05- 25 Hollywood Legends Who Died In 2024 But You Don't Know
Carl Weathers.
Veteran actor Carl Weathers passed away on February 2nd, 2024, at his home in Los Angeles, California. He was 76 years old. The cause of death was revealed a week later to be atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, a form of heart disease. Weathers' family released a statement calling him "an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life."
Weathers was a multifaceted talent who found success on both the big and small screens. He is best known for his role as Apollo Creed, the charismatic boxer who became Rocky Balboa's rival and eventually his friend, in the first four "Rocky" films from 1976 to 1985. Weathers also had memorable roles in films like "Predator" in 1987 alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, the comedy "Happy Gilmore" in 1996, and lent his voice to the character of Combat Carl in the "Toy Story" franchise. He even played a fictionalized version of himself on the hit show "Arrested Development."
Toby Kieth.
Country music icon Toby Keith passed away peacefully on February 5th, 2024, surrounded by his family at his Oklahoma home. The beloved singer-songwriter was 62 years old. His death came after a valiant battle with stomach cancer, which he publicly revealed in June 2022. Keith underwent chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery in his fight against the disease.
Known for his powerful vocals and anthems celebrating American life, Keith rose to fame in the 1990s with hits like "Should've Been a Cowboy" and "How Do You Like Me Now?!" He continued to churn out chart-topping songs throughout his career, becoming a staple of country radio and earning numerous awards. Despite some controversy surrounding his music's political themes, Keith remained a hugely popular figure with a dedicated fan base. His final performance was at the People's Choice Country Awards in 2023, where he delivered a poignant rendition of his song "Don't Let the Old Man In."
O. J. Simpson.
This year we also lost O.J. Simpson. He passed away on April 10, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was 76 years old.
Simpson's life was a tale of two halves. He achieved immense fame as a phenomenal running back in the National Football League (NFL), primarily for the Buffalo Bills. Widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs of all time, he racked up numerous accolades during his 11-season career. However, his professional achievements were forever overshadowed by the highly publicized murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman in 1994. The subsequent trial, which lasted from January to October 1995 and resulted in his acquittal, became an international media sensation and exposed deep racial divisions in the United States.
Following his retirement from football in 1979, Simpson transitioned into acting, sports commentary, and product endorsements.
Kenneth Mitchell.
Veteran Canadian actor Kenneth Mitchell passed away peacefully on February 24 in Los Angeles, California. He was 49 years old. The cause of death was Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, which Mitchell had been battling courageously for over five and a half years.
Mitchell was best known for his roles in the popular sci-fi series "Star Trek: Discovery," where he portrayed multiple Klingon characters, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe film "Captain Marvel," where he played Carol Danvers' father, Joseph. He also had roles in the television series "Jericho" and the sports biopic "Miracle."
Despite facing the progressive challenges of ALS, Mitchell was remembered by his family and colleagues for his unwavering spirit and commitment to living life to the fullest.
Richard Lewis.
Richard Philip Lewis was an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer. Lewis came to prominence in the 1980s and became known for his dark, neurotic, and self-deprecating humor.
Lewis's career spanned over five decades. He was a regular on late-night talk shows and starred in his own sitcoms, most notably "Anything but Love" from 1989 to 1992. He also had a long-running role as a fictionalized version of himself in Larry David's HBO series "Curb Your Enthusiasm" from 2000 to 2024.
Tributes poured in from friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry, including Curb Your Enthusiasm co-star Cheryl Hines and creator Larry David, who praised Lewis's comedic genius and long-lasting impact. A memorial service was held for Lewis, with his final resting place at Temple of Aaron Cemetery in Roseville, Minnesota.
Garrison Brown.
Tragedy struck the cast of TLC's "Sister Wives" back in March when Garrison Brown, son of longtime stars Janelle and Kody Brown, was found dead in his Flagstaff, Arizona home. The official cause of death, confirmed by the Coconino County Medical Examiner in May, was suicide by gunshot wound. Authorities at the time reported finding Garrison deceased after his brother Gabriel called in the incident. While the investigation didn't uncover any signs of foul play, details surrounding Garrison's mental state before his death haven't been publicly disclosed.
