Fitness star Richard Simmons died at 76 on July 13th, 2024. He was famous for his high-energy classes that welcomed everyone, no matter their size. With his motto "Everybody is beautiful," he made fitness feel happy and inclusive. Through his TV show "Slimnastics" and countless appearances, Simmons made exercise fun and accessible.
His publicist confirmed Simmons' death in an email, but didn't give more details after being first reported by TMZ. This news follows rumors about his health since he hadn't been seen much lately, and he mentioned a skin issue earlier this year.
Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA tour winner, sadly died by suicide on May 25, 2024, at 30 years old after withdrawing from the second round of the Charles Schwab Challenge. He was one of the youngest golfers in history to make the Korn Ferry Tour and go pro.
"We would like to thank the PGA Tour and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support," Eric and Terry Murray said. "Life wasn't always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now."
Lou Dobbs, the anchor and managing editor of CNN's "Moneyline" program, became known over the years for his outspoken views on economic and political issues, particularly immigration and globalization. The controversial host was admittedly pro-Trump and known for peddling conspiracy theories.
Of course, while his commentary might not have had any journalistic integrity, it made for years of entertainment! Dobbs died on July 18, 2024 but the exact cause of death is unknown at this time of writing.
"Dr. Ruth" Westheimer, who passed away on July 12, 2024, at 96, was a cultural icon who shattered taboos and revolutionized the way Americans discussed intimacy. She was famous for her radio show in the 1980s where people would call in with all sorts of relationship questions. Her show became a TV show too, and Dr. Ruth became a familiar face in many homes.
Her publicist announced the news to ABC, writing, " The children of Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer are sad to announce the passing of their mother, the internationally-celebrated... therapist, author, talk show host, professor, and orphan of the Holocaust. She died peacefully at her home in New York City on July 12th surrounded by her loving family, just over a month after celebrating her 96th birthday."
Beloved actor Donald Sutherland passed away on Thursday, June 20, at 88 years old. His agency CAA confirmed his death with the Hollywood Reporter, citing that he died in Miami after suffering from a long-term illness. His son, Kiefer, described him on X as "one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved..."
It's not an understatement to say he was legendary in Hollywood. From Hawkeye Pierce in MASH (1970) to President Snow in the blockbuster Hunger Games franchise (2012-2015), Sutherland portrayed a wide range of characters throughout his career. In fact, he received an Academy Honorary Award in 2017 despite never securing a nomination.
Phil Donahue was a legendary American television host and producer, best known for hosting The Phil Donahue Show from 1967 to 1996. On top of trailblazing the talk-show format, his show was most notable for audience participation. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Donahue was an influential figure in media, often addressing tough topics like civil rights, gender equality, and politics.
Donahue's family released the following statement after his death on August 18, 2024: "Groundbreaking TV talk show journalist Phil Donahue died Sunday night at home surrounded by his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his sister, his children, grandchildren, and his beloved golden retriever, Charlie. Donahue was 88 years old and passed away peacefully following a long illness."
Bob Newhart, the iconic comedian and actor, passed away on July 18, 2024, at his Los Angeles home at the age of 94. His death came after a series of short illnesses, according to publicist Jerry Digney. Newhart's career began in the 1950s with stand-up routines known for his deadpan delivery and signature stammer.
He transitioned to television, starring in two highly successful sitcoms, The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart, among other film roles. Newhart's accolades include three Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2002.
Actress Shannen Doherty, known for her roles in teen dramas like Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed, passed away on July 13, 2024, at the age of 53. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and became a vocal advocate for cancer awareness. She openly shared her experiences, raising funds for research and inspiring others facing similar challenges.
Publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed the news to PEOPLE, writing, "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease."
On Monday, May 27, 2024 (Memorial Day), the NBA announced Bill Walton's death due to cancer. Nicknamed "The Big Redhead," Walton won two NCAA championships at UCLA, was inducted into the Hall of Fame, and was a top broadcaster until passing at 71.
“I am sad today hearing that my comrade and one of the sports world’s most beloved champions and characters has passed,” fellow Hall of Famer Dr. J wrote online, as reported by AP News. “Bill Walton enjoyed life in every way. To compete against him and to work with him was a blessing in my life.”
Sadly, Shelley Duvall passed away Thursday, July 11th, at the age of 75. The cause of death was complications from diabetes. She was an actress known for her powerful performances. You might remember her best from the horror movie The Shining, in which she played Wendy Torrance, the wife who goes through a terrifying ordeal with her husband and son in a creepy hotel.
