Chen Gang obit

Chinese Composer Chen Gang has Died, Aged 91 

Gang was best known internationally as the co-composer of the famous “Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto” 

He was not on the list.

Born in 1935, the renowned Chinese composer Chen Gang was a longtime professor at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music and best known as the co-creator of the Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto, which remains one of the most frequently performed Chinese works for violin and a Western-style orchestra.

Chen first studied music with his father, the songwriter Chen Gexin, and at the age of 10 began studying piano with a Hungarian pianist in Shanghai.

From 1955 to 1959, he studied composition at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music with Ding Shande, Sang Tong, and Soviet music experts, before staying on to teach as a professor himself after graduating. His later students included the acclaimed Chinese-American composer Jing Jing Luo.

In May 1959 at age 24, Chen partnered with his classmate He Zhanhao to write the Butterfly Lovers’ Violin Concerto, which premiered under the direction of Yu Lina, and went on to become a career highlight.

or over 60 years, The Butterfly Lovers concerto has remained one of the most recognized symbolic representations of Chinese music with its unique blend of folk opera melodies with the Western symphonic structure. The concerto went on to earn five Golden Record prizes and a Platinum Record honor.

In a 2021 interview, Chen reflected on the years since creating The Butterfly Lovers, saying that the work was a “coming-of-age” piece from his student days under a very creative environment.

“It has indeed become a classic, a product of that unique era and its specific creative environment; not a single note has been altered since it was first written,” Chen says in the interview. “Amidst the contemporary call for ‘nationalization,’ this subject matter — which was the least reflective of ‘reality’ and the least aligned with ‘politics’ — was nonetheless selected by Meng Bo, then Party Secretary of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. This choice gave rise to a Chinese symphonic work that fused the dramatic structure of the Western sonata form with the melodies and performance techniques of traditional Chinese opera.”

Chen’s other works that became staples of Chinese classical music include 1970s pieces such as Miaolin’s Morning, The Golden Steel Smelting Furnace, and Sunshine in Tashkurgan — a virtuosic solo violin work frequently performed across China today. In the 1980s, he penned another violin concerto, Wang Zhaojun.

Notably, he also composed China’s first harp concerto and its first oboe concerto, as well as symphonic poems, grand choruses, and chamber ensembles. Remaining an active composer until his passing, Chen had recently completed “Symphonic Overture: Blossoms” in 2025. His works are known for their blend of tradition with abundant contemporary compositional techniques.

Our condolences to Mr. Chen’s family, friends, students, and colleagues.

Hannah Rapp obit

Rapp, 26, dies after being hit by car while cycling

 

She was not on the list.

American boxer Hannah Rapp died on Saturday after being hit by a car while cycling in Texas.

Rapp, 26, was passed by a car which suddenly came to a stop then reversed into her, according to the Brazos County sheriff's office.

The driver has been arrested and charged with manslaughter.

Rapp challenged for the WBC women's featherweight championship in June, losing to Tiara Brown in Orlando, which left her with an 8-1-1 record.

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said in a statement: "She was an exceptional boxer, but above all, an invaluable member of our boxing family."

Brown called Rapp the "best dance partner I have ever faced as a pro" and said Rapp asked for her autograph in the lead-up to the fight.

"It filled my heart because we were getting ready for war, yet she was still asking for my autograph," said Brown. "We fought a great fight. It was my honor to share the ring with her."

Rapp, from Indiana, competed in athletics before transitioning to boxing. She turned professional in 2024 while maintaining a full-time job as a fire and life safety inspector.

Her promoter, Most Valuable Promotions, said in a statement: "Hannah made a lasting impression on everyone who had the opportunity to meet her.

"She was a gifted athlete, a valued member of the boxing community, and someone who was deeply respected by those around her.

"We are grateful to have shared a part of her journey and will honour her memory in the weeks ahead."

Tim Murphy obit

Tim Murphy, former Pittsburgh-area congressman, dies at 73

 He was not on the list.

Tim Murphy, a former Pittsburgh-area congressman, has died. He was 73 years old.

Murphy, a Republican, served as the U.S. representative for Pennsylvania's 18th congressional district from 2003 until his resignation in 2017. He also served in the Pennsylvania State Senate from 1996 until 2003.

The Republican Committee of Allegheny County shared the news of Murphy's death in a social media post on Sunday, adding that Murphy would be remembered as someone who served "with conviction and commitment."

Washington County Commissioner Nick Sherman, who served as Murphy's field director from 2003 to 2005, also issued a statement on Murphy's death.

"I was devastated to hear the completely unexpected news of Congressman Tim Murphy's passing. Twenty years ago, Tim was my boss. In the years since, he became a dear friend and one of my most influential political mentors.

"Tim was a true statesman who cared deeply about the people he represented. Whether you agreed with his policies or not, no one could deny his unwavering commitment to his constituents or the tireless work ethic he brought to public service every single day. He was one of the hardest-working people I've ever known."

The circumstances of Murphy's death were not immediately known.

