Celebrity Deaths of 2024: Stars We Lost This Year

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Celebrity Deaths of 2024: Stars We Lost This Year

Hollywood mourned many celebrities in 2024.

Speed Racer star Christian Oliver (born Christian Klepser) died at the age of 51 during a fatal plane crash on January 5. Oliver was traveling home from a Caribbean vacation with his two daughters — Madita and Annik, whom he shared with wife Jessica Klepser — on January 4. The aircraft had engine trouble and fell into the ocean. The plane’s pilot also died onboard in the accident.

In addition to being an actor, Oliver was also a realtor at Beverly Hills brokerage The Agency.

“Christian, Madita and Annik, you will be missed. May you rest in peace,” The Agency founder Mauricio Umansky wrote in a social media tribute. “My prayers are with you and your entire Agency family. You are a great friend, father, husband, actor and agent. You made us laugh, you care more than most. You are missed and loved.”

Four days later, news broke that The Cleaning Lady star Aden Canto had died at the age of 42.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” Canto’s rep said in a statement, revealing the actor privately battled appendiceal cancer. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Canto is survived by his wife, Stephanie Canto, and their two children: Roman and Eve.

Keep scrolling to remember the stars who died in 2024:

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Marian Robinson

Michelle Obama’s mother died at age 86, the former first lady confirmed on May 31. 

Marian “passed peacefully” earlier that day, according to a joint statement from Michelle, her husband, Barack Obama, Michelle’s brother, Craig Robinson, his wife, Kelly Robinson, and Marian’s grandchildren, Avery, Leslie, Malia, Sasha, Austin and Aaron.

“Marian Lois Shields Robinson — our mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother — had a way of summing up the truths about life in a word or two, maybe a quick phrase that made everyone around her stop and think,” the family wrote, in part. “Her wisdom came off as almost innate, as something she was born with, but in reality, it was hard-earned, fashioned by her deep understanding that the world’s roughest edges could always be sanded down with a little grace.”

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Elizabeth MacRae

The General Hospital alum died in her North Carolina hometown on May 27 at age 88.

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Georgie Campbell

The equestrian died at age 37 on May 26. Campbell was competing in the Bicton International Horse Trials in Devon, England, when she fell off her horse and suffered fatal injuries.

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Albert S. Ruddy

The famed producer of The Godfather died in Los Angeles on May 25 following “a brief illness,” Deadline confirmed. Part of Ruddy’s life was showcased on the Paramount+ series The Offer in which Miles Teller starred as the award-winning producer.

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Bill Walton

The Hall of Famer and former NBA star died at age 71 on May 24. NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirmed the athlete’s passing at the time.

"Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary which entertained generations of basketball fans,” Silver’s statement read, in part. “But what I will remember most about him was his zest for life. He was a regular presence at league events — always upbeat, smiling ear to ear and looking to share his wisdom and warmth.”

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Doug Ingel

The Iron Butterfly founder died on May 24. He was 78. 

He was the last surviving original member of the band, known for their 1968 hit “In-a-Gadda-Da-Vida.”

“It’s with a heavy heart & great sadness to announce the passing of my Father Doug Ingle,” the singer's son, Doug Ingle Jr., shared via Facebook. “Dad passed away peacefully this evening in the presence of family. Thank You Dad for being a father, teacher and friend. Cherished loving memories I will carry the rest of my days moving forward in this journey of life. Love you Dad.” 

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Grayson Murray

The PGA Tour golfer died on May 25, days after withdrawing from the Charles Schwab Challenge for an undisclosed illness.

“We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA Tour player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” PGA commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement. “The PGA Tour is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.”

Monahan continued: “I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked that we continue with tournament play. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes.”

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Morgan Spurlock

The Super Size Me director died on May 23 at the age of 53 after battling cancer.

“It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan,” his brother Craig Spurlock, said in a statement one day later. “Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas, and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him.”

In addition to Craig, Morgan is survived by his parents, his brother Barry and his sons, Laken and Kallen.

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Charlie Colin

The former Train bassist was found dead after falling in the shower. He was 58.

Colin’s mother confirmed his death in a May 22 statement to TMZ, telling the outlet that the musician had been house-sitting in Belgium. His body was found five days prior when his pals returned to their home.

