In 2024, the world lost several beloved celebrities, but they all left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Read on to see which stars we bid farewell to this year…
John Marsden
Critically acclaimed Australian author John Marsden has died aged 74 his family has confirmed.
He was well known for his best-selling ‘Tomorrow’ series, which sold millions of copies worldwide and was later adapted for film and television.
While he never had any biological children of his own, he was a loving husband to his wife Kristin and had six stepsons.
Later in life he also founded and served as principal at two schools in Victoria: Candlebark School, in Romsey which opened in 2006, and Alice Miller School, an arts-focused secondary school in Macedon, which he opened in 2016.
In a joint statement released by the schools in light of his passing, the educational institutions wrote that John had “transformed countless young loves through both his writing and his groundbreaking approach to education.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese released his own tribute to the author, writing that John’s work would “live long in our national memory.”
“Vivid, funny, quintessentially Australian, he wrote with a real love for our land and a true sense of our people’s character,” the politician penned.
Quincy Jones
The American music industry legend passed away peacefully at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles on Sunday, November 3 aged 91.
His publicist Arnold Robinson confirmed the sad news, revealing that his final moments were spent surrounded by his loved ones.
“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement.
“And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.
“He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created. Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”
He was best known for producing several Michael Jackson albums and collaborating with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and many, many more.
John Amos
Iconic American actor John Amos has passed away at the age of 84 his son Kelly Christopher Amos has confirmed.
According to his son, his father died in Los Angeles on August 21 from natural causes.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” he said in a statement announcing the news.
“He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold…and he was love the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”
John was best known for playing father figure James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking American sitcom Good Times, which aired from 1974 to 1979.
Kris Kristofferson
American singer-songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson died on September 28, 2024, at the age of 88. His family confirmed his death, saying he “passed away peacefully.”
“We’re all so blessed for our time with him,” the statement read. “Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.”
Kristofferson is best known for his career as a country singer for songs such as Me and Bobby McGee, Help Me Make It Through the Night, To Beat the Devil and Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.
He is also widely recognised for the 1976 remake of the film A Star Is Born in which he and Barabara Streisand sang together on love theme Evergreen, which won an Oscar for best original song, and Kristofferson won a Golden Globe for his acting.
Drake Hogestyn
Actor Drake Hogestyn passed away aged 70 on September 28, 2024, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was best known for his role as John Black on Days Of Our Lives.
Hogestyn’s family announced the news on Instagram, sharing with fans a heartbreaking statement regarding his struggles.
“He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” the statement read.
“After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”
Maggie Smith
Beloved British actress Maggie Smith passed away on September 27, 2024, aged 89.
The death of the Downton Abbey and Harry Potter star was confirmed by her two sons, Toby and Chris, in a statement to the BBC.
“It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” their statement read. “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”
They continued, “We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”
Many people released statements paying tribute to Smith. “My wife and I were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” King Charles wrote in a statement shared via social media.
“As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering with the fondest admiration and affection her many great performances and her warmth and wit that shone through both on and off the stage.”
“Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress,” Whoopi Goldberg said. “I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to work with the ‘one-of-a-kind’ [star]. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family … RIP.”
John Ashton
American actor John David Ashton passed away on September 26, 2024, at the age of 76. A rep told TMZ that the Beverly Hills Cop star died in Fort Collins, Colorado after fighting cancer.
“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service,” Ashton’s rep Alan Somer said.
“His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Tito Jackson
Michael Jackson’s older brother Tito Jackson passed away unexpectedly on September 15, 2024, his longtime friend and former manager Steve Manning has confirmed.
The legendary musician was a central figure of the iconic Jackson music family and was most known for his role as a guitarist and vocalist in the world-famous group, The Jackson 5.
While an official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, it is believed that the musician suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.
Just four days prior to his sudden passing, Tito and his brothers visited a memorial for their late brother, ‘The King of Pop’ who also passed away from cardiac arrest at the age of 50 in 2009.
James Earl Jones
Critically acclaimed actor and voice of Star Wars‘ Darth Vader and Mufasa from beloved Disney classic The Lion King (1994) James Earl Jones has passed away aged 93.
According to a statement released by his representative, the beloved Hollywood star died at his home in Dutchess country, New York. No cause of death has been revealed.
Best known for his deep sonorous tones, the star continued to perform on the stage and the screen in his later years and won countless awards for his performances.
His wife Celia passed away in 2016. James is survived by his son Flynn, who is also an actor.
Mark Hamill, who portrayed Luke Skywalker in the original Star Wars trilogy took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to offer his condolences, simply writing “RIP dad.”
