Seared in collective memory as the year the world ground to a halt, 2020 also saw remarkable achievement from women making an impact in politics, the arts, business, culture and science. Alongside female world leaders who drew international praise for their handling of the pandemic, and human rights campaigners impacting world events, were the countless acts of individual kindness that this year will also be remembered for.
Across the world, frontline workers risked their lives to help others during a global crisis that has killed more than 1.6 million people and upended economies. In the midst of the suffering, job losses and despair, the everyday courage of those risking their lives to help others has been a source of hope and inspiration during difficult and uncertain times.
Here are the women who blazed a trail in 2020.
Waad Al Kateab
No one who has seen For Sama is likely to forget the crushing horror of life in rebel-held Aleppo captured by Ms Al Kataeb’s camera as she transitions from teenage student to wife and mother amid the chaos of war in Syria. Living with the thunder of regime bombardments, she and her husband Hamza – one of the few remaining doctors in Aleppo – make the agonising decision to stay and help the wounded under siege, despite fears for the safety of their baby girl, Sama. The film, released in 2019, won a slew of awards, including an Emmy, and earned the activist, journalist and filmmaker a BAFTA for best documentary in 2020.
Sanna Marin
Within a few months of taking office and becoming the world's youngest head of government, Finland’s premier was plunged into the role of crisis leader as the coronavirus pandemic swept through Europe. The 34-year-old, who has been praised for her effective handling of the Covid-19 crisis, has also pledged to make Finland carbon neutral by 2035 and wants to close the gender pay gap. Backed by a young, female-led coalition, she is redefining the image of leadership and inspiring a new generation with her progressive politics and relatable Instagram feed.
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JANUARY: Lexii Alijai, February 19, 1998 – January 1, 2020 The American rapper’s untimely death at the age of 21 was ruled an accident by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner. A star on the rise, she had begun garnering attention for her mixtapes, in which she reworked songs by Childish Gambino and Beyonce. 'Her fans meant a lot to her,' said her mother, Jessica Owen. 'She was truly an amazing young woman beyond music.' AFP -
Elizabeth Wurtzel, July 31, 1967 – January 7, 2020 The American journalist and author, who became famous for her ground-breaking 1994 confessional memoir 'Prozac Nation', died aged 52 after a battle with breast cancer. Her book, which she wrote when she was 27, was a 'New York Times' bestseller and was turned into a film starring Christina Ricci as Wurtzel. Getty Images -
Terry Jones, February 1, 1942 – January 21, 2020 Passing away at the age of 77, after suffering from a rare form of dementia, Jones left behind a wealth of comedy history. As a member of the legendary Monty Python comedy set, the Welshman was also a writer, director and historian. Responsible for the surreal art and sketches used within the 'Monty Python' show, he directed 'The Holy Grail', 'Life of Brian' and 'Meaning of Life'. Passionate about medieval history, he wrote several books about and presented numerous documentaries on the period. Getty Images -
Kobe Bryant, August 23, 1978 – January 26, 2020 The 41-year-old LA Lakers star died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, along with eight other people, including his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. Bryant won five NBA Championships and was an 18-time All-Star winner, among a host of other accolades won during his three-decade-long career. AFP -
Mary Higgins Clark, December 24, 1927 – January 31, 2020 The multimillion-selling 'Queen of Suspense' published 51 novels during a prolific career, with her books focused on tales of women beating the odds. She died at the age of 92 in Naples, Florida. Shutterstock -
FEBRUARY: Kirk Douglas, December 9, 1916 – February 5, 2020 Michael Douglas’s actor father died at the age of 103. Considered one of the greats of Hollywood’s 'Golden Age', he was thrice-nominated for an Oscar, earning an Academy Honorary Award for Lifetime Achievement, as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He will be remembered for his most famous role as Spartacus in the 1960 film of the same name. Getty Images -
Lynn Cohen, August 10, 1933 – February 14, 2020 The 'Munich' and 'Hunger Games: Catching Fire' actress died in New York at the age of 86. Also beloved as Miranda’s interfering housekeeper, Magda, in 'Sex and the City', her 'Hunger Games' co-star Sam Claflin, who played her co-tribute Finnick Odair in the film, wrote after her passing: 'I’ll carry you everywhere.' Getty Images -
