What Happened This Year 2020

People Who Died in 2020

Marj Dusay

American actress in soap operas
Born
February 20th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 84 years old

An American actress, recognized for work in daytime television, particularly in soap operas. Gained prominence in the 1980s, prominently featured in 'Guiding Light' as Ross Marler's girlfriend, and later portrayed the character of Vanessa Chamberlain in 'One Life to Live'. Appeared in other series including 'The Gifted' and 'Days of Our Lives'. Had a career that spanned multiple decades with appearances in various television shows and films, showcasing a strong presence in the entertainment industry.

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Jean Erdman

Dancer and choreographer of The Dreamers
Born
February 20th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 104 years old

A prominent American dancer and choreographer, contributions to modern dance included founding the company Minuette Dance Theatre. Created works that combined dance with elements of theater and poetry. Collaborated with various artists and maintained a lifelong connection with the Martha Graham Dance Company. Served as a lecturer at several universities, sharing knowledge on choreography and performance. The innovative nature of the works extended to contributions in the realm of dance education and direction.

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Richard A. Lupoff

American author and comic book writer
Born
February 21st, 1935 90 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 85 years old

An author and comic book writer, his contributions spanned several genres including science fiction, mystery, and sports literature. Writing under his own name and pseudonyms such as Timothy O'Mara, produced numerous novels and short stories. Worked as a comic book writer for several publishers including Marvel Comics and created significant works such as 'The Avenger' and 'The Great American Novel'. Involved in editing anthologies and fostering new writing talent.

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Genesis P-Orridge

English singer-songwriter and performance artist
Born
February 22nd, 1950 75 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 70 years old

An influential figure in the industrial music scene, contributed significantly to the genre through pioneering experimental projects. Co-founded the band Throbbing Gristle, which became a foundational element in the development of industrial music. Also formed Psychic TV, which blended diverse musical styles with performance art, exploring controversial themes. Engaged in performance art that challenged conventional perceptions of identity and gender.

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Robert May

Zoologist and ecologist, Baron May
Born
January 8th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 84 years old

Baron May of Oxford contributed significantly to ecology and zoology. He served as the Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK Government from 2000 to 2005 and held the position of President of the Royal Society from 2000 to 2005. His research focused on population dynamics and the relationships between species in ecosystems. May's work aided in understanding biodiversity and its implications for conservation efforts. He published numerous papers and authored several books, enhancing academic discourse in his fields.

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Ron Tauranac

Engineer and businessman in motorsports
Born
January 13th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 95 years old

An engineer and businessman specialized in motorsport design and construction. Founded the successful racing car manufacturer, Tauranac Engineering, which produced cars that competed in Formula One and other racing series. Developed multiple chassis that won numerous championships in various racing categories. Actively contributed to the engineering and design aspects of the sport, influencing car development.

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Robert L. Park

American physicist and academic
Born
January 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions included research in atomic, electromagnetic, and materials physics. Served as a professor at the University of Maryland. Held a position as a spokesperson for the American Physical Society on science policy issues. Authored several books addressing science and its intersection with society.

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Philip Latham

British Actor - 'The Forsyte Saga'
Born
January 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 91 years old

An accomplished British actor with a career spanning several decades. Worked extensively in television and film, becoming widely recognized for roles in series such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas'. Also appeared in films and was notable for stage performances in London's West End. His work included supporting roles and significant contributions to ensemble casts, earning respect within the acting community.

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Ernesto Cardenal

Nicaraguan priest and poet
Born
January 20th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 95 years old

A Nicaraguan priest, poet, and politician contributed significantly to the Sandinista Revolution and served as the Minister of Culture. Cardenal was deeply influenced by liberation theology and integrated political themes into poetry. His poetry collections, such as "The Gospel in Solentiname" and "Prayer of the Earth," addressed social justice and spirituality. Political tensions in Nicaragua led to conflicts with the Catholic Church, but Cardenal remained a prominent figure in both literature and politics.

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