Source: en.onechicagocenter.com/By Jessica Cole
At 101 years old, an icon of television has left us. Two beloved stars, one from Friends and a former child actor, have sadly left us. Keep reading to find out more.
In 2023, we’ve witnessed the loss of actors, musicians, authors, and other renowned figures. Unfortunately, this list keeps getting longer and longer with young stars, like Adam Rich, gone too soon at the age of 54, or soap opera actor Billy Miller, who passed prematurely at 43…
Jerry Springer: 79 Years Old
In April 2023, we said goodbye to Jerry Springer, who bravely battled cancer but ultimately left us. His family shared the heart-wrenching news, stating, “He’s irreplaceable, and his absence is deeply painful.” The beloved talk-show icon passed away peacefully in his Chicago home. According to family spokesperson Jene Galvin, Jerry’s unique talent for connecting with people was at the core of his success, whether he was navigating politics, hosting broadcasts, or simply sharing a laugh with folks on the street who wanted a photo or a quick chat.
For a whopping 27 years, Jerry was the charismatic host of the wildly popular ‘The Jerry Springer Show,’ where he brought unforgettable and often uproarious moments to screens all across America.
Raquel Welch: 82 Years Old
The iconic actress and model became famous for her mesmerizing roles in movies like “One Million Years B.C.” and “Fantastic Voyage.” She was 82 when she left us. Raquel’s career spanned decades, from her 1960s blockbusters to more recent projects like “The Three Stooges” and “The A-Team.”
Her legacy as a beloved Hollywood icon is everlasting. Beyond her on-screen charm, Raquel was a staunch advocate for gender equality and a champion of healthy living. She leaves behind a son, Damon Welch, and her daughter, Latanne “Tahnee” Welch, who is also an accomplished actress.
Jane Birkin: 76 Years Old
In July 2023, we bid farewell to the legendary Jane Birkin, the English singer, actor, and ardent admirer of all things French. She was 76 years young when she left us. Despite battling health issues, including a minor stroke a few years ago, Jane never stopped making her mark in the world. In her later years, she delved into politically-charged tunes, earning herself an OBE in 2001 for her contributions to acting and fostering Anglo-French cultural ties.
But it was her fearless role in Michelangelo Antonioni’s 1966 masterpiece, “Blow-Up,” that catapulted her to stardom. Who could forget her sultry vocals in the daring 1969 duet with Serge Gainsbourg, “Je t’aime… moi non plus”? The song became a worldwide symbol of liberation, despite getting the BBC’s ban and the Vatican’s condemnation for its provocative nature. Jane and Gainsbourg’s creative partnership lasted until his passing in 1991, marking a six-decade-spanning singing career filled with passion and groundbreaking art.
Suzanne Somers: 76 Years Old
Actress Suzanne Somers departed from this world on October 15th, 2023, just a day short of her 77th birthday. The silver lining was that she had her loved ones by her side, gathered for what would have been a celebratory occasion.
Her passing followed a long and tough battle with cancer, a journey that had stirred controversy due to her unconventional views on the disease. Suzanne had ruffled some feathers with her advocacy for alternative science, with some labeling her endorsements of mistletoe extract and bioidentical hormone replacement theory as “quack science.” However, the actress, famous for her role in “Three’s Company,” remained unwavering in her beliefs.
Nick Benedict: 77 Years Old
The star from ‘All My Children’ and ‘Days of Our Lives’ sadly passed away at the age of 77 in Arizona. He faced complications after emergency spinal cord surgery that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Heartbreakingly, Benedict passed away on his birthday, as confirmed by an online obituary.
On July 15, a touching Facebook post popped up from a restaurant where his wife, Ginger, works. They also shared a GoFundMe link to help cover bills, food, and any medical costs that might come up during this tough period.
A lot of us will forever think of Benedict for his iconic stint as Phil Brent, the hubby of Susan Lucci’s beloved Erica Kane in ‘All My Children.’ He made his debut on our screens back in 1973, stepping into the role after Richard Hatch, and stayed with us until 1978. His outstanding acting in his last season even earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Daytime Drama Series in 1979. Benedict is survived by his loving wife, Ginger.
Tina Turner: 83 Years Old
Tina Turner, the iconic American-born singer, passed away at 83 on May 24, 2023. Coming from a tough upbringing in a farming town and conquering an abusive relationship, Turner’s path to fame shows just how tough she was. Her spokesperson let us know that she passed away peacefully at her place in Küsnacht, Switzerland, after battling illness for a while. Turner’s career kicked off in the 1950s and stretched across many decades and different music scenes.
From rock and roll’s early days to becoming a worldwide sensation during the MTV era, Turner’s impact on the music biz is off the charts. Her killer voice, electrifying shows, and timeless hits have etched an unforgettable chapter in music history. Her life and the legacy she’s leaving behind will keep on sparking inspiration for artists and music fans everywhere.
Sir Michael Gambon: 82 Years Old
The acclaimed actor Michael Gambon, best known for playing Albus Dumbledore in six of the eight “Harry Potter” movies, passed away at 82 due to pneumonia, as confirmed by a statement released by the PA Media news agency on behalf of his family. His wife, Lady Gambon, and son Fergus, shared that their “dear husband and father” passed away peacefully in the hospital with his family by his side.
Gambon had an impressive career that lasted for five decades, covering television, film, theater, and radio. Along this remarkable journey, he collected four Bafta awards and received knighthood in 1998 for his outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment.
Sinead O’Connor: 56 Years Old
Irish singer and activist Sinéad O’Connor passed away at 56 on July 26, 2023. Her family shared the heartbreaking news, describing her as “beloved” and expressing the profound devastation felt by her family and friends. They kindly requested privacy during this challenging period. While the cause of her death wasn’t immediately disclosed, she had openly discussed her battles with addiction, mental health, and suicidal thoughts on numerous occasions.
It’s worth noting that she had also tragically lost her 17-year-old son the previous year, about whom she wrote that he had “chosen to end his earthly struggle.”
O’Connor’s claim to fame was her 1990 hit single “Nothing Compares 2 U,” which topped the charts worldwide. Her music career also encompassed 10 studio albums. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar paid tribute to her, praising her music’s global appeal and her unparalleled talent. He hailed her as a “true icon” and lamented her passing as a “significant loss.”
Tom Sizemore: 61 Years Old
Sizemore grabbed headlines when he passed away at 61 due to a brain aneurysm. He was famous for collaborating with some of Hollywood’s top directors, including Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, and Oliver Stone. However, his life was marked by years of drug addiction and several legal issues, including a violent incident with his former fiancée, Heidi Fleiss. At the time of his passing, the late actor had an estimated net worth of $500,000.
Tom had an extensive career that encompassed over 200 film and television credits. He will always be remembered for his performances in iconic films like Saving Private Ryan, Black Hawk Down, and Heat.
Jimmy Buffet: 76 Years Old
Jimmy Buffet passed away on September 1, after a long battle with skin cancer. Buffet was a singer-songwriter known for popularizing tropical rock music. “Jimmy passed away peacefully …surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs,” said a statement on his website. “He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”
His hit song Margaritaville stayed for 22 days on the Billboard Hot 100 list and inspired generations of his fans—known as “Parrotheads”—to celebrate easy living. After hearing the news of his death, the Parrotheads paid tribute by flocking to Margaritaville restaurants that Buffet had opened and lifting their glasses in tribute to the beloved beach bum musician.
Burt Bacharach: 94 Years Old
Burt Bacharach, one of the greatest composers of Pop Music, died at 94 of natural causes. He was most famous for pinning I Say A Little Prayer, Walk On By and What The World Needs Now Is Love. Bacharach died at his home in Los Angeles.
He was known for his airborne melodies and sumptuous orchestral arrangements, and thanks to his immense talent, he scored 73 Top 40 hits in the US and 52 in the UK, working with artists including Dionne Warwick, Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Barbara Streisand, Tom Jones, Aretha Franklin and Elvis Costello.
Harry Belafonte: 96 Years Old
Belafonte is a Jamaican-American singer, actor, and social activist, born on March 1, 1927. He is widely known for popularizing Caribbean music and calypso in the 1950s, including hits such as “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” and “Jump in the Line.” He has also appeared in numerous films and television shows, including the landmark miniseries Roots.