Caroline Flack, November 9, 1979 – February 15, 2020 The British 'Love Island' host died at the age of 40. Presenting many UK reality TV shows, she won season 12 of 'Strictly Come Dancing' in 2014. AFP -
Nikita Pearl Waligwa, 2005 - February 15, 2020 The Ugandan actress and star of Disney film 'Queen of Katwe' died aged 15, three years after she was diagnosed with a brain tumour. 'We mourn the loss of our beautiful Nikita Pearl Waligwa,” wrote her co-star David Oyelowo. 'She was a ball of light. Her battle with a brain tumour was humbling to witness. Her light will live on.' Courtesy Disney -
Andrew Weatherall, April 6, 1963 – February 17, 2020 The English DJ and music producer suffered from a pulmonary embolism and died in hospital at the age of 56. Producing the ground-breaking Primal Scream album 'Screamadelica', he also remixed tracks by The Happy Mondays, Bjork and New Order. Getty Images -
Clive Cussler, July 15, 1931 – February 24, 2020 The American adventurer and underwater explorer turned his personal passions into fiction, becoming a multimillion-bestselling author whose hero, the underwater explorer Dirk Pitt, enraptured millions of readers across the globe. He wrote more than 80 books, and died aged 88 at his home in Arizona. Getty Images -
MARCH: Kenny Rogers, August 21, 1938 – March 20, 2020 Country singer Kenny Rogers died of natural causes at the age of 81. Selling more than 100 million records, he was also one of the most successful cross-over artists of all time, working across multiple genres including jazz, folk, pop, rock, and country. His most well-known and beloved song remains 'The Gambler', which won Song of the Year at the 1979 Grammys. Getty Images -
Bill Withers, July 4, 1938 – March 30, 2020 The American singer-songwriter died from heart complications at the age of 81. Famous for his classic 'Ain’t No Sunshine', which won him a Grammy in 1971 for Best Rhythm & Blues Song, his hit 'Just The Two Of Us' would triumph in the same Grammys category 10 years later in 1981, as would 1987’s 'Lean On Me'. Gems/Redferns -
APRIL: Logan Williams, April 9, 2003 – April 2, 2020 Best known for playing the young Barry Allen on US TV show 'The Flash', Williams died aged 16, with his mother revealing he had battled addiction for three years. 'His death is not going to be in vain,' Marlyse Williams said in tribute to her son. 'He’s going to help a lot of people down the road.' Courtesy The CW -
Honor Blackman, August 22, 1925 – April 5, 2020 Best known for her role as Pussy Galore in James Bond film 'Goldfinger', Blackman died aged 94. Making her film debut in 1947’s 'Fame is the Spur', she is renowned for her work in 'Jason and the Argonauts' and 'Bridget Jones’s Diary', as well as her many theatre roles. Getty Images -
Ranjit Chowdhry, September 19, 1955 – April 15, 2020 'Prison Break' star Ranjit Chowdhry died aged 64 following surgery for a ruptured ulcer. The Indian character actor’s career moved seamlessly between television, film and theatre, and he is also remembered for his role as Vikram in the US version of 'The Office'. WireImage -
Irrfan Khan, January 7, 1967 – April 29, 2020 The Bollywood actor and 'Slumdog Millionaire' star died aged 53 after battling a colon infection. During a 30-year career, he starred in 'Haasil, Piku' and 'Talvar', before Hollywood came knocking with starring roles in 'Jurassic World', 'Life of Pi' and 'The Amazing Spider-Man'. AFP -
Rishi Kapoor, September 4, 1952 – April 30, 2020 The Indian actor died of leukemia at the age of 67. Born into the famous Kapoor family – known as 'the first family of Indian cinema' – he made his debut in his legendary father Raj Kapoor’s film 'Mera Naam Joker', scooping a National Film Award for Best Child Artist. Finding his niche as a romantic lead, he starred in the likes of 'Khel Khel Mein' and 'Kabhi Kabhie', before moving into more character-driven roles post-2000. AFP -
Sam Lloyd, November 12, 1963 – April 30, 2020 Best known for his role as hapless hospital lawyer Ted on 'Scrubs', Lloyd passed away aged 56 after losing his battle with lung cancer. 'Rest in peace to one of the funniest actors I’ve ever had the joy of working with,' wrote his 'Scrubs' co-star Zach Braff. 'He could not have been a kinder man. I will forever cherish the time I had with you, Sammy.' Getty Images -
MAY: Roy Horn, October 3, 1944 – May 8, 2020 The illusionist and one half of celebrated duo Siegfried & Roy died aged 75 due to complications from Covid-19. In 2003, Horn was involved in an incident when, during an act, his white tiger, Montecore, held him by the neck and dragged him offstage in a move Horn always maintained was an act of protection rather than attack. 'Today, the world has lost one of the greats of magic, but I have lost my best friend,' said his onstage partner, Siegfried Fischbacher. Supplied -
