Famous people and celebrities who died in May 2005
This page is dedicated to commemorating the celebrities and famous people who passed away in May 2005. This month marked the loss of influential and beloved figures whose contributions spanned various fields and touched many lives. Explore our detailed list to remember and celebrate their enduring legacies and the remarkable impact they had on the world
- May 2 Wee Kim Wee
Singaporean journalist and politician, 4th president of singapore (b. 1915)
- May 4 David Hackworth
Highly decorated U.S. Army officer, military journalist, and critic who became known for his outspoken views on military strategy and leadership.
- May 5 Elisabeth Fraser
American television, film and stage actress (born 1920).
- May 7 Tristan Egolf
American author and activist who wrote novels and was known for his social engagement before his early death in 2005.
- May 7 Peter Rodino
American captain and politician (b. 1909)
- May 8 Jean Carrière
French author who was active in the mid-20th century, known for his literary contributions.
- May 8 Nicolas Vuyovich
Argentine racing driver (born 1981)
- May 10 David Wayne
American actor known for notable roles in films like 'The Andromeda Strain' and 'Adam's Rib', with a significant career in Hollywood.
- May 11 Michalis Genitsaris
Prominent Greek rebetiko singer and composer who significantly contributed to traditional Greek music during the mid-20th century.
- May 12 Monica Zetterlund
Renowned Swedish jazz singer and actress known for her distinctive interpretative style and international performances. She was a significant cultural figure in Scandinavian entertainment during the mid-20th century.
- May 12 Martin Lings
Renowned English scholar, author, and academic specializing in Islamic studies and biography, particularly known for his work on the life of Prophet Muhammad.
- May 12 Ömer Kavur
Turkish director, producer, and screenwriter (b. 1944)
- May 13 Eddie Barclay
Influential French music producer who founded Barclay Records and worked with legendary artists like Charles Aznavour, Dalida, and Jacques Brel, significantly shaping the French music industry in the 20th century.
- May 13 George Dantzig
American mathematician and academic (b. 1914)
- May 14 Jimmy Martin
American musician (b. 1927)
- May 17 Frank Gorshin
Frank Gorshin was a renowned American actor famous for his comedic impressions and his iconic role as The Riddler in the 1960s Batman TV series. He was a versatile performer who excelled in comedy, dramatic roles, and stand-up comedy.
- May 20 Paul Ricœur
Prominent French philosopher and academic known for his work in hermeneutics and phenomenology.
- May 21 Deborah Berger
American outsider artist (b. 1956)
- May 22 Thurl Ravenscroft
Legendary voice actor known for iconic roles like Tony the Tiger and the voice of the Grinch song in 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'. A Disney Legend recognized in 1995 for his distinctive voice work across multiple media platforms.
- May 24 Arthur Haulot
Belgian poet, journalist, and resistance fighter who made significant contributions to literature and social activism.
- May 25 Ismail Merchant
Renowned Indian-born film producer who co-founded Merchant Ivory Productions, creating critically acclaimed films that bridged Western and Indian cinema.
- May 25 Sunil Dutt
Sunil Dutt was a prominent Bollywood actor and politician who made significant contributions to Indian cinema and public service during his lifetime.
- May 26 Eddie Albert
Eddie Albert was a renowned American actor and performer, best known for his starring role in the popular sitcom Green Acres and as a versatile actor in film and television.
- May 29 George Rochberg
American composer from Paterson, New Jersey, known for his work with the Concord Quartet and significant contributions to contemporary classical music.
- May 29 Hamilton Naki
South african medical assistant (born in 1926)
- May 30 Gérald Leblanc
Acadian poet (b. 1945)