James Dean Killed in Car Crash
September 30, 1955
The 24-year-old actor James Dean is killed when his speeding Porsche crashes into another vehicle. He had recently filmed a public service announcement on the dangers of speeding stating, “The life you might save might be mine.”
Me and Bobby McGee
October 1, 1970
Janis Joplin finishes recording her only #1 hit, Me and Bobby McGee. She would die of a heroin overdose three days later at the age of 27. Some believe Joplin had been given heroin that was much more potent than normal, as several of her dealer’s other customers also overdosed that week.
Released after her death, it became the second posthumously-released song to reach #1 on the U.S. charts, after “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding.
Peanuts
October 2, 1950
Charles M. Schulz‘ comic strip featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and pals debuts. Its original run lasted until Schulz’ death in 2000, and then it continued with reruns. Peanuts also spawned several popular TV holiday specials. Snoopy made his first appearance in the third strip which appeared on October 4.