Little Richard, December 5, 1932 – May 9, 2020 The American musician, singer and songwriter, whose real name was Richard Wayne Penniman, died aged 87 from bone cancer. The 'Tutti Frutti' singer’s showmanship and unique vocals earned him the nickname 'the architect of rock and roll'. Getty Images -
Jerry Stiller, June 8, 1927 – May 11, 2020 The comedy actor, and father of actor and director Ben Stiller, died aged 92. Throughout his long career, he appeared in 'Seinfeld', 'The King of Queens' and opposite his son in 'Zoolander' as shady model agency head honcho, Maury Ballstein. 'He was a great dad and grandfather, and the most dedicated husband to Anne for about 62 years. He will be greatly missed. Love you Dad,' said his son, Ben. AFP -
Ibrahim Nasr, August 18, 1950 – May 12, 2020 The beloved Egyptian actor and comic died aged 70. As the host of 'Al Camera Al Khafiya' he kept audiences doubled over as he wandered the streets of Cairo bamboozling citizens in his disguise as neurotic elderly woman, Zakia Zakaria. But Nasr also showed formidable acting chops in 'Rafat El-Hagan', 'Shams Alzunatii' and 'Mr Karate'. YouTube -
Fred Willard, September 18, 1933 – May 15, 2020 The American comedy actor who was best known for starring in 'This is Spinal Tap', 'Everybody Loves Raymond', and 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy', died aged 86. A favourite of director Christopher Guest, he appeared in many of his celebrated mockumentaries including 'A Mighty Wind' and 'Best in Show'. AFP -
Mohit Baghel, June 7, 1993 – May 24, 2020 The Bollywood actor passed away from cancer at the age of 26. Best known for playing Amar Chaudhary in Salman Khan’s 'Ready', he also starred in 'Ekkees Toppon Ki Salaami' and 'Gali Gali Chor Hai'. Courtesy Wikibio -
Hassan Hosny, June 19, 1936 – May 30, 2020 The Egyptian actor and comedian died aged 88 after suffering a heart attack. With an acting career that spanned more than 50 years and almost 500 films, he was often referred to as the 'joker of Egyptian cinema'. 'He loves what he does and he is always supportive of young talent,' Rami Tamish, managing director of XMovies, told 'The National'. 'He wants to see everyone succeed.' EPA -
JUNE: Basu Chatterjee, January 10, 1927 – June 4, 2020 The Indian filmmaker and screenwriter passed away in Mumbai at the age of 93. Throughout the '70s and '80s he pioneered middle-of-the-road cinema, which dealt with light-hearted stories that focused on love, marriage and relationships, such as 'Ek Ruka Hua Faisla' and 'Kamla Ki Maut'. Throughout his career he was the recipient of numerous National Film Awards and Filmfare accolades, as well as being awarded the IIFA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. Courtesy Wikipedia -
Sushant Singh Rajput, January 21, 1986 – June 14, 2020 The hugely successful Bollywood star died aged 34. After dropping out of college, where he had been studying engineering, Rajput went on to star in the hits 'M.S Dhoni', 'Kedarnath' and 'Chhichhore'. AFP -
Dame Vera Lynn, March 20, 1917 – June 18, 2020 Britain’s 'Force’s Sweetheart' died aged 103. The English singer, songwriter and entertainer became a symbol for British military forces during the Second World War, thanks to her renditions of patriotic songs, including 'We'll Meet Again', '(There'll Be Bluebirds Over) The White Cliffs of Dover', 'A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square' and 'There'll Always Be an England'. She continued with her charity work throughout her life, and in 2000 was named the Briton who best exemplified the spirit of the 20th century. Getty Images -
Ian Holm, September 12, 1931 – June 19, 2020 The 'Lord of the Rings' actor died from an illness related to Parkinson's disease at the age of 88. Awarded a CBE in 1989, among his many accolades, the star of stage and screen won a Tony for his performance as Lenny in 'The Homecoming', a Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor for playing the title role in 'King Lear' and was Oscar-nominated for his role of athletics trainer Sam Mussabini in 'Chariots of Fire'. Getty Images -
Joel Schumacher, August 29, 1939 – June 22, 2020 The Hollywood director died aged 80 after a year-long battle with cancer. Famous for helming 'The Lost Boys', 'Falling Down' and 'The Phantom of the Opera', British actress Minnie Driver paid tribute to him, writing: 'Joel Schumacher was the funniest, chicest most hilarious director I ever worked with.' EPA -