Tim Bowden
Former ABC journalist, producer, and author Tim Bowden died aged 87 on September 1, 2024.
He first joined the ABC in 1963 and is remembered for his reporting from Asia and North America during the 1960s and 70s.
He is best known for hosting the ABC TV program Backchat, a stint that helped him quickly become a household name.
Bowden “was for several decades one of our pre-eminent journalists and broadcasters, a storyteller whose curiosity for the world around him was valued by so many of our audiences,” David Anderson, the ABC managing director said.
Lee Fleming
Lee Fleming, one of the founders of Aussie icon Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, died on August 8, 2024. She was 82.
The family-owned Queensland company announced the news on Instagram. “With great sadness, we announce the passing of our Bundaberg Brewed Drinks co-founder, Lee Fleming,” the post read.
“Lee was passionate, kind-hearted, and instrumental to the foundation and growth of our much-loved Bundaberg Ginger Beer. The entire Bundaberg Brewed Drinks family will so sorely miss her. We will miss you, Lee. 🧡.”
She founded the company along with Cliff and her parents-in-law Neville and Gladys in 1968. Her parents-in-law later retired in 1985 and she and her husband took over.
Janet Andrewartha
Janet Andrewartha, best known for her role as Ramsay Street’s Lyn Scully on Neighbours, died on July 26, 2024. She was 72.
The news was announced via Instagram: “Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street’s Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner: Cell Block H,” Neighbours posted.
“Janet had many friendships at Neighbours and one of her most enduring bonds was with Jackie Woodburne, who shared the following words: ‘Janet was one of the finest actors of her generation, but more than that, she was an extraordinary woman. Passionate, political, curious, delightfully eccentric, generous and fun. To me, she was a steadfast friend for over 45 years. I will miss her every day.’
“Our thoughts are with Janet’s family and loved ones at this time.”
Bob Newhart
Legendary comedian and actor Bob Newhart has passed away aged 94 after a “series of short illnesses.”
His publicist Jerry Digney announced the news on July 18, revealing that the beloved star had died earlier that same day.
After shooting to fame as a stand-up comic in the late 1950s, Bob went on to star in several hit television series that bore his name and released several bestselling comedy albums in the following years.
More recent work includes roles in Horrible Bosses, The Big Bang Theory, Young Sheldon, and most notably as the father of Buddy the Elf [portrayed by Will Ferrell] in the 2003 Christmas movie ‘Elf.‘
Shannen Doherty
American actress Shannen Doherty, perhaps best known for her role in Beverly Hills 90210, died at age 53 after a battle with breast cancer.
“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty,” read a statement from Doherty’s publicist Leslie Sloane, as per PEOPLE.
“On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease.”
Shannen was first diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2015. You can read about her cancer journey here.
Richard Simmons
Iconic fitness guru Richard Simmons died aged 76, two days after celebrating his birthday.
According to reports, he was found by police in his Los Angeles home. No foul play was expected.
TMZ was the first to report the news before Simmons’ publicist Tom Estey confirmed the death to PEOPLE.
“The world has truly lost an angel,” Estey told the publication.
Shelley Duvall
Texas-born movie star Shelley Duvall passed away on July 11, 2024. She was 75.
Her long-time partner, Dan Gilroy, announced that Duvall died in her sleep at her home in Blanco, Texas,
“My dear, sweet, wonderful life, partner, and friend left us last night,” Mr Gilroy said in a statement.
“Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away beautiful Shelley.”
The star was best known for her roles in the films of Robert Altman and her iconic role in The Shining.
Martin Mull
Beloved US actor Martin Mull passed away on the 27th of June after “a valiant fight against a long illness.”
His career in film and television spanned almost 50 years, with fans remembering him for his roles in the likes of Roseanne, Arrested Development, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and more recently in Veep and Not Dead Yet.
Martin’s daughter Maggie took to her Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute to her late father shortly after his death: “My dad will be deeply missed by his wife and daughter, by his friends and coworkers, by fellow artists and comedians and musicians, and – the sign of a truly exceptional person – by many, many dogs.”
Donald Sutherland
Star of M.A.S.H. and the Hunger Games trilogy Donald Sutherland, 88, passed away of a long illness on Thursday 20 June 2024, as confirmed by his son Kiefer Sutherland.
“With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away,” the actor wrote on X.
“I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad, or ugly.
“He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.”
Donald married three times and is survived by five children.
Dawn Kenyon
Children’s presenter Dawn Kenyon died in June at age 92.
Born in 1932, she appeared on screens in 1956 – the year television was introduced in Australia.
As the nation’s first female host of a children’s show, she was later dubbed “the first lady of Australian television”.
