All the Stars We’ve Lost in 2022

Barbara Walters

On Dec 30, legendary journalist Barbara Walters passed away at age 93. She began her career in 1961 as a researcher for the Today Show, quickly becoming a household name in the 1970s after she became the first-ever women to host NBC’s “Today.” Along with that, she’s known for her hard-hitting interviews with first families and stars alike. 

Vivienne Westwood

Known as the godmother of punk, legendary fashion designer Vivienne Westwood passed away at age 81, surrounded by family in her home in London. Known for bringing punk and new wave into the mainstream, Westwood became a legend for her edgy, elegant, and showstopping styles.

Pelé

Brazilian soccer legend Pelé, né Edson Arantes do Nascimento, has passed away at age 82. The news was shared by his family on Instagram writing, “Inspiration and love marked the journey of King Pelé, who peacefully passed away today.” Prior to his death, Brazil’s eternal number 10 was admitted to a hospital in São Paulo last month for a respiratory infection and complications related to colon cancer.

Pelé, known for being the greatest soccer player of all time, won the World Cup three times for his country in 1958, 1962 and 1970 – a feat no one else has ever accomplished since.

Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss

Known for being the longtime DJ at The Ellen Show as well as an incredible dancer, Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss passed away on Dec 14. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share my husband Stephen has left us,” his wife Allison Holker Boss confirmed the news to People. “Stephen lit up every room he stepped into. He valued family, friends and community above all else and leading with love and light was everything to him. He was the backbone of our family, the best husband and father, and an inspiration to his fans.”

She continued, “To say he left a legacy would be an understatement, and his positive impact will continue to be felt. I am certain there won’t be a day that goes by that we won’t honor his memory. We ask for privacy during this difficult time for myself and especially for our three children.” The two, who had been married since 2013, shared three kids Weslie, 14, Maddox, 6, and Zaia, 3.

She concluded, “Stephen, we love you, we miss you, and I will always save the last dance for you.”

Kirstie Alley

On Dec 5, actress Kirstie Alley’s children, True and Lillie Parker, announced the untimely passing of their mother. “We are sad to inform you that our incredible, fierce and loving mother has passed away after a battle with cancer, only recently discovered,” the statement on Instagram wrote.

“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 continued. “As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.” 

Brad William Henke

Brad William Henke, a former NFL player and actor, died in his sleep on Nov 29, Deadline reported. Henke starred in TV shows Orange Is the New Black, Justified and Lost and films such as Pacific Rim and World Trade Center. He was 56.

Christina McVie

On November 30, Christine McVie, one of Fleetwood Mac’s vocalists and the band’s keyboardiest, passed away at the age of 79 following a short undisclosed illness. 

“On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death. She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness,” a statement on her official Instagram reads. “She was in the company of her family.”

“We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally,” the statement concluded.

McVie was the voice behind iconic Fleetwood Mac songs like “Everywhere” and “You Make Loving Fun.”

Irene Cara

Actress and singer Irene Cara, known for the theme songs of Fame and Flashdance, died on Nov 26. She was 63.

In the announcement by her publicist Judith Moose on Twitter, the statement asked to “share your thoughts and memories of Irene.” Moose continued, “I’ll be reading each and every one of them and know she’ll be smiling from Heaven. She adored her fans.”

Mimi Parker

Low drummer and vocalist for Low Mimi Parker, known for as one of the original indie-rock and alternative bands to hit the 1990s, passed away at age 55 from ovarian cancer. The band’s official Twitter page @lowtheband, confirmed the news, saying, “Friends, it’s hard to put the universe into language and into a short message, but She passed away last night, surrounded by family and love, including yours. Keep her name close and sacred. Share this moment with someone who needs you. Love is indeed the most important thing.”

Aaron Carter

Aaron Carter was reportedly found dead in his bathtub at the age of 34. Throughout his life, he appeared on screen, made successful rap albums, and was even on Broadway for a while. He is survived by one son.

Takeoff

Migos member Takeoff, also known by his real name Kirshnik Khari Ball, was murdered on Nov 1 by a fatal shooting in Texas. He was only 28. Known as one of the three members of Migos, he was adored by millions for his powerful voice in the hip-hop community.

