Behind every Hollywood blockbuster, thousands of talented professionals help create movie magic. In 2024, the entertainment industry lost 75 remarkable individuals who shaped cinema through their creativity and dedication. These unsung heroes included groundbreaking stunt coordinators who pioneered modern action sequences, visionary set designers who crafted iconic movie worlds, and voice actors who brought beloved animated characters to life. From the Oscar-winning sound engineer who created the lightsaber’s iconic hum to the makeup artist who transformed actors into memorable creatures, this tribute honors the passionate artists and innovators who made Hollywood’s biggest moments possible from behind the scenes. Discover the fascinating stories and lasting legacies of these entertainment legends who helped define modern cinema.
75. Bob Newhart
Bob Newhart, a comedy legend and television icon, passed away at the age of 94 in Los Angeles after a series of short illnesses. Known for his deadpan delivery and unique observational humor, Newhart became one of the most celebrated comedians of his time. His career began in the late 1950s as a stand-up comic, and he rose to fame with his groundbreaking 1960 comedy album The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, which won a Grammy for Album of the Year and remains a classic.
74. Bill Cobbs
Bill Cobbs, a prolific character actor with nearly 200 film and TV credits, died at 90 from pneumonia at his California home. Cobbs began his acting career at age 36 after serving in the Air Force and working various jobs. His breakthrough came with roles in films like The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974), followed by standout performances in Demolition Man, The Bodyguard, and Air Bud. He also gained recognition for his work in the Night at the Museum series.
73. Hinton Battle
Hinton Battle, a three-time Tony Award-winning actor, choreographer, and director, passed away at 67. Known for his exceptional talent on Broadway, Battle debuted as the original Scarecrow in The Wiz at just 15 years old. His illustrious career included acclaimed performances in musicals like Miss Saigon, Sophisticated Ladies, and The Tap Dance Kid, earning him Tony Awards for all three.
72. Don Murray
Don Murray, an Oscar-nominated actor known for socially conscious films, died at 94. He gained fame co-starring with Marilyn Monroe in Bus Stop (1956) as Beauregard “Beau” Decker, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Murray’s career spanned decades with notable roles in films like A Hatful of Rain (1957) and TV shows such as Knots Landing.
71. Janis Paige
Janis Paige, a Hollywood and Broadway star whose career spanned nearly six decades, passed away at 101 from natural causes. She began her career singing at the Hollywood Canteen before transitioning to acting with her debut film Bathing Beauty (1944). Paige became a Broadway sensation with her role in The Pajama Game (1954), which won five Tony Awards.
70. Susan Buckner
Susan Buckner, best known for her role as cheerleader Patty Simcox in the iconic film Grease (1978), died peacefully at 72 surrounded by loved ones. Before her acting career took off, Buckner gained recognition as Miss Washington in 1971 and competed in Miss America. Her pageant success led to opportunities on shows like The Dean Martin Show and roles in films throughout the 1980s.
69. Shannen Doherty
Shannen Doherty, beloved for her roles on Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed, passed away at 53 after a long battle with cancer. Rising to fame as Brenda Walsh on 90210, Doherty became synonymous with ’90s teen drama. She later captivated audiences as Prue Halliwell on Charmed, showcasing her range as an actress.
68. Jennifer Leak
Jennifer Leak, a talented actress known for her work in soap operas and film, passed away at 76 after a seven-year battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare neurological disease. She died on March 18, 2024, at her home in Jupiter, Florida, with her husband of 47 years, James D’Auria, by her side. Leak’s brain tissue was donated to the Mayo Clinic to support research into the disease, reflecting her commitment to helping others.
67. Gary Graham
Gary Graham, best known for his roles in Star Trek: Enterprise and Alien Nation, died of cardiac arrest at age 73 on January 22, 2024, in Spokane, Washington. His wife of nearly 25 years, Becky Graham, was by his side. Colleagues and fans remembered him as a unique talent with a deep love for acting and an unmistakable presence.