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Jon Wysocki

The drummer, a founding member of the band Staind, died on May 18. Wysocki was 56.

"Jon passed away surrounded by family and friends that loved him dearly," his Lydia's Castle bandmates, Tonya LeeAnne and Cody Denton, said in a statement to Entertainment Weekly. Wysocki had been hospitalized due to issues with his liver, but a cause of death was not immediately confirmed. 

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Alice Stewart

“Alice was a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN,” network CEO Mark Thompson wrote in an email to CNN staff. “A political veteran and an Emmy Award-winning journalist who brought an incomparable spark to CNN’s coverage, known across our bureaus not only for her political savvy, but for her unwavering kindness. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn such an extraordinary loss.”

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Dabney Coleman

The 9 to 5 actor’s daughter confirmed on May 17 that Coleman died at the age of 92. “A teacher, a hero and a king, Dabney Coleman is a gift and blessing in life and in death as his spirit will shine through his work, his loved ones and his legacy … eternally,” Quincy Coleman said in a statement about her late father.

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Susan Backlinie

Backlinie died on May 11, Fox News Digital confirmed. An actress and stuntwoman, she was best known for her role as the first shark attack victim in 1975’s Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg. Backlinie portrayed Chrissie Watkins, who is dragged to her death by a killer shark in the classic film’s opening scene. 

Per her husband, Harvey Swindall, Backlinie’s passing was “very unexpected.” She died of a heart attack at their shared home in California. She was 77. 

“[She] was the most amazing person I’ve ever met in my life. And I’ve never loved anybody like her,” Swindall told Fox News of his wife of 30 years. 

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Kimberley Nix

The TikTok star, who had been documenting her three-year cancer battle via social media, died in May at the age of 31.

“Hello followers, if you’re seeing this message I have passed away peacefully,” Nix said in a posthumous video released on May 8. “For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Kim, hi! It’s so nice to meet you and you’re welcome to check out all the cool sarcoma facts, information and my lived experience with death and dying with sarcoma cancer. You don’t have to go just because you’re new.”

She continued, “I love you all, thank you so much for this amazing opportunity. I’m in happy tears because you’ve all made me find so much purpose in the end of my life.”

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Steve Albini

The Shellac frontman died of a heart attack on May 7, his Electric Audio recording studio announced. He was 61. 

In addition to performing his own music, Albini was a well-known producer, working with Nirvana, Pixies and PJ Harvey.

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Ignatius Jones

The Australian musician died after a short illness, his sister announced on May 8. He was 66.

Jones was the frontman of rock band Jimmy and the Boys and later joined swing band Pardon Me Boys in the 1980s. He was an events director for the opening and closing Olympics ceremonies in 2000 and 2010.

He is survived by husband Novy Bereber as well as several siblings. 

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Susan Buckner

The actress died on May 2 at age 72.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Buckner, best known to the moviegoing public as memorable, bubbly cheerleader Patty Simcox, who starred opposite John Travolta and the late Olivia Newton-John in the 1978 smash musical Grease,” a statement from Buckner’s family read on May 7. 

She is survived by daughter Samantha, son Adam and several grandchildren. 

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Ian Gelder

Gelder’s husband, Ben Daniels, confirmed the Game of Thrones actor’s death on May 7. He was 74.

“It is with huge huge sadness and a heavy heart broken into a million pieces that I’m leaving this post to announce the passing of my darling husband and life partner Ian Gelder,” Daniels wrote via Instagram. “Ian was diagnosed with bile duct cancer in December and yesterday he passed at 13.07.”

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Bernard Hill

The Titanic and Lord of the Rings star died at the age of 79 on Sunday, May 5. His agent Lou Coulson confirmed his death to BBC News. 

In the wake of Hill’s death, actress Barbara Dickson paid tribute to him via social media. “It’s with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill,” she wrote via X. “We worked together in John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell marvellous show 1974-1975. A really marvellous actor. It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny x.”

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Duane Eddy

The guitarist died at the age of 86 on April 30 after a battle with cancer, according to his wife, Deed Abbate. According to the Associated Press, Eddy died in Franklin, Tennessee.

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Richard Tandy

Tandy, who was the keyboardist for Electric Light Orchestra, died on May 1. He was 76.