Garrison, who was 25 years old, occasionally appeared on "Sister Wives" alongside his family. His death sent shockwaves through the show's fanbase and left his family grieving. In the aftermath, his siblings and parents spoke openly about the importance of mental health awareness, hoping to prevent similar tragedies.
Barbara Rush.
Veteran actress Barbara Rush, a captivating presence on both the big and small screens, passed away peacefully on Easter Sunday, March 31 at the age of 97.
Rush's career spanned over seven decades. Early on, she captivated audiences with her performances in films like the sci-fi classic "It Came from Outer Space" in 1953, which earned her a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer.
Throughout the 1950s and 60s, she graced the silver screen alongside Hollywood royalty, co-starring Frank Sinatra, Paul Newman, and others. Films like "The Young Philadelphians," "The Young Lions," and "Robin and the 7 Hoods" showcased her versatility and talent.
Later years saw Rush seamlessly transition to television. She became a household name with her role in the primetime soap opera "Peyton Place," captivating audiences with her character's strength and resilience.
Barbara Rush was more than just a talented actress; she was a symbol of Hollywood's golden age. Her grace, elegance, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed. We offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
Glynis Johns.
Glynis Johns was a multi-talented performer who graced both stage and screen. She was best known for her role as Winifred Banks, the suffraggette mother in the beloved Disney classic "Mary Poppins." Johns was also the first actress to sing the iconic Stephen Sondheim song "Send in the Clowns" on Broadway. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 60 films and 30 plays, earning a Tony Award, a Drama Desk Award, and nominations for an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Laurence Olivier Award.
The renowned British actress passed away peacefully on January 4, at the age of 100. Johns died of natural causes at an assisted living facility in Los Angeles, California.
Tony Ganios.
Veteran actor Tony Ganios, best known for his role as the tough-guy "Meat" Tuperello in the cult classic comedy "Porky's" and its sequels, passed away unexpectedly on February 18, 2024. He was 64 years old.
Ganios' fiancee, Amanda Serrano-Ganios, confirmed the news on social media, revealing that the actor had undergone emergency surgery for a spinal cord infection the previous day. While the surgery itself was successful, Ganios went into cardiac arrest the following morning. The incident occurred in a hospital in New York.
Ganios, born on October 21, 1959, started his career in the 1979 film "The Wanderers" before landing the iconic role of Meat in "Porky's" in 1981. The film, though controversial for its content, achieved cult status and spawned sequels in which Ganios reprised his role. Though he semi-retired from acting after the early 90s, Ganios made brief appearances in a few films, including a memorable turn opposite Sean Connery in "Rising Sun."
Chita Rivera.
Next on our list is the legendary dancer, singer, and actress who captivated audiences for over seven decades, who passed away on January 30 at the age of 91. She died in New York City after a brief illness.
She trained extensively in dance, honing her skills in ballet, flamenco, and tap. Her dedication and talent paid off, leading her to Broadway in the 1950s. Rivera's breakthrough came in the iconic musical "West Side Story" in 1957. After that, she excelled in a variety of roles, from the fiery Anita to the sophisticated Velma Kelly in "Chicago" in 1975, a role that earned her one of her two Tony Awards. She even ventured into dramatic territory, captivating audiences in plays like "The Visit" in 2015.
She has various accolades which include two Tony Awards, two Drama Desk Awards, and a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in Theatre. Chita Rivera's passing leaves a void on the stage, but her memory and her captivating performances will continue to inspire aspiring performers and audiences for years to come.
David Soul.
David Soul, the American-British actor who charmed audiences like Detective Kenneth "Hutch" Hutchinson in the iconic television series "Starsky & Hutch," lived a remarkable life that spanned five decades.
David Sould started his career in popular shows like "Flipper," "Star Trek," and "I Dream of Jeannie."
His breakthrough came in 1968 with the lead role in the comedic Western series "Here Come the Brides." But it was his portrayal of the level-headed Hutch opposite Paul Michael Glaser's impulsive Starsky in "Starsky & Hutch" that catapulted him to international fame. The show's fast-paced action, catchy theme song, and undeniable chemistry between the leads made it a pop culture phenomenon.
