'. Author of several books, contributing to both the literary and entertainment fields. The career spanned multiple decades, establishing a solid presence in the industry.
Continue ReadingJohn Sulston
A prominent English biologist and academic, contributions focused on developmental biology and genomics. Played a key role in the Human Genome Project, which aimed to map all the genes of the human species. The work provided insights into the genetic basis of many diseases and advanced the field of genetics significantly. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2002 alongside colleagues for discoveries related to the genetic regulation of organ development and programmed cell death.
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