The psychologist who served as the U.S. representative for Pennsylvania's 18th congressional district from 2003 until his resignation in 2017. The district included several suburbs south of Pittsburgh. A member of the Republican Party, he also represented the 37th Senate district in the Pennsylvania State Senate from 1996 to 2003. Murphy consistently carried the 18th district with at least 58% of the vote, including unopposed re-election bids in 2014 and 2016.

Edward Stourton obit

Broadcaster and journalist Edward Stourton dies aged 68

 

He was not on the list.

Broadcaster and journalist Edward Stourton, whose career spanned more than 40 years including a decade on Radio 4's Today, has died aged 68.

Stourton, who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014, died on Saturday surrounded by his family, the BBC announced in a statement.

The presenter's friend and former Today co-host James Naughtie praised Stourton's "generosity of spirit", adding he was "a journalist of enormous capability and experience".

Another former Today presenter, Evan Davis, said Stourton was "a very important figure for all of us on the daily news programmes on Radio 4".

"One of those people you're really glad to have around," Davis reflected. "All substance, minimum ego, deeply knowledgeable, totally reliable.

"And he was one of the nicest of colleagues as well. He'll be missed."

Presenter Mishal Husain described Stourton as "a true gentleman and a broadcaster of immense capacity and intellect", while Justin Webb remembered him as "funny, self-deprecating and unpompous".

In his 2023 memoir Confessions, Stourton revealed he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer nearly a decade earlier.

He had treatment but was later told it had become incurable and spread. Stourton continued to work until very recently.

Stourton's career began at ITN, where he helped launch Channel 4 News and became the programme's first Washington correspondent in the latter years of the Reagan presidency.

He joined the BBC as Paris correspondent in 1988, and after a period back at ITN as diplomatic editor, returned to present the One O'Clock News on BBC One.

His BBC work also included Panorama, Assignment, Correspondent, as well as a phone-in programme on Radio 4, Call Ed Stourton.

Stourton became a presenter of the flagship Today programme in 1999, where his immense experience as a foreign correspondent served him well while reporting from countries such as Lebanon and Afghanistan.

He was also one of the first correspondents to reach New York after the 9/11 terror attacks.

His departure from Today in 2008 was leaked to a newspaper before he had been told, upsetting Stourton and many of his colleagues.

But he remained at the BBC and went on to present several other news programmes, while remaining as a contributor to Today.

In recent years, as well as writing and presenting documentaries for Radio 4, Stourton fronted the network's religious affairs programme, Sunday, as well as regularly hosting The World At One and The World This Weekend.

Stourton was born in 1957 in Nigeria, where his father was working, and also spent time as a boy in Geneva. He was educated at Ampleforth College and read English Literature at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he was President of the Union.

His Catholic faith was an important part of his life and Stourton fronted documentaries including Absolute Truth, a four-part BBC Two series about the Catholic Church.

It was also reflected in his writing - among Stourton's many books was John Paul II: Man of History, a revelatory biography of the former Pope.

His last book, written to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence, was Made in America: the Dark History that Led to Donald Trump.

Paying tribute, Naughtie praised Stourton's "great integrity and humanity", adding that he "had a kind of infectious decency which lifted people up".

"He had a great effect on younger producers, who came away with enormous respect for the extent to which he tried to pass things on, and that he never patronised him,” Naughtie added.

"He was a man of wide cultural interests and experience and enthusiasm... His warm intelligence and wit were admired and enjoyed by generations with whom he worked.

"And as a friend, he was always a rock of support and kindness. His dignity and courage through his illness were an inspiration to everyone who knew him. He was, simply, much-loved."

The Today programme's current editor Rebecca Keating said she and colleagues referred to Stourton as the "Rolls Royce of broadcasting".

"His sharp mind and vast knowledge of the world brought to bear on any story with zero fuss," she wrote on X.

The BBC's interim news chief Jonathan Munro said it was "far too soon to lose Ed".

"I worked as his producer when he was ITN's diplomatic editor - unflappable then and ever after," he continued.

"Many years later, I was listening to his superb analysis of the new Pope for the BBC - another of his many areas of expertise. Not many broadcasters can present Today, BBC One's One O'clock News, The World at One and Sunday - but he did. He leaves a huge gap."

Today presenter Nick Robinson said Stourton "brought a ferocious intellect, boundless curiosity and a good deal of charm to all he did".

"He dealt with his cancer with resolution but without self pity," Robinson added. "He'll be badly missed."

Radio 4 controller Mohit Bakaya described Stourton as an "absolutely outstanding broadcaster", adding that he "brought intelligence, authority and an extraordinary hinterland to everything he did".

ITV's Julie Etchingham, who also presented Radio 4's Sunday programme, said she was "very sad to hear the news" of Stourton's death, remembering his "huge intellect and great heart".

Stourton, who had homes in south London and south-west France, is survived by his wife Fiona, who is a senior television producer, two sons, a daughter and a step-daughter.

Jim Gilstrap obit

TV’s “Good Times” theme singer, soul man Jim Gilstrap, dies

 

He was not on the list.

(July 19, 2026) He didn’t possess a household name, but his voice was a part of the lives of millions of people around the world. Today we mourn the passing of powerful singer Jim Gilstrap at age 79. His family announced his passing on social media this morning.