“It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of my longtime collaborator and dear friend Richard Tandy,” bandmate Jeff Lynne said in a statement. “He was a remarkable musician and friend and I’ll cherish the lifetime of memories we had together. Sending all my love to Sheila and the Tandy family.”

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Brian McCardie

McCardie died at age 59 on April 28, according to his family. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian James McCardie (59), beloved son, brother, uncle and dear friend to so many. Brian passed away suddenly at home on Sunday 28th April," read a statement shared via social media. "A wonderful and passionate actor on stage and screen, Brian loved his work and touched many lives, and is gone much too soon. We love him and will miss him greatly; please remember Brian in your thoughts. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the days ahead. As a family, we would ask for privacy at this time.❤️🙏💚."

McCardie was known for his work in the 1995 film Rob Roy starring Liam Neeson and the 1997 movie Speed 2: Cruise Control. He appeared on episodes of Shameless and Outsider and was expected to star in the Outlander prequel, Blood of My Blood.

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Sonja Christopher

The first-ever Survivor castoff died at age 87 on April 26. Liz Wilcox, who is competing on season 46 of the reality series, broke the news of Christopher’s death.

“Today, the legend herself Sonja Christopher of Season One passed away,” Wilcox wrote via X at the time. “I had the pleasure of meeting her on Christmas. She had so much spunk + love for Survivor and what the show brought to her life. I hope you’re singing + playing your heart out somewhere beautiful, Sonja.”

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Marla Adams

The soap opera actress died on April 25. She was 85. Matt Kane, director of media and talent for The Young and the Restless confirmed Adams’ passing to The Hollywood Reporter. 

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Chris King

The rapper was shot and killed in Nashville on April 20.

According to authorities, King and a group of friends were hanging out when a trio of strangers attempted to rob them. Gunfire broke out, ultimately leading to King’s death. He was 32 years old. 

Tributes began pouring in on social media from many of King’s friends and collaborators, including Justin Bieber. 

“Love you bro. This one hurts,” Bieber wrote via his Instagram Stories. “Please keep his family in your prayers. See you in paradise brother.”

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Eva Evans

The social media influencer, who created the Prime Video series Club Rat, died on April 20. She was 29.

Evans' sister, Lila Joy, announced her death via social media one day after her death. “Yesterday my family received news that our sweet, fabulous, creative, caring, hilarious Eva, my beautiful sister, has died,” Joy wrote via Instagram. “After 24 hours, i still find myself in a constant cycle of denial and acceptance, so i know how unbelievable and hard to process this news will be.”

A cause of death was not announced.

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Meg Bennett

The soap opera actress and screenwriter died on April 11 at age 75.

“Meg lost her battle with cancer,” read a statement from Bennett's loved ones. “Until nearly the end she was devotedly working with children, writing and engaging with her far-flung family and friends.”

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Roman Gabriel

The former NFL quarterback, who played for Los Angeles Rams and the Philadelphia Eagles, died on April 20 at age 85.

“I am sad to announce my father Roman Gabriel passed away peacefully this morning of natural causes at his home,” read a statement from Gabriel’s son. “The entire family asked for your prayers, and to please respect our privacy. I love you dad.”

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Kyle Marisa Roth

The TikTok star's death was confirmed by her mother on April 15.

She was 36. “This is not a platform for personal life shares but so many of my connections on this platform go back years and I have a devastating loss to share,” Kyle’s mom, Jacquie Cohen Roth, wrote via LinkedIn. “My daughter Kyle has passed away. She touched some of your lives personally and some of your lives via her immense life on another platform.”

A cause of death was not confirmed.

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O.J. Simpson

The former athlete's family announced on April 11 that he died at age 76.

“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren,” read a statement shared via X. “During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”

The news came two months after it was reported that Simpson was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer.

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Mister Cee

The radio DJ, who famously worked with Notorious B.I.G., died at age 57. His family confirmed his death via his former radio station, Hot97.

“We’re deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Mister Cee. He wasn’t just a DJ; he was a pillar of our stations, bringing joy to countless listeners with his legendary Throwback at Noon and Friday Night Live sets,” the radio station shared in a statement on April 10. “Mr. Cee’s influence stretched far beyond the airwaves, shaping the very fabric of NYC’s DJ culture. Our hearts are heavy as we send our love and condolences to his family and the fans whose lives he touched through his music.”

