What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

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.

Continue Reading

Lucy Jarvis

Television producer for major series
Born
June 24th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 103 years old

Television producer contributed significantly to the medium, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. Oversaw production for various successful television series, showcasing strong leadership and creative direction. Worked on series such as 'The Outer Limits' and 'The Twilight Zone', which became known for their innovative storytelling and influence on science fiction television. Played a key role in producing content that resonated with audiences during a transformative period in television history.

Continue Reading

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.'

Continue Reading

Owen Arthur

Barbadian economist and politician
Born
October 17th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of Barbados from 1994 to 2008. Contributed to the country's economic policies and was influential in the development of Barbados's financial services sector. Played a key role in regional integration, advocating for the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). He also fostered investments in tourism and education, further shaping the island's economic landscape.

Continue Reading

Alison Lurie

Author and academic known for 'Foreign Affairs'
Born
September 3rd, 1926 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 94 years old

An American author and academic, distinguished in the fields of literature and education. Authored several acclaimed novels and scholarly works, with a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary American culture and society. 'Foreign Affairs' won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1985, showcasing the complexities of love and relationships among intellectuals. As a professor, offered insights into literature, particularly in the realm of modern fiction, impacting generations of students. Engaged in writing criticism and essays, further illustrating themes of social observation and human behavior.

Continue Reading

Rhonda Fleming

American actress and film star
Born
August 10th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent actress in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s, renowned for roles in classic films and often cast in leading positions. Gained recognition for performances in 'Spellbound' and 'Out of the Past', showcasing talents in both film noir and musicals. Alongside acting, engaged in philanthropic activities throughout life, supporting various charities and initiatives.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Paul Farnes

Royal Air Force fighter pilot
Born
July 16th, 1918 106 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 102 years old

Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Participated in the Battle of Britain, showcasing aerial combat skills against the German Luftwaffe. Farnes flew the Supermarine Spitfire and contributed to numerous engagements that secured air superiority. After the war, continued a career in aviation, including contributions to civilian flying and flight training.

Continue Reading

Armen Dzhigarkhanyan

Soviet Armenian actor and director
Born
October 3rd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent actor and director in Soviet and Armenian cinema, he gained widespread recognition through roles in both film and theater. An alumnus of the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinematography, he made significant contributions to the performing arts in the Soviet Union. An impactful figure in the Armenian cultural scene, he became the founder of the Dzhigarkhanyan Theater in Yerevan, which showcased numerous productions. His portrayal in the film 'Mimino' and his work in various melodramas solidified his legacy. He appeared in over 70 films and became a cultural icon, especially in the post-Soviet period.

Continue Reading