The Texas-born singer became one of the most dependable background vocalists of the 1970s, lending his smooth, expressive tenor to recordings by many of the era’s biggest stars. After serving in the military, Gilstrap began his professional career with the Doodletown Pipers and later joined Stevie Wonder’s celebrated backing group, Wonderlove. He appeared on the landmark albums Talking Book and Innervisions and memorably sang the opening lines of Wonder’s classic “You Are the Sunshine of My Life.” He also shared lead vocals on the familiar theme song from the television series Good Times.

Gilstrap briefly stepped into the solo spotlight in 1975 with the infectious doo wop-influenced “Swing Your Daddy.” Written and produced by Kenny Nolan, the song became a Top 10 R&B hit in the United States and reached the Top 5 in the United Kingdom. His debut album of the same name mixed polished soul, pop and the emerging sounds of disco, and was followed two years later by Love Talk.

Though he never again matched the commercial success of “Swing Your Daddy,” Gilstrap continued to shine behind the scenes, singing with artists ranging from Quincy Jones and George Duke to Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle and Bill Withers. He quietly became one of the voices of some of the greatest music releases of the past half century.

According to his family, Jim Gilstrap was the last surviving member of a family of ten siblings. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Gilstrap, his children, grandchildren, and extended family. May he rest in peace.

Duane Ward obit

Blue Jays’ icon Ward passes away at 62

 

He was not on the list.

TORONTO — Duane Ward, a two-time World Series champion and one of the most accomplished relievers in Toronto Blue Jays history, has died at 62.

The Blue Jays said Sunday that Ward died of natural causes in Toronto. He had arrived in the city Friday ahead of the team’s ceremony honouring its 1992 and 1993 championship teams but was absent from Saturday’s festivities at Rogers Centre.

“It is with profound sadness that the Toronto Blue Jays mourn the passing of pitcher Duane Ward, one of the most accomplished and beloved relievers in franchise history,” the Blue Jays said in a statement.

“Duane will be deeply missed by our fans, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family. Duane will always be a cherished part of the Blue Jays family, and we will be forever grateful for his contributions to our organization and to baseball in Canada.”

Ward ranks among the Blue Jays’ leaders in saves with 121 across his 452 games with the Jays from 1986 to 1995. His 45 saves in 1993 remain a single-season franchise record.

Longtime Blue Jays executive Paul Beeston, who helped build Toronto’s back-to-back championship teams, said he was stunned by the news.

“I immediately thought of all the good times we had together, and we did have a number of good times together,” Beeston said in a hallway behind the Rogers Centre press box, steps away from a framed photo of Ward on the mound.

“He was here when we were going well. Between him and Tom Henke, we only had to play seven-inning games.”

Beeston’s eyes watered as he highlighted Ward’s contributions to the Blue Jays and the game of baseball in Canada.

“He was the first guy who started the coaches clinic and player clinics across the country,” Beeston said. “He was committed to it. He loved Canada, he loved the Blue Jays.”

Ward was honoured with an induction into the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame in 2020.

The hard-throwing right-hander began his major-league career with Atlanta in 1986 after the Braves selected him in the first round of the 1982 MLB Draft out of Farmington, N.M.

The Blue Jays acquired Ward in July 1986 for pitcher Doyle Alexander. Ward would go on to spend the rest of his career in Toronto, forming a dominant bullpen tandem with Tom Henke before taking over as the club’s closer after Henke departed following the 1992 championship season.

Ward was the winning pitcher when Joe Carter hit his walk-off home run — immortalized with a statue unveiled Saturday — in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

“Whether setting the stage in the eighth inning or closing out wins, he will be remembered for the role he played in some of the greatest moments in Blue Jays history,” the Blue Jays said.

Ward missed the entire 1994 season with an arm injury and retired the following year after pitching in just four games during the 1995 season. He finished his career with a 3.28 earned-run average and a 32-37 record.

The Blue Jays honoured the reliever with a video tribute and a moment of silence before Sunday afternoon’s game against the Chicago White Sox.

“He was indomitable, and I thought he was one of those guys who would last forever because of all the things he did,” Beeston said. “The best way to describe him is that he was his own man. But it’s a tragic loss at a time when we’re having a celebration, and he was such a big part of it.”

Ward attended Farmington High School in Farmington, New Mexico, where he played baseball for the Scorpions. On the competitive amateur circuit he flourished in the American Amateur Baseball Congress leagues and starred in the Connie Mack World Series; his plaque hangs in the tournament's hall of fame at Ricketts Park in Farmington. Ward also helped lead the Scorpions basketball team to a 26–0 season and the state Class 4A championship in 1981–82.

The Atlanta Braves selected Ward in the first round, ninth overall, of the 1982 MLB draft, shortly after his senior season. He is tied with Jim Kremmel (1971) for the second-highest draft pick of players hailing from New Mexico, behind shortstop Alex Bregman, who was selected with the second pick in the first round of the 2015 MLB draft.