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C.J. Snare

The singer died on April 5, his daughter announced. He was 64.

Though Snare battled cancer for quite some time, his official cause of death was listed as cardiac arrest.

Snare’s daughter said her father died on Friday after a lengthy cancer battle, with the official cause of death listed as cardiac arrest.

The musician, whose hits included "When I Look Into Your Eyes" and "Love of a Lifetime," is survived by three children.

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Cole Brings Plenty

The 1923 actor was found dead on April 5 after being reported missing by his uncle Mo Brings Plenty days prior. He was 27. 

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Joe Flaherty

The Freaks and Geeks alum died at age 82, his One Crazy Summer costar Joel Murray confirmed on April 1. “We’ve lost another of my idols. RIP Joe Flaherty,” he wrote via X at the time.

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Chance Perdomo

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina alum died at age 27, his publicist confirmed on March 30. 

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident," the rep said in a statement to Variety. "Authorities have advised that no other individuals were involved. His passion for the arts and insatiable appetite for life was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth will carry on in those who he loved dearest. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved son and brother."

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Jennifer Leak

The soap star died on March 18 at her home in Jupiter, Florida, per her obituary in the East Hampton Star. Her husband, James D’Auria, also revealed that Leak had been suffering from a rare neurological disease, progressive supranuclear palsy.

“Her courage and bravery tried in vain to fight the disease,” D’Auria wrote in his tribute, noting that Leak donated her brain tissue to the Mayo Clinic to aid in further research for the disease.

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M. Emmet Walsh

The Blade Runner actor died from cardiac arrest on March 19 at age 88 , according to his long-time manager, Sandy Joseph, per the Associated Press.

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Robyn Bernard

The General Hospital actress was found dead in an "open field behind [a] business" in San Jacinto, California on March 12 at 4:08 a.m., according to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. A cause of death was not revealed at the time. She was 64. 

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Leah Smith

The TikTok star died on March 11 at the age of 22. Smith’s death came after a four-year battle with bone cancer, which she documented on social media.

“I’m sad to say that she passed away today around half-eleven this morning,” Smith’s boyfriend, Andrew, announced via her TikTok page. “We’ll all miss Leah, but we’ll make sure we never forget her. We’ll never let Leah be forgotten.”

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Eric Carmen

The singer died on the weekend of March 9, according to his wife, Amy Carmen. He was 74.

"It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen," Amy shared via Eric's official website on March 11. "Our sweet, loving and talented Eric passed away in his sleep, over the weekend. It brought him great joy to know, that for decades, his music touched so many and will be his lasting legacy."

Carmen was best known for his hit song "All by Myself" and as the lead singer of The Raspberries.

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Karl Wallinger

The Welsh singer, who led the band World Party, died at age 66 on Sunday, March 10, his rep confirmed. A cause of death was not revealed.

World Party was an alt-rock group known for hits such as "Ship of Fools," "Put the Message in the Box" and "Is It Like Today?" Wallinger also worked with Steely Dan and the late Sinead O'Connor.

The musician is survived by wife Suzie Zamit, son Louis Wallinger, daughter Nancy Zamit and two grandchildren.

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Steve Lawrence

The Grammy winner, best known for his act with late wife Eydie Gormé, died following complications from Alzheimer’s disease on March 7 at the age of 88, per The Hollywood Reporter.  

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Akira Toriyama

Toriyama, who created the Dragon Ball comics, died after suffering a blood clot on March 8 at the age of 68.

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Jim Beard

The Steely Dan keyboardist died on March 2 in a New York City hospital from complications due to an illness, per Deadline. He was 63.

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Garrison Brown

Garrison, who was the son of Sister Wives stars Janelle and Kody Brown, died at age 25 on March 5.

Janelle confirmed the news via Instagram, writing, "Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown. He was a bright spot in the lives of all who knew him. His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away. We ask that you please respect our privacy and join us in honoring his memory.”

Police arrived at Garrison’s Flagstaff, Arizona, home on March 5 after receiving a report of a death, per TMZ. The officers found him dead at the scene with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Law enforcement told the outlet that foul play is not suspected, and Garrison’s death is being investigated as a suicide. The police added that Garrison’s brother Gabriel found Garrison’s body.

