Every Notable Celebrity We Lost in 2025

The year 2025 marked a period of significant loss for the entertainment industry as several legendary figures from film music and television passed away. Fans across the globe mourned the departure of icons who defined eras and shaped popular culture through their immense talent and dedication. From Academy Award winning actors to chart topping musicians these individuals left behind legacies that will continue to inspire future generations. This list commemorates the lives and careers of the notable celebrities we said goodbye to over the past twelve months. Their contributions to the arts remain a testament to their enduring influence on our collective cultural history.

Wayne Osmond

The singer and guitarist was a founding member of the famous family group The Osmonds which achieved massive success during the 1970s. He performed on iconic tracks like ‘One Bad Apple’ and ‘Yo-Yo’ while captivating audiences with his musical talent. His career included numerous television specials and long running residencies that showcased his versatility as a performer. He was known for his dedication to his family and his clean cut image within the music industry. The legendary artist spent his later years enjoying a quiet life away from the spotlight after decades of global fame.

Peter Yarrow

He was a vital member of the folk trio Peter Paul and Mary who helped bring the 1960s folk revival into the mainstream. The musician was responsible for co writing the beloved classic ‘Puff the Magic Dragon’ and performing hits like ‘Leaving on a Jet Plane’ for millions of fans. His music often served as a backdrop for significant social movements as he frequently participated in rallies for civil rights and peace. He maintained a presence in the folk community for over sixty years by mentoring young artists and continuing to record new material. His influence on the American songbook remains a cornerstone of the folk music genre.

Sam Moore

As one half of the soul duo Sam and Dave he became a central figure in the development of the Stax Records sound. His high energy vocals on legendary songs like ‘Soul Man’ and ‘I Thank You’ helped define the soul era of the late 1960s. The singer was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in recognition of his significant impact on popular music. He enjoyed a long second career as a solo performer and a frequent guest on variety shows and concert stages. His legacy lives on through the enduring popularity of the timeless hits he brought to life with his distinctive voice.

David Lynch

The visionary filmmaker was widely celebrated for his uniquely dark and dreamlike approach to cinema and television. He created some of the most influential works in film history including ‘Blue Velvet’ and ‘Mulholland Drive’ which challenged conventional storytelling. His transition to television with ‘Twin Peaks’ redefined the medium and earned a massive cult following that persists today. Beyond his work as a director he was also an accomplished artist and musician who explored the surreal in various creative forms. The industry mourns the loss of a true original whose work remains a subject of intense analysis and admiration.

Marianne Faithfull

She rose to prominence during the 1960s as a key figure in the British Invasion and a muse for many contemporary artists. Her signature hit ‘As Tears Go By’ launched a career that would span music film and theatre over several decades. She was known for her gravelly voice and her ability to interpret complex lyrics with emotional depth and raw honesty. The performer starred in films like ‘The Girl on a Motorcycle’ and received critical acclaim for her later musical recordings. Her enduring career survived many personal challenges and she remained a respected icon of the counterculture movement until her passing.

Gene Hackman

The Academy Award winning actor was considered one of the greatest performers of his generation with a career spanning nearly five decades. He delivered unforgettable performances in classics such as ‘The French Connection’ and ‘Unforgiven’ which cemented his status as a Hollywood legend. His ability to portray both gritty antiheroes and sympathetic lead characters made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike. After retiring from acting in the early 2000s he pursued a successful second career as a novelist and lived a private life in New Mexico. His body of work continues to be studied as a masterclass in the art of screen acting.

Roberta Flack

She was a multi Grammy Award winning singer whose soulful voice dominated the music charts during the 1970s. Her timeless hits like ‘Killing Me Softly with His Song’ and ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’ are considered some of the greatest love songs ever recorded. The artist was the first performer to win the Grammy for Record of the Year in two consecutive years which highlighted her immense talent. She was also a classically trained pianist whose musical sophistication brought a unique elegance to her popular recordings. Her influence on the R and B and pop genres is deeply felt by many of today’s most successful vocalists.

Angie Stone

The talented singer and songwriter first gained fame as a member of the pioneering female hip hop group The Sequence before transitioning to a solo career. She became a leading voice in the neo soul movement with the release of her critically acclaimed album ‘Black Diamond’ in the late 1990s. Her hits like ‘Wish I Did Not Miss You’ showcased her powerful vocals and her ability to blend traditional soul with modern sounds. She also found success as an actress appearing in various television shows and theatrical productions. Her contributions to the evolution of contemporary soul music have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Val Kilmer

The versatile actor was known for his chameleon like ability to disappear into a wide range of roles throughout his prolific career. He achieved stardom with his portrayal of Iceman in the blockbuster film ‘Top Gun’ and later took on the iconic mantle of the Caped Crusader in ‘Batman Forever’ during the mid 1990s. His performance as Jim Morrison in ‘The Doors’ remains a standout example of his dedication to craft and character transformation. Despite facing health challenges in his later years he continued to work