Primarily a starter during a four-season rise through the Braves' farm system — with stops in rookie ball and at Anderson, Durham, Greenville and Triple-A Richmond — Ward was converted to relief pitching by manager Chuck Tanner, who told him he saw "so much of Goose Gossage" in him. Ward made his major league debut with the Braves on April 12, 1986, pitching a scoreless eighth inning in a 4–3 road loss to the Houston Astros; the game matched his childhood idol, Nolan Ryan, against Braves starter Rick Mahler, with Ward's parents in attendance. After posting a 7.31 ERA in 16 innings, he was optioned to Triple-A Richmond in early June, and a month later, on July 6, the Braves traded the 22-year-old to the Toronto Blue Jays for veteran pitcher Doyle Alexander. Alexander was traded to the Detroit Tigers a year later in the deal that brought future Hall of Famer John Smoltz to Atlanta.

MLB statistics

Win–loss record          32–37

Earned run average     3.28

Strikeouts        679

Saves   121

Stats at Baseball Reference Edit this at Wikidata

Teams

Atlanta Braves (1986)

Toronto Blue Jays (1986–1995)

Career highlights and awards

All-Star (1993)

2× World Series champion (1992, 1993)

AL saves leader (1993)

Member of the Canadian

   Baseball Hall of Fame  

Induction         2020

Terence Donovan obit

Australian Acting Legend Terence Donovan Passes Away at 90

 

He was not on the list.

Beloved Australian actor Terence Donovan has passed away in Melbourne at the age of 90. Donovan, well-known for his roles in iconic television series including “Neighbours” and “Home and Away,” has left an indelible mark on the Australian entertainment industry.

The sad news was shared by his son, Jason Donovan, who is also an accomplished actor. Jason took to social media on Sunday to honor his father’s legacy, describing Terence as “larger than life” and a central figure in his family’s world. In his heartfelt tribute, Jason expressed both sorrow and a sense of celebration for a life well-lived.

“It is with great sadness but also a sense of celebration of a long full life that myself and my brother Paul announce our father Terence died peacefully last night here in Melbourne,” Jason wrote. He reflected on his father’s vibrant personality, noting, “Our dad was a huge character, larger than life.” The sentiment echoed the affection felt not only by his family but also by countless fans who cherished Donovan’s contributions to Australian television and film.

Jason also conveyed the comfort that he and his brother found in being by their father’s side during his final days, emphasizing the strong family bonds that defined their relationship. As fans, friends, and colleagues remember Terence Donovan, they can look back at a career that spanned decades, filled with memorable performances and heartfelt connections.

Actor

We All Have Our Demons

Abbie's dad

Pre-productionShort

 

Neighbours (1985)

Neighbours

5.7

TV Series

Doug WillisOnlooker

1986–2022

571 episodes

 

Neighbours: Hey Piper

TV Series

Doug Willis

2015

 

House Husbands (2012)

House Husbands

6.8

TV Series

Doug

2013

2 episodes

 

Puppy (2005)

Puppy

5.9

Dr. Holden

2005

 

MDA (2002)

MDA

7.3

TV Series

Eric Savage

2003

2 episodes

 

Tushka Bergen and Marcus Graham in Horseplay (2003)

Horseplay

4.6

Mr. Perlman

2003

 

Signs of Life

Travis

2002

 

Lisa McCune in Blue Heelers (1994)

Blue Heelers

7.1

TV Series

Ian Waldron

1999

3 episodes

 

Heartbreak High (1994)

Heartbreak High

7.8

TV Series

Warwick

1999

2 episodes

 

Flair (1990)

Flair

7.6

TV Mini Series

Sergeant Doogan

1990

2 episodes

 

Home and Away (1988)

Home and Away

5.1

TV Series

Al Simpson

1990

24 episodes

 

Penny Cook, Lorrae Desmond, Grant Dodwell, Shane Porteous, Syd Heylen, Anne Tenney, Brian Wenzel, and Shane Withington in A Country Practice (1981)

A Country Practice

6.8

TV Series

Joe BaxterT. J. RileyHarry Taylor

1983–1989

6 episodes

 

Jigsaw (1989)

Jigsaw

4.8

Jack McClusky

1989

 

The Flying Doctors (1986)

The Flying Doctors

6.8

TV Series

Jim Cardaci (as Terry Donovan)

1989

1 episode

 

Michael Craig and Denise Roberts in G.P. (1989)

G.P.

7.4

TV Series

Darcy Watts

1989

1 episode

 

Jane Badler, Peter Graves, Antony Hamilton, Terry Markwell, Phil Morris, and Thaao Penghlis in Mission: Impossible (1988)

Mission: Impossible

7.5

TV Series

Senator Tom Oxenford

1989

1 episode

 

E Street (1989)

E Street

6.7

TV Series

Ken Swanson

1989

1 episode

 

Joe Wilson (1988)

Joe Wilson

5.7

TV Mini Series

Mr. Walls

1988

1 episode

 

The Fremantle Conspiracy (1988)

The Fremantle Conspiracy

8.9

TV Mini Series

1988

 

Australians (1988)

Australians

TV Mini Series

Old Errol

1988

1 episode

 

Running from the Guns (1987)

Running from the Guns

5.8

Bangles

1987

 

Emma's War (1987)

Emma's War

5.3

Frank Grange

1987

 

A Single Life

7.6

TV Movie

Chris

1986

 

Winners (1985)