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Chris Mortensen

The ESPN NFL reporter died on March 3, ESPN chairman Jimmy Pitaro confirmed in a statement via X. He was 72.

“Mort was widely respected as an industry pioneer and universally beloved as a supportive, hard-working teammate,” the statement read. “He covered the NFL with extraordinary skill and passion, and was at the top of his field for decades. He will truly be missed by colleagues and fans, and our hearts and thoughts are with his loved ones.”

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Anne Whitfield

The White Christmas star died on February 15 at Valley Memorial Hospital “surrounded by family” after suffering an “unexpected accident while on a walk in her neighborhood,” according to her obituary. 

"Through the kindness of neighbors who provided expert medical support, family had the gift to say goodbye and express love and gratitude, a gift we will always cherish," her family wrote in a statement. 

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Michael ‘Virgil’ Jones

The former WWE superstar, best known as Virgil in the ring, died on February 28. He was 61. Wrestling referee Mark Charles III (a.k.a. The Count) confirmed the news via Facebook, writing, “Virgil passed peacefully at the hospital this morning.” The late athlete suffered multiple strokes and battled both dementia and cancer.

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Richard Lewis

Us confirmed that the comedian died on February 27 after suffering a heart attack. He was 76. Ahead of his death, Lewis announced in April 2023 that he’d been battling Parkinson’s disease for two years.

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Thomas Kingston

The member of the royal family died at age 45 on February 25.

"It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Thomas Kingston, our beloved husband, son and brother. Tom was an exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him. His death has come as a great shock to the whole family and we ask you to respect our privacy as we mourn his passing," read a statement from his family, which included wife Lady Gabriella Kingston.

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Charles Dierkop

Dierkop died on February 25 after suffering a heart attack and battling pneumonia, his daughter, Lynn, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 87. The actor was best known for starring in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Sting and the 1970 TV series Police Woman.

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Kenneth Mitchell

The Star Trek: Discovery actor’s family confirmed on February 25 that he died one day earlier after a five-year battle with ALS. Mitchell was 49.

“Ken was the keeper of countless friendships. Like a massive star exploding with kindness, purity and a particular brand of silly, you were pulled right into his orbit,” a statement read, in part. “Once captured, Ken could bathe you in positivity, thoughtfulness, and hilarity, and make you feel so loved.”

Mitchell is survived by wife Susan and their two children.

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Chris Gauthier

The Once Upon a Time alum died on February 23 at the age of 48. His cause of death has not been publicly shared.

“As a beloved character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film,” TriStar Appearances/Event Horizon Talent said in a statement. “His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally.”

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Ewen MacIntosh

The actor, well known for his role Keith on the U.K. version of The Office, died at the age of 50. “With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved comedy genius Ewen MacIntosh,” his management company, Just Right Management, announced via X on February 21. “His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green Care Home. There will be a private cremation for family & close friends soon & a celebratory memorial later in the year.”

Ricky Gervais, who cocreated and starred in U.K. version of The Office, paid tribute to his “very funny and very lovely” former costar via X, calling MacIntosh “an absolute original.”

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Tony Ganios

The Porky’s actor died on February 18, one day after he underwent surgery to treat a spinal cord infection, per TMZ. The outlet reported that Ganios had a heart attack while he was recovering. His fianceé, Amanda, posted a heartbreaking tribute in his honor.

“The last words we said to each other were ‘I love you.’ Love is an understatement,” she wrote via X on February 19. “You are everything to me. My heart, my soul and my best friend.”

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Tony Hutson

The former Dallas Cowboys player died on February 3, according to an obituary shared by Serenity Gardens Funeral Services. He was 49. 

"Lost one of my favorite teammates and great friends in Tony Hutson," Hutson’s former teammate Randall Godfrey wrote via Facebook the following day. "Please keep the Hutson family in prayer. Our 1996 Dallas Cowboys rookies had a special bond. He made several trips to Valdosta to help with my annual football camps. I cherished every moment that he had me crying after laughing so hard."

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Cecilia Gentili

A February 6 post shared via Gentili’s Instagram Story confirmed that she had died at age 52. Former Pose costar Dominique Jackson was among those to mourn the actress and LGBTQ+ activist’s death.