66. Charles Dierkop
Charles Dierkop, a veteran actor celebrated for his roles in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Sting, passed away at age 87 on February 25, 2024. He died at Sherman Oaks Hospital in California following a heart attack and pneumonia. A former Marine who served during the Korean War, Dierkop brought grit and authenticity to his roles.
65. Emily Somers
Emily Somers, an actress known for her role as Lindsay in HBO’s Westworld, died at just 38 years old on May 16, 2024, after battling a rare form of carcinoma. She passed away in Pasadena, California, leaving behind her husband of four years, Geordie Robinson. Friends and family remembered her for her positivity and profound impact on those around her.
64. Fritz Wepper
Fritz Wepper, a German actor best known internationally for his role as Fritz Wendel in the Oscar-winning musical Cabaret (1972), died at age 82 on December 2, 2024. He passed away at a hospice facility in Munich after battling health complications stemming from sepsis. His wife Susanne Kellermann announced his passing.
63. Ian Gelder
Ian Gelder, an acclaimed British actor known for playing Kevan Lannister on HBO’s Game of Thrones, passed away at age 74 on January 8, 2024. He succumbed to bile duct cancer just five months after being diagnosed. His husband of three decades, Ben Daniels, described him as an extraordinary actor and partner.
62. Adan Canto
Adan Canto, an actor celebrated for roles in Designated Survivor and X-Men: Days of Future Past, died at age 42 on January 8, 2024. He battled appendiceal cancer before passing away surrounded by loved ones. Known for his charisma both onscreen and offscreen, Canto left an indelible impression on colleagues and fans alike.
61. Steve Lawrence
Steve Lawrence, half of the iconic singing duo Steve & Eydie alongside wife Eydie Gormé, passed away at age 88 on March 7, 2024. He died from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease after announcing his diagnosis publicly in 2019. Fans cherished him not only for his musical talent but also for his warmth and optimism during difficult times.
60. Marlena Shaw
Marlena Shaw, a celebrated jazz, soul, and R&B vocalist, passed away on January 19, 2024, at the age of 84. Her daughter, Marla Bradshaw, announced that Shaw died peacefully while listening to her favorite music. Known for her dynamic voice and charismatic stage presence, Shaw left an indelible mark on multiple genres of music over six decades.
59. Alec Musser
Alec Musser, best known for his role as Del Henry on All My Children, tragically passed away on January 12, 2024, at the age of 50. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Del Mar, California. His death shocked fans and colleagues who remembered him as a talented actor and fitness model.
58. Joyce Randolph
Joyce Randolph, beloved for her role as Trixie Norton on the classic sitcom The Honeymooners, passed away peacefully at the age of 99 on January 12, 2024. She became a household name in the 1950s for her portrayal of Trixie, the sweet and supportive wife of Ed Norton (played by Art Carney).
57. Peter Crombie
Peter Crombie, best known for his role as “Crazy” Joe Davola on Seinfeld, died at the age of 71 on January 10, 2024. He passed away from natural causes at his home in Los Angeles. Crombie’s eccentric portrayal of Joe Davola became one of the most memorable guest characters in the series’ history.
56. James Kottak
James Kottak, drummer for the legendary rock band Scorpions from 1996 to 2016, passed away at age 62 after battling liver failure due to years of health complications. He died surrounded by family at a hospital in Louisville, Kentucky.
55. W.C Clark
W.C. Clark, often referred to as “The Godfather of Austin Blues,” passed away at age 84 on January 15, 2024. He succumbed to complications from heart disease at his home in Texas. A pioneer of Texas blues music, Clark mentored countless musicians throughout his career.
54. Pamela Salem
Pamela Salem, a British actress known for her work in film and television, died at age 80 after battling cancer. She passed away peacefully at her home in London on January 5, 2024. Salem gained fame through roles in productions like Doctor Who and James Bond’s Never Say Never Again (1983).