Beyond his entertainment career, Belafonte has been a prominent advocate for social justice and civil rights. He worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and was a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement. He also served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1994.
Bob Barker: 99 Years Old
When you live to age 99, you must be doing something right. And when you become synonymous with classic American television, you really must be doing something right. Legendary host Bob Barker was, quite literally, always right – as the longtime host of staple show The Price is Right.
On August 26th, 2023, the longtime publicist of the man who spent over half a century on television announced, “It is with profound sadness that we announce that the World’s Greatest MC who ever lived, Bob Barker has left us.”
Lance Reddick: 60 Years Old
Lance Reddick was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1962 and grew up in a family of musicians. He attended the Eastman School of Music and Yale School of Drama before starting his acting career. Reddick is best known for his roles in popular TV series such as “The Wire,” “Fringe,” and “Bosch,” as well as in films such as “John Wick” and “White House Down.”
He has also lent his voice to several video games, including the “Destiny” franchise. Reddick has received critical acclaim for his performances and continues to work in the entertainment industry. It is reported that Lance died from natural causes aged 60. He passed away on March 17, 2023, at his home in Los Angeles
Matthew Perry: 54 Years Old
Unfortunately, we never intended to include this name in this sad list. Matthew Perry, the actor best known for his portrayal of Chandler Bing on the hit show Friends, was found dead at the age of 54 after apparent drowning in a Los Angeles residence. According to TMZ, Perry was found in a jacuzzi at the location, with no drugs found at the scene. First responders were initially called for cardiac arrest, though the precise location on the property remains unspecified. The absence of foul play was also confirmed.
Despite his professional success, Perry privately grappled with addiction. He openly admitted to struggling with alcohol and Vicodin abuse, which began after a 1997 Jet Ski accident. “I had a big problem with alcohol and pills and I couldn’t stop,” he said. “Eventually things got so bad that I couldn’t hide it, and then everybody knew.”
Kevin Turen: 44 Years Old
Kevin Turen, the mastermind and producer behind hits like “Euphoria” and “The Idol,” has left us far too soon at the age of 44. His impressive career spanned across various noteworthy projects. He kicked things off with Larry Clark’s “Wassup Rockers” and continued to make waves in the industry, collaborating with the likes of Sam Levinson on “Malcolm and Marie,” Trey Shultz on “Waves,” Nicholas Jarecki on “Arbitrage,” Nate Parker on “The Birth of a Nation,” Kornel Mondruczo on “Pieces of a Woman,” Ramin Bahrani on “99 Homes,” and Ti West on the “X” trilogy. His contributions to the world of film and television will be remembered for years to come.
His departure was as sudden as it was unexpected, and as of now, the exact cause of his passing remains a mystery. He leaves behind a loving family, survived by his wife, Evelina, and their two sons, Jack and James. His death comes three months after the passing of Euphoria actor Angus Cloud, which raises the question: is the show cursed?
Anna Cardwell: 29 Years Old
Reality TV star Anna “Chickadee” Cardwell, daughter of Mama June Shannon and sibling to Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson, passed away at the age of 29 after bravely facing the toughest cancer battle. The tragic news was delivered by Mama June on an Instagram post: “With the breaking heart, we are announcing that (Anna) is no longer with us. She passed away in my home last night peacefully at 11:12 PM. She gave one hell of a fight for 10 months. She passed away with her family around her…and we will be updating y’all with more information as we get it today. We love y’all and continued prayers and thoughts for our family (during) this difficult time.” she wrote.
Cardwell had been diagnosed with stage 4 adrenal carcinoma in January, according to TMZ. In May, she shared an Instagram update about her ongoing battle with cancer, noting that she had started her third round of chemotherapy.
Chaim Topol: 87 Years Old
Renowned for his captivating portrayal of Tevye in the iconic “Fiddler on the Roof,” Topol, the esteemed Israeli actor, passed away at the age of 87 in his Tel Aviv residence. Widely celebrated for his enduring commitment to the role of the soulful shtetl milkman, a character he first embodied in his late 20s and continued to bring to life for decades, Topol’s contribution to the arts was hailed as extraordinary.
In the wake of his passing, one publication dubbed him as “Israel’s most famous export since the Jaffa orange.” This speaks volumes about the profound impact of Topol’s performance. His son, Omer Topol, confirmed the news, revealing that his father had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that had taken a toll on his health in the past year.
Ryan O’Neal: 82 Years Old
The captivating actor who transitioned from a TV soap opera to earn an Oscar nomination for his role in “Love Story” and displayed a charming performance alongside his charismatic 9-year-old daughter Tatum in “Paper Moon,” passed away in December of 2023, as announced by his son. The cause of Ryan O’Neal’s death was not disclosed. In 2012, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a decade after his initial diagnosis of chronic leukemia. He was 82 years old.
Having been twice divorced, O’Neal was romantically linked with Fawcett for nearly three decades, and they welcomed a son named Redmond in 1985. Although the couple separated in 1997, they reconciled a few years later. O’Neal stood steadfast by Fawcett’s side during her battle with cancer, which claimed her life in 2009 at the age of 62.
Norman Lear: 101 Years Old
The pioneering writer, producer, and developer known for revolutionizing American comedy through groundbreaking early-‘70s sitcoms like “All in the Family” and “Sanford and Son,” passed away at the age of 101. Variety confirmed Lear’s death, attributing it to natural causes at his Los Angeles residence. Lear’s innovative shows marked a departure from the norm, as they became the first to tackle pressing political, cultural, and social issues of the time, introducing fresh perspectives to the conventional domestic comedy format by addressing topics like racism, abortion, homosexuality, and the Vietnam War.
Norman Lear is survived by his third wife, Lyn Davis, as well as six children and four grandchildren.
Billy Miller: 43 Years Old
Soap opera actor Billy Miller, known for his roles in “The Young and the Restless” and “General Hospital,” passed away at 43. His manager confirmed his death, citing his struggle with manic depression. Miller won three Daytime Emmys for his portrayal of Billy Abbott in “The Young and the Restless” and received another Emmy nomination during his time on “General Hospital.”
Besides soaps, he appeared in the movie “American Sniper” and had recurring roles in various TV series. Miller’s colleagues and friends paid tribute to his warm personality and talent, expressing their sorrow at his passing. People who enjoy soap operas will surely feel this loss.
Richard Belzer: 78 Years Old
The beloved actor started as a stand-up performer and made his debut as a comedian in The Groove Tube in 1974. He later found international fame playing detective John Munch in Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
According to Bill Scheft, a longtime friend of Belzer, the actor had been struggling with a lot of health issues before he passed away on February 19, 2023, at his French residence in Bozouls. Scheft told The Hollywood Reporter that his last words were “Fuck you, motherfucker.”
Tyler Christopher: 50 years old
Actor Tyler Christopher, best known for his role as Nikolas Cassadine on “General Hospital,” passed away in November 2023 at age 50. His co-star, Maurice Benard, shared the news online, revealing that Christopher had suffered a cardiac event in his San Diego apartment. She highlighted Tyler’s generosity and influence as an advocate for mental health (he had bipolar disorder) and substance use treatment, writing “Tyler was a sweet soul and wonderful friend to all of those who knew him”
Christopher’s career spanned decades, with notable performances on “Days of Our Lives” and a Daytime Emmy win for his work on “General Hospital.” He was also recognized with multiple Emmy nominations and a special fan award. Born in November, 1972, in Joliet, Illinois, Christopher had ties to the entertainment industry through his marriages to Eva Longoria and Brienne Pedigo, with whom he had two children. His legacy extends beyond his roles on daytime television, touching lives with his openness about his personal struggles and his commitment to his craft.
Robert Blake: 89 Years Old
The American actor died from heart disease at the age of 89 in his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his family. Blake had become famous thanks to his memorable roles in the “Our Gang” shorts (which became known as “The Little Rascals”), the 1967 film adaptation of Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood” and ABC’s 1970s cop show “Baretta,” for which he won an Emmy and a Golden Globe. His professional legacy, though, became somewhat tarnished by the death of his second wife.