She was perhaps most well known for her stint on Seven’s Romper Room in the late 50s.
Dr Michael Mosley
Television and radio presenter, documentary-making, journalist, and author Dr Michael Mosley passed away on June 5th after embarking on an arduous hike alone while on holiday on the Greek island of Symi with his wife.
After failing to return from his walk, a huge search operation commenced to locate the 67-year-old. Sadly his body was found four days later. It is believed that the father-of-four died from a suspected heart attack.
His wife Dr Bailey Mosley remembered her marriage with Michael as “incredible” and “lucky.”
“We loved each other very much and were so happy together,” she shared in a statement.
“He did an incredible climb, took the wrong route, and collapsed where he couldn’t be easily seen by the extensive search team.”
John Blackman
Hey Hey, It’s Saturday star John Blackman died June 4, 2024, aged 76.
The beloved television comedian passed away after undergoing surgery to remove part of his jaw, which was deemed necessary by his medical team after he was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2019.
Co-star Daryl Somers said he was “devastated” at the loss of his “beloved friend” while Channel Nine described him as a “cherished voice in the Australian media.”
“John, renowned as the iconic voiceover artist for ‘Hey Hey It’s Saturday,’ brought joy and laughter into countless homes every weekend,” a statement from the network said.
“His distinctive voice and quick wit became a hallmark of the show, endearing him to generations of viewers.”
Bob Rogers
Australia’s longest-serving radio presenter Bob Rogers passed away at his Mosman home in Sydney on May 29, 2024. He was 97.
Roger got his start in radio at Melbourne’s 3XY when he was just 15. His career spanned almost 80 years and was still working at Sydney’s 2CH well into his 90s.
Derry Hinch, Australia’s former Senator, paid tribute to his “brother” in a social media post. “The words ‘legend’ and ‘icon’ are thrown around too easily these days, but Bob Rogers was both,” Mr Hinch said.
“One of his career highlights was in the 1960s when he accompanied The Beatles on their trip to Australia. He was called ‘the fifth Beatle’… “I shall be honoured to deliver his eulogy in Sydney next week. Vale, my brother.”
Mike Pinder
Mike Pinder, the last founding member of the Moody Blues passed away on April 24, 2024. He was 82 years old.
The family announced the news via a statement shared by his bandmate John Lodge: “His final days were filled with music, encircled by the love of his family. Michael lived his life with a childlike wonder, walking a deeply introspective path which fused the mind and the heart,” it read.
“His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”
His cause of death was not revealed.
The band was founded back in 1961 by Pinder, Denny Laine (1944 – 2023), Clint Warwick (1940 – 2004), Graeme Edge (1941 – 2021), and Ray Thomas (1941 – 2018).
Terry Hill
The rugby league world is in mourning following the shock death of NRL, NSW Original, and Australian Kangaroos legend Terry Hill on April 24, 2024.
The 52-year-old was in the Philippines helping to raise money for an orphanage before he passed away from a suspected heart attack.
According to a friend he phoned shortly before his passing, Terry revealed he wasn’t feeling well, before falling asleep and not waking up.
“He lived life at 100 miles per hour and will be missed,” former teammate Tim Brasher shared with Nine’s Wide World of Sports.
Meg Bennett
Helen Margaret Bennett, best known throughout her professional career as Meg Bennett, lost her battle with cancer on April 11, 2024. She was 75.
The soap actress was best known for her role as Julia Newman in The Young and the Restless. She also starred in Grease on Broadway and appeared on General Hospital.
She was also a writer and wrote for shows such as The Young and the Restless and The Bold and the Beautiful.
“Until nearly the end she was devotedly working with children, writing, and engaging with her far-flung family and friends,” her obituary read, first published in The Los Angeles Times.
“Meg met her husband, Robert Guza, Jr. while writing for General Hospital; they would have celebrated their twentieth wedding anniversary this year.”
M Emmet Walsh
Walsh passed away passed away on March 19, 2024, aged 88. The character actor best known for his roles in Blade Runner, Knives, Raising Arizona, and Blood Simple appeared in over 220 roles throughout his career.
The Knives Out director Rian Johnson has described him as an “absolute legend.”
“Emmet came to set with two things: a copy of his credits, which was a small-type single spaced double column list of modern classics that filled a whole page, and two dollar bills which he passed out to the entire crew. ‘Don’t spend it and you’ll never be broke,'” he said.
Robyn Bernard
Actress Robyn Bernard from General Hospital has died at 64. She is best known for her role as Terry Brock in the daytime TV drama between 1984 and 1990.
The cause of death is unknown. Police found her dead after being called to an address in San Jacinto, California, on March 12, TMZ reports.