She also starred in other films throughout her career, like Popeye alongside Robin Williams. Later in life, Duvall opened up about mental health struggles and felt Hollywood wasn't always kind to her. Her partner Dan Gilroy announced Duvall's death, NPR reports: “My dear, sweet, wonderful life, partner, and friend left us last night. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away beautiful Shelley.”
Laura Lynch, a founding member of the renowned country music group originally known as the Dixie Chicks, tragically passed away at the age of 65. Lynch's life was abruptly ended in a car crash on December 22, 2023.
The incident, which took place on a highway outside of El Paso, Texas, led to immediate widespread mourning within the music community. Lynch provided lead vocals and played the upright bass on The Chicks’ first three records.
Character actor Dabney Coleman passed away on May 16, 2024, with his daughter stating he "took his last earthly breath peacefully and exquisitely." He was well respected in the industry despite often portraying pompous, arrogant, or self-absorbed characters.
You might remember him from comedies like 9 to 5 (1980), Tootsie (1982), and You've Got Mail (1998). Coleman's legacy will live on for years, and he will always be remembered for excelling at characters that audiences loved to hate. It was more entertaining and impressive that way!
Garrison Brown, a familiar face to fans of the reality series Sister Wives, tragically passed away at the age of 25 in his Flagstaff, Arizona home on March 5. As a member of the polygamist family featured on the show since its inception in 2010, Garrison was beloved by viewers for his presence alongside his father, Kody Brown, and the rest of the family, including his mother Janelle and siblings.
The news of his untimely passing left the Brown family and fans devastated, with tributes pouring in on social media platforms. Janelle Brown, Garrison's mother, expressed the profound loss felt by the family and requested privacy as they grieve and honor his memory. His absence will leave a significant void in the lives of those who loved him.
Actor and comedian Martin Mull sadly passed away on June 27, 2024, at the age of 80. His daughter Maggie shared the news, stating that he died at home after a "valiant fight against a long illness," pancreatic cancer. Many will remember Mull for his comedy chops and for success at pretty much everything related to entertainment, from music to painting and writing.
Born in 1944, Mull's early career included stints as a radio DJ and nightclub performer. He gained national recognition in the 1970s on shows like Mary Hartman and Fernwood 2 Night, but he was most popular for his appearances on Saturday Night Live, Roseanne, Dharma & Greg, King of the Hill, and Bob's Burgers. In short, Mull was one of the few remaining Renaissance men of Hollywood.
Pro Football Hall of Famer Larry Allen passed away on June 2, 2024 while on vacation with his family in Mexico. His death was announced by the Dallas Cowboys, his team for 12 NFL seasons. Allen’s family, former teammates, and the entire NFL community mourn his loss.
Renowned for his strength and versatility, Allen earned a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013. His contributions on the field were matched by his dedication off it, inspiring countless young athletes. Allen's impact on the sport endures, celebrated by fans and peers alike.
Alice Stewart, a veteran Republican advisor and CNN commentator, passed away on May 18, 2024, at the age of 58. CNN CEO Mark Thompson announced the tragic passing in an email: “Alice was a very dear friend and colleague to all of us at CNN. 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.”
Stewart worked as a communications director for various Republican figures, including Mike Huckabee, Michele Bachmann, Rick Santorum, and Ted Cruz. She joined CNN as a political commentator in 2016, offering conservative viewpoints on the network. She will be remembered for her intelligence and kindness across the board!
Louis Gossett Jr., the esteemed actor whose illustrious career spanned over six decades, passed away on March 29, 2024, at the age of 87. Born into a family of talent in 1936, Gossett began his acting journey in theater before seamlessly transitioning to film and television.
His groundbreaking portrayal of Sergeant Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman earned him widespread acclaim, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him the first African American male to win in that category. His legacy as a trailblazer in the industry and a champion for diversity and inclusion will forever be remembered and celebrated by generations to come.
Toby Keith, the country music superstar, passed away on February 5 at the age of 62. His death was the end of a two-year battle with stomach cancer. Keith was known for his distinctively patriotic songs and rich voice.
His music career took off in 1993 with his self-titled debut album, which included the hit single "Should've Been a Cowboy.” His biggest hit, "Red Solo Cup," released in 2011, became a party anthem known far beyond the country scene.