Blake’s wife Bonny Lee Bakley passed in 2001 when she was shot outside a restaurant while at dinner with her husband. Despite the fact that Blake was acquitted in the murder case in 2005, he was found liable for Bakley’s death months later in a civil suit filed by the victim’s four children.
Evan Ellingson: 35 Years Old
Evan Ellingson, who we all remember as the kid from “My Sister’s Keeper” with Cameron Diaz, and from his role on “CSI: Miami” and “24,” has passed away at 35. He was found in his sober living house in LA. Ellingson had his battles, sure – his dad, Michael, opened up to TMZ and shared that Evan had a tough ride with drug issues. But things had been looking up for him lately.
The details of his demise are yet to be confirmed, but it looks like there was no foul play, at least that’s what the LA coroner’s office has said. What a loss, especially for someone who seemed to be turning things around.
Richard Rountree: 81 Years Old
Richard Roundtree, the iconic actor renowned for his portrayal of private eye John Shaft, passed away at the age of 81, leaving behind a lasting impact on the film industry. His groundbreaking role as Shaft helped open doors for a new generation of Black filmmakers and performers, defying the conventions of the time. He ventured into various roles, such as his appearance in the miniseries Roots and his work in Once Upon a Time… When We Were Colored, which addressed issues of inequality in the American South.
Roundtree’s career was not without its challenges, as he battled breast cancer in 1993 and underwent a double mastectomy, highlighting the importance of raising awareness about health issues that affect men as well. He was a survivor, both on and off the screen. His impact as the first Black action hero and his role in Shaft have left an indelible mark on the history of cinema, proving that talent knows no boundaries, regardless of the color of one’s skin.
Jeff Beck: 78 Years Old
Jeff sadly passed away in January at the age of 78, after contracting bacterial meningitis. According to Rolling Stone magazine, He was considered one of the top 5 greatest guitarists ever, thanks to his outstanding contribution to the use of audio feedback and distortion, influencing the sound of heavy metal. He earned himself a spot on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice and won an astounding 8 Grammy Awards over the course of his career.
“With the death of Jeff Beck we have lost a wonderful man and one of the greatest guitar players in the world,” Mick Jagger wrote. “We will all miss him so much.”
David McCallum: 90 Years Old
David McCallum has gracefully taken his final bow at the age of 90. The actor was best known for his portrayal of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard, the eccentric medical examiner, on the hit series NCIS, and before that, he had become a teen heartthrob in the hit series “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.”. His death was due to natural causes. McCallum passed away at the New York Presbyterian Hospital, surrounded by his close family.
David’s life, like anyone’s, had its share of ups and downs. Few may know that his first marriage to British actor Jill Ireland ended scandalously when his wife left him for his co-star: about five years into the marriage, Ireland met actor Charles Bronson when he worked with her husband in “The Great Escape.” The two began a romantic relationship. Ireland divorced McCallum in 1967 and married Bronson a year later. But despite this, David harbored no hard feelings. “It all worked out fine, because soon after that I got together with Katherine (Carpenter, a former model) and we’ve been very happily married for 42 years,” said McCallum in 2009.
Angus Cloud: 25 Years Old
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Angus Cloud, a promising actor known for his outstanding performance in the HBO drama “Euphoria”, where he portrayed the endearing drug dealer Fezco, who deeply cared for Zendaya’s character, Rue. His family announced the heartbreaking news. Angus was a mere 25 years old. As of now, the cause of his death remains unknown.
According to some sources, Angus had been struggling with profound feelings of despair and thoughts of self-harm, especially after returning from Ireland, where he had recently attended his father’s funeral. Apparently, he sought solace by staying with his family during this challenging time, attempting to cope with the overwhelming grief he was experiencing. Tragically, first responders from the Oakland Fire Department were called to the scene around 11:30 a.m. on July 31st, but Angus had already passed away, as confirmed by Michael Hunt, a spokesperson for the fire department.
Paul Reubens: 70 Years Old
The brilliant actor renowned for his portrayal of the whimsical Pee-wee Herman, passed away at the age of 70. Rising to fame in the 1980s through his endearing TV and movie performances as the child-like character, Paul had captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Surprisingly, it had not been previously revealed that he had been battling cancer for several years. The news of his death came with a touching personal statement from the actor himself, explaining why he chose to keep his medical condition private. In his words, “Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the last six years. I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans, and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”
Paul Reubens will forever be remembered for creating the iconic Pee-wee Herman, a sarcastic yet endearing man-child, whose red bowtie and clever catchphrases, like “I know you are, but what am I?,” became synonymous with the ’80s and early ’90s. His work brought joy and laughter to countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Tatjana Patitz: 56 Years Old
Supermodel Tatjana Patitz died in early 2023 at the premature age of 56. metastatic breast cancer. A representative for the family stated that the cause of death was metastatic breast cancer. She was regarded as one of the original supermodels, alongside Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and others.
The Germany-born beauty modeled for the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Chanel, and Donna Karan, among others, and appeared on the cover of Vogue six different times. She also famously appeared in George Michael’s “Freedom ’90” iconic music video, together with Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista, and Christy Turlington.
Steve Harwell: 56 Years Old
Our newest, saddest addition to this list is Steve Harwell, former Smash Mouth frontman, who died at the age of 56 due to liver failure. The artist, best known for his band’s 1999 hit “All Star,” was under hospice care, as revealed by Robert Hayes, his representative. Hayes shared that the artist had passed away in the company of his loved ones, in a peaceful and comfortable manner.
Although Hayes didn’t specify the exact cause of death, earlier this week, he had informed TMZ that the singer had been battling liver failure. Unfortunately, the artist had been dealing with a series of health challenges over the past few years. In 2013, he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a heart disease, and acute Wernicke encephalopathy, a neurological disorder that affected his speech and memory. Additionally, he struggled with alcoholism.
Sixto Rodriguez: 81 Years Old
The musician, star of the of the acclaimed documentary “Searching for Sugar Man” passed away at the age of 81. Hailing from Detroit, the singer’s journey in the music realm began in 1967, yet initial triumphs eluded him on his home turf, leading to his eventual departure from his record label. Interestingly, he spent many years of his life unaware of his own fame. Little was known about Rodriguez in the country despite his music being so popular, and false rumors had circulated that the singer had killed himself on stage in the 1970s.
But Rodriguez was very much alive in Detroit. But the revelation of his triumph in South Africa came to him through an unexpected channel: his eldest daughter, Eva. In the year 1997, a time when the internet was still navigating its early stages, Eva stumbled upon a devoted online platform honoring her father’s work. Upon establishing contact with this digital haven, Rodriguez embarked on his inaugural tour of South Africa during the latter part of the 1990s. His cause of death is yet to be determined. Rodriguez is survived by his three daughters Sandra, Eva and Regan.
Ron Cephas Jones: 66 Years Old
The beloved This Is Us star has passed at the age of 66 due to long-standing pulmonary issues. Jones gained his greatest recognition through his portrayal of William Hill, the biological father of Randall Pearson (Sterling K. Brown), in the acclaimed series This Is Us. He secured an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in 2018 and repeated the achievement in 2020. Coincidentally, during that very year, his 34-year-old daughter, Jasmine, also received her inaugural Emmy. This unique accomplishment marked them as the inaugural father-daughter duo to both win Emmy awards in the same year.
In 2020, Jones, a lifelong smoker, underwent a double lung transplant as a result of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The actor’s journey encompassed a span of two months, during which he intermittently relied on a ventilator while relearning basic functions like eating and breathing. Initially, he harbored reluctance towards undergoing the surgery, fearing the potential necessity of an oxygen tank for the remainder of his career. Jones shared at the time: “I was in total denial. I told myself that it would pass, or that I was just getting older. I was afraid and didn’t want to change what I wasn’t ready to change.”
Treat Williams: 71 Years Old
Treat Williams, renowned for his roles in Everwood and Hair, has tragically passed away at the age of 71 due to a motorcycle accident. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his agent of 15 years, Barry McPherson, who shared the details. “He was killed this afternoon. He was making a left or a right [and] a car cut him off,” McPherson says. “I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented.”