"AN ACTIVIST, AN ICON, A TRAILBLAZER, A MOTHER, A WIFE, AN ACTRESS AND COMEDIAN, AN AMAZING SISTER AND A PHENOMENAL HUMAN BEING!" Jackson wrote via social media. "I am deeply saddened by your departure dear sister! Even in death you are a force to be reckoned with, your legacy one of movement, love and compassion unapologetic and true. I thank you dearly for ALL the work you have done.”

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Toby Keith

The country star died at age 62 on February 5 after a battle with stomach cancer. “Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage,” his family shared via social media.

Keith initially revealed his cancer diagnosis in June 2022.

“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” he wrote via Instagram at the time.

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Carl Weathers

The actor, known for his work in Rocky and Predator, died on February 1 at age 76. 

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement. "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 recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

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Hinton Battle

The Broadway star died at age 67, pal Debbie Allen confirmed via social media on January 30. A cause of death was not revealed. 

“Today I honor Hinton Battle, my dear friend who left us to dance and sing in God’s Ensemble last night,” Allen wrote via Instagram. “He fought this battle to live and be creative, impacting audiences and young people across the globe. Let us always hold him high in our hearts and in our mind’s eye and forever speak his name.”

Battle was a three-time Tony Award winner. “His unparalleled talent and infectious energy will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were touched by his brilliance,” read a tribute shared via the Tony Awards’ official X account.

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Chita Rivera

The Broadway legend died at age 91 in New York on January 30 following “a brief illness,” her daughter Lisa Mordente confirmed.

Rivera was known for originating the Broadway roles of Anita in West Side Story and Velma Kelly in Chicago, along with winning two Tony Awards throughout her extensive theater career.

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Amanda Davies

The One Life to Live alum, who is the daughter of actress Erika Slezak, died “suddenly,” Slezak’s official fan club website confirmed in January. She was 42. (Davies portrayed the teenage version of her real-life mother’s character, Victoria “Viki” Lord, on the soap in 2003.)

"It is with great sadness that I share the news of the passing of Erika's daughter Amanda Elizabeth Davies who died very suddenly," the website read. "The family is heartbroken and would appreciate privacy at this time."

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Charles Osgood

The journalist died on January 23 at his New Jersey home. He was 91. His family told CBS that dementia was his cause of death. 

Osgood was the host of CBS Sunday Morning from 1994 until his 2016 retirement. He is survived by wife Jean, his two siblings and five children. 

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Herbert Lee 'Cowboy' Coward

Coward, who played Toothless Man in Deliverance, was involved in a collision on January 24. The actor, his girlfriend, Bertha Brooks, and their pet Chihuahua dog and pet squirrel were killed in the crash. Local outlets reported that authorities said Coward and Brooks were not wearing seatbelts when they were by an oncoming truck, which was driven by a 16-year-old. 

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Maricet Espinosa González

The Pan American Judo Confederation confirmed the Olympian and Cuban Judo champion’s death via Instagram on January 22. She was 34. 

“It is with deep sadness that we say goodbye to a legend of Pan-American and Cuban judo,” the post read, via a translation. “Maricet Espinosa, affectionately known as 'La Mole', leaves an indelible legacy. Two-time Pan American champion, world medalist and Olympic representative in Rio 2016. Rest in peace, dear Maricet. Our condolences to his family and to Cuban judo. Your spirit and your achievements will always endure. 🥋🕊️.” 

The Cuban Sports University also shared the news of González's death via Facebook, saying they were in “mourning” and “great pain” over González’s passing, per a translation.  

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Norman Jewison

The Hollywood director, best known for films In the Heat of the Night and Moonstruck, died at age 97, a spokesman for the family confirmed.

Jewison was a three-time Oscar Nominee and recipient of the 1999 Academy Award for lifetime achievement.

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Frank Farian

The German music producer, known for founding Boney M. and producing Milli Vanilli, died at the age of 82 at his home in Miami.

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Gary Graham

The Star Trek star died at the age of 73 after going into cardiac arrest. He died at a hospital in Spokane, Washington.

Becky Graham, the actor’s wife, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.