Soul wasn't just a television star. He also enjoyed success on the big screen, most notably in the Clint Eastwood film "Magnum Force" in 1973. He even dabbled in music, achieving moderate success with a few hit singles, including "Silver Lady" and "Don't Give Up on Us Baby."
Following "Starsky & Hutch," Soul continued to act steadily, taking on roles in television movies, miniseries, and stage productions. He remained active well into his later years, even reuniting with Glaser for a cameo in the 2004 film adaptation of "Starsky & Hutch."
David Soul passed away on January 4, 2024, at the age of 80.
Adan Canto.
A talented Mexican-American actor with a vibrant career passed away on January 8, 2024, at the age of 42. His death came after a battle with appendiceal cancer.
Canto's artistic journey began at a young age. He left home at 16 to pursue music, finding success as a singer-songwriter in San Antonio and Mexico City. He even wrote and produced songs for film and television in Mexico. However, his talents extended beyond music. Acting roles in commercials eventually led him to a television series in Mexico called "Estado de Gracia." In 2013, Canto made his mark on American television with a role in the Fox series "The Following." This was followed by appearances in acclaimed shows like "Narcos" and "Blood & Oil." His breakout role came in the ABC political drama "Designated Survivor," where he captivated audiences as White House Chief of Staff Aaron Shore. He continued to impress with his leading role in the Fox series "The Cleaning Lady" until his untimely passing.
Canto wasn't just a television actor. He showcased his versatility through appearances in films like the superhero blockbuster "X-Men: Days of Future Past." He even ventured into directing, writing and directing his own short films, including "The Shot", which garnered recognition at film festivals.
Peter Crombie.
The American actor best known for his portrayal of the eccentric "Crazy" Joe Davola in the hit sitcom "Seinfeld," passed away on January 10 at the age of 71.
Born in Chicago in 1952, Crombie built a career in film and television spanning several decades. He appeared in a variety of films, including notable titles like "Se7en" in 1995, "My Dog Skip" in 2000, and even the 1988 remake of "The Blob." However, it was his recurring role as Joe Davola in "Seinfeld" that cemented his place in pop culture history.
Davola, a writer with an intense dislike for Jerry Seinfeld, became a fan favorite for his outlandish antics and unhinged personality. Crombie's comedic timing and commitment to the character brought Davola to life, making him a memorable addition to the show's already stellar cast.
While Davola may have been his most recognizable role, Crombie also had a successful career outside of "Seinfeld." He was married to actress Nadine Kijner for a period before their divorce. Details surrounding his cause of death remain private, but news reports indicate he passed away after a brief illness.
Bill Hayes.
The beloved actor who charmed audiences for over 50 years on the soap opera "Days of Our Lives," passed away peacefully on January 12, 2024, at the age of 98.
Hayes began his career as a singer. His song "The Ballad of Davy Crockett" even topped the Billboard charts in the mid-1950s. However, acting soon captured his interest, leading him to stage and television roles.
In 1970, Hayes landed the role that would define his career. It was Doug Williams on "Days of Our Lives." Initially introduced as a convict with a singing past, Doug became a fan favorite for his warm personality and his on-again, off-again romance with Julie Williams, played by Susan Seaforth Hayes. Interestingly, Bill and Susan married in real life just four years after their characters tied the knot on screen, solidifying their bond both on and off camera.
Beyond "Days of Our Lives," Hayes also appeared in other television shows and films throughout his career. However, his dedication to Doug Williams and "Days of Our Lives" remained constant. His chemistry with Susan Seaforth Hayes was undeniable, making them a cherished couple for generations of viewers.
Joyce Randolph.
Joyce Randolph, the veteran actress who stole hearts like the witty Trixie Norton in the iconic sitcom "The Honeymooners," passed away peacefully on January 13, 2024, at the age of 99. She died of natural causes at her home in Manhattan's Upper West Side.
Born in 1924, Randolph's career spanned an impressive seven decades. Her first leading role started as Trixie Norton.