Leslie Jordan

Actor, comedian and LGBTQ+ icon Leslie Jordan died on Oct 24. He was just 67 years old. Jordan passed away after a medical emergency led him to crash into the side of a building, TMZ first reported. 

Robbie Coltrane

Actor Robbie Coltrane, known for playing Hagrid in the Harry Potter franchise, passed away on Oct. 14. He was 72.

“Robbie will probably be best remembered for decades to come as Hagrid… a role which brought joy to children and adults alike, prompting a stream of fan letters every week for over 20 years,” his agent said in the announcement, per BBC.

Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury’s children confirmed she passed away in her home at the age of 96. She is known for being one of the most decorated stage actresses of all time, winning five Tony Awards. She is also known for her iconic roles in Murder She Wrote, All Fall Down, and Gaslight.

Loretta Lynn

Country music legend Loretta Lynn passed away at the age of 90 at her home in Tennessee. She is known for her classic hits like “Coal Miner’s Daughter” and “You Ain’t Woman Enough.”

Sacheen Littlefeather

Native American civil rights activist and actress Sacheen Littlefeather passed away at the age of 75 from stage four breast cancer. She is known for the time she represented Marlon Brando at the Academy Awards in 1973, where she read a letter from him declining his Best Actor award to shine a light on the cruel Hollywood portrayal of Native Americans. Littlefeather became an icon. After the Oscars, she worked on activism for Native American organizations and worked in hospice care.

Coolio

Coolio, the rapper behind the ’90s hit “Gangsta’s Paradise,’ passed away at the age of 59 on Sept. 28, 2022. His manager said that the “Fantastic Voyage” rapper died at the home of a friend’s in Los Angeles. Details surrounding his death were not immediately made available.

“We are saddened by the loss of our dear friend and client, Coolio, who passed away Wednesday afternoon. He touched the world with the gift of his talent and will be missed profoundly. Please have Coolio’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers,” Coolio’s talent manager Sheila Finegan told TMZ.

Louise Fletcher

Oscar-winning actress Louise Fletcher passed away at the age of 88 on Sept 23, 2022 in her home in Montdurausse, France. She had an amazing career spanning over 60 years, with her most notable work being in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and Cruel Intentions, to name a few.

Jean-Luc Godard

French-Swiss film director and screenwriter Jean-Luc Godard passed away at the age of 91 on Sept 13, 2022. He was a pioneer of the French New Wave, and made many notable films like Vivre Sa Vie, Breathless, Contempt, and more.

Charlbi Dean

Moden and actress Charlbi Dean suddenly passed away at the young age of 32 on Aug 29, 2022. Dean was most well-known for her roles in Don’t Sleep, Black Lightning, and Triangle of Sadness.

Our hearts are with her family and her fiancé Luke Volker.

Denise Dowse

Director and actress of the hit show Beverly Hills, 90210 Denise Dowse passed away at the age of 64 on Aug 14. Her sister confirmed it to her fans on Instagram, remembering her as “an advocate for African American theater.”

Robyn Griggs

Another soap star has left this world. On Aug 13, Another World star Robyn Griggs’ official Facebook account announced that she passed away from her long battle with cervical cancer. “Hi everyone, With a heavy heart, I am saddened to announce Robyn’s passing. However, she is no longer suffering and would want us to remember that and the good memories,” they said. “I will never forget how open she was to telling her story, and accepting of me helping her tell it. She wanted to help people and spread the word of her story to do it. I was honored to do so. RIP my friend, I love you and smile when I think of you.”

Anne Heche

Following a horrific car accident, Anne Heche was declared legally brain dead at the age of 53, per CNN. The actress’ eldest son, Homer, released a statement to People following the tragic news. “My brother Atlas and I lost our Mom,” the 20-year-old said in his statement. “After six days of almost unbelievable emotional swings, I am left with a deep, wordless sadness. Hopefully my mom is free from pain and beginning to explore what I like to imagine as her eternal freedom.” 

Heche shared son Homer with ex Coley Laffoon and 13-year-old son Atlas with former partner James Tupper. The actress was known for a variety of roles throughout her career, including performances in Six Days Seven Nights, Volcano, and the 1998 remake of Psycho. She was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie for 2004’s Grace’s Choice. 

