What Happened This Year 2024

People Who Died in 2024

Greg Kihn

Singer-songwriter with 'The Breakup Song'
Born
July 10th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2024 0 years ago — 75 years old

Active in the music industry since the 1970s, this singer-songwriter gained significant popularity with his hit 'The Breakup Song' in 1981. Kihn began his career in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he established a loyal fan base. Throughout the 1980s, multiple albums were released, charting on Billboard. In addition to his music career, Kihn hosted a radio show and ventured into writing, publishing a series of novels and engaging in various creative projects. His contributions to rock music and radio have shaped his trajectory in the entertainment industry.

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Wally Amos

Entrepreneur & Founder of Famous Amos Cookies
Born
July 1st, 1936 88 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2024 0 years ago — 88 years old

An entrepreneur established a cookie brand that gained national recognition. Initially worked as a talent agent and later decided to pursue a passion for baking. Launched the Famous Amos cookie brand in 1975, featuring chocolate chip cookies made from a family recipe. The brand quickly grew in popularity, becoming a staple in the snack industry. Besides cookies, wrote several books, including one on baking.

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Frank Selvy

Basketball player and coach, NCAA star
Born
November 9th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2024 0 years ago — 91 years old

A basketball player and coach, achieved prominence in the 1950s. Played for Furman University, where scored an NCAA record 100 points in a single game against Newberry College in 1954. Played professionally for the National Basketball Association (NBA) teams such as the Minneapolis Lakers, St. Louis Hawks, and the Baltimore Bullets. Transitioned to coaching, notably serving as head coach at the University of South Carolina and later at the University of Southern Mississippi, where contributed to the development of young athletes and the growth of basketball programs.

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Gena Rowlands

Film and television actress, The Notebook
Born
June 19th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 14th, 2024 0 years ago — 94 years old

Gena Rowlands is an American actress recognized for significant contributions to film and television. Rising to prominence in the 1950s, she received acclaim for outstanding performances in independent films, particularly those directed by her former husband, John Cassavetes. Starred in 'A Woman Under the Influence' and 'Faces,' both showcasing her ability to portray complex emotional characters. In 2004, starred in 'The Notebook,' which gained a cult following and solidified her status in popular culture. Throughout her career, she earned three Primetime Emmy Awards and nominations for prestigious Academy Awards. Rowlands' work spans several genres, emphasizing character-driven narratives that explore human experiences.

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Peter Marshall

Game show host and entertainer
Born
1926 99 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2024 0 years ago — 98 years old

A prominent game show host and entertainer, gained fame as the host of 'Hollywood Squares' from 1966 to 1984, showcasing a blend of humor and charm. Started career as a singer and performer in theater, appearing in various productions. Served as a television and radio personality, contributing to numerous entertainment programs throughout the decades.

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Virginia Ogilvy

British Countess and author
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 91 years old

As Countess of Airlie, held a prominent position in British aristocracy. Engaged in charitable activities and cultural initiatives. Authored several works, contributing to literature focused on historical and social themes. Involved in various organizations aimed at community development and support for the arts.

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Silvio Santos

Brazilian television host and entrepreneur
Born
1930 95 years ago
Died
August 17th, 2024 0 years ago — 94 years old

A media mogul, engaged in the Brazilian television industry for several decades. Founded the influential SBT network, significantly shaping Brazilian entertainment. Hosted the long-running television show 'Programa Silvio Santos', which became a staple in Brazilian homes. Built a business empire encompassing various sectors, including retail, cosmetics, and banking. His charismatic presenting style and business acumen established him as a prominent figure in Brazilian culture.

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Phil Donahue

Television talk show host and producer
Born
December 21st, 1935 89 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 88 years old

A television talk show host and producer played a central role in pioneering the daytime talk show format. The career began in local television before launching a nationally syndicated program, 'The Phil Donahue Show', in 1970. The show became one of the longest-running talk shows in history, renowned for addressing controversial topics and encouraging audience participation. This innovative format set the stage for future talk shows and established a new genre of programming.

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Ruth Johnson Colvin

Literacy advocate and author
Born
December 16th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2024 0 years ago — 107 years old

An American author and educator, dedicated efforts focused on adult literacy and education. Founded ProLiteracy Worldwide, an organization aimed at improving literacy rates across the globe. Developed innovative programs and resources to support adult learners. Actively collaborated with various organizations to enhance educational outreach and access for underprivileged populations.

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