Trixie, the wife of Ed Norton, who was played by Art Carney in "The Honeymooners," was the perfect foil to her dimwitted husband. "The Honeymooners," though short-lived, left an indelible mark on television history. Randolph's portrayal of Trixie contributed significantly to the show's enduring popularity. Even decades after the show's finale, her character remains a pop culture icon.
Following "The Honeymooners," Randolph continued to act steadily, appearing in various television shows and films. She never shied away from returning to the stage, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Remarkably, she became the last surviving main cast member of "The Honeymooners" after the passing of her co-stars.
Alec Musser.
Alec Musser, an American actor and fitness model known for his appearances on soap operas and for his captivating physical presence, passed away on January 12, at his home in Del Mar, California. He was 50 years old. Musser's death was tragically ruled a suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Born in New York City in 1973, Musser initially worked as a lifeguard during the off-season. His impressive physique caught the eye of a modeling agent, leading to his first modeling job with Abercrombie and Fitch. He subsequently went on to model for renowned brands like Gianfranco Ferre, GQ, Cosmopolitan, Men's Health, Speedo, and Target.
While modeling, Musser began booking national commercials, which ultimately led him to pursue acting. He successfully landed a role on the reality show "I Wanna Be a Soap Star" (2004), which paved the way for his most notable acting credit: portraying a character on the long-running soap opera "All My Children."
Musser's charisma and athletic background made him a natural fit for the world of soap operas.
Norman Jewison.
A Canadian filmmaking giant who tackled social issues with both entertainment and depth, passed away on January 20 at the age of 97. He died peacefully in his home in California.
Jewison wasn't just a director; he was a storyteller with a conscience. His films, spanning over four decades, addressed controversial and complex social and political issues. Born in Toronto in 1926, Jewison began his career in Canadian television before moving to the United States in the 1950s. His feature film debut arrived in 1962 with the comedy "40 Pounds of Trouble. His film "In the Heat of the Night" in 1967 tackled racism in the American South, earning him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Director. He followed this with the beloved musical "Fiddler on the Roof" in 1971. Jewison continued to explore social issues throughout his career. Films like "A Soldier's Story" explored racial tensions within the US military, while "The Hurricane" in 1999 delved into the wrongful conviction of boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter.
Beyond social commentary, Jewison also directed crowd-pleasing films like "The Thomas Crown Affair" in 1968 and the romantic comedy "Moonstruck" in 1987.
Gary Graham.
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A respected character actor who graced multiple "Star Trek" series, passed away on January 22, 2024, at the age of 73. The cause of death was reported to be cardiac arrest.
Graham wasn't just a familiar face in the "Star Trek" universe; he had a prolific career spanning several decades. He appeared in single episodes of countless popular shows, including "Starsky & Hutch," "The Incredible Hulk," and "M.A.S.H." He was known for his ability to portray a wide range of characters, from comedic and affable to intense and serious.
However, his enduring legacy will likely be tied to his appearances in the various "Star Trek" spin-offs. He most notably played the recurring role of Vulcan Ambassador Soval on "Star Trek: Enterprise." He even made a brief appearance on "Star Trek: Voyager."
Gary Graham's passing leaves a void in the acting community. He will be remembered for his extensive career, his versatility as an actor, and his contributions to the vast "Star Trek" legacy.
Chris Gauthier.
Canadian actor Chris Gauthier, known for his roles in television series like "Once Upon a Time" and "Eureka," passed away unexpectedly on February 23, 2024. He was 48 years old. The English-born actor, who resided in Vancouver, battled a brief illness before his sudden passing.
The cause of death was not disclosed, but tributes poured in from Gauthier's representatives and colleagues who remembered him as a talented character actor and a kind person. Gauthier is survived by his wife Erin and their children.
Steve Lawrence.
Steve had a successful music career in the late 1950s and early 1960s with hits like "Party Doll", "Pretty Blue Eyes", and "Go Away Little Girl". He also made appearances in various TV shows and films, including "The Blues Brothers" and "The Nanny". Additionally, Steve starred in Broadway musicals like "What Makes Sammy Run?" and "Golden Rainbow".