Milton Glaser, June 26, 1929 – June 26, 2020 The ground-breaking graphic designer, who died aged 91, will be fondly remembered for adorning Bob Dylan’s silhouette with psychedelic hair, and for creating the 'I (HEART) NY' logo. Alamy -
Carl Reiner, March 20, 1922 – June 29, 2020 The American actor, who had many strings to his bow as director, screenwriter and author, died aged 98. The New York native enjoyed a seven-decade career and was the creator, producer, writer and actor on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show'. Joining George Clooney and Brad Pitt in the 'Ocean’s Eleven' remake, throughout his career he won 11 Emmys, one Grammy and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1999. Getty Images -
JULY: Saroj Khan, November 22, 1948 – July 3, 2020 The renowned Bollywood choreographer passed away in Mumbai at the age of 71. With a career that spanned four decades, during which she choreographed more than 3,000 song and dance numbers, she is renowned as the first female choreographer in Bollywood. While her resume is too long to list, 'Ek Do Teen', 'Humko Aajkal Hai Intezaar' and 'Dhak Dhak Karne Laga' remain standouts. AFP -
Ragaa Al Geddawy, September 6, 1934 - July 5, 2020 The Egyptian actress died aged 81 from complications due to Covid-19. Enjoying a six-decade career, Al Geddawy won the Miss Egypt beauty pageant in 1958, which saw her transition effortlessly to the big screen, making her debut in 1959’s 'Dua Al Karawan'. Other notable works include 'Letani Ma Araft Al Hob', 'Fi Alhayat Hob Akhar' and 'Al Wad Sayed Al Shaghal'. EPA -
Nick Cordero, September 17, 1978 – July 5, 2020 The Canadian Broadway star died following complications from Covid-19 at the age of 41. Twice-nominated for a Tony Award, he also appeared in film and television. He left behind wife Amanda Kloots and a young son, Elvis Eduardo. EPA -
Ennio Morricone, November 10, 1928 – July 6, 2020 Passing away at the age of 91, the Oscar-winning Italian composer’s work lives on in perpetuity. He composed the theme to ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ and the soundtracks for classic Hollywood gangster films such as ‘The Untouchables’ and ‘Once Upon A Time In America.’ Reuters -
Jagdeep, March 29, 1939 – July 8, 2020 Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jaffrey, better known by his stage name Jagdeep, was an Indian film actor and comedian who appeared in more than 400 films. Starting his career as a child actor in 'Afsana', it was a trio of films, 'Bhabhi', 'Barkha' and 'Bindaya', which launched him as a leading man, while 'Brahmachari' established his comedy chops. He died aged 81 at his home in Mumbai. Supplied -
Naya Rivera, January 12, 1987 – July 8, 2020 The 'Glee' actress died while boating on a lake with her 4-year-old son, Josey Dorsey. It is believed her final act was to save her son, by pushing him up into the boat. The 33-year-old’s career began as a child model and actress, and she won a Sag Award, as well as two Grammy nominations throughout her career. AFP -
Jack Charlton, May 8 1935 – July 10 2020 English footballer and manager John 'Jack' Charlton died aged 85 after a battle with both lymphoma and dementia. Part of the England football team that won the 1966 World Cup, he also managed the Republic of Ireland national team from 1986 to 1996, achieving two World Cups and one European Championship appearances. He was knighted in 1994 for his contributions to football. Getty Images -
Kelly Preston, October 13, 1962 – July 12, 2020 The 'Jerry Maguire' actress and wife of John Travolta passed away at the age of 57 following a two-year battle with breast cancer. 'She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many,' said her husband in a tribute. AFP -
Regis Philbin, August 25, 1931 – July 24, 2020 The US television host died aged 88. Having moved into television after a stint in the US Navy, he was renowned for hosting 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire', the first season of 'America’s Got Talent' and morning chat show 'Live! With Regis and Kelly'. He holds the Guinness World Record for the most hours on US television. AFP -
Marwan Mahfouz, 1942 - July 25, 2020 The celebrated Lebanese singer died aged 78 due to complications from Covid-19. Winning his big break in 1965, after The Rahbani Brothers spotted his television debut on the talent show 'Hiwayat', and the duo signed him up to perform in their 1965 Baalbeck Festival musical stage production 'Dawaleeb Al Hawa'. It was in 1973 musical 'Sahriya' that Mahfouz came into his own as a performer. Courtesy YouTube -
Olivia de Havilland, July 1, 1916 – July 26, 2020 The 'Gone With the Wind' actress died aged 104. A celebrated Hollywood beauty, the Oscar-winning British-American star was as famous for her legendary feud with her actress sister, Joan Fontaine, as she was for her roles. Getty Images -