Winners

7.6

TV Series

Peter Trig

1986

1 episode

 

Death of a Soldier (1986)

Death of a Soldier

5.8

John Curtin

1986

 

Sons and Daughters (1982)

Sons and Daughters

6.1

TV Series

Tom Chaplin

1985–1986

18 episodes

 

Rachel Ward, Anna Crawford, Sean Garlick, Robin Mason, Bradley Meehan, Rebecca Rigg, and Richard Terrill in Fortress (1985)

Fortress

7.0

Det Sgt Mitchell

1985

 

Maggie Kirkpatrick in Prisoner (1979)

Prisoner

8.2

TV Series

Bob Taylor

1985

6 episodes

 

The Winds of Jarrah (1983)

The Winds of Jarrah

6.3

Timber Marlow

1983

 

The Man from Snowy River (1982)

The Man from Snowy River

7.2

Henry Craig

1982

 

Night of Shadows

Short

Harry VinsonBlackie Webb

1982

 

Cop Shop (1977)

Cop Shop

7.1

TV Series

Sen. Det. Sgt. Vic CameronVic BishopGeorge Langdon

1978–1981

167 episodes

 

Strange Behavior (1981)

Strange Behavior

5.6

Mr. Brown (as Terry Donovan)

1981

 

Smash Palace (1981)

Smash Palace

7.0

Traffic Officer

1981

 

Edward Woodward in Breaker Morant (1980)

Breaker Morant

7.8

Cpt. Simon Hunt

1980

 

Money Movers (1978)

Money Movers

6.5

Eric Jackson

1978

 

Hotel Story

TV Series

1977–1978

6 episodes

 

Susannah Fowle, Sheila Helpmann, Barry Humphries, and John Waters in The Getting of Wisdom (1977)

The Getting of Wisdom

6.5

Tom McNamara

1977

 

Going Home

TV Movie

Miles Newton

1977

 

Bellbird (1967)

Bellbird

7.8

TV Series

Neil Farrar

1977

3 episodes

 

Sascha Hehn and Andrew Keir in The Outsiders (1976)

The Outsiders

8.7

TV Series

Stan Frazer

1977

1 episode

 

Martin Vaughan in Power Without Glory (1976)

Power Without Glory

8.6

TV Mini Series

Frank Lammence

1976

19 episodes

 

Paul Cronin in Solo One (1976)

Solo One

7.0

TV Series

Bill Morgan

1976

1 episode

 

Homicide (1964)

Homicide

7.7

TV Series

Peter MahoneyGreg AdamsGerald Stone

1968–1976

3 episodes

 

Tandarra (1976)

Tandarra

7.5

TV Mini Series

Sean Daly (as Terry Donovan)

1976

1 episode

 

Division 4 (1969)

Division 4

8.1

TV Series

Sen. Det. Mick PetersDet. Mick Peters

1969–1975

288 episodes

 

Alwyn Kurts in The Last of the Australians (1975)

The Last of the Australians

6.4

TV Series

Mr. Walker

1975

1 episode

 

Rush (1974)

Rush

8.4

TV Series

Doctor Kirby

1974

1 episode

 

This Love Affair

TV Series

Charley

1974

1 episode

 

Hunter (1967)

Hunter

8.3

TV Series

Peter GrantBiggsWade

1968–1969

3 episodes

 

Alexandra Bastedo, Stuart Damon, and William Gaunt in The Champions (1968)

The Champions

7.5

TV Series

Radio Operator (uncredited)

1968

1 episode

 

Oliver Reed, Mark Lester, Ron Moody, Shani Wallis, and Jack Wild in Oliver! (1968)

Oliver!

7.4

Policeman 'Consider Yourself' (uncredited)

1968

 

Patrick McGoohan and Angelo Muscat in The Prisoner (1967)

The Prisoner

8.4

TV Series

Sailor

1967

1 episode

 

Man in a Suitcase (1967)

Man in a Suitcase

7.6

TV Series

Brent

1967

1 episode

 

Bat Out of Hell (1966)

Bat Out of Hell

7.0

TV Mini Series

Sloane (uncredited)

1966

1 episode

 

Armchair Theatre (1956)

Armchair Theatre

7.7

TV Series

Carrier

1966

1 episode

 

John Gregson in Gideon C.I.D. (1964)

Gideon C.I.D.

8.2

TV Series

Police Officer (uncredited)

1966

1 episode

 

Object Z (1965)

Object Z

6.5

TV Series

Captain Wade

1965

3 episodes

 

Chicago in the Roaring 20's

TV Movie

(as Terence J. Donovan)

1965

 

Songs of the Wild West

TV Movie

(as Terence J. Donovan)

1965

 

Songs of the American Civil War

TV Movie

(as Terence J. Donovan)

1965

 

Thursday Theatre

5.4

TV Series

1st Newspaper boy (as Terence J. Donovan)

1965

1 episode

 

The Indian Tales of Rudyard Kipling (1963)

The Indian Tales of Rudyard Kipling

7.0

TV Series

Private Jenkins (as Terence J. Donovan)

1964

1 episode

 

Julie Samuel in It's a Woman's World (1964)