Olivia Newton-John

Olivia Newton-John passed away at the age of 73, per a statement from her family, which was shared to her Instagram account. “Dame Olivia Newton-John passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends. We ask that everyone please respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time,” the statement read in part. 

Newton-John was a beloved singer and actress known for her role as Sandy in Grease (1978) and Kira in the 1980 film Xanadu. She also sang the 1981 hit song “Physical.” She was also the recipient of four Grammy awards. 

Roger E. Mosley

Roger E. Mosley, best known for his role as Theodore “T.C.” Calvin on the CBS series Magnum P.I. passed away at the age of 83 years old. His daughter confirmed the news with a moving triubte on Facebook. “Roger E. Mosley, my father, your friend, your ‘coach Mosley’ your ‘TC’ from Magnum P.I., passed away at 1:17am,” she wrote. “He was surrounded by family as he transcended peacefully. We could never mourn such an amazing man. He would hate any crying done in his name. It is time to celebrate the legacy he left for us all. I love you daddy. You loved me too. My heart is heavy but I am strong. I will care for mommy, your love of almost 60 years. You raised me well and she is in good hands. Rest easy.”

Nichelle Nichols

Variety confirmed that trailblazing star Nichelle Nichols passed away at the age of 89. She is known as one of the first Black women to play a major role on primetime television, specifically for her role in Star Trek. 

Bill Russell

NBA and Civil Rights Icon Bill Russell passed away at the age of 88 with his wife Jeannine by his side. In an official statement from his Twitter, his family revealed that the 11-time NBA champion passed away from old age.

Mary Alice

Tony and Emmy-winning actress Mary Alice passed away at the age of 85, per The Hollywood Reporter. Alice led a prolific, decades-long career, which included credits such as Awakenings, The Bonfire of Vanitities, Sunshine State, Sparkle, and the drama series I’ll Fly Away — for which she won an Emmy. 

Tony Dow

Tony Dow passed away at the age of 77, according to CNN, which cited a Facebook post from the actor’s son. “Although this is a very sad day, I have comfort and peace that he is in a better place. He was the best Dad anyone could ask for. He was my coach, my mentor, my voice of reason, my best friend, my best man in my wedding, and my hero,” his son wrote. Dow was best known for his role as Wally Cleaver on the sitcom Leave It to Beaver.

Paul Sorvino

Paul Sorvino passed away at the age of 83 years old following a decades-long career. His wife released a statement on Instagram. “I am completely devastated,” she wrote. “The love of my life & the most wonderful man who has ever lived is gone. I am heartbroken.”

Sorvino was known for his role as Paul Cicero in the 1990 film Goodfellas. He also appeared in The Rocketeer, Nixon, and more. Oscar winner Mira Sorvino, his daughter, also paid tribute to her late father. “My father the great Paul Sorvino has passed. My heart is rent asunder — a life of love and joy and wisdom with him is over,” she wrote in a statement on Twitter. “He was the most wonderful father. I love him so much. I’m sending you love in the stars Dad as you ascend.” 

David Warner

David Warner passed away at the age of 80, per BBC News. The prolific actor was known for roles in Titanic, A Christmas Carol, The Omen, TRON, and more. His family released a sorrowful statement following his death.

“Over the past 18 months he approached his diagnosis with a characteristic grace and dignity. He will be missed hugely by us, his family and friends, and remembered as a kind-hearted, generous and compassionate man, partner and father whose legacy of extraordinary work has touched the lives of so many over the years. We are heartbroken.”

Tony Sirico

The Sopranos star Tony Sirico has recently passed away at the age of 79. Per Hollywood Reporter, his manager confirmed he had passed away at an assisted living facility in Florida. While he was known for mainly portraying Paulie “Walnuts” Gualtieri in The Sopranos, the talented actor also appeared in projects like Goodfellas, Cafe Society, and Family Guy, to name a few. 

James Caan

James Caan, who earned an Oscar nomination for his performance as Sonny Corleone in 1972’s The Godfather, passed away at the age of 82. The actor’s decades-long career featured prominent roles in film and TV, including Brian’s Song, Elf, Misery, and more. The actor’s family released a statement regarding Caan’s passing on his verified Twitter account. 