KumKum, April 22, 1934 – July 28, 2020 Born Zaibunnisa, Indian film star KumKum starred in around 115 films during her career. Best known for her roles in 'Mr. X in Bombay', 'Mother India' and 'Son of India', she passed away at the age of 86. Supplied -
Alan Parker, February 14, 1944 – July 31, 2020 ‘Fame’, ‘Bugsy Malone’, ‘Midnight Express’, ‘The Commitments’ and ‘Evita’ are just a few of the films the British director leaves as his legacy, after passing away aged 76. Reuters -
AUGUST: Adel Kazem, 1939 – August 1, 2020 The Iraqi playwright and screenwriter died aged 81. Dubbed 'the first man of Iraqi drama', he penned 'Al Toufan' ('The Flood'), 'Tammuz Yaqraa Al Naqouss' ('Tammuz Rings the Bell') and 'Al Ze’eb Wa Al Nisr' ('The Wolf and the Eagle'). YouTube -
Toni Mousa, 1954 – August 9, 2020 The prolific Syrian actor died aged 66 from complications due to Covid-19. Boasting a 35-year career, Mousa began working in small regional productions, with his imposing physicality earning him roles as enforcers, brooding fathers or enigmatic and wise figures. He racked up 35 roles in television dramas in the past five years alone. Twitter -
Sanaa Shafea, January 25, 1943 – August 12, 2020 The Egyptian actor and academic died aged 77, after appearing in almost 30 films and TV shows, including 'Omar bin Abdul Aziz', 'Haroun Al-Rasheed' and 'Bab Al-Khalq'. Later becoming the dean of the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Cairo, Egyptian Culture Minister Inas Abdel Dayem said Shafea he had 'formed a dramatic milestone in Egyptian theatrical performance'. Courtesy Elcinema.com -
Shwikar Ibrahim, November 4, 1938 – August 14, 2020 Discovered by Egyptian film director Fateen Abdul Wahab, Ibrahim was saved from a career of roles in mainly tragedies and drama to find her strength in comedy, performing across TV, cinema and theatre. She died aged 81. EPA -
Nishikant Kamat, June 17, 1970 – August 17, 2020 The director and actor died in Hyderabad following a battle with liver cirrhosis at the age of 50. Helming the likes of 'Dombivali Fast', 'Mumbai Meri Jaan' and 'Force', as an actor he is remembered for his roles in 'Daddy', 'Rocky Handsome' and 'Julie 2'. AFP -
Chadwick Boseman, November 29, 1976 – August 28, 2020 The actor, best known for playing King T’Challa in the Marvel universe, died at the age of 43, following a four-year-long battle with colon cancer. Keeping quiet about his diagnosis, Boseman will be remembered for his talent and charity work. Courtesy Marvel -
Lady Yvonne Sursock Cochrane, May 18, 1922 – August 31, 2020 One of Lebanon’s most prominent philanthropists and a defender of the country’s heritage, Lady Cochrane died aged 98 from injuries sustained in the Beirut explosion. Sursock Museum archive -
SEPTEMBER: Diana Rigg, July 20, 1938 – September 10, 2020 The British actress died from cancer aged 82. Awarded both a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) and a DBE (Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire), Rigg was best known for playing Emma Peel in British TV show 'The Avengers', James Bond’s wife in 'On Her Majesty’s Secret Service' and Olenna Tyrell in 'Game of Thrones'. Getty Images -
Terence Conran, October 4, 1931 – September 12, 2020 The British designer, retailer and restaurateur, who built a furniture empire around the world, founded The Design Museum in London and modernised the everyday lives of British people. He passed away aged 88. AFP -
Florent C Pereira, 1953 – September 14, 2020 The Tamil actor died in Chennai at the age of 67. Having made his debut in 2003’s 'Pudhiya Geethai', he found fame with the hit 'Kayal' and went on to act in many movies, including 'Dharmadurai', 'VIP 2', 'Raja Manthiri' and 'Thodari'. Courtesy Wikipedia -
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, March 15, 1933 – September 18, 2020 The Supreme Court justice and women's rights pioneer died aged 87 after battling pancreatic cancer. Earning the nickname 'The Notorious RBG' for her measured yet passionate dissents in many cases while serving on the US Supreme Court, her early life was immortalised in the film in 2018’s 'On the Basis of Sex'. AFP -
SP Balasubrahmanyam, June 4, 1946 – September 25, 2020 The renowned Indian actor and singer died aged 74 following complications due to Covid-19. Having sang some of Indian cinema’s best-known songs, he performed in 16 languages and is a Guinness World Record holder for producing more than 40,000 songs over 50 years. Getty Images -
