What Happened This Year 2023

People Who Died in 2023

Melinda Dillon

American actress with films like 'Close Encounters'
Born
October 13th, 1939 86 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 84 years old

An actress gained recognition in film and television. Achieved prominence with a role in 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' in 1977, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Appeared in the movie 'A Christmas Story' in 1983, portraying the role of the mother, contributing to its status as a holiday classic. Worked extensively in theater, receiving acclaim for performances in various productions, including 'The Philadelphia Story' on Broadway. Dillon's career spanned several decades, showcasing a range of characters and delivering memorable performances across various genres.

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Michael Blakemore

Australian actor, director, and screenwriter
Born
June 18th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 95 years old

An influential figure in theatre, directed productions in London's West End and Broadway. Received multiple Tony Awards for direction, including for 'Noises Off' and 'Forty-Second Street'. Worked extensively in television and film, contributing as a screenwriter and director. Maintained a long association with the Royal National Theatre in London, showcasing talent in both classic and contemporary works.

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Bobby Caldwell

Singer-songwriter and 'What You Won't Do for Love'
Born
August 15th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 72 years old

A singer-songwriter, created a blend of R&B, jazz, and pop music. Released the hit single 'What You Won't Do for Love' in 1978, which gained significant popularity and became a staple in the genre. Throughout the career, wrote and produced music for various artists and released several albums, showcasing versatility in songwriting. The smooth vocal style and engaging melodies resonated with audiences, leading to a loyal fan base. Contributed to the music industry with a unique sound that often blurred genre lines.

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Bill Hayden

Australian politician and Governor-General
Born
January 23rd, 1933 93 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 90 years old

Served as the 21st Governor-General of Australia from 1989 to 1996. His political career included membership in the Australian Labor Party and various ministerial roles. Represented the Queensland seat of Oxley in the House of Representatives from 1961 to 1983. Served as the Leader of the Labor Party from 1977 to 1983. Played a significant role in shaping Australian politics during his tenure. After leaving politics, contributed to several organizations and served in various honorary roles.

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Arleen Sorkin

Actress, producer, screenwriter; 'Days of Our Lives'
Born
October 14th, 1955 70 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 68 years old

An American actress, producer, and screenwriter, significant contributions include work in television and film. Best known for portraying Calliope Jones on the soap opera 'Days of Our Lives', a role that spanned multiple years. Also provided the voice of Harley Quinn in the animated series 'Batman: The Animated Series', influencing the character's development in subsequent media. In addition, contributed to television as a producer and writer, showcasing versatility in multiple roles within the entertainment field.

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Gérard Latortue

Haitian politician, Prime Minister
Born
June 19th, 1934 91 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 12th Prime Minister of Haiti from March 2004 to June 2006. Took office following the ousting of Aristide and led a transitional government during a period of political turmoil. Worked on initiatives to stabilize the country and prepare for democratic elections. Focused on national dialogue and rebuilding efforts in the aftermath of unrest.

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Marisa Pavan

Italian actress, starred in 'The Rose Tattoo'
Born
June 19th, 1932 93 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 91 years old

An Italian actress gained recognition through a prominent film career that began in the 1950s. Pavan appeared in several notable films, with the most significant being 'The Rose Tattoo,' for which she received critical acclaim. The actress collaborated with renowned directors and worked alongside distinguished actors during her career. In addition to film, she was also active in television, contributing to various series throughout the decades. As the twin sister of actress Pier Angeli, she shared a connection to the cinematic world, influencing her own trajectory in the industry.

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Bill Richardson

American politician and diplomat
Born
November 15th, 1947 78 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 21st United States Ambassador to the United Nations. Held various positions including Governor of New Mexico from 2003 to 2011 and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Involved in international diplomacy and negotiations, particularly with North Korea. Was recognized for efforts in energy policy and was actively engaged in U.S.-Mexico relations.

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Sergei K. Godunov

Mathematician and academic from Russia
Born
July 17th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
2023 3 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematical analysis and partial differential equations. Served as a professor at Moscow State University, influencing generations of students and researchers. Conducted research that expanded the understanding of viscous shock waves and mathematical theory related to fluid dynamics. Authored several publications and textbooks that became essential resources for mathematicians.

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