It's a Woman's World

TV Series

Jim

1964

1 episode

 

Zia Mohyeddin and Elizabeth Weaver in The Hidden Truth (1964)

The Hidden Truth

6.6

TV Series

Reporter

1964

1 episode

 

Nude with Violin (1964)

Nude with Violin

TV Movie

Clinton Preminger

1964

 

Consider Your Verdict (1961)

Consider Your Verdict

5.2

TV Series

Keith Upton

1961–1963

3 episodes

 

Writer

Division 4 (1969)

Division 4

8.1

TV Series

from an idea by

1970

1 episode

 

Soundtrack

Neighbours (1985)

Neighbours

5.7

TV Series

performer: "Ol' Man River"

1991

1 episode

 

Ernie Sigley in The Ernie Sigley Show (1974)

The Ernie Sigley Show

6.8

TV Series

performer: "Loose Ends" (as Terry Donovan)

1974

1 episode

 

Self

Money Movers: Roundtable Discussion (2022)

Money Movers: Roundtable Discussion

Video

Self - Actor

2022

 

Neighbours 30th: The Stars Reunite (2015)

Neighbours 30th: The Stars Reunite

4.7

TV Movie

Self

2015

 

Kaye Adams, Nadia Sawalha, Ruth Langsford, and Charlene White in Loose Women (1999)

Loose Women

2.1

TV Series

Self

2014

1 episode

 

Who Do You Think You Are? (2004)

Who Do You Think You Are?

8.0

TV Series

Self

2010

1 episode

 

Declan Donnelly and Anthony McPartlin in I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here! (2002)

I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!

5.9

TV Series

Self

2006

1 episode

 

Count Your Toes: The Making of 'Money Movers' (2004)

Count Your Toes: The Making of 'Money Movers'

Video

Self

2004

 

Rove McManus in Rove Live (2000)

Rove Live

6.4

TV Series

Self

2003

1 episode

 

Australian Story (1996)

Australian Story

7.7

TV Series

Self

2001

1 episode

 

Noel's House Party (1991)

Noel's House Party

6.3

TV Series

Self

1994

1 episode

 

Screenplay (1986)

Screenplay

6.5

TV Series

Self

1992

1 episode

 

The Great Picture Chase

TV Series

Self

1989

1 episode

 

Michael Parkinson in Parkinson in Australia (1979)

Parkinson in Australia

6.4

TV Series

Self

1982

1 episode

 

The Saturday Show (1978)

The Saturday Show

TV Series

Self

1982

1 episode

 

Peter Regan's Musical World

TV Special

Self

1979

 

Celebrity Squares (1975)

Celebrity Squares

TV Series

Self

1975

2 episodes

 

Ted Hamilton's Musical World

TV Series

Self

1974

1 episode

 

Ernie Sigley in The Ernie Sigley Show (1974)

The Ernie Sigley Show

6.8

TV Series

Self (as Terry Donovan)

1974

1 episode

 

Jeff Phillips and The Lido Dancers in Sounds Like Us (1969)

Sounds Like Us

TV Series

Self (as Terry Donovan)

1970

1 episode

 

Graham Kennedy in In Melbourne Tonight (1957)

In Melbourne Tonight

7.8

TV Series

Self

1969

2 episodes

 

Archive Footage

A Quick Trip Back to Crawfords in the early 70's

Video

Self (archive footage)

2013

 

South Australia: Ocean to Outback

Video

Self - Actor (archive footage)

2003

 

Peter O'Brien in Neighbours: A 10th Anniversary Celebration (1995)

Neighbours: A 10th Anniversary Celebration

8.4

Video

Self - Doug Willis (archive footage)

1995

 

Murder Most Horrid (1991)

Murder Most Horrid

7.2

TV Series

Acting Role (archive footage, uncredited)

1994

1 episode

 

The Olden Days (1993)

The Olden Days

8.7

TV Movie

Casting Agent (archive footage)

1993

 

Tony Thorpe obit

Muscian and celebrated guitarist Tony Thorpe has died

 

He was not on the list.

A celebrated guitarist and musician who found fame as a member of The Rubettes in the seventies has died.

Tony Thorpe was a regular on Top Of The Pops and the band had nine Top 40 singles including a number one, Sugar Baby Love.

After four years touring the world, guitarist Tony called it a day and left behind the music business to settle in Burnley and later retired to Poulton-le-Fylde.

He first became a journalist and then a tutor on the access to music course at Blackburn College.

Tony was 80 and was due to turn 81 this month.

An official announcement read: “It is with great sadness that we officially announce the passing of Anthony John Thorpe. He was a father to Clay, a husband to Shirle, a friend to many, and a mentor to countless musicians young and old.

“His recently failing health did little to diminish his fierce intellect and sharp sense of humour. He will leave an unfillable hole in the lives of all who knew him, or his music.

“Our love and thoughts go to his son Clayton.”

His autobiography released in Summer 2014. 'A Bride's Nightie' chronicled the tales from the road with the Rubettes, Firm and his session days.

An official biography reads: “Tony began playing the guitar and drums aged just eleven and turned pro at 16 after getting the gig with Wee Willie Harris.

