What Happened This Year 2021

People Who Died in 2021

Grichka Bogdanoff

Television presenter and scientific essayist
Born
1949 76 years ago
Died
December 28th, 2021 3 years ago — 72 years old

Accomplished in the fields of television and scientific discourse. Presented and co-created the series 'Temps X' which aired from 1979 to 1987, focusing on science and futurism. Authored several works on science, philosophy, and science fiction themes. Played a significant role in popularizing complex scientific concepts in an accessible manner through media. Contributed to the intersection of science and entertainment, influencing public interest in these topics.

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Betty White

Actress and television personality
Born
January 17th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
December 31st, 2021 3 years ago — 99 years old

An American actress, game show panelist, and television personality, played significant roles in television history. Best known for appearances on 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. Her career spanned decades, with work in various formats including sitcoms, documentaries, and game shows. In addition to entertainment, engaged in animal rights activism, advocating for animal welfare causes throughout life.

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Ian St John

Scottish footballer and manager
Born
June 7th, 1938 87 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 83 years old

A Scottish international footballer and manager, contributed significantly to the sport during the 1960s and 70s. Played as a forward for Liverpool from 1961 to 1971, winning multiple titles including the First Division and the FA Cup. Represented the Scottish national team in several competitions, including the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Transitioned into management after retiring from playing, leading various clubs and notably managing Motherwell during the late 1980s.

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Peter Robin Harding

British Air Marshal and pilot
Born
December 2nd, 1933 91 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 88 years old

Served as a senior commander in the Royal Air Force, contributing to various military strategies and operations. Played a significant role in NATO's restructuring during the 1990s. Participated in numerous missions throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of air power in modern warfare. After retirement, continued service in several advisory roles related to civil aviation and military operations, influencing policies and practices within the sector.

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John Watkins

Cricketer with South Africa Test cap
Born
April 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 98 years old

A cricketer played for South Africa in the 1940s and 1950s. Made contributions as a batsman and bowler during international matches. Debuted in Test cricket in 1947 and participated in a total of 14 Test matches. Played for Western Province in domestic cricket, achieving notable performances throughout his career. Notable for his versatility within the team. Retired from professional cricket in the mid-1950s.

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Sam Huff

American football player and sportscaster
Born
October 4th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 87 years old

An American football player, coach, and sportscaster. Played linebacker primarily for the New York Giants and the Washington Redskins in the National Football League (NFL). Served as a defensive stalwart during the 1950s and 1960s, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections. After retiring as a player, transitioned into coaching and then sportscasting, becoming a prominent voice in football media. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982, reflecting a successful career both on and off the field.

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Reinhold Roth

German motorcycle racer
Born
March 4th, 1953 72 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 68 years old

A motorcycle racer had a successful career in the Grand Prix motorcycle racing circuit during the 1980s and 1990s. Achievements included multiple top finishes in various championships, showcasing skill on a global stage. Competed primarily in the 500 cc class and participated in the prestigious Isle of Man TT, earning respect within the racing community. Retired from competitive racing but remained active in motorcycle-related events and activities.

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Slide Hampton

Trombonist and composer, worked with major jazz artists
Born
April 21st, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent trombonist and composer, gained recognition in the jazz genre. Played with notable names including Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, as well as Charles Mingus. Led several big bands and participated in various jazz festivals. Contributed to the art of jazz through compositions and arrangements, enhancing the trombone's role within big bands. Additionally, taught music and mentored emerging musicians, influencing the next generation of jazz artists.

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Manuel Neri

Sculptor and painter, notable for modern art
Born
April 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1930, this American artist excelled in sculpture and painting, becoming a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene. The works often explored themes of the human figure and abstraction, characterized by their expressive forms. Emerging from the San Francisco Bay Area, this artist integrated elements of the figure with dynamic applications of color and texture. The artist's contributions to sculpture and painting have been widely exhibited in galleries and museums across the United States.

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