Riyad Al Rayyis, 1937 – September 26, 2020 The Syrian journalist died aged 83 from Covid-19 complications. Starting his career as editor of the 'Arab Review', he is credited with developing the magazine from a small-time publication to one that featured graduate students, academics, writers and intellectuals from around the world. Moving to London in 1977, he established 'Al Manar', the first Arabic newspaper to be published in Europe and, in 1986, created the Riyad Al Rayyis Publishing Company. Alberto Miguel Fernandez / Twitter -
Kenzo Takada, February 27, 1939 – October 4, 2020 The French-Japanese fashion designer famed for his jungle-infused designs and free-spirited aesthetic died aged 81 after battling Covid-19. Shutterstock -
OCTOBER: Johnny Nash, August 19, 1940 – October 6, 2020 The American singer-songwriter, best known for his upbeat 1972 hit 'I Can See Clearly Now,' died aged 80. Starting out as a reggae and pop singer, Nash was one of the first non-Jamaican artists to record reggae music in Kingston. He would go on to befriend Bob Marley and help launch his career. Getty Images -
Eddie Van Halen, January 26, 1955 – October 6, 2020 Regarded as one of the greatest guitar players of all time, the co-founder of world-famous rock band Van Halen died aged 65 after a decade-long battle with throat cancer. In 2007, Van Halen were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Getty Images -
Mohammad Reza Shajarian, September 23, 1940 – October 8, 2020 Considered one of the greatest Iranian artists of all time, his distinctive voice quavered to traditional Persian music on state radio for years. He died aged 80 in Tehran. AFP -
Conchata Ferrell, March 28, 1943 – October 12, 2020 The actress, famous for playing housekeeper Berta in US sitcom 'Two and a Half Men', died following a heart attack aged 77. Having begun her career off-Broadway, she made her mark on the big screen in films including 'Edward Scissorhands', 'Erin Brockovich' and 'True Romance'. AFP -
Mahmoud Yassin, June 2, 1941 – October 14, 2020 Egyptian cinema lost a great this year after star of both the big and small screen, Mahmoud Yassin, died aged 79, having battled Alzheimer’s for eight years. Considered a pillar of Egypt’s film industry, throughout his lauded career he worked alongside greats such as Faten Hamama, Shadia and Soad Hosni. With more than 150 films to his name, his acting range saw him play romantic leads as easily as hard-hitting dramas. AFP -
Jose Padilla, December 4, 1955 – October 18, 2020 The Spanish DJ and producer died in Ibiza, Spain at the age of 64 after a battle with colon cancer. Known for the ambient sound he helped pioneer, and which helped put Ibiza, and in particular Cafe Del Mar, on the map, he would later be nominated for a Latin Grammy and toured the world DJing up until his death. Shutterstock -
Mohamed Melehi, November 12, 1936 – October 28, 2020 The Moroccan artist dubbed 'the king of colour' died in Paris aged 84 from Covid-19. Famously associated with the Casablanca School - a Modernist art movement active in 1960s Morocco – Melehi studied in Seville, Rome, Paris and New York. Before he began creating his celebrated wave-form artworks, he painted abstractions of sharply defined geometric forms called 'hard-edge'. Courtesy H Chergui -
Nobby Stiles, May 18, 1942 – October 30, 2020 The member of England’s World Cup-winning side of 1966 died aged 78. He played for England for five years, winning 28 caps and scoring one goal. He is best remembered by football fans for effectively locking talented Portugal player Eusebio out of the game during the 1966 World Cup semis, and for his post-match celebration following England’s 4-2 victory over West Germany, in which he held the trophy in one hand and his false teeth in the other. Getty Images -
Sean Connery August 25, 1930 – October 31, 2020 The Scottish actor enjoyed a career that spanned five decades, and became synonymous with his most famous role of 007, James Bond. Passing away aged 90, the Oscar winner is also remembered for his turn as Henry Jones Senior in 'Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade'. Getty Images -
NOVEMBER: John Sessions, January 11, 1953 – November 2, 2020 The British actor and comedian died aged 67 after suffering a heart attack. Known for his voice work in the original line-up of British satirical puppet show 'Spitting Image', he was also a staple on improv show 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?' and pop culture and political quiz, 'Have I Got News For You'. On the big screen, fans will remember his appearances in 'Made In Dagenham', 'The Iron Lady', 'Gangs of New York' and 'Mr Holmes'. Getty Images -
Geoffrey Palmer, June 4, 1927 – November 5, 2020 The British actor died aged 93. A staple on British television for decades, he was known to international audiences thanks to turns in 'A Fish Called Wanda', 'The Madness of King George' and 'Tomorrow Never Dies'. In 2004 he was awarded an OBE for services to drama. AFP -