“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6. The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.” 

Ray Liotta

Ray Liotta passed away at the age of 67, Variety confirmed on May 26. Liotta’s shocking passing comes after a decades-long career and prominent roles in film and TV. Liotta starred in the 1990 Martin Scorsese picture Goodfellas alongside Robert De Niro and Joe Pesci. He won an Emmy award for his work in ER. Further notable credits include Marriage Story, The Many Saints of Newark, Field of Dreams, Shades of Blue and more. 

Naomi Judd

On April 30, Naomi Judd’s younger daughter Ashley Judd released a statement on her Twitter page, confirming that her mother —  known for her legendary musical career as half of the country music duo called The Judds — had passed away from a “mental illness.” The tweet read, “Today we sisters experienced a tragedy. We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness. We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.” 

Gilbert Gottfried

Gilbert Gottfried sadly passed away at the age of 67 following a long battle with an undisclosed illness, CNN reported. The beloved comedian, known for his iconic voice — which he offered as the voice of Iago in the 1992 animated Disney film Aladdin — Gottfried enjoyed a decades-long career. 

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved Gilbert Gottfried after a long illness,” his family wrote on Twitter. “In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children. Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor.”

Estelle Harris

Estelle Harris, known for her role as Estelle Costanza (George Costanza’s mother) on Seinfeld, passed away at the age of 93 in early April 2022, per CNN. Harris had a decades-long career that included roles in film and TV. She provided the voice of Mrs. Potato Head in the Toy Story films, appeared in the series Good Advice, and so much more. 

June Brown

June Brown, known for her role as Dot on the BBC soap opera EastEnders, passed away at the age of 95 in early April 2022. Her family announced the news via social media, writing in a statement on the EastEnders Twitter account, “There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.”

Tom Parker

Tom Parker, a member of the boy band The Wanted, passed away on March 30, 2022, after two years of battling an inoperable brain tumor, per CNN. The singer was only 33 years old. 

Taylor Hawkins

Foo Fighter’s beloved drummer Taylor Hawkins suddenly passed away at the age of 50 years old in March 2022. The Foo Fighters Twitter page broke the news with a tweet. Hawkins was a gifted rock and alternative drummer, joining the legendary Foo Fighters back in 1997. He also worked with Alanis Morissette, Sylvia, and Sass Jordan.

Madeleine Albright

Madeleine Albright passed away at the age of 84 years old in March 2022, CNN reported. Albright was the first woman appointed to become the United States’ Secretary of State, playing a pivotal role in the years following the Cold War. Albright was an important figure in the Clinton administration, serving first as the ambassador to the United Nations, then taking over as the Secretary of State in Clinton’s second term. 

William Hurt

Actor William Hurt passed away at the age of 71 at his home in Portland, per The Hollywood Reporter. The actor was best known for his bevy of roles in 1980’s films, including Broadcast News, Children of a Lesser God, Body Heat, and more. He won the Academy Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for his work in 1985’s Kiss of the Spider Woman.

Sally Kellerman

Sally Kellerman passed away at the age of 84 in February 2022, accoridng to the Hollywood Reporter. The beloved actress was best known for her role as Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” O’Houlihan in the 1970 film M*A*S*H, for which she earned an Oscar nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role. 

Morgan Stevens

Morgan Stevens sadly passed away at the end of January 2022, according to People. He was 70 years old. Stevens was best known for his work on series like Fame and Melrose Place. 

Howard Hesseman

Howard Hesseman passed away at the age of 81, according to CNN. Hesseman was best known as radio disc jockey Dr. Johnny Fever on the comedy series WKRP in Cinncinati. Hesseman was nominated for two Emmy Awards for his work and was described as a “groundbreaking talent” by manager Robbie Kass. 

Cheslie Kryst

Former Miss USA and Extra correspondent Cheslie Kryst died at age 30 in Jan. 2022, as confirmed by Kryst’s family and the New York Police Department, which is currently investigating the circumstances of her passing. Kryst was an attorney as well as an entertainment correspondent, and was awarded the title of Miss USA in 2019.

“In devastation and great sorrow, we share the passing of our beloved Cheslie,” Kryst’s family shared in a statement to CNN and others. “Her great light was one that inspired others around the world with her beauty and strength. She cared, she loved, she laughed and she shined.”