General Hospital fans have paid tribute to the actress on social media.
“I loved her on GH. She was involved in some interesting storylines with great cast ensembles,” one fan wrote.
“It’s devastating to hear of the passing of Robyn Bernard … such sad news,” said another.
Michael Culver
Star Wars and James Bond actor Michael Culver died on February 27, aged 85. No cause of death was revealed.
“We are very sad to confirm the passing of our friend and client Michael Culver,” his agency Alliance Agents wrote on Facebook.
“It’s been an honour to have represented Michael for the last decade and to have taken him to some of the best Star Wars events in the UK and Europe.”
Culver was known as a “classic English character actor” and has been remembered as an “actor who could play anything”.
He is also known for his roles in Sherlock Holmes and Secret Army.
Richard Lewis
Curb Your Enthusiasm star Richard Lewis died aged 76 in February. The stand-up comedian’s death was confirmed by Deadline, revealing that he died from a heart attack.
Lewis has been featured on popular late-night shows including The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson and even played a fictionalised version of himself on Curb Your Enthusiasm. He has also appeared in Robin Hood: Men In Tights, Once Upon A Crime, and The Elevator.
Chris Gauthier
Actor Chris Gauthier died suddenly on February 24, aged 48.
He is best known for his roles in Once Upon a Time, Eureka, Harper’s Island, A Series of Unfortunate Events, and Smallville.
“We can confirm that our dear friend and client, Chris Gauthier, passed away on Friday morning, February 23, at the age of 48,” the statement read.
“As a beloved Vancouver-based character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we do ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly.”
Gauthier’s manager told TVLine that he “passed suddenly and unexpectedly following a short illness.”
Kenneth Mitchell
Actor Kenneth Mitchell, aged 49, passed away on February 24 following a five-year battle with ALS. He was diagnosed back in 2018, began using a wheelchair in 2019, and went public with his battle in 2020.
Mitchell is best known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery and Captain Marvel.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend,” his family wrote on Instagram.
“Ken was widely known as an actor in many films and television shows.
“He’s portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero’s dad, and four unique Star Trekkers.”
Carl Weathers
According to his family, Carl Weathers died in his sleep on February 1. The beloved actor was 76.
Weathers was best known for his role as Apollo Creed in Rocky and recently, for his role in the Star Wars series The Mandalorian.
He has also appeared in Predator, Happy Gilmore, Arrested Development, and Law & Order as well as playing the voice for Combat Carl in Toy Story 4.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” the family statement said. “Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life.”
“Through his contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognised worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”
Jonnie Irwin
Beloved TV star Jonnie Irwin has died at age 50 after his battle with terminal cancer. Irwin is best known for his roles in Escape to the Country and A Place in the Sun.
The news was confirmed on February 3 by a family member who posted on his social media.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing,” the statement said.
“A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.
“At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.
“As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.
“Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten.”
Chita Rivera
The Tony Award-winning Broadway actress, singer, and dancer Chita Rivera died at age 91 on January 30.
“It is with immense personal sorrow that I announce the death of the beloved Broadway icon Chita Rivera. My dear friend of over 40 years was 91,” her rep Merle Frimark said in a statement.
Her daughter, Lisa Mordente, revealed she passed “after a brief illness.”
“She is also survived by her siblings Julio, Armando, and Lola del Rivero, (her older sister Carmen predeceased her), along with her many nieces, nephews, and friends,” the statement continued.
Rivera is best known for the role of Anita in West Side Story in 1957 as well as the Broadway productions of Bye Bye Birdie and Chicago.
Troy Beckwith
Australian actor Troy Beckwith, best known for his role as Michael Martine in Neighbours, has died aged 48. A cause of death has not yet been revealed.
His co-star Kym Valentine who played Libby Kennedy confirmed the news on Facebook with an emotional message.
“It pains me so much to have to say this. Our dear old friend Troy Beckwith has passed away. Another member of our TV family gone way too soon,” she wrote,
“There will be no funeral as per Troy’s request. Thanks for all the memories my cheeky mate and all my love to your friends and family.”
Beckwith was branded “Sicko Micko” while on the beloved soap from 1992 to 1998… he has been described as one of the most iconic characters of the 90s.
David Gail
Soap actor David Gail has passed away aged 58. He is best known for his roles in Beverly Hill, 90210, Port Charles, and the spinoff of General Hospital.
A cause of death has not been confirmed, however, his death was confirmed by the Beverly Hills, 90210 rewatch podcast host and longtime friend, Peter Ferriero.
“In memory of David Gail. Here are a few stories he shared when he joined the podcast,” Ferreiro’s podcast Instagram page wrote on Saturday, January 20.