Alex Trebek, July 22, 1940 – November 8, 2020 The Canadian-American host of long-running US TV quiz show 'Jeopardy!' died aged 80 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. AFP -
Mohammad Al Gurg, 1936 – November 8, 2020 The Emirati author and literary scholar was praised by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chair of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, as a 'national treasure'. A columnist, poet and critic, he was intrinsic in ensuring the UAE’s cultural events sector bloomed. 'We lost today a traveling encyclopaedia,' said Jamal Bin Huwaireb, the secretary general of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award. Supplied -
Said Al Kafrawi, 1942 – November 14, 2020 Egyptian writer Kafrawi died aged 81, with Saudi author and poet Ahmed Boqari describing him in a tribute as a 'giant of the Egyptian short story'. Writing about every day Egyptian life, his 1975 novel 'Karnak Cafe' earned him great acclaim, with his work translated into English, French, German and Danish. Twitter -
Soumitra Chatterjee, January 19, 1935 – November 15, 2020 The Indian film star died aged 85 due to complications caused by Covid-19. He appeared in more than 300 films, and was also a playwright and poet. Best known for films such as 'Ghare Baire', 'Aranyer Din Ratri' and 'Saat Pake Bandha', he also received France’s Legion of Honour in 2018. AFP -
Diego Maradona, October 30, 1960 – November 25, 2020 The global world of football was shocked when one of the greatest players of all time died aged 60. Nicknamed 'El Pibe de Oro' ('The Golden Boy'), his skills took Argentina to World Cup victory in 1986. He played for Barcelona, Napoli and Sevilla, and spent time in the UAE coaching both Al Wasl and Fujairah. AFP -
David Proswe, July 1, 1935 – November 28, 2020 The English bodybuilder turned actor died aged 85 from Covid-19 complications. Although he appeared in numerous TV shows and films, it is his turn as the evil galactic overlord Darth Vadar, in the original three 'Star Wars' films, for which he will be remembered. Getty Images -
DECEMBER: Barbara Windsor, August 6, 1937 – December 10, 2020 The British actress died aged 83 following a prolonged battle with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Best known for her longstanding role as landlady Peggy Mitchell in the British soap ‘EastEnders’, she shot to fame in the ‘Carry On’ films throughout the '60s and '70s. Reuters -
John le Carre, October 19, 1931 – December 12, 2020 The British author died aged 89 from pneumonia, leaving behind an enduring literary legacy. Considered one of the masters of the spy genre, le Carre’s former career in espionage, working for Britain’s MI5 and MI6 intelligent services, served him well when it came to immersing his millions of readers in the world of spying and tradecraft. Among his novels, ‘The Spy Who Came in from the Cold’ and ‘Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy’ remain standouts. AP -
Stella Tennant, December 17, 1970 – December 22, 2020 The British model, who became one of the offbeat faces of the '90s during the rise of the aristocratic model, died at home just days after her 50th birthday. A muse of Chanel's Karl Lagerfeld, she worked with Helmut Lang, Marc Jacobs, Alexander McQueen, Gianni Versace and Valentino. After quitting the catwalk, she started a pottery and homeware company with her sister. AFP
Nasrin Sotoudeh
The prominent human rights lawyer, who has dedicated her life to defending civil liberties in Iran, is currently serving a 38-year sentence for protesting the country’s discriminatory laws against women. The 57-year-old has conducted several hunger strikes to draw attention to the plight of political prisoners and earlier this year she was made a Right Livelihood Laureate in recognition of her "fearless activism, at great personal risk, to promote political freedoms and human rights in Iran."
Jacinda Ardern
Seen as a feminist icon after becoming the country’s youngest leader in 150 years and New Zealand’s first elected head of government to be pregnant in office, Ms Ardern has pursued a political strategy that foregrounds kindness and cooperation, prioritising minority rights and gender equality.
Bernadine Evaristo
The Booker-prize-winning novelist, whose novel Girl, Woman, Other also scooped fiction book of the year at the British Book awards in June is a longstanding campaigner for inclusivity in the arts. Co-founder of Britain's first black theatre company in the 1980s, she has pioneered several platforms to support writers of colour, including The Complete Works mentoring programme, the Brunel International African Poetry Prize and Spread the Word literature development agency.