He was a talented singer, actor, and entertainer. He started his career at just 16 years old after winning a talent contest on Arthur Godfrey's TV show, which led to a recording contract with King Records. Steve went on to work with Steve Allen on his local New York City late-night show and later on NBC's "The Tonight Show".
In his personal life, Steve married Eydie Gormé in 1957, and they had two sons, David and Michael. Tragically, Michael passed away suddenly in 1986 due to an undiagnosed heart condition, and Eydie passed away in 2013. Steve announced he had early-stage Alzheimer's disease in 2019 and sadly passed away on March 7, 2024, at the age of 88.
Throughout his career, Steve received numerous awards and nominations, including a Tony Award nomination, Emmy Award nominations, and a Grammy Award win with Eydie Gormé. He also received lifetime achievement awards from the Songwriters Hall of Fame and Society of Singers.
M. Emmet Walsh.
M. Emmet Walsh was a character actor who appeared in over 200 films and television series. He was known for his roles in movies like Blade Runner, Blood Simple, and Raising Arizona. He also acted in television shows such as Starsky and Hutch and Home Improvement. Walsh was known for his “mesmerizing everyman” persona. He was described as “ham-faced, heavyset” and “often played good old boys with bad intentions”. Sadly, M. Emmet Walsh passed away on March 19 at the age of 88, due to cardiac arrest. His legacy as a talented and beloved character actor lives on through his extensive body of work.
Jennifer Leak.
Veteran actress Jennifer Leak, known for her roles in "The Young and the Restless" and the 1968 film "Yours, Mine and Ours," died on March 18, 2024, at her home in Jupiter, Florida. She was 76.
Born in Cardiff, Wales in 1947, Leak's career began at a young age. She landed roles on Canadian television before moving to Los Angeles, where she secured her first American film role alongside Henry Fonda in "Yours, Mine and Ours."
Leak found success on daytime television, appearing in popular soap operas like "The Young and the Restless," "Another World," and "One Life to Live." Her talent and charisma captivated audiences for decades.
Chance Perdomo.
Actor Chance Perdomo, known for his roles in "Chilling Adventures of Sabrina" and "Gen V," tragically died at the age of 27. Perdomo was involved in a motorcycle accident while traveling through Upstate New York on March 29th or 30th, 2024. The accident is believed to have been a single-vehicle incident, and no other individuals were reported to be involved.
Details surrounding the exact cause of the crash and the location haven't been publicly released. Perdomo was reportedly on his way to Toronto to begin filming season two of "Gen V" at the time of the accident.
Joe Flaherty.
The comedic icon known for his roles on the groundbreaking sketch show SCTV and the beloved series Freaks and Geeks, Joe Flaherty died on April 1 at the age of 82. The cause of death was a brief illness, according to his daughter Gudrun.
Flaherty's career spanned decades, leaving a lasting impact on the world of comedy. He was a founding member of SCTV, a Canadian sketch series that launched the careers of numerous comedic talents. Flaherty's sharp wit and unforgettable characters like Guy Caballero and Count Floyd helped solidify SCTV's place in comedy history.
Bernard Hill.
English actor Bernard Hill, who portrayed Théoden, king of Rohan, in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, died on May 5. He was 79.
Hill had a distinguished career that spanned several decades. He first gained recognition for his portrayal of the troubled working-class man Yosser Hughes in the British drama "The Black Stuff" in 1980 and its sequel "Boys from the Blackstuff" in 1982. The latter role earned him a BAFTA TV Award nomination for Best Actor.
Movie audiences around the world knew Hill for his performances in two major blockbuster films. He played the resolute King Theoden of Rohan in the epic fantasy trilogy "The Lord of the Rings" and Captain Edward Smith, who went down with the ship in the disaster film "Titanic".
These were just a few of Hill's many notable roles. He is also remembered for his work in "A Very Social Secretary" in 2005, which brought him BAFTA and International Emmy Award nominations. Hill was a well-respected actor who would be missed by his fans and colleagues.
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