53. Chrise Gauthier
Chris Gauthier, a beloved character actor known for his roles in Eureka and Once Upon a Time, passed away at the age of 48 on August 15, 2024, due to complications from diabetes. He died at his home in Vancouver, surrounded by family. Fans admired his ability to bring humor and depth to quirky, memorable characters.
52. David Soul
David Soul, the iconic actor and singer best known as Detective Hutch in Starsky & Hutch, passed away at age 81 on November 12, 2024, after battling lung cancer. He died peacefully at his London home with his wife Helen Snell by his side. Soul’s charm and talent made him a household name during the 1970s.
51. Robyn Bernard
Robyn Bernard, a talented actress best known for her role as Terry Brock on General Hospital, died at age 59 on July 3, 2024, following a battle with breast cancer. She passed away at her home in Los Angeles, surrounded by loved ones. Bernard’s vibrant performances made her a standout in daytime television during the 1980s.
50. Chita Rivera
Chita Rivera, a Broadway legend celebrated for her groundbreaking performances in musicals like West Side Story and Chicago, passed away at age 91 on September 25, 2024. She died of natural causes at her home in New York City. Rivera’s trailblazing career made her one of the most influential figures in American theater history.
49. Tony Ganios
Tony Ganios, best remembered for his role as Perry in the cult classic film Porky’s, passed away at age 64 on March 30, 2024, after suffering a heart attack. He died at his home in New York City with family nearby. Ganios became a fan favorite for his portrayal of tough yet humorous characters.
48. Glynis Johns
Glynis Johns, an acclaimed actress known for her roles in Mary Poppins and The Court Jester, passed away peacefully at age 101 on October 17, 2024. She died at her home in London from natural causes after an extraordinary life and career spanning over eight decades.
47. Rusty Golden
Rusty Golden, a musician known for his work with The Goldens and as the son of country music legend William Lee Golden of The Oak Ridge Boys, died at age 66 on June 20, 2024, from complications related to Parkinson’s disease. He passed away surrounded by family at his Nashville home.
46. Doug Sheehan
Doug Sheehan, best known for portraying Ben Gibson on Knots Landing and Joe Kelly on General Hospital, passed away at age 75 on May 14, 2024, following complications from pneumonia. He died peacefully at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles with family present.
45. Joe Bonsall
Joe Bonsall, a longtime member of The Oak Ridge Boys known for hits like “Elvira,” passed away at age 76 on December 1, 2024, after battling pulmonary fibrosis. He died surrounded by loved ones at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.
44. Pat Colbert
Pat Colbert, a lesser-known but respected figure in Hollywood, passed away at the age of 78 in 2024 due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He spent much of his career behind the scenes, contributing to the industry as a character actor and voice artist.
43. Richard Lewis
Richard Lewis, the celebrated comedian and actor, died at age 77 in 2024 after battling Parkinson’s disease for several years. Known for his neurotic humor and sharp wit, Lewis became a defining voice in stand-up comedy during the 1980s and 1990s.
42. Barbara Rush
Barbara Rush, a Golden Globe-winning actress, passed away at age 97 in 2024 due to natural causes. She rose to fame during Hollywood’s golden era with standout performances in films like It Came from Outer Space (1953) and Magnificent Obsession (1954).
41. M. Emmet Walsh
M. Emmet Walsh, a prolific character actor celebrated for his work in film noir and comedies, died at age 89 in 2024 from heart failure. Walsh’s career spanned over five decades, with memorable roles in films like Blood Simple (1984), Blade Runner (1982), and Raising Arizona (1987).
40. O.J Simpson
O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star turned actor and controversial public figure, passed away at age 77 in 2024 from complications related to diabetes. Simpson first gained fame as a record-breaking running back before transitioning into acting with roles in films like The Naked Gun series (1988–1994).
39. Toby Keith
Toby Keith, the country music legend known for hits like “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue,” passed away at age 63 in 2024 after battling stomach cancer for two years. Keith’s career took off in the early 1990s with chart-topping albums that resonated with fans for their patriotism and relatable storytelling.
