What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Bob Gibson

Baseball player and Hall of Fame pitcher
Born
November 9th, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

A professional baseball player and coach, contributions were significant in Major League Baseball during the 1960s and early 1970s. Played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals as a right-handed pitcher. Achieved a remarkable career earned run average (ERA) of 2.91 over 17 seasons. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1981, recognized for outstanding performance and skill on the mound. Served as a coach after retirement, contributing to the development of future players.

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Clifford Robinson

Basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
December 16th, 1966 58 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 54 years old

Played professional basketball in the NBA from 1989 to 2007. Primarily known for tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers and contributions to the team's success during the 1990s. Also played for teams including the Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, and New Jersey Nets. Gained recognition for versatility as a forward and for skills in both scoring and defense. Achieved All-Star status in 1994 and was part of an NBA Finals team in 1990.

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Tommy DeVito

Singer and guitarist, The Four Seasons
Born
June 19th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent American singer and guitarist, contributions included being a founding member of the vocal group The Four Seasons. The group achieved significant success in the 1960s, blending rock and pop with doo-wop influences. DeVito's guitar work and vocals were integral to the group's sound, which led to several chart-topping hits. The Four Seasons became an iconic part of American music history, continuing to influence artists across genres. Their story was later dramatized in the musical and film adaptation 'Jersey Boys.'

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Peregrine Worsthorne

English journalist and author
Born
December 22nd, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent English journalist and author. Served as the editor of the Sunday Telegraph and contributed to various newspapers including The Spectator and the Daily Telegraph. Authored several books such as 'The Marriage of True Minds' and 'The Last of the English'. Gained a reputation for insightful commentary on political and social issues throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

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Charles Webb

American author of The Graduate
Born
June 9th, 1939 85 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 81 years old

An author wrote the novel 'The Graduate,' published in 1963. The book explores themes of disillusionment and the challenges of adulthood. It became a significant cultural reference of the time and was adapted into a highly successful film in 1967, starring Dustin Hoffman. This adaptation contributed to the novel's lasting popularity and cultural significance. Besides 'The Graduate,' additional works include 'New Hope for the Dead' and 'The Enthusiast.' Webb's writing often examined the complexities of modern relationships and personal identity.

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Phil May

English singer-songwriter with The Pretty Things
Born
November 9th, 1944 80 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 76 years old

Phil May gained recognition as a singer-songwriter and frontman of the rock band The Pretty Things. The band was influential in the 1960s and 1970s British rock scene, notable for their innovative blend of rock, rhythm and blues, and psychedelic music. May's distinctive voice and songwriting contributed to the band's critical acclaim and cult following. The Pretty Things released several albums, with 'S.F. Sorrow' often cited as one of the first rock operas, showcasing the band's creative ambitions and musical range. May remained active in the music industry through various projects and collaborations, further solidifying his place in rock history.

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Abby Dalton

Television actress and producer
Born
August 15th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 88 years old

This actress gained prominence through multiple television series during the 1950s and 1960s. Most recognized for the role of Lisa Miller on the series 'Route 66,' significant appearances included 'The Joey Bishop Show' and 'Mayberry R.F.D.' In addition to a successful acting career, involvement in television production showcased versatility. The contributions to the entertainment industry led to various nominations and accolades throughout her career.

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Benny Mardones

American singer-songwriter, 'Into the Night'
Born
November 9th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 74 years old

An American singer-songwriter gained recognition in the 1980s with the hit song 'Into the Night.' The track received significant airplay and became a memorable ballad of the decade, later re-charting in the 1990s. Mardones released several albums throughout his career, demonstrating a passion for music and songwriting. He performed at various venues and garnered a devoted following during live concerts. His work blended rock and pop elements, showcasing his vocal abilities and lyrical storytelling.

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Anand Mohan Zutshi Gulzar Dehlvi

Urdu Poet and Literary Figure
Born
July 7th, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1926, a prominent Urdu poet associated with the literary movement in India. Contributed significantly to Urdu literature through poetry and prose, shaping modern Urdu poetic expression. His works often focused on social issues and human emotions. Active in various literary forums and contributed to the promotion of Urdu language and culture. Served on advisory commissions for Urdu literature and education, aiming to elevate the status of the language. The poet’s literary legacy continues to influence new generations of writers and readers.

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