In the early 80s, it seemed that Treat was on his way to becoming one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, at times called an ‘up-and-coming Pacino or De Niro’. However, Williams’ career failed to gain momentum. Despite starring in several films, they failed to attract audiences, and he eventually faded away from the silver screen. His drug abuse got in the way of what could have been a great career. “It was stopped by my lack of focus and use of drugs. I mean, I wanted to party more than I wanted to focus on my work,” Williams admitted once.
Robbie Knievel: 60 Years Old
After losing a battle with pancreatic cancer, Robbie Knievel left this world at the age of 60. He was famous for his stunt performances, record-breaking motorcycle jumps, and of course, being Evel Knievel’s son.
“Kaptain Robbie Knievel” set 20 world records and completed hundreds of dangerous jumps, some paying tribute to the feats of his father. The American Daredevil followed his father into the high-flying, bone-shattering world of motorcycle stunt performances, landing more than 350 jumps over his death-defying 30-year career.
Adam Rich: 54 Years Old
Though he did significant voice-over work later in his career, Adam Rich is best known for his role on Eight Is Enough, where he played Nicholas Bradford. His character was the youngest child of the ’70s sitcom’s family, with the patriach benig played by Dick Van Patten. He struggled with substance abuse in his adult life,
but always had a fond place for the show that made him famous, showing his appreciation in a 2021 Instagram post where he said, “I’m grateful for the joy felt while working on [Eight Is Enough]…I do hope it may have brought you some joy as well.” He was found dead in January of 2023 at the age of 54.
Alan Arkin: 89 Years Old
Arkin will be remembered for his remarkable portrayal of the eccentric grandfather in the movie “Little Miss Sunshine,”, for which he was honored with an Oscar and a Bafta for his exceptional performance. Michael Douglas, his colleague and co-star in the Netflix series “The Kominsky Method,” paid heartfelt tributes. Douglas fondly described Arkin as a “wonderful actor” who “left an indelible mark” in the industry. His ability to embody both light-hearted humor and deep emotional complexity showcased his remarkable versatility as an actor.
In 2020, Alan Arkin released his book “Out of My Mind,” which delved into his two-decade-long friendship with his spiritual mentor, John Battista. While the book does not mention Battista’s full name or his subsequent downfall (Battista faced charges of sexual abuse involving multiple women and a girl) and eventual suicide, the scandal had a profound impact on Arkin, who revealed that it caused a period of paralysis for him lasting six months. However, he persevered and continued to forge ahead. Arkin is survived by his third wife, Suzanne Newlander, whom he married in 1996, as well as his two sons, Adam and Matthew, from his first marriage, and his son Anthony from his second marriage.
Tony Bennett: 96 Years Old
In the days leading up to his passing, the incomparable Tony Bennett was gracefully seated at his piano, where he continued to serenade us with his timeless voice. The news of his departure at the age of 96 struck a chord with fans all over the world. Bennett’s passing was announced by his publicist Sylvia Weiner in his beloved hometown, New York. Although the specific cause of death wasn’t disclosed, it was known that he had been battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning eight decades, Tony Bennett sold millions of records and earned an impressive 20 Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement honor. He collaborated with iconic artists, from Lady Gaga to Aretha Franklin and Frank Sinatra, the latter of whom hailed him as “the best singer in the business.” Sir Elton John, deeply affected by the news, took to Instagram to express his sorrow, “Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see,” Sir Elton said. “He’s irreplaceable. I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny and the family.” Hillary Clinton, former US first lady, described Bennett as a “true talent, a true gentleman, and a true friend”. She tweeted: “We’ll miss you, Tony, and thanks for all the memories.” Singer Carole King said: “RIP Tony Bennett. Such a big loss. Deepest sympathy to his family and the world.”
Pat Robertson: 93 Years Old
The legendary broadcaster left this world on June 8th of 2023 with an immense legacy. Robertson helped make religion central to Republican Party politics in America through his Christian Coalition. His cause of death is yet to be determined. “Pat Robertson, longtime TV host, religious broadcaster, educator, humanitarian, and one-time presidential candidate died at his home in Virginia Beach early Thursday morning. He was 93,” was the announcement made by the Christian Broadcasting Network.
Mr. Robertson established a thriving entrepreneurial empire grounded in his Christian beliefs, which included a university, a law school, a widely influential cable channel, and various other ventures. Coming from a politically involved family, he embarked on a notable but ultimately unsuccessful bid for the 1988 Republican presidential nomination. In response to concerns about the blending of religion and politics, he chose to step down as a Baptist minister at the commencement of his campaign.
Julian Sands: 65 Years Old
British actor Julian Sands, renowned for his appearances in the 1985 period film A Room With a View and the Warlock horror franchise, has been officially declared deceased after being reported missing during a hiking expedition in the San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles since January. Authorities have verified that the human remains discovered in the California mountains belonged to the actor. Although an autopsy has been performed, additional test outcomes are required to ascertain the cause of his death, according to officials. Sands was last sighted on Mt. Baldy, an area that experienced severe snowfall and windstorms during an unusually wet winter. Ground search and rescue teams were initially deployed to locate Sands and another hiker who went missing at the same time.
“I didn’t want to become a Hollywood actor,” said Sands once in an interview. “I was looking for something exotic, things that took me out of myself. I think I found myself a little boring,” he added. Because he was always seeking thrills and adventure, he developed a strong passion for hiking and became a true adrenaline enthusiast.
Caleb Willingham: 40 Years Old
Caleb Willingham, husband of 1000-Lb. Sisters star Tammy Slaton, was found dead at 40. After meeting at Windsor Lane Rehabilitation Center last year, Willingham and Slaton tied the knot in November. Sadly, Slaton confirmed her husband’s passing and expressed her devastation in an Instagram post: “RIP, sweet angel. You will forever be missed and loved so much. Thank you, Caleb, for showing me real love and happiness.”
The couple opted for a unique wedding ceremony at the rehab center, with only 30 close friends and family members in attendance. The ceremony was officiated by their home care nurse and family friend, Billy. Slaton later shared her enchantment, describing the moment as magical, envisioning doves and butterflies surrounding them at the altar.
Jim Brown – 87 Years Old
Regarded by many as the greatest player in NFL history and a dedicated advocate for social causes both during and after his football career with the Cleveland Browns, Brown peacefully passed away on Thursday night at his residence in Hollywood Hills, California. Monique Brown, his wife, confirmed the news in an Instagram post on Friday. He was 87 years old.
Survived by Monique and their two children, Brown also leaves behind three children from his previous marriage. “While the world knew him as an activist, actor, and football star, to our family, he was a loving and remarkable husband, father, and grandfather. Our hearts are filled with sorrow,” expressed Monique Brown on Instagram.
Michael Lerner: 81 Years Old
The Oscar-nominated actor has passed away at the age of 81. The sad news was delivered by his nephew, actor Sam Lerner on Instagram: “We lost a legend last night. It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my uncle Michael was, and how influential he was to me. His stories always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting. He was the coolest, most confident, talented guy, and the fact that he was my blood will always make me feel special. Everyone that knows him knows how insane he was— in the best way.”
Lerner started performing at the age of 13. The Brooklyn-born actor starred in a variety of hit TV shows, such as The Brady Bunch and M*A*S*H. He even shared a flat with John Lennon and Yoko Ono, during his time living in London, where he made an appearance in a number of Ono’s experimental films in the late Sixties before moving to Los Angeles in 1969.
Paxton Whitehead: 85 Years Old
Paxton Whitehead, a highly accomplished actor of both screen and stage, known for his notable roles in “Friends” and his Tony-nominated performance in “Camelot,” passed away on Friday at the age of 85, as confirmed by his representative. Whitehead’s representative, Robert Attermann, conveyed in a statement, “Paxton was deeply loved and respected by his family and all those fortunate enough to know him.”
On Broadway, Whitehead enjoyed a successful career, featuring in productions such as “My Fair Lady,” “The Harlequin Studies,” “Suite in Two Keys,” among others. Notably, his portrayal of King Pellinore in the 1980 production of “Camelot” earned him a Tony nomination. He also reprised the role in the 2005 revival. In Attermann’s words, “He was a cherished client, an esteemed figure in the acting industry, renowned for his extraordinary talent and unwavering commitment to his craft. His versatility and the numerous roles he brought to life on stage, television, and film were greatly admired. Paxton Whitehead’s contributions to the world of entertainment will be treasured and remembered for years to come.”