Thierry Mugler

Thierry Mugler — born Manfred Thierry Mugler — the beloved French fashion designer, passed away at the age of 73, according to NPR. Mugler was known for adding a contemporary flair to his designs, launching his fashion brand in 1973. He collaborated with such stars as Madonna, Cardi B, and Lady Gaga. 

Louie Anderson

Louie Anderson passed away at the age of 68 following complications from cancer, CNN reported. The Emmy winning actor’s career spanned from stand-up comedy, to roles in film and TV. He earned wide acclaim for his work on the FX series Baskets, for which he won the Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 2016. His career began in stand-up with appearances on legendary shows like The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. 

Meat Loaf

Meat Loaf, born Marvin Lee Aday, sadly passed away at the age of 74, per a statement on his official Facebook page. Meat Loaf was best known for his 1977 rock opera album Bat Out Of Hell — which is still one of the best selling albums of all time, per CNN. One of the singer’s best known songs, “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That),” earned him a Grammy in 1993. The singer also had a career in acting, appearing in Fight Club, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Wayne’s World among other cult hits. 

Gaspard Ulliel

French actor Gaspard Ulliel tragically died at the age of 37 following a ski accident in the southeast of France, per CNN. Ulliel was best known for his countless roles in French films like Juste la fin du monde and Un long dimanche de fiançailles, for which he received praise, and in Hannibal Rising, in which he played the title character. He was set to appear opposite Oscar Isaac in Marvel’s Moon Knight. Ulliel was the recipient of two César Awards — the French equivalent of the Oscars in America. 

André Leon Talley

André Leon Talley passed away at the age of 73, per a statement via his Instagram account. Talley was a fashion icon and former Creative Director of Vogue. Talley was described as having “a penchant for discovering, nurturing and celebrating young designers,” per the statement on his Instagram account.

Ronnie Spector

Ronnie Spector, the lead singer of the 1960s pop group The Ronettes, passed away at the age of 78 years old, according to CNN. Spector’s stunning vocals and vibrant style made her an icon of the ’60s music scene. The Ronettes are responsible for such songs as “Be My Baby,” “Walking In The Rain,” and a number of renditions of Christmas songs. The Ronettes were inducted into the Grammys Hall of Fame in 1999.

Bob Saget

News of Bob Saget’s passing became public on Sunday, January 9, 2022. The comedian died at the age of 65, per CNN. Saget, a comedian in his own right, was best known by audiences for his portrayal of Danny Tanner on the ’90s sitcom Full House. The cast of the series paid tribute to Saget with loving, mournful triubtes. “I am broken. I am gutted,” Saget’s Full House co-star John Stamos wrote on Twitter. “I am in complete and utter shock. I will never ever have another friend like him. I love you so much Bobby.”

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier passed away at the age of 94 on January 6, 2022, according to CNN. The actor known for his poise and impeccable talent became the first Black man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role in 1963 for his performance in Lilies of the Field. A bonafide movie star, Poitier also appeared in films such as In The Heat of the Night, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?, and To Sir, With Love. 

Peter Bogdanovich

Peter Bogdanovich passed away at the age of 82 on January 6, 2022, per CNN. The Oscar-nominated director of The Last Picture Show had a decades-long career as a writer, historian, actor, and filmmaker. Credited as a link between classic and contemprorary filmmaking, Bogdanovich directed such films as Paper Moon, What’s Up Doc?, They All Laughed, and many more. Bogdanovich appeared in a number of his own movies, and later on in his career made appearaches in the HBO series The Sopranos. 

Max Julien

Max Julien died at the age of 88 on January 1, 2022. The actor of stage and screen was best known for his work in 1970s films including the 1973 film The Mack, per NPR. A statement from Julien’s rep provided to NPR read in part, “During Julien’s decades-long career, he was known for being bold, honest and straightforward. He would live and speak his own truth both professionally and privately.”

Dan Reeves

Dan Reeves passed away at his Atlanta home on January 1 at the age of 77. Reeves had a decades-long career in the National Football League, appearing in nine Super Bowls as a player, assistant coach, and head coach, per ESPN.