38. Carl Weathers
Carl Weathers, best known for playing Apollo Creed in the Rocky series, died at age 76 in 2024 after suffering a stroke. A former professional football player turned actor, Weathers brought charisma and physicality to every role he played.
37. Boss
Boss, born Lichelle Laws in Detroit, was a trailblazing rapper who became the first female artist signed to Def Jam West. She gained prominence in the early 1990s with her debut album Born Gangstaz, which featured hits like “Deeper” and “I Don’t Give a F—.” Her raw, unapologetic style challenged the male-dominated gangsta rap scene, earning her respect as a pioneer in hip-hop.Boss passed away at the age of 54 on March 11, 2024, after years of battling health issues, including a stroke in 2017 and kidney disease. Despite her health struggles, she remained influential in the hip-hop community and was remembered for her groundbreaking contributions to the genre
36. Harry Johnson
Harry Johnson, an actor celebrated for his roles in Battlestar Galactica and Law & Order, enjoyed a career spanning over four decades. Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, in 1942, he began acting in the 1970s with appearances in shows like MASH* and Quincy M.E. His portrayal of a Colonial Warrior in Battlestar Galactica cemented his place in sci-fi history. Johnson passed away on January 2, 2024, at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness. Known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, he left behind a legacy of memorable television roles that resonated with fans across generations
35. Ewen MacIntosh
Ewen MacIntosh became a household name for his portrayal of Keith Bishop on the British sitcom The Office. His deadpan humor and iconic scenes made him a fan favorite during the show’s run from 2001 to 2003. Beyond The Office, he appeared in shows like Miranda and films such as The Lobster.MacIntosh died peacefully on February 21, 2024, at age 50 after battling health complications. Tributes from co-stars like Ricky Gervais highlighted his originality and comedic brilliance, ensuring his legacy as a beloved figure in British comedy
34. William Russel
William Russell was an iconic actor best known as Ian Chesterton, one of the first companions on BBC’s Doctor Who. Born in 1924, he also starred in The Adventures of Sir Lancelot and appeared in films like The Great Escape. His role on Doctor Who helped define the companion archetype that persists today.Russell passed away on June 3, 2023, at the remarkable age of 99. His contributions to television history were celebrated by fans and colleagues alike, cementing his status as a pioneer in science fiction storytelling
33. Lynne Marta
Lynne Marta gained fame through roles in films like Footloose and Clint Eastwood’s Joe Kidd, along with numerous TV appearances on shows such as Starsky & Hutch. Her career spanned five decades, showcasing her ability to adapt to diverse roles across genres.Marta died on January 11, 2024, at age 78 following a battle with cancer. Her work left an indelible mark on Hollywood, and she is remembered for her talent and resilience both on-screen and off.
32. Spencer Milligan
Spencer Milligan captivated audiences as Rick Marshall on the sci-fi series Land of the Lost. His performance brought warmth and depth to the father figure navigating prehistoric dangers alongside his children. Before his TV success, Milligan worked in theater and appeared in films like Woody Allen’s Sleeper.Milligan passed away at age 86 on April 18, 2024. Though details about his death remain private, his role in Land of the Lost continues to be celebrated by fans of classic sci-fi television.
31. Erich Anderson
Erich Anderson was an accomplished actor recognized for roles in shows like Felicity, Thirtysomething, and films such as Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter. He also authored several novels, blending his creative talents across mediums.Anderson died at age 67 on June 1, 2024, after battling cancer. Known for his intelligence and humor, he left behind a legacy of compelling performances and literary contributions that showcased his versatility.
30. Susan Backlinie
Susan Backlinie made cinematic history as Chrissie Watkins, the first victim in Steven Spielberg’s iconic film Jaws. A stuntwoman-turned-actress, her chilling performance set the tone for one of Hollywood’s most enduring thrillers.Backlinie passed away from a heart attack on May 11, 2023, at age 77. Her unforgettable scene remains one of cinema’s most iconic moments, cementing her place in film history.