Bill Lee: 94 Years Old
Jazz musician and Spike Lee’s father Bill left this world at the age of 94 at his home in Brooklyn. He will be remembered for his celebrated collaborations with musical legends like Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel and Harry Belafonte, as well as scoring four of his son Spike’s early films, including the hit “Do the Right Thing” and two songs for Jungle Fever. The sad announcement was made by his son on his social media. But things were not always right between father and son.
Spike and his father gave each other the silent treatment after Bill remarried Susan Kaplan, much to Spike’s displeasure. This led to a falling out in the 1990s until they rebuilt their relationship after some years. “My father, Bill Lee played bass on Bob Dylan’s classic song ‘It’s All Over Now,’ ‘Baby Blue’ on his album ‘Bringing It All Home. This morning May 24th my father made his transition. Today is also the birthdate of Bob Dylan,” Spike wrote in a tribute on Instagram.
Larry Myers Jr.: 49 Years Old
Larry Myers Jr, the star of My 600lb Life, has passed away at the age of 49, in his house in Houston, Texas. Myers had recently turned 49 on June 10. Sadly, his cousin Todd Darrell took to Facebook to confirm his passing: “It’s with great sorrow that we announce the passing of my dear cousin Larry Myers. Many of you know him as Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits. If you can help us we would greatly appreciate it. Larry has fought the good fight. He has overcome some of the biggest challenges he has ever had to face.”
Myers made an appearance on Season 10 of the TLC reality series that focuses on individuals struggling with severe obesity, even after undergoing weight-loss surgery. In the episode titled “Larry’s Journey,” which was broadcasted in January 2022, Myers weighed 940 pounds before undergoing gastric-bypass surgery. Throughout the show, he managed to shed approximately 100 pounds and gained recognition as ‘Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits’ after his video clip of singing about the phrase while enjoying biscuits and fried chicken went viral.
Carole Cook, Almost 99 Years Old
Just 3 days shy of her 99th birthday, this comedic actress died on January 11. Carole rose to fame with the help and mentorship of Lucille Ball.
She was a prolific guest actress, she made appearances on everything from That Girl and Maude, to Charlie’s Angels and Kojak, Starsky & Hutch and Laverne & Shirley, to Dynasty and, of course, The Love Boat.
David Crosby: 81 Years-Old
David Crosby was a prolific American songwriter, singer, and guitarist, who joined the famous band The Byrds in 1964. He then formed his own band in 1968 named Crosby, Stills & Nash with Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, and they went on to win many awards before Crosby decided to start a solo career.
In 1994, famous singer Phil Collins paid for Crosby’s liver transplant, which was highly publicized and caused controversy due to his well-known struggle with drug and alcohol addiction. Following a long fight with ongoing illnesses, Crosby passed away at the age of 81 on January 18, 2023.
Fred White: 67 Years Old
Fred White was the drummer for the classic ’70s band Earth, Wind, & Fire.His death was announced on Instagram by his older brother and former bandmate, Verdine White, that Fred had passed away in January 2023. His brother wrote, “Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our beloved brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White.”
Fred White, his half-brother Maurice, and his brother Verdine were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. Earth, Wind, & Fire has won seven Grammys and four American Music Awards and has sold over 90 million albums worldwide. Rolling Stone declared Earth, Wind & Fire as the band that “changed the sound of black pop”.
Gina Lollobrigida: 95 Years Old
The award-winning Italian actress, one of the last legendary stars of European cinema and the Golden Age of Hollywood passed away at the age of 95 in Rome. The “most beautiful woman in the world”, as described by many, co-starred with iconic actors like Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra, Errol Flynn, and Rock Hudson in the 1950s and 1960s.
Gina had leg surgery after having suffered a fall. The Italian Culture minister, Gennaro Sangiuliano, bid goodbye to the actress on his social media: “Farewell to a diva of the silver screen, a protagonist of more than half a century of Italian cinema history. Her charm will remain eternal.”
Christina Ashten Gourkani: 34 Years Old
OnlyFans model and Kim Kardashian lookalike, Christina prematurely died at the age of 34 of a cardiac arrest after undergoing plastic surgery. “In the early morning hours at approximately 4:31am on 4/20/2023 our family received a tragic phone call from a family member who was frantically screaming and crying…on the other end of the line….Ashten is dying…Ashten is dying…” her loved ones wrote on a GoFundMe for her on April 25. “After arriving at the hospital shortly after the phone call our family continued living a nightmare as we were informed that her health and wellbeing had continued to decline in a downward spiral for the worse after suffering from a cardiac arrest.”
Gourkani’s family and closest friends are raising donations to help pay for her funeral. “We ask in this time of mourning our loss & disbelief that people can come together to help our family make it through this, when there is not enough strength,” their message stated. “We are grateful for the support that you are able to provide to our family as we lay Christina Ashten Gourkani to eternal peace.”
Lisa Marie Presley: 54 Years Old
A sad addition to this list that we never saw coming. Lisa Marie Presley, daughter of Elvis and Priscilla, was found dead at 54. The news was delivered by none other than Lisa Marie’s mother. “It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us. She was the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known. We ask for privacy as we try to deal with this profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers. At this time there will be no further comment,” she confirmed in a statement.
Presley left this world in January 2023, after being rushed to the hospital for a possible cardiac arrest. She had become the sole heir and inherited her father’s Graceland residence. As more information comes to light, Lisa Marie’s cause of death has been confirmed by coroners. Presley died from complications derived from bariatric surgery (a common weight-loss procedure) she had undergone several years ago. She died from natural causes due to the effects of a small bowel obstruction. Lisa Marie had been open about her struggles with opioid addiction, by confessing that she became addicted after the birth of her twins in 2008.
Lisa Loring: 64 Years Old
The sad, tragic news of Lisa’s death was announced by her close friends on social media in 2023. The 64-year-old actress had slipped into a coma and was later taken off life support. She had “suffered a massive stroke brought on by smoking and high blood pressure”, as described by her friend Laurie Jacobson. It is reported that her family had to make the hard decision to remove her from life support.
She was the original Wednesday Addams who played the spooky scion in the 1960s sitcom The Addams Family. “She is embedded in the tapestry that is pop culture and in our hearts always as Wednesday Addams,” Jacobson added.
Cindy Williams: 75 Years Old
The star of shows like Laverne & Shirley and Happy Days passed away peacefully after suffering from a “short illness”. She was known for playing Shirley Feeney along with Penny Marshall’s Laverne in the legendary show. “The passing of our kind, hilarious mother, Cindy Williams, has brought us insurmountable sadness that could never truly be expressed. Knowing and loving her has been our joy and privilege.
She was one of a kind, beautiful, generous and possessed a brilliant sense of humor and a glittering spirit that everyone loved,” was the statement released by her family. She was one of the most lovable actresses of her generation and thanks to the amazing chemistry with Penny Marshall, the two of them will go down in television history as having one of the best, most exemplary female friendships.
Celebrities Whose Time Came to an End in 2022
Often we’re so consumed by life that we forget it can be taken away as quickly as it’s given. Eventually, everyone leaves this world, even celebrities. These 30 celebrities passed away in 2022 and will be missed for their talents whether it’s acting, directing, or music. Celebrities such as Barbara Walters, Traci Braxton and Mike Hagerty along with other infamous stars will be missed after making their mark in the entertainment industry.
Louie Anderson, the Comic Legend
If you haven’t heard of Louie Anderson, you’ve been missing out over the years. He was well known in the entertainment industry and was once the most popular comedian of his decade. Anderson became famous after he was a guest star on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson which was back in 1984. Anderson was known for his successful stand-up comedy specials as well as his performance in classics!
These classics were the 1986 show, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and the 1988’s hit Coming to America. Anderson has even won two Emmy awards in his time for his Fox series Life with Louie. Sadly, Louie’s life came to an end on January 21 earlier this year. The comedian passed away from an illness he openly shared with the world during his hospitalization.
John Aniston, the Soap-Opera Legend
John Aniston, a soap-opera legend and Jennifer Aniston’s father, died in November of 2022 at the age of 89. He will be forever remembered for his role as Victor Kiriakis in the celebrated Days of Our Lives show.