Willie Mays, AKA "The Say Hey Kid," passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the age of 93, due to heart failure. His death was announced by his family and the San Francisco Giants, which is the team where he spent a significant portion of his professional career. News reports suggest he passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones in the San Francisco Bay Area. He's widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around baseball players ever, racking up the following awards:
- 12-time All-Star
- 2 World Series Championships (1962 with the New York Giants, 1970 with the New York Mets)
- 2 MVP Awards
- Home Run Record Holder (660) at the time of his retirement
- Induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979
Jerry West, a legendary figure in basketball, passed away on June 12, 2024, at the age of 86. His death was announced by the Los Angeles Clippers, where he served as an executive board member for many years. West had an iconic career with the Lakers, earning the nickname "Mr. Clutch.". He was a 14-time All-Star, NBA champion in 1972, and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
While no official cause of death has been publicly announced, Jerry West lived a long, accomplished life. News reports haven't indicated any specific illness or health issues leading up to his death. West His wife Karen stayed by his side when he died.
O.J. Simpson, who died April 10 at 76 years old after a long battle with cancer. His legacy is forever intertwined with athletic greatness and a sensational trial. Once revered as a running back who dominated the '70s NFL, Simpson's later life overshadowed his football career given the 1994 murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman.
The subsequent trial, a media frenzy unlike any other, captivated the nation. Despite ending in acquittal, the verdict remains controversial to this day. Eventually, Simpson would find his way to prison anyway after being charged with armed robbery and kidnapping in 2007. He was released on parole in 2017.
Colin Burgess, the original drummer for the legendary hard-rock band AC/DC, passed away at the age of 77. The news of his demise was officially announced through AC/DC's social media on December 16, 2023.
Burgess was an integral part of the band during its formative years in the early 1970s, contributing to the band's earliest singles and helping shape their iconic sound. The Australian musician's death was mourned by fans and fellow musicians alike.
David Soul, an acclaimed actor and singer, passed away at the age of 80 on January 4. He was best known for his role as Detective Kenneth "Hutch" Hutchinson in the iconic television series Starsky & Hutch.
Alongside his acting career, Soul also achieved success as a pop singer. His passing has left fans and the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a beloved actor and musician.
Richard Lewis, a renowned comedian and actor best known for his role in the popular series Curb Your Enthusiasm, tragically passed away at his home in Los Angeles on February 27. He was 76 years old, and the cause of death was Parkinson's disease.
The official cause of death was cardiopulmonary arrest, also known as cardiac or circulatory arrest. Despite battling Parkinson's disease, which he publicly revealed in April 2023, Lewis continued to entertain and inspire till his last days.
Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, the Canadian actor renowned for his roles in the series Star Trek: Discovery and the film Captain Marvel, passed away on February 24. He was just 49 years old at the time of his death.
Mitchell had been bravely battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. His death was due to complications from this condition.
Steve Lawrence passed away on March 7 at the age of 88 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. Beginning his journey in show business as a teenager, Lawrence's career took flight after meeting Eydie Gormé in 1953, forming the dynamic duo Steve & Eydie.
Their partnership extended beyond the stage, as they collaborated on television specials and earned accolades, including an Emmy and a Grammy. Apart from his work with Gormé, Lawrence also made significant contributions to Broadway and Hollywood, showcasing his versatility as an actor in productions like What Makes Sammy Run? and The Blues Brothers.
Vontae Davis passed away on April 1, 2024, at the age of 35. Davis rose to fame at the University of Illinois and was later drafted in the first round by the Miami Dolphins in 2009. Davis played for several teams throughout his career, including the Indianapolis Colts and Buffalo Bills, earning Pro Bowl honors in 2014 and 2015.
However, his sudden retirement during halftime of a game in 2018 with the Bills remains one of the most unusual exits in NFL history. Despite the controversies surrounding his retirement, his untimely passing leaves a massive void in the football community, and he will be remembered fondly for his remarkable athleticism. The cause of his death has not been released, though some theorize he might have slipped when exiting his at-home sauna.
American actor Carl Weathers sadly passed away on February 1. His memorable roles ranged from the formidable Apollo Creed in the Rocky series to appearances in Happy Gilmore and The Mandalorian.
Weathers' death at the age of 76 came as a shock to many. His family revealed that the cause of his death was "atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease". Despite his untimely passing, Weathers' legacy continues to inspire many.
Bill Hayes, the enduring star of the NBC soap opera "Days of Our Lives", passed away at the age of 98. He died of natural causes on January 12, at his North Hollywood home.
Known for his portrayal of the character Doug Williams since 1970, Hayes was loved by audiences for over five decades. He was not just an actor but also a singer, best known for his hit “Davy Crockett.
Don Murray, a notable American actor, passed away on February 2 at the age of 94. He was best known for his breakout role in the 1956 film Bus Stop, where he starred opposite Marilyn Monroe, earning him an Oscar nomination.