“For those that have contacted me ‘Why is this not showing up on Google?’ Please stop. The family will report it at the appropriate time to them,” Ferriero wrote via his Instagram Story several hours later. “I am sharing what I’ve been told to make sure his fans know what has happened. Thank you.”
Gail’s sister, Katie Colmenares posted to her Instagram story addressing the heartbreaking news.
“There’s barely been even a day in my life when you were not with me by my side always my wingman, always my best friend, ready to face anything and anyone [with] me,” Katie wrote.
“The bears will never be the same but I will hold you so tight every day in my heart, you gorgeous loving amazing fierce human being.”
Lynne Marta
Lynne Marta passed away in her Los Angeles home after a battle with cancer. She was 78.
Marta is best known for her roles in Footloose, Joe Kidd, Starsky & Hutch, Love, American Style, and Charlie’s Angels.
She has also appeared on the popular soaps, ER and Days of Our Lives.
Marta’s close friend Chris Saint-Hillaire confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Her friend Joan Sobel also shared the news in a Facebook post in which she wrote, “We lost a beautiful light today.”
“My friend, Lynne Marta lost her good fight. A wonderfully talented actress and a beautiful singer whose voice was of the angels.”
She added: “A dear heart who adored her friends both human and furry. I will miss her terribly.”
Content warning: This section discusses suicide. Help is available at Lifeline Australia, call 13 11 14.
Alec Musser
Popular soap actor Alec Musser died on January 13, at his home in Del Mar, California, aged 50.
Musser is best known for his role as Del Henry in All My Children however he has also appeared in Grown Ups, I Wanna Be a Soap Star, Desperate Housewives, Rita Rocks, and Road to the Altar.
Musser’s fiancee, Paige Press was heartbroken… she wrote to Instagram of the news.
“RIP to the love of my life,” she wrote.
“I will never stop loving you. My heart is broken,” she went on.
“Today is the worst day of my life. We were so happy … You were the best fiancé I could have ever asked for.”
It was later revealed in an online report posted by the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office on January 16, that he died by suicide.
Bill Hayes
Beloved actor and longtime star of the NBC soap opera Days of Our Lives, died on January 12 at the age of 98.
Hayes was best known for his role as Doug Williams in which he played the characters since 1970.
Hayes’ wife, Susan Seaforth, spoke with the executive producer of Days of Our Lives, Ken Corday, following his passing…
“I have known Bill for most of my life and he embodied the heart and soul of ‘Days of our Lives,’ ” she said.
“Although we are grieving and will miss him, Bill’s indelible legacy will live on in our hearts and the stories we tell, both on and off the screen.”
Peter Crombie
Actor Peter Crombie has died aged 71. According to TMZ, he passed away after battling an unknown illness.
Crombie is best known for playing “Crazy” Joe Davola on Seinfeld.
His ex-wife Nadine Kijner informed TMZ that he passed away quickly.
“He was the kindest [SIC] most caring, giving, considerate man,” she told TMZ.
“He was loved by everybody, generous, and never had anything bad to say about anyone.”
Crombie also appeared in The Blob, My Dog Skip, Natural Born Killers, Se7en, Get Smart, House of Frankenstein, and more.
James Kottak
Drummer James Kottak, best known for his stints in popular rock bands, Scorpions and Kingdom Come, has died aged 61.
The news was posted to Facebook on January 9 by Kottak’s former band, Scorpions. A cause of death was not given.
“Very sad news … our dear friend and Drummer for 20 years James Kottak has passed at the age of 61,” the band wrote.
“James was a wonderful human being, a great musician, and a loving family man … he was our Brother from another Mother and will be truly missed.”
Kellie Dickerson
The beloved Aussie musical theatre director best known for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Wicked, and The Book of Morman has died aged 53.
Dickerson directed some of the biggest theatre productions both in Australia and worldwide.
Her death comes just a few years after she was diagnosed with a rare brain condition.
“It was both a joy and honour to be your friend and agent,” her agent, Working Management said in a post.
“You gave so much to so many. A true icon of the industry. Your energy, kindness, and talent were boundless.”
Glynis Johns
The beloved British actor and star of the 1964 film, Mary Poppins, died at an assisted living home of natural causes on January 4. She was 100 years old at the time.
Johns is also well-known for her roles in Miranda, Mad About Men, and the 1973 Tony Award-winning musical, A Little Night Music.
Her manager, Mitch Clem, shared a statement to The Guardian that read: “My heart is heavy today with the passing of my beloved client Glynis Johns. Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives.”
“She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years.
“She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely. Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood.”
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