“Previously, Tony had played with semi-pro bands such as the 'Royal Blue Dance Band' and the 'Carefrees' with whom three original songs were published and recorded including B-side 'We Love You Beatles.'

“More recently, Tony has played with the Vibratones, a small, three-piece, semi-pro group featuring guitarist Jordan Westwell and bassist Gregory Harper that was originally one of Tony's first musical ventures over 40 years ago.

“Besides being the guitarist and bandleader with Wee Willie Harris (other members of the group included Tony Crombie, Brian Gregg, Jeff Lawrence, Roger Sutton and Tony Bell), Tony also worked with the Coventry Theatre Orchestra accompanying the likes of Cilla Black, Jilly Tarbuck, Harry Seacome, Roy Castle and many, many more.

“Tony then went on to arrange and play for teen idol Tommy Steele, and later became guitarist, singer and writer with pop group The Rubettes.”

Tony's work is detailed on his official website which also includes a section on throughts.

One reads: "Genius may be 1 per cent inspiration and 99 per cent perspiration but without the inspiration, the rest is just pointless sweat."

Jennifer Finch obit

Jennifer Finch Dies: L7 Bassist Who Battled Brain Cancer Was 59

 

She was not on the list.

Jennifer Finch, the powerhouse bassist of L7 during the band’s creative peak in the 1990s, has died. That, according to her Instagram account. She was 59.

A social media post from the band today noted Finch waged “a long courageous fight with brain cancer.” Earlier this month, friends and family launched a GoFundMe page to help pay for “professional in-home nursing care, physical and speech therapy, medical equipment.” As of today, that fundraiser had raised $395,000 on its goal of $350,000.

A Rolling Stone profile of the band once described Finch as “an ill-behaved and untrained bassist who added instant verve to their live act” when she joined in 1986. She left in 1996 in order to get sober and deal with the death of her father. During her first run with the band Finch, who also contributed vocals, wrote the songs “(Right On) Thru”, “Everglade” and “Shirley.”

In 1994, Finch and bandmates Suzi Gardner (guitars, vocals), Donita Sparks (vocals, guitars) and Dee Plakas (drums, vocals) played a band called called Camel Lips in John Waters’ Serial Mom, performing the track “Gas Chamber,” which they co-wrote with Waters. Finch also had a small part in the 2017 film Scumbag.

She joined Gardner, Sparks, and Plakas in L7 again from 2014 to 2026.

Before L7, Finch was in Sugar Babydoll alongside Courtney Love and future Babes in Toyland founder Kat Bjelland.

The band issued a statement today praising “Jennifer Finch, whose fierce spirit, humor and boundless creativity helped shape L7 and changed all of our lives forever. Jennifer was a true original who lived entirely on her own terms, and the impact she made on music, art and everyone lucky enough to know her cannot be measured.”

The post to Finch’s personal Instagram account read, “We are devastated to announce the death of our partner, sister, daughter, and friend Jennifer Precious Finch. Jennifer’s impact on the world of music was seismic; her impact on our lives, even moreso. We appreciate everyone’s interest and concern, thank you for all the kind messages. We appreciate some space to heal privately during this difficult time.”

Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon obit

Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon Dies: ‘Palisades Park’ & ‘Tallahassee Lassie’ Rock & Roller Was 89

 

He was not on the list.

Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon, the early rock & roller who scored big, joyful radio hits with, among others, 1959’s “Tallahassee Lassie” and 1962’s “Palisades Park,” died yesterday, July 17, at a California hospice facility following a brief battle with cancer. He was 89.

His death was announced by Tom Cuddy, a longtime friend and iHeart Radio producer. Cuddy noted that Cannon’s children Conny Weber and Billy Cannon were with him in the days before his passing.

Cannon, who earned the nickname “Boom Boom” from the percussive power of his songs as well as the double entendre of his last name, took a spot in the post-Elvis/pre-Beatles rock & roll landscape through a string of hits and, perhaps more significantly, repeated appearances on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand musical variety series.

While Clark’s program introduced Cannon to TV audiences – at first when the show was produced locally in Philadelphia and later when it went national – the singer-guitarist would also appear on such music programs of the era as Shindig, Hullabaloo, Where the Action Is and, later, The Midnight Special.

“Freddy didn’t do ballads,” Cuddy said. “Dick Clark once told me that every time he hosted an oldies concert, he asked Freddy to open it, because he knew Freddy would get the audience on their feet with up-tempo rock and roll.”

In addition to “Tallahassee Lassie” (cowritten with The Four Seasons’ Bob Crewe) and “Palisades Park,” the latter remembered for its prominent use of circus calliope sounds as a recurring motif, Cannon’s other hits included “Way Down Yonder In New Orleans,” “Too Much Monkey Business,” “Action” (used as the theme song for Clark’s Where The Action Is series), “Transistor Sister” and “Abigail Beecher.”

Born Frederick Anthony Picariello Jr. on December 4, 1936, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Cannon lived in the state until his late teens, enjoying some musical success in the Boston area before he and his wife Jeanette moved to Philadelphia at the encouragement of TV host Clark, who had become aware of Cannon’s music through “Tallahassee Lassie.” Clark suggested Cannon re-edit and overdub the recording with the stronger bass drums that would become Cannon’s trademark sound and nickname inspiration.