His daughter Jennifer delivered the sad news on her social media: “Sweet papa… John Anthony Aniston,” she wrote. ”You were one of the most beautiful humans I ever knew. I am so grateful that you went soaring into the heavens in peace — and without pain. And on 11/11 no less! You always had perfect timing. That number will forever hold an even greater meaning for me now. I’ll love you till the end of time. Don’t forget to visit.”
The One and Only Ray Liotta
Over four decades, Liotta delivered nothing other than extraordinary acting performances and he owes credit to his perfection of a sinister laugh alongside his New Jersey accent. His role as psycho Ray Sinclair got him noticed in the film Something Wild, the 1986 cult classic and after that, he earned a Golden Globe nomination. This film was the first of many successful acting performances for Ray.
Liotta has acted alongside other Hollywood stars such as Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. Another hit film he starred in was Goodfellas and he wasn’t expecting the astonishing outcome it had of being so successful. Liotta has mainly performed as a tough guy in films and his latest one was The Many Saints of Newark in 2021 which will be his last as he sadly passed away at the age of 67 in 2022.
Peter Bogdanovich’s Film Days Are Over
Peter Bogdanovich is praised for his skills in filmmaking since the 1970s. He was the genius behind the making of The Last Picture Show and Paper Moon. Besides his filmmaking abilities, he’s also successful in picking actors with strong potential like the model Cybill Shepherd to perform in The Last Picture Show.
The filmmaker, Peter, never had it easy. His career took a downfall and he also had to suffer the loss of someone close to him at the time. After this tragic incident, he was never the same but he is still well respected even after Peter himself passed away on the sixth of January, 2022.
Pele’s Legend Will Live On
There are few who can claim the title ‘Greatest of all Time’, in any field, and there are even fewer whose claim is as undisputed as the Brazillian football legend Edson Arantes do Nascimento, better known simply as Pele. ‘The King’ as the Brazilians called him, won no less than 3 World Cups, 2 Copa Libertadores, and claim the title of Brazil’s all-time top goalscorer.
If that’s not enough, Pele is also credited with coining the term “The Beautiful Game” for his beloved sport. In 2021, Pele was diagnosed with colon cancer fighting for more than a year before finally succumbing to it in December of that year. He passed away at the age of 82, and a national mourning day was declared in the country in his honor. “Pelé died, if indeed Pelé can die” announced a Brazilian newspaper, showing that Pele’s legacy will forever live on.
Fleetwood Mac’s Christine McVie
McVie died in November of 2022 after a brief illness at the age of 79. The sad news was delivered by her family on her social media and the band also bid farewell to Christine with a heartfelt message: “She was truly one-of-a-kind, special and talented beyond measure,” the rockers wrote in a social media statement. “She was the best musician anyone could have in their band and the best friend anyone could have in their life. We were so lucky to have a life with her. Individually and together, we cherished Christine deeply and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. She will be so very missed.”
She passed in a hospital, surrounded by her closest family. McVie, who sang on classic hits like “Everywhere” and “You Make Loving Fun,” joined Fleetwood Mac in 1970, and played alongside her then-husband John McVie.
Anne Heche
On August 12, 2022, actress Anne Heche was declared dead two days before her family took her off life support. She was 53. Her cause of death was smoke inhalation and thermal injuries due to a grisly car accident.
She crashed her car into a home on August 5th, a terrible accident that left all those closest to her completely devastated. Heche was known for her roles Donnie Brasco, Volcano, and Six Days, Seven Nights. Her son, Homer Laffoon, released the following heartfelt statement: “Hopefully my mom is free from pain and beginning to explore what I like to imagine as her eternal freedom.”
Mother of Cher: Georgia Holt
Georgia Holt, the singer, actor, and mother of musician Cher has died at the age of 96. Over her career, she landed roles in shows including I Love Lucy and The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, and films including A Life of Her Own, and Grounds for Marriage.
Holt was married and divorced six times, including twice to her first husband, Cher’s father John Paul Sarkisian. After their marriage collapsed the first time, Holt struggled as a single mother and even briefly placed Cher in a Catholic orphanage while she worked to become financially independent. Cher announced the death on Twitter in December 2022, writing “mom is gone”.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley passed away in December 2022 after a short battle with cancer. The 71-year-old Emmy-winning actress’ death was confirmed by her children. “She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living and whatever adventures lie ahead,” they shared. “As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.”
John Travolta, Alley’s friend and former costar, paid tribute to the actress on social media. “Kirstie was one of the most special relationships I’ve ever had. I love you Kirstie,” he shared. “I know we will see each other again.”
The Braxton Family Lost Traci
Some of you may have heard of Traci Braxton from the hit series Braxton Family Values which aired from 2011 to 2020. Toni starred in the series alongside her four sisters Toni, Towanda, Trina, and Tamar who were joined by their mother Evelyn. When Traci wasn’t on set filming for the reality show, she was working on her singing career, the star released her album titled “Crash & Burn” back in 2014.
One of her singles “Last Call” made the US Adult R&B chart and came in at number 16 on the Billboard! Later on, in 2018, the singer completed a second album “On Earth”. Sadly, Traci is no longer singing and working alongside her family as she passed away on March 12 this year after battling health issues.
The Man With the Perfect Voice
This man is Gilbert Gottfried, you may not recognize his face but you’ll surely recognize his voice as he was famous for stand-up after the public witnessed his grating voice. His voice was discovered and used for the character Iago, the sarcastic parrot in the Disney film Aladdin back in 1992. After his voice-over of the animated parrot, fans adored Gilbert and appreciated his talents.
Another animated character that Gottfried has done the voice-over for is the infamous SpongeBob Squarepants and Family Guy! The famous Gottfried also appeared on Saturday Night Live and became a cast member of the show until 1981. Unfortunately, the voice artist passed away on April 12.
90s Heartthrob Aaron Carter
Aaron shot to fame back in the late 1990s as a pop singer, releasing four studio albums, starting with his self-titled debut album in 1997 when he was only 9 years old which was a huge success. Aaron made regular appearances on Nickelodeon and toured with the Backstreet Boys as his older brother Nick was a member of the band. On November 5, 2022, Carter died at the age of 34 at his Lancaster, California, home. It is reported that Carter was found drowned in his bathtub. A representative for Carter’s team said the cause of death is still being determined.
Aaron was plagued with financial difficulties since the age of 18. According to him, his parents had mismanaged his fortune: “There was a lot of neglect on my parents’ part. They didn’t do a lot of things right but at the same time I felt that money wasn’t everything.” He drowned in debt and by 2013, he filed for bankruptcy, in an effort to ‘rebuild’ his life.
Hip Hop Sensation DJ Kay Slay
DJ Kay Slay was a well-loved artist in the hip-hop world and has been given credit for the numerous musicians he has supported through his mixtapes over the years. Kay Slay was a popular host for New York City’s famed rap station called Hot 97.
Throughout his time as the station host, he was scouted and later on released the album “The Streetsweeper, Vol.1” in 2003 and “Vol.2” in 2004. The last album the artist produced was in 2021 labeled “The Soul Controller” and that will be his final as he died on April 17 due to COVID.
Y’er a Wizard, Robbie Coltrane
While Robbie Coltrane was perhaps best known for his perfectly-played role of Hagrid in the Harry Potter film franchise (not to mention that famous line from the first film), he had a wide variety of roles under his belt by the time he passed away on October 14th, 2022 at the age of 72.
With roles in James Bond films and an OBE received from Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for his contributions to drama, he was also a noted comedian. He had been ill for some years before his death.
Barbara Walters, an American Symbol
One of the most recognizable and popular faces in American Television, Barbara Walters was a trailblazer. Starting her decades-long career in an era when women’s faces were scarcely seen in news panels, Barbara went on to become the first-ever female news anchor in America’s history. Her career only skyrocketed since then, when she launched her beloved TV staples “The Barbara Walters Specials”, “10 Most Fascinating People” and “The View”, which granted her countless Daytime Emmy nomination, 3 Emmy wins, and even a NAAPC Image Award among other honors. During her incredible career, she interviewed not only four American presidents, but other impressive figures such as the last Shah of Iran, Fidel Caster, and Margeret Thatcher.