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David Gail

The actor, known for his roles on the General Hospital spinoff Port Charles and on Beverly Hills, 90210, died at age 58. “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,” Gail’s sister, Katie Colmenares, wrote via Instagram on January 21. “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 missing you every second of every day forever there will never be another 💔💖.”

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Marlena Shaw

Shaw’s daughter, Marla Bradshaw, confirmed the “California Soul” singer’s death at age 81 via Facebook on January 19. “It’s with a very heavy heart that for myself and my family I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw has passed away today at 12:03,” Bradshaw stated. “She was peaceful. We were at peace. … She went listening to some of her favorite songs.”

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Shawn Barber

The pole vaulting world champion died at his home in Kingwood, Texas on January 17, his agent, Paul Doyle, told the Associated Press. While a case of death was not revealed, the athlete had been experiencing health issues, according to the outlet. He was 29. 

“More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself,” Doyle said in a statement at the time. “It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age.”

Barber’s management agency later confirmed the news via Instagram, writing, "A friend that will never be forgotten. Canadian Olympic Pole Vaulter Shawn Barber has passed away. 🕊️."

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Dejan Milojevic

The Golden State Warriors assistant coach died at age 46 on January 17 after being hospitalized for a heart attack one day prior. 

“We are absolutely devastated by Dejan Milojević's sudden passing,” the Golden State Warriors wrote in a statement shared via X. “This is a shocking and tragic blow for everyone associated with the Warriors and an incredibly difficult time for his family, friends and all of us who had the incredible pleasure to work with him.”

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Lynne Marta

The actress died on January 11 after a battle with cancer, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed. She was 78.

She appeared as Lulu Warnicker, the aunt of Kevin Bacon’s Ren, in 1984's Footloose. She also had an extensive TV resume, appearing in classics like Starsky & Hutch and Charlie’s Angels as well as soap operas such as Passions, The Young and the Restless and Days of Our Lives.

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Roy Battersby

Battersby’s stepdaughter, actress Kate Beckinsale, confirmed via Instagram that the British director died at age 87. “It is with great sorrow that the family of film and television director Roy Battersby announces the news of his recent death after a brief period of illness,” read an obituary shared by Beckinsale on January 15. “He passed away peacefully on 10 January 2024, in Los Angeles surrounded by family, aged 87. Funeral will be held in London, details to follow.”

Battersby had directed a number of TV shows and films throughout his career, including A Touch of Frost, Red Mercury, Between the Lines and Eurocops, and married Beckinsale’s mom, Judy Loe, in 1997.

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Joyce Randolph

The actress died of natural causes at her Manhattan home on January 13. She was 99.

Best known for starring as Trixie Norton on The Honeymooners, Randolph is survived by son Randolph Charles.

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Alec Musser

The All My Children alum died at his home in Del Mar, California, on January 12. He was 50. No cause of death was reported.

The actor starred in Grown Ups, Desperate Housewives and Rita Rocks. He is survived by fiancee Paige Press.

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Peter Crombie

The actor died on January 10 in at a medical facility in Palm Springs, California, following a surgery, Crombie's ex-wife Nadine Kijner said. He was 71.

Crombie, best known for playing “Crazy” Joe Davola on Seinfeld, is survived by brother Jim.  

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Bill Hayes

The actor, who portrayed Doug Williams on Days of Our Lives for more than 50 years, died on January 12, according to a statement from the show. He was 98. 

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved Bill Hayes,” the soap opera said in a January 12 statement to Deadline. “One of the longest-running characters on Days of Our Lives, Bill originated the role of Doug Williams in 1970 and portrayed him continuously throughout his life. He and his wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, remained the foundation of the Williams-Horton family spanning more than 50 years.”

Executive producer Ken Corday added, “I have known Bill for most of my life and he embodied the heart and soul of Days of Our Lives. 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.”

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Tisa Farrow

Mia Farrow’s youngest sibling died in her sleep on January 10.

“If there is a Heaven, undoubtedly my beautiful sister Tisa is being welcomed there,” Mia wrote via Instagram one day later. “She was the best of us — I have never met a more generous and loving person. She loved life & never complained. Ever.”

Tisa, an actress like Mia, is survived by her siblings, husband Terry Deane and grandchildren. (Tisa and Deane’s son, Jason, died in 2008.)