Cannon is thought to hold the record for appearing on American Bandstand over the years, with estimates putting the number of his visits to over 100.

His visibility and chart success – he scored three Top 10 songs and 29 Top 100 – led to a fan base that would include such future superstars as Mick Jagger and Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant, who once told Cannon during a backstage visit that he and his Zeppelin bandmates loved “Tallahassee Lassie” so much they recorded a blues version of it (if true, the recording has never surfaced).

Jagger has said in interviews that “Tallahassee Lassie” inspired the Stones’ hit “Brown Sugar,” noting, “The groove is similar to Freddy’s song.” (The Stones recorded their own cover of “Tallahassee Lassie” in 1978, with the song surfacing as a bonus track on the band’s 2011 re-issue of Some Girls.)

Another fan was a young Stephen King, who mentioned Cannon in at least four of his books, most notably in the time-travel novel 11/22/63, in which “Palisades Park” features prominently.

Over a career that spanned 70 years, Cannon, a longtime resident of Oxnard, California, performed on bills with some of the top musical performers the early rock & roll era, including Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, Little Richard, Chubby Checker, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley, Connie Francis and Brenda Lee.

Cannon was working on music at his home in Oxnard right up to his death, Cuddy notes. He currently has a Top 20 song in the United Kingdom on the Heritage Charts with a number he recorded this year called “All She Wants To Do Is Dance.” The song is also in regular rotation on the Sirius XM 1960s channel.

Cannon’s songs have appeared in such films as George Clooney’s Confessions of a Dangerous Mind and 2011’s X-Men: First Class. The MeTV horror host Svengoolie has featured Cannon’s music and recently paid tribute to the singer with an airing of 1965’s Village of the Giants, which includes an acting performance by Cannon.

According to Cuddy, Cannon was scheduled to do what would have been his final interview on July 11 with longtime friend and NYC DJ Cousin Brucie Morrow, but was forced to cancel when he was hospitalized the day prior.

Cannon published his autobiography Where the Action Is (with Mark Bego) in 2011.

In addition to his children Conny and Billy, Cannon is survived by sister Mary Lou, son-in-law Jim, daughter-in-law Beth, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his son John, who died this past April 13, and wife Jeanette, who died in 2024.

Daughter Weber said in a statement, “We would like to thank everyone for their love and support throughout our dad’s life. He will be remembered as a rock and roll icon. His music will live forever in our hearts.”

Dom Taylor obit

Chef Dom Taylor Dies: Netflix’s ‘Five Star Chef’ Winner Was 44

 

He was not on the list.

Dom Taylor, the chef who won Netflix‘s Five Star Chef, has died. He was 44.

It was Taylor’s restaurant, The Good Front Room, that confirmed the “sudden passing” of the founder.

“Dom was a visionary whose bold, joyful approach to celebrating the Caribbean cuisine of his childhood brought a fresh and exciting voice to London’s restaurant scene,” read the statement on the website. “His passion, talent and generosity touched so many people, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him and experiencing his food.”

The statement continued, “He will be deeply missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone whose lives he touched during this incredibly difficult time. We kindly ask that everyone respects the privacy of Dom’s loved ones at this time.”

The restaurant noted that they would remain open to “honor Dom’s legacy and continue the work he was so passionate about.”

Chef Taylor won the sole season of Netflix’s 2023 culinary competition Five Star Chef with his family by his side, celebrating the moment.

Ravneet Gill, who was a judge on the competition series, said of Chef Taylor’s death, “He was instantly captivating from the moment he stepped in front of us. He had a real sparkle in his eyes. He was warm, kind and incredibly talented. Dom cooked from the heart, and you could taste it. He was on the brink of so many exciting things.”

Fellow judge Mike Reid also paid tribute to Chef Taylor after news of his death saying, “Dom Taylor was one of the good ones.”

“What he built with The Good Front Room wasn’t just a restaurant. It was his heritage on a plate,” Reid added. “He took Caribbean cuisine somewhere it had never been in this country, and he did it his way. He was warm, funny and completely unpretentious about his talent.”

Siva Afi obit

Siva Afi Passes Away

 He was not on the list.

Siva Afi’s family relayed the news.

It was confirmed by the family of former wrestler Siva Afi that Afi has passed away. The news was relayed by Book Pro Wrestlers, who wrote the following about Afi:

“We are saddened to learn that Siva Afi has passed away, as confirmed by his family.

From his memorable WWF run to his work as Burt Reynolds’ bodyguard and stuntman, Siva lived a remarkable life. More importantly, he earned the respect of those who shared a locker room with him—so many of the wrestlers we’ve spoken with over the years remembered him as a genuinely kind and well-liked man.

Rest in peace, Siva Afi. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. ❤️🙏”

Afi, real name Papali’itele Max Amata Taogaga, began his in-ring career in the 1970s. In 1985, he wrestled nearly 30 matches for New Japan Pro-Wrestling.

He would then make his way to WWF, where he wrestled from 1986 to 1988. The last match of Afi’s career was in 1997.

Fightful would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Siva Afi.