Barbara passed away in her Manhattan home on December 30th, 2022 at the age of 93. As she got into her late 80s, Barbara’s health began to deteriorate. She was diagnosed with dementia, which explains why we did not see or hear from her in her last years. We can definitely bet that if it were up to her, she would never have retired from TV. But sadly, health got in the way. It is safe to say that Barbara Walters will never be forgotten.
Tom Parker
The singer, who was part of the UK band The Wanted, made a public announcement in October 2020 that he had an inoperable tumor.
After fighting against his terminal brain cancer for two years, he unfortunately passed away on March 30, 2022, leaving his wife Kelsey Hardwick and their two kids without a dad. Hardwick later wrote on Instagram, “Our hearts are broken … Tom was the centre of our world. We can’t imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.”
Mike Hagerty Acts No More
Mike Hagerty was a legend in the comedy industry because he had everything it takes to be a perfect character. Hagerty went to work in Hollywood after leaving Second City in the 1980s. While working in Hollywood he got his most successful role which was playing the role of his best friend of Russell in the 1987 comedy Overboard.
After his performance in Overboard, his career only went uphill. The comedian starred in numerous hit TV shows in his time and whether it was Cheers or Curb Your Enthusiasm he portrayed the perfect roles. The actor was loved for his Chicago accent and mustache but is most adored for his role on Friends as the building super. Sadly he passed away due to medical complications at the age of 67 on April 29.
Razer Man Is Remembered for His WWE Days
You might know this guy as Scott Hall or by his WWE nic name, Razer Man! Sadly, Scott joins the list of celebs who have passed away in 2022. Hall has been famous since his WWE days in 1990 and for his boisterous bad guy persona on the wrestling ring. The wrestler based his villain behavior on the way Al Pacino performs as Tony Montana in Scarface, the film.
That wasn’t the end of Hall, He eventually went on to create one of the biggest alliances in pro wrestling. Hall and his friend Kevin Nash went on to WWE with a rival outfit WCW in 1996 when they formed the New World Order (NWO) alongside Hulk Hogan. When March 15th at the age of 63, Hall’s life came to an end after surgical complications according to TMZ.
Estelle Harris Lived a Good Life
Estelle Harris lived till the age of 93, a long and happy life. During those 93 years, Estelle made an impact on the world and made sure she would be remembered. Estelle has been a Hollywood star for decades and few people don’t know her name. One of her biggest roles was the role of a heavy handing mother to George Costanza on the show Seinfield.
Harris is known for her iconic high-pitched voice which suited numerous roles perfectly especially as an overbearing mother alongside Jerry Stiller who played the role of the father was a great pairing. Harris is also famous as the voice of Mrs. Potato Head on Toy Story! As all lives come to an end, after 93 years of life, Harris passed away on April 2.
Foo Fighters Drummer, Taylor Hawkins
Taylor Hawkins is no stranger in the music industry as he is the man behind some of the best sounds for the Foo Fighters band. Not only was he talented with the drums but he fit the genre perfectly with the long hair swaying around while rocking it out. Hawkins was first the drummer for Alanis Morissette before joining the Foo Fighters in 1997.
Once he joined the Foo Fighters he became one of the best drummers of his time and was admired by many! Unfortunately, on the day that Foo Fighters were set to perform in Bogota, Columbia for a festival, an incident occurred. Hawkins had passed away suddenly on the 25th of March at the age of 50 years old before the band was meant to perform.
Paul Sorvino
On July 25, 2022, Paul Sorvino of ‘Goodfellas’ was rushed to a local clinic in Jacksonville by his wife Dee Dee Sorvino. He was pronounced dead shortly after, and his cause of death has not been disclosed to the public.
“Our hearts are broken,” Dee Dee Sorvino said in a statement. “There will never be another Paul Sorvino, he was the love of my life, and one of the greatest performers to ever grace the screen and stage.” Sorvino got his start on Broadway, and he received a Tony nomination for That Championship Season. However, he is best known for his outstanding performances in roles like sergeant Phil Cerreta in Law & Order and Paulie Cicero in Goodfellas.
Ivana Trump
Donald Trump’s first wife, Ivana, passed away on July 14, 2022, at the age of 73. The New York City medical examiner’s office reported that her cause of death was “blunt impact injuries” to the torso.
It had been a regular day until she fell to her death down the stairs in her New York apartment. Her children, Donald Jr, Ivanka, and Eric Trump, are left devasted. “She was a wonderful, beautiful, and amazing woman, who led a great and inspirational life,” Donald Trump shared.
Tony Sirico
On July 8, 2022, the beloved actor Tony Sirico, known for his role as Paulie Walnuts on The Sopranos, passed away at the age of 79.
Known for his tough-guy demeanor and portraying gangsters on screen, Sirico was actually a convicted criminal before he got the acting bug. Sirico passed away at an assisted living facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and his loved ones are left mourning the loss. Michael Imperioli, who played Christopher Moltisanti on The Sopranos, shared the following on his Instagram: “Tony was like no one else: he was as tough, as loyal and as big hearted as anyone i’ve ever known.”
Paul Herman Remains Memorable
You may not have heard of this star, Paul Herman, before but you’ll know who we’re talking about when we tell you about his success in mobster movies and TV shows. One of his most successful roles was playing one of the Henry Hills Pittsburgh guys in Goodfellas by Martin Scorsese. He is known for his famous line in the film “you want to see helicopters?”.
Herman also played the role of Peter Beansie Gaeta in The Sopranos. His gap in between his front teeth makes him stand out in films which makes his roles memorable. You might notice his performance in The Silver Linings Playbook or The Irishman. Unfortunately, Herman will stay in our memories as he passed away on March 29 at the age of 76.
Farewell to Howard Hesseman
Howard Hesseman was famous for his time on TV between the 1970s and the 2010s. During this time, Hesseman was nominated for an Emmy Award for his performance of the character Dr. Johnny Fever Caravella in the TV show WRKP in Cincinnati. Hesseman performed this role from 1978 to 1982.
Hesseman didn’t stop there, between 1986 till 1990 he was also a star for the show Head of the Class which he played the teacher in charge of a highly knowledgable group of students. He starred in many other films such as Shampoo, Doctor Detroit, Clue, and Flight of the Navigator. Sadly after many years of acting, the star died on January 29 when he was 81 years old.
William Hurt Is Gone but Never Forgotten
William Hurt has won the appraisal from fans over the years with his performance in big hits such as Kiss of the Spider Woman, The Big Chill, Children of Lesser God, and Broadcast News. He has received two Oscar nominations for his talents and is notably one of the biggest stars of the 1980s. There was no performance Hurt couldn’t deliver but his most loved was his role of anger.
Later in his life, Hurt received another Oscar nomination for his role in A History of Violence in which he only appeared on the film for ten minutes. Hurt has most recently been involved in the Marvel franchise playing the role of the secretary of state, Thaddeus Ross, before passing away on 13 March at the age of 71.
Naomi Judd Never Made Her Last Tour
Naomi Judd and her daughter, Wynonna, made their band called The Judds and were a successful duo as they created 14 hit songs reaching number one in three decades. Some of their hits were “Mama He’s Crazy” and “Why Not Me” both in 1984! The Judds even made the Country Music Hall of Fame but sadly after planning an arena tour, Naomi passed away.
Some of their other hits were “Love Can Build a Bridge” and “Grandpa” which you may have heard of. After Naomi was battling with her health in 1991, the band had to call it quits and Wynonna flew solo. Judd’s other daughter is the actress Ashley Judd, so the family is all successful in their ways. Naomi succumbed to her illness on April 30 when she was 76.
France Film Loses Gaspard Ulliel
Gaspard Ulliel was one of the most well-known actors in France and can be seen in hit films such as Paris, Je t’aime, A Very Long Engagement, Hannibal Rising and It’s Only The End Of The World which was the film that won him the best actor award in 2017 by France’s famous César Awards.
Not only was Gaspard a brilliant actor, but he became the face of Chanel’s men’s fragrance Bleu de Chanel! He was only just getting started and growing in his career after joining the Marvel series, Moon Knight. Unfortunately, after a tragic accident, Gaspard passed away on the 19th of January.