Murray made a name for himself in the film industry with his remarkable performances and contributions. He was celebrated for his portrayal of Governor Breck, the authoritarian ruler in the science fiction film Conquest of the Planet of the Apes.
Christian Oliver, a renowned actor known for his roles in Speed Racer, The Good German, and the TV series Saved by The Bell: The New Class, tragically died in a plane crash on January 4 at 51.
The incident also claimed the lives of his two young daughters and the pilot of the small aircraft. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation. This unfortunate event has left a in the hearts of family and fans worldwide.
Actor Adan Canto passed away at the age of 42 on January 8. His cause of death was revealed to be appendiceal cancer, a condition he had chosen to keep private.
Canto's career spanned more than a decade, featuring prominent roles in film and television. He was particularly recognized for his performances in Fox's The Cleaning Lady, X-Men: Days of Future Past, and Designated Survivor.
Peter Crombie passed away on January 10 at the age of 71. His ex-wife, Nadine Kijner, confirmed this sad news, stating that he had been recovering from surgery prior to his death. The nature of the surgery was not specified.
Crombie was most recognized for his portrayal of "Crazy" Joe Davola on the iconic television show Seinfeld. His passing has led to an outpour of tributes from fans and colleagues who appreciated his unique contribution to the sitcom.
Charles Osgood was a renowned radio and television commentator. His distinctive voice and lyrical commentary style made him a familiar presence on CBS. He passed away on January 23 at the age of 91 following a battle with dementia.
Osgood anchored "CBS Sunday Morning" for more than two decades and hosted the long-running radio program "The Osgood File," earning him the affectionate moniker of "the voice of Sunday mornings."
Melanie Safka, renowned American singer-songwriter who is best known for her hit songs like “Brand New Key” and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain),” passed away January 23 at the age of 76.
Melanie was a trailblazer in the industry, being the first American woman to open a mainstream record label, Neighborhood Records, under which she recorded over 20 chart hits. She continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
Hinton Battle was a celebrated figure in the world of theater, film, and television. An accomplished actor, singer, dancer, and dance instructor, his sudden death on January 30 sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
He was best known for his roles in Sophisticated Ladies, The Tap Dance Kid, Dreamgirls, Quantum Leap, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. His extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft earned him three Tony Awards and an NAACP Image Award.
American actress, singer, and dancer Chita Rivera passed away on January 30, shortly after her 91st birthday in New York City. She was best known for her role as Anita in the original 1957 Broadway cast of "West Side Story."
Over her six-decade career, she appeared in more than 20 Broadway musicals and won two Tony Awards as Best Leading Actress in a Musical among eight additional nominations. The world of theater truly lost a triple threat.
Lynne Marta, a prominent actress known for her roles in Footloose and Joe Kidd' passed away on January 11 at the age of 78. Marta's illustrious career spanned several decades, earning her recognition and admiration from fans and peers alike.
Marta reportedly died in her Los Angeles home after a brave battle with cancer. The news of her death has sent ripples through the entertainment industry, marking the end of an era and the loss of a beloved figure.
Andre Braugher, the Emmy-winning actor best known for his roles in Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Homicide: Life On The Street, passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 61. His death came as a shock to many.
His cause of death was revealed to be lung cancer, which he had been diagnosed with just a few months prior to his passing. Braugher's legacy continues to resonate within the entertainment industry.
Glynis Johns, a notable British actress with a career spanning seven decades, passed away of natural causes on January 4. Her death at the age of 100 marked the end of an era in both stage and screen performances.
Johns is perhaps best remembered for her role as Mrs. Winifred Banks in the iconic 1964 film Mary Poppins. She received an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow actors alike, all expressing their admiration for the Tony Award-winning actress.
Chris Mortensen, a well-respected and award-winning journalist who dedicated his career to NFL coverage, passed away at the age of 72 after being diagnosed with throat cancer. Known fondly as "Mort,” his insightful reports and analysis graced the screens of ESPN viewers for over 30 years.
His death was announced on March 3, leaving behind a significant legacy in the sports journalism industry. Mortensen's contributions were not just limited to his professional career; he was also a loving husband, father, and veteran.
Ron Harper, an esteemed actor recognized for his contributions to both television and film, passed away on March 21 at the age of 91. Beginning his career in 1955 with a role on Kraft Theatre, Harper steadily built his reputation through various television appearances, including notable shows like Tales of Wells Fargo and 87th Precinct.
Even in later years, Harper remained active in the entertainment industry, making guest appearances on popular shows like Beverly Hills, 90210 and The West Wing. His versatility as an actor was evident in his ability to seamlessly transition between television and film projects