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Visitors watch the opening show of the Castle of Magical Dreams at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, following the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Hong Kong, China. REUTERS -
A health worker takes a sample to test for COVID-19 at a market area in New Delhi, India. India’s total number of coronavirus cases since the pandemic began has crossed 9 million. Nevertheless the country’s new daily cases have seen a steady decline for weeks now and the total number of cases represents 0.6% of India’s 1.3 billion population. AP Photo -
A woman, accompanied by a child, looks over as an airline crew wearing full personal protective equipment against COVID-19 walks through the international terminal at Los Angeles International Airport in Los Angeles. AP Photo -
A member of the French Red Cross presents an antigen test at a mobile Covid-19 screening site, in Saint-Gilles, southeastern France. AFP -
U.S. Vice President Mike Pence takes off his protective face mask to speak as he leads a briefing by the White House coronavirus task force about the U.S. spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the Brady press briefing room at the White House in Washington, U.S. REUTERS -
A nurse’s shoes are seen in the COVID-19 intensive care unit, as the global outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues, at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank, California, U.S. REUTERS -
Men dressed in protective suits stand around the coffin of Kenyan doctor Daniel Alushula who died of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), during his funeral in the village of Khumusalaba, in Kakamega county, Kenya. REUTERS -
Chaplain Kevin Deegan prays for COVID-19 patient Pedro Basulto while on a video call with the patient's daughter, Grace, at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in the Mission Hills section of Los Angeles. "These video calls have been a lifeline for families," said Deegan. "It can be emotionally exhausting and very draining, but it also an honor to be a bridge for the family." AP Photo -
Health workers and relatives stand by the funeral pyre of a COVID-19 victim in New Delhi, India. India’s total number of coronavirus cases since the pandemic began has crossed 9 million. Nevertheless, the country’s new daily cases have seen a steady decline for weeks now and the total number of cases represents 0.6% of India’s 1.3 billion population. AP Photo -
Pedestrians wearing protective masks cross a road in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo raised its Covid-19 alert to the highest of four levels, as daily infections in the Japanese capital increased by more than 500 for the first time amid a resurgence of the pathogen across the country. Bloomberg -
A health worker collects a sample for a COVID-19 test from a baby who arrived on a flight from Mexico at the Jose Marti International Airport in Havana, Cuba. The airport received its first commercial flights in over 8 months since the country locked down to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. AP Photo
Pamela Zeinoun
In the wake of the Beirut blast on August 4, the Lebanese nurse rescued three newborns from the debris and carried them to safety after the hospital she worked at was destroyed. The impact of the explosion on August 4 flung her out of the room and into the adjacent neonatal intensive care unit. Amid the confusion, she managed to pull the babies to safety and carry them to another hospital five kilometres away. "I would not have been able to stand the situation had I lost any of them. During all this, my main concern was to keep them breathing and unharmed,” she said.
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi
The Sharjah royal became the first Arab woman appointed president of the International Publishers Association this year and will assume the role in January 2021. Throughout her career, she has championed the region's publishing industry, founding the UAE’s first Arabic children's publisher Kalimat Group and serving as founder and president of the Emirates Publishers Association. She also headed up the Advisory Committee that steered Sharjah's tenure as the Unesco World Book Capital 2019.
Stacey Abrams
President-elect Joe Biden’s victory owes much to the efforts of politician, lawyer and voting rights activist Stacey Abrams, who rallied support in Georgia, turning the former Republican stronghold into a win for the Democrat campaign.
Her efforts came on the back of the years dedicated to expanding the electorate and boosting voter turnout in the state, where she narrowly lost the race for governor in 2018 in an election marred by allegations of voter suppression against Republican candidate Brian Kemp, who won by 55,000 votes.
Nadine Kaadan
Conjuring up memories of a sun-soaked city where the air smelt of flowers and courtyard houses lined the street, Ms Kaadan's book The Jasmine Sneeze captures the character and culture of Damascus for young readers in the years before the war.
The Syrian writer and illustrator has fond memories of her upbringing in Syria’s capital before moving to London, where she received the Arab British Centre's Award For Culture in recognition of her work building bridges between Anglophone families and the Arab world.
Vanessa Nakate
Speaking up for those most affected by climate change, the Ugandan activist has become a powerful voice for progress, demanding climate justice and holding governments to account for their environmental impact.
During a speech at the Desmond Tutu International Peace Lecture in October 2020, the 24-year-old called on world leaders to "wake up" and recognise the poverty, hunger, disease, conflict and gender violence that can be linked to climate change.
Her organisation Rise Up Climate Movement amplifies the voices of climate activists in Africa, where she was the first Fridays for Future campaigner, staging sit ins outside the Ugandan parliament, inspired by Greta Thunberg.