Oscar Nominee Sally Kellerman
Kellerman was given an Oscar nomination after her impressive role of Margaret (aka Hot Lips) Houlihan in the film M*A*S*H* by Robert Altman in 1970. Kellerman was not only all jaw-droppingly beautiful but she had the husky voice and talent to match which made her iconic. Other films Kellerman starred in are The Player and Back to School along with many more.
Kellerman also wrote HBO’s Dream On, The Naked Truth, and Touched by an Angel, in addition to that she also wrote Beverly Hills 90210. After such a successful acting and writing career, Kellerman passed away on 14 February, according to Variety, she was battling with illness for over five years. The star was 84 when she passed away.
The Music Genius, Meatloaf
Meatloaf is a musician who will never be forgotten, his hit selling album “Bat Out of Hell” and his performance as an actor in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, as well as Fight Club, was infamous. Meatloaf has won a Grammy Award for his hit songs “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” and “I’d Do Anything for Love (but I Won’t Do That)”.
Hearts broke all over the world to hear of Meatloaf’s passing on January 20th, 2022. Meatloaf died beside his wife and both his daughters, Pearl and Amanda. The singer’s Facebook page was filled with posts of heartbroken individuals. His death was due to unknown reasons but he will never be replaced in the music world.
Mad Men’s Famous Robert Morse
Morse was a well-loved Tony and Emmy-winning actor throughout his time and is most popular due to his role as Bertman Cooper on the famous series Mad Men. After his role as Cooper, he was nominated for five Emmy award nominations for his performance. This wasn’t even the actor’s big lucky break, he was famous before the role on Mad Men.
Morse was also famous for his role in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying in the adaptation of the show in 1967. He also won a Tony Award for his performance as Truman Capote in the 1989 one-man play Tru. After winning an Emmy and a Tony he passed away on April 20 with no specific cause of death.
Moses J. Moseley Was Too Young
If you’re a fan of The Walking Dead, you might recognize this actor’s face as one of the zombies controlled by lead actor Michonne. This actor, Moses. J. Mosely has also starred in Queen of the South and Watchmen as well as the popular film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
Mosely was only just starting his career and was 32 years old when he passed away according to his manager, Tabatha Minchew. The actor was found dead in Stockbridge, Georgia on January 26.
Sidney Poitier, Actor, and Producer
If you haven’t heard of Sidney Poitier, he is most famous for his impressive acting and directing career! He has made history and was an actor who was awarded an Oscar for his performance in 1963’s film Lilies of the Field. The actor is truly a natural and has performed in other films such as Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.
Sidney became the Bahamian ambassador to Japan from 1997 to 2007 and President Barack Obama even presented Sidney with a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009 which is the US’s highest civilian honor. The Bahamian ambassador, Potier, had been battling a few diseases and sadly succumbed to his illness on the seventh of January in the comfort of his own home.
Ivan Reitman Goes Down in History
Ivan Reitman is the director behind legendary comedies such as Ghostbusters, Kindergarten Cop, and Meatballs. In addition to this, he created the original version of Space Jam and supported comedians Bill Murray and John Candy in their careers. Reitman has had an Oscar nomination in his years which was for the drama Up in the Air.
Reitman and his son, Jason Reitman, paired up to create Ghostbusters: Afterlife recently in 2021. Sadly, it was time for Reitman’s life to come to an end as he passed away on February 12, 2022. The cause of his death is unknown but his family has shared that he will be remembered by many for his films that brought laughter to the world.
Do You Remember Charlie Brown?
Not many actors were successful by the age of seven, but Peter Robbins was! He was only seven years old when he landed the job to be the voice of Charlie Brown. He had his lucky break for six “Peanuts” series and a film between 1963 and 1969. Some of the most memorable are A Charlie Brown Christmas in 1965 and It the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown in 1966.
When his Charlie Brown days were done, Robbins went on to perform in Rawhide, The Donna Reed Show, Blondie and Get Smart during the 1960s. The last role you can see Robbins in was his role in My Three Sons. He, unfortunately, died on January 18th.
Music Sensation Bobby Rydell
Rydell started as a young musician in the late 1950s while Elvis Presley took a break from the stage. Rydell quickly became a loved musician with his smart looks and his hit songs everyone was singing like “Wild One”. Besides his singing, films would also want him to be a part of their cast because of his clean-cut appearance.
Rydell has starred in the adaptation of the musical Bye Bye Birdie with other stars like Janet Leigh and Ann-Margret. During the mid-1980s, Rydell took his talents on a tour alongside other famous musicians. Rydell died on the fifth of April, 2022, after suffering from illness according to the New York Times.
Bob Saget From Full House
If you’ve watched the ABC sitcom, Full House, you’ll recognize this guy as Danny Tanner played by Bob Saget from the 1980s to the 1990s. During that same period, Saget was also the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos. The stand-up comedian and actor have had a successful career filled with diverse roles but the father role as Danny Tanner was most memorable.
Sadly, Bob passed away in Florida on the ninth of January and his friends and family were heartbroken. Many shared kind words about the actor, including co-stars from Full House like John Stamos.
Ronnie Spector Made an Impact
Ronnie Spector was a talented singer and the voice of the hit songs “Be My Baby” and “Walking in the Rain” in the girl band The Ronettes. Ronnie had been in a marriage for years however, sadly, after her husband passed away she took some time off from her career.
A few years after her break, Ronnie made her comeback during the late 1980s with her recording of “Be My Baby” for Eddie Moneys’ hit song “Take Me Home Tonight”. After discovering an illness, Ronnie passed away on January 12th.
The Amazing Jonathon Ends His Acts
John Edward Szeles passed away at the age of 63 but before his time came to an end he made a big impact in the world of magic and comedy. John is also referred to as “the amazing Jonathon” and has impressed the public with his abilities to combine magic tricks and comedy.
Jonathon is also known as the Freddy Kreuger of comedy and two of his best-known acts are the ones where his tongue was spiking and also making it look like he has a hanging eyeball! His acts came to an end after his passing on February 22.
Fashion Icon André Leon Talley
Tally was known as Vogues fashion news director from 1983 till 1987 and was a very successful creative director from the time of 1988 to 1995. When it came to fashion, Talley was on his way to the top.
Talley worked alongside the magazine’s creative director and editor chief Anna Wintour. The fashion icon was praised for his skills and was close to Yves Saint Laurent, Karl Lagerfeld, Paloma Picasso, Diane von Furstenberg, and many other famous individuals. Talley’s fashion days are now behind him after he passed away on January 18th.
Douglas Trumbull Changed the Film Industry
Douglas Trumbull was known for his impact on film special effects and his work can be seen in A Space Odyssey in 2001 and Close Encounters of the Third Kind as well as Blade Runner. He never used any computers when making the graphics for these films.
Trumbell quickly became a legend for his talents which won him an Oscar for his work. The visual effects genius sadly passed away on the seventh of February 2022, due to an illness that he had been battling.
The Blonde Bombshell Monica Vitti
Monica was an inspiration for the legendary Italian director Michelangelo Antonioni, after staring in the L’Avventura, La Notte, and L’Eclisse during the 1960s. After her role in L’Avventura, she became internationally famous for her delivery of the role.
Throughout her years of acting, the star won five David di Donatello Awards for best actress which is also known as the Oscars in Italy. In addition, she won a Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival in 1995. Vitti passed away on the second of February due to health reasons.
Fred Ward Made Everything Better
If someone described Fred Ward, they would say that he could make any film better just by being in it. His appearance as a tough guy along with his squinting eyes was intriguing for viewers and he always stole the scene. Since his performance in 1979s Escape from Alcatraz, he has quickly become a star in any film.
He has also worked alongside famous actors like Clint Eastwood in that film and since then, went on to star in The Right Stuff, Tremors, and The Player. The charming actor passed away on the eighth of May without a reason for his death.
Don Wilson Left the Band
You may have heard of Don Wilson, the initiator of the rock band The Ventures with Bob Bogle. Sadly, Wilson joins the list of celebs who passed away in 2022. Wilson was part of a band in Tacoma, Washington. During the 1960s, The Ventures were the reason behind a popularity increase in electric guitars after their hit song “Walk, Don’t Run”.
Their band also made the theme song for the series Hawaii Five-O. The world felt the loss of such a talented guitar player after he passed away on January 22 from natural causes.