What Happened This Year 2018

People Who Died in 2018

Lys Assia

Swiss singer and Eurovision winner
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
March 24th, 2018 6 years ago — 94 years old

A Swiss singer achieved prominence as the first winner of the Eurovision Song Contest in 1956. The performance of the song 'Refrain' at the inaugural competition in Lugano marked a significant moment in music history. Throughout the career, multiple records were released and a variety of performances occurred across Europe. In addition to Eurovision, participation in various music festivals and television shows took place, contributing to a notable presence in the Swiss entertainment scene until the later years.

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Fabrizio Frizzi

Italian television presenter, host of L'Eredità
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2018 6 years ago — 60 years old

An Italian television presenter became well-known for hosting popular game shows and entertainment programs. His career spanned several decades, during which he established a significant presence in Italian media. He gained widespread recognition for hosting 'L'Eredità', a quiz show that captivated audiences and ran for many years. Additionally, he contributed to various television specials and charity events. Frizzi's warm demeanor and connection with the audience made him a beloved figure in Italian television.

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Bill Maynard

English actor from 'Heartbeat' series
Born
October 8th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2018 6 years ago — 89 years old

An English actor gained recognition for a prominent role in the television series 'Heartbeat'. Featured in various British films and TV shows throughout the career, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry. Worked in theatre initially before transitioning to television and film. Collaborated with notable British productions, establishing a strong presence on screen and stage over several decades.

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Nick Newton

Inventor of the Newton Starting Blocks
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2018 6 years ago — 85 years old

An inventor focused on athletic equipment, contributed to the advancement of track and field. Developed the Newton Starting Blocks, which enhanced sprinter performance by providing better footing at the start of races. Collaborated with athletes and coaches to refine the design and functionality of the starting blocks, which have been widely adopted in various competitions. The innovation played a significant role in the optimization of sprinting techniques.

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Steven Bochco

Television writer and producer of dramas
Born
December 16th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
April 1st, 2018 6 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the television landscape as a writer and producer. Created and produced iconic shows such as 'Hill Street Blues', 'L.A. Law', and 'NYPD Blue', which reshaped dramatic storytelling on television. His work received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards. Bochco's style integrated complex characters and socio-political themes into crime and legal dramas, establishing a template for future series.

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Isao Takahata

Japanese film director and co-founder
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2018 6 years ago — 83 years old

A director and co-founder of Studio Ghibli, contributed significantly to animated cinema. Directed acclaimed films like 'Grave of the Fireflies' and 'The Tale of the Princess Kaguya', showcasing depth in storytelling and animation. Worked with notable animator Hayao Miyazaki to create a unique cinematic style that gained international recognition.

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R. Lee Ermey

Actor and drill instructor in Full Metal Jacket
Born
March 24th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2018 6 years ago — 74 years old

Served in the United States Marine Corps, achieving the rank of staff sergeant. Transitioned to acting, portraying a drill instructor in the film Full Metal Jacket directed by Stanley Kubrick. Gained recognition for his military roles and authentic portrayal of military life. Provided commentary on military and veteran affairs in various media appearances.

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Vittorio Taviani

Italian film director and screenwriter
Born
September 20th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
April 15th, 2018 6 years ago — 88 years old

Taviani was an Italian film director and screenwriter recognized for contributions to cinema from the 1960s onward. His works often explored themes of social justice and human rights, frequently collaborating with his brother Paolo. Highlights include 'Padre Padrone', which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1977, and 'Kaos', an acclaimed film that adapts stories from Luigi Pirandello. The Taviani brothers established a distinctive style that blended realism and poetic imagery, leaving a significant mark on Italian filmmaking. Their films gained recognition for their artistic merit and often reflected historical and political contexts.

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Harry Anderson

Actor and magician, known for Night Court
Born
October 14th, 1952 72 years ago
Died
April 16th, 2018 6 years ago — 65 years old

An American actor and magician gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Starred as Judge Harry Stone in the television series 'Night Court,' which aired for nine seasons. Anderson also showcased magic skills in various television specials and performed in comedy clubs. His unique blend of magic and humor contributed to his popularity. Besides acting, he directed and starred in stage productions, including 'Danny Glick is Dead.' In later years, he transitioned to performing magic shows and opened a magic-themed bar in New Orleans.

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