29. Louis Gosset Jr.
Louis Gossett Jr., an Oscar-winning actor best known for his role as Sgt. Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman, broke barriers as the first Black man to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He also earned acclaim for his role in the groundbreaking miniseries Roots.Gossett passed away at age 87 on March 29, 2024, due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His trailblazing career inspired generations of actors and audiences alike.
28. Christopher Durang
Christopher Durang was a Tony Award-winning playwright whose works like Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For You challenged societal norms with wit and absurdity. His Broadway hit Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike earned him widespread acclaim.Durang died at age 75 on June 4, 2024, from complications related to dementia. Known for his sharp intellect and comedic brilliance, he left behind plays that continue to provoke thought and laughter.
27. Robert Towne
Robert Towne was one of Hollywood’s most revered screenwriters, earning an Oscar for his work on Roman Polanski’s Chinatown. He also contributed to classics like The Godfather (uncredited) and directed films such as Tequila Sunrise.Towne passed away at age 89 on April 29, 2024. His storytelling mastery shaped some of cinema’s most enduring narratives.
26. Laurie Lindeen
Laurie Lindeen co-founded Zuzu’s Petals before transitioning into writing with her memoir Petal Pusher: A Rock & Roll Cinderella Story. Her work captured her journey through music and life with authenticity.Lindeen passed away from a brain aneurysm on July 1, 2024, at age 62. Her artistry continues to resonate through her music and writing.
25. Donald Sutherland
Donald Sutherland was an acting legend whose six-decade career included iconic roles in films like MASH*, Klute, and The Hunger Games. His versatility earned him numerous accolades including an Honorary Academy Award.Sutherland died peacefully at age 88 on June 20, 2024, after battling a long illness. His extraordinary body of work remains a cornerstone of cinematic excellence.
24. Christian Oliver
Christian Oliver, born Christian Klepser in Germany, was a versatile actor known for his roles in Speed Racer, Sense8, and Saved by the Bell: The New Class. His career spanned television, film, and even video games, with credits in Call of Duty: WWII and Medal of Honor: Underground. Oliver’s talent earned him roles alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Tom Cruise in Valkyrie and George Clooney in The Good German.Tragically, Oliver died at the age of 51 on January 4, 2024, in a plane crash off the coast of Bequia in the Caribbean. The crash also claimed the lives of his two young daughters, Annik and Madita. His passing shocked Hollywood and left a lasting void in the industry, with colleagues remembering him as a dedicated actor and loving father.
23. John Savident
John Savident became a beloved figure in British television for his role as Fred Elliott, the booming-voiced butcher on Coronation Street. Joining the soap in 1994, he quickly won fans with his comedic timing and dramatic depth. Outside of Corrie, Savident appeared in classics like A Clockwork Orange, Gandhi, and Yes, Minister, showcasing his versatility as an actor.Savident passed away on February 21, 2024, at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances that spanned stage and screen. Tributes from fans and colleagues alike celebrated his contributions to British entertainment.
22. David Gail
David Gail gained fame through roles on popular TV dramas like Beverly Hills, 90210, Savannah, and Port Charles. Known for his charm and charisma, he also appeared in films such as Perfect Opposites and lent his voice to the video game Blacksad: Under the Skin. His work resonated with audiences throughout the ’90s and early 2000s.Gail died on January 16, 2024, at the age of 58 from complications following cardiac arrest. Despite his untimely passing, his dedication to acting and love for his craft remain evident in his body of work.
21. Bill Hayes
Bill Hayes was a legendary actor best known for portraying Doug Williams on NBC’s long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives. Starting in 1970, Hayes played Doug for over five decades alongside his real-life wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes. Their on-screen romance captivated audiences and earned them a spot on the cover of Time magazine.Hayes passed away peacefully at age 98 on January 12, 2024. His contributions to daytime television earned him a Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, solidifying his status as an icon in soap opera history.
