Every day, people everywhere mourn the passing of celebrities, public figures, and others who have impacted the arts, entertainment, politics, and culture. So, which celebrity died today, December 9? This day has had its fair share of such losses. To mark it, here are the lives and legacies of some famous people who died on this date in history.
Which Celebrity Died Today, December 9
December 9, 1980: John Lennon
John Lennon, one of the members of The Beatles, was fatally shot in front of his New York City apartment on December 9, 1980. His death was a shock to the world, at only 40. The Beatles are one of the most influential bands (if not the most) in the history of rock music.
Clarence Clemons—December 9, 2011
Clarence Clemons, Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band saxophonist and one of rock’ n’ roll’s biggest iconic figures, died of complications of a stroke at 69 on December 9, 2011. His fierce saxophone playing was a hallmark of the band’s sound and made him an icon of rock music from the 1970s onward.
Sammy Davis Jr. (December 9, 1990)
Sammy Davis Jr., the multifaceted entertainer, died on December 9, 1990, at the age of 64. He was a member of the Rat Pack along with Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and was known for his singing, dancing, and acting. Davis was also one of the first African American stars to gain great acclaim in Hollywood.
Jean-Paul Sartre (Dec 9, 1980)
Jean-Paul Sartre, a French philosopher and writer, died on December 9, 1980, at 74. One of the foremost existentialist philosophers, Sartre, in works such as “Being and Nothingness,” explores freedom, choice, and existence. His emphasis on humanism and individual freedom profoundly affected 20th-century literature, philosophy, and politics.
Hedy Lamarr (December 9, 2000)
Actress and inventor Hedy Lamarr died on December 9, 2000, at 85. Best known for her performances in movies like “Algiers” and “Samson and Delilah,” she was also an inventor. Lamarr co-invented a technology key to wireless communications, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Marie Curie (December 29, 1934)
The scientist Marie Curie, winner of Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry, died on December 9, 1934. Her groundbreaking research in radioactivity changed the world of science and medicine but ultimately also led to her own premature death from aplastic anemia, the result of decadeslong exposure to radiation.
Dick Van Patten (December 9, 2015)
Dick Van Patten, known for his role in the TV series Eight is Enough, died on December 9, 2015, at age 86. With a career of over 60 years, he appeared in many TV shows, films, and plays. Besides Eight is Enough, he was recognized for his work in The Love Boat and Spaceballs.
Pedro Infante (December 9, 1957)
Mexican actor and musician Pedro Infante passed away in a plane crash on December 9, 1957, at 39. His death deeply affected Latin America, where he was seen as a cultural icon, especially for his roles during the Golden Age of Mexican cinema.
Bette Davis (December 9, 1989)
Bette Davis, an iconic American actress, died on December 9, 1989, at 81. Celebrated for her independence, wit, and powerful performances, she won two Oscars and was nominated ten times over her 60-year career.
Tommy Dorsey (December 9, 1956)
Tommy Dorsey, a major American trombonist, composer, and bandleader, died on December 9, 1956, at 51. A key figure in the swing era, his smooth trombone style was a hallmark of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, one of the most popular bands of the 1930s and ’40s.
George Reeves (December 9, 1959)
Superman actor George Reeves (Adventures of Superman), born on April 5, 1914, died on December 9, 1959, at age 45. Aside from Superman, he appeared in movies like Gone with the Wind and From Here to Eternity.
Conclusion
Every December 9, we remember these people and remain indebted to the everlasting inspiration that they provide us. So, which celebrity who died today is your favorite? Tell us in the comments.
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