What Happened This Year 2019

People Who Died in 2019

Rutger Hauer

Actor in Blade Runner and The Hitcher
Born
January 23rd, 1944 81 years ago
Died
July 19th, 2019 5 years ago — 75 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a career in acting began in the 1960s with stage performances before transitioning to film. Gained international recognition for portraying Roy Batty in the science fiction classic 'Blade Runner' in 1982. Other notable roles included the titular character in 'The Hitcher' and a significant part in 'Ladyhawke.' Hauer's contributions extended beyond acting to directing and producing, establishing a notable presence in European and American cinema. In later years, his involvement in charity work highlighted various social issues, particularly AIDS awareness. Hauer passed away in 2019, leaving a legacy of memorable performances.

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Beji Caid Essebsi

Tunisian politician and President
Born
November 29th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
July 25th, 2019 5 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, led Tunisia from December 2014 until July 2019. Played a crucial role in the 2011 Tunisian revolution that overthrew the longtime presidency of Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Founded the Nidaa Tounes party in 2012, which became a significant political force. Served in various governmental roles during a political career spanning several decades, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the Assembly of Representatives of the People.

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Jaime Lucas Ortega y Alamino

Cuban cardinal and ecclesiastical leader
Born
October 18th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2019 5 years ago — 82 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1961, achieved positions of significant influence within the Catholic Church in Cuba. Served as the Archbishop of Havana from 1981 until retirement in 2016. Actively participated in dialogue with the Cuban government, advocating for religious freedoms and social issues in an increasingly complex political landscape. Instrumental in establishing a presence for the Catholic Church in contemporary Cuba, influencing both church policy and community outreach.

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Russi Taylor

Voice actress and voice of Minnie Mouse
Born
May 4th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
July 26th, 2019 5 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent voice actress, contributed significantly to animation and entertainment. Taylor provided the iconic voice for Minnie Mouse for over three decades, starting in 1986. Alongside her work for Disney, she voiced characters in popular series such as 'The Simpsons', where she portrayed Martin Prince and added depth to various characters. Taylor's extensive career also included roles in numerous films and video games, influencing the voice acting community.

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Harold Prince

Theatre director and producer of 'Phantom'
Born
January 30th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
July 31st, 2019 5 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent director and producer in American theatre, contributions spanned over several decades. Collaborated with Stephen Sondheim on multiple productions, including 'Company' and 'Sweeney Todd'. Directed the original Broadway production of 'The Phantom of the Opera', which became one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. Received numerous Tony Awards for outstanding direction and production in theatre.

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Nuon Chea

Cambodian politician and Khmer Rouge chief
Born
July 7th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
August 4th, 2019 5 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a prominent leader in Cambodia during the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975 to 1979. Held the position of Deputy Secretary of the Communist Party of Kampuchea and was a significant figure in the establishment of the genocidal policies that led to the deaths of approximately two million people. Played a central role in the Khmer Rouge's aggressive agricultural reforms and the forced relocation of urban populations to rural areas. After the fall of the regime, lived in hiding for several decades before being arrested and tried for crimes against humanity. His trial contributed to the historical understanding of the Khmer Rouge era and its atrocities.

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Toni Morrison

American novelist and Nobel Prize winner
Born
February 18th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2019 5 years ago — 88 years old

An influential novelist and editor, this individual produced significant works that explore African American culture and identity. The first black woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, contributions include celebrated novels that delve into themes of race, history, and personal struggle. Notable works include 'Beloved', 'Song of Solomon', and 'The Bluest Eye'. Besides writing, this individual worked as an editor for Random House, helping to promote and support other African American writers within the literary community. The literary career spanned several decades, culminating in numerous awards and honors.

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David Berman

American actor on 'The X-Files'
Born
November 1st, 1973 51 years ago
Died
August 7th, 2019 5 years ago — 45 years old

An actor gained prominence through roles in popular television series and films. Berman played the character Sous-chef in the acclaimed series 'The X-Files', appearing in several episodes. Achievements include a collaboration with renowned directors and contributing to the development of memorable characters within the shows. Apart from acting, he engaged in various creative endeavors, showing versatility in artistic pursuits.

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Jeffrey Epstein

Financier and convicted sex offender
Born
January 20th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
August 10th, 2019 5 years ago — 66 years old

Engaged in financial consulting and investment management during the 1980s and 1990s. Managed a hedge fund and developed a network of high-profile connections. Faced legal issues related to sexual offenses, including a conviction in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution. Arrested again in 2019 on federal charges of sex trafficking minors. Died in custody in 2019.

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