20. Taylor Wily
Taylor Wily charmed audiences as Kamekona Tupuola on CBS’s reboot of Hawaii Five-0 and its spin-off Magnum P.I. Before acting, Wily had an impressive career as a sumo wrestler under the name Teila Tuli and later competed in mixed martial arts. His humor and warmth made him a standout on-screen.Wily passed away at age 56 on June 19, 2024. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues who praised his joyful spirit and unforgettable performances.
19. James Sikking
James Sikking was best known for portraying Lt. Howard Hunter on the critically acclaimed series Hill Street Blues and Dr. David Howser on Doogie Howser, M.D. Over a six-decade career, Sikking also appeared in films like Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and classic TV shows such as Perry Mason.Sikking died at age 90 on July 13, 2024, from complications related to dementia. His work remains influential in television history, particularly for his role in shaping ensemble police dramas.
18. Martin Mull
Martin Mull was a multi-talented comedian, actor, musician, and painter whose career spanned decades. He gained fame for roles like Leon Carp on Roseanne and Gene Parmesan on Arrested Development. Mull also left an impression with iconic film roles such as Colonel Mustard in Clue.Mull passed away at age 80 on June 27, 2024, after battling a long illness. His humor and creativity extended beyond acting into music and art, leaving behind a rich legacy across multiple mediums.
17. Herbert Coward
Herbert “Cowboy” Coward became infamous for his chilling portrayal of “Toothless Man” in John Boorman’s film Deliverance. A self-taught actor with rugged authenticity, Coward contributed to one of cinema’s most unforgettable scenes. He later appeared in smaller projects like Ghost Town: The Movie.Coward died at age 85 on January 24, 2024, after being struck by a truck while leaving a doctor’s office. His unique presence made him an enduring figure in cult cinema history.
16. Bernard Hill
Bernard Hill was celebrated for commanding roles like Captain Edward Smith in James Cameron’s Titanic and King Théoden in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. With decades of experience across film and television, Hill brought gravitas to every role he undertook.Hill passed away at age 79 on May 5, 2024. His legacy includes being part of two billion-dollar-grossing films that won multiple Academy Awards—a testament to his impact on cinema.
15. Joe Flaherty
Joe Flaherty was an Emmy-winning comedian best known for his work on the sketch comedy series SCTV and as Harold Weir on the cult classic series Freaks and Geeks. His characters like Guy Caballero became iconic within comedy circles.Flaherty passed away at age 82 on April 1, 2024, after a brief illness. His contributions to comedy through writing, acting, and teaching continue to inspire new generations of performers.
14. Chance Perdomo
Chance Perdomo, the British actor best known for his roles in Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Gen V, tragically died on January 5, 2024, at the age of 27 in a motorcycle accident. Authorities confirmed no other individuals were involved in the crash. Perdomo captivated audiences with his portrayal of Ambrose Spellman, a pansexual warlock, in Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and as Andre Anderson in Amazon’s Gen V. His career also included a BAFTA-nominated role in Killed by My Debt, showcasing his ability to tackle emotionally charged performances.
13. Steve Albini
Steve Albini, a pioneering alt-rock musician and producer, passed away on May 7, 2024, at the age of 61 following a heart attack. Albini was renowned for his work with legendary bands like Nirvana (In Utero) and Pixies (Surfer Rosa), as well as his own bands Big Black and Shellac. He founded Electrical Audio studio in Chicago and revolutionized music production with his raw, minimalist approach.
12. Nerene Virgin
Nerene Virgin, beloved Canadian actress and anti-racism advocate, died on January 15, 2024, at Joseph Brant Hospital in Burlington, Ontario. She was 77. Virgin became a household name for her role as Jodie on the children’s show Today’s Special, where her warmth and versatility inspired generations. She also worked as a news presenter and educator throughout her career.
11. David Emge
David Emge, best known for his role as Stephen “Flyboy” in George Romero’s horror classic Dawn of the Dead, died on January 20, 2025, at the age of 77 at West River Health Campus. While the cause of death was not disclosed, his performance as the helicopter pilot-turned-zombie remains iconic within horror cinema. Emge also appeared in films like Basket Case 2 and Hellmaster.
10. William O’Connell
William O’Connell, a prolific character actor known for his roles in Clint Eastwood films like High Plains Drifter and The Outlaw Josey Wales, passed away on January 15, 2025, at the age of 94 at his home in Sherman Oaks, California. A cause of death was not disclosed. O’Connell also made memorable appearances on TV shows such as Star Trek and The Twilight Zone.
9. Michael Jayston
Michael Jayston, acclaimed British actor known for his roles in Doctor Who and Nicholas and Alexandra, passed away on February 5, 2024, at age 88 after a short illness. Jayston portrayed Tsar Nicholas II in the Oscar-nominated historical drama and played The Valeyard in Doctor Who. He also appeared in beloved series like Only Fools and Horses.
8. Norman Jewison
Norman Jewison, legendary filmmaker behind classics like Moonstruck and In the Heat of the Night, died on January 20, 2024, at age 97 at his home in Canada. A cause of death was not revealed. Jewison’s films earned numerous accolades, including an Oscar for Best Picture for In the Heat of the Night.
7. Malachy McCourt
Malachy McCourt, Irish-American actor best known for playing Kevin the bartender on Ryan’s Hope, passed away on January 6, 2025, at age 92 in Manhattan following battles with cancer and heart disease. McCourt also authored memoirs like A Monk Swimming, detailing his journey from Ireland to New York City.
6. Kenneth Mitchell
Kenneth Mitchell, acclaimed actor from Star Trek: Discovery, died on January 13, 2024, at age 49 after battling ALS for five years. Despite his diagnosis limiting mobility, Mitchell continued acting through voice roles while inspiring fans with his courage and positivity.Mitchell’s work included standout performances as Klingon characters Kol and Tenavik on Star Trek: Discovery. He is remembered not only for his talent but also for his unwavering optimism amid adversity.
5. Tisa Farrow
Tisa Farrow passed away unexpectedly on January 3, 2025, at age 72 after reportedly dying peacefully in her sleep. Known for roles in cult horror films like Lucio Fulci’s Zombi (1979) and James Toback’s drama Fingers (1978), Farrow carved out a niche within genre cinema during her brief career.As Mia Farrow’s younger sister, Tisa built her own legacy through impactful performances that resonated with fans of independent film.
4. Anna Strasberg
Anna Strasberg died peacefully on January 6, 2024, at age 84 from natural causes. As co-founder of The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute alongside her husband Lee Strasberg, she championed Method Acting while managing Marilyn Monroe’s estate.Strasberg’s dedication to preserving her husband’s legacy shaped generations of actors who studied under The Method technique.
3. Georgina Hale
Georgina Hale passed away on January 4, 2024, at age 80; her cause of death remains undisclosed. Known for her BAFTA-winning performance in Ken Russell’s film Mahler (1974), Hale enjoyed a career spanning five decades across film and television.Her distinctive voice and versatility made her a beloved figure within British entertainment.
2. Ian Lavender
Ian Lavender died on February 2, 2024, at age 77; no cause of death was disclosed. Lavender became iconic as Private Pike on BBC’s classic sitcom Dad’s Army, earning widespread acclaim during its decade-long run.Lavender also appeared in shows like Yes Minister and performed extensively on stage throughout his career.
1. Susan Buckner
Susan Buckner passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on May 2, 2024; she was aged 72 but no cause of death was disclosed. Best known as Patty Simcox from the musical film Grease (1978), Buckner brought energy to her role as Rydell High’s spirited cheerleader.After leaving Hollywood to focus on family life and teaching children’s theater arts programs later years solidified her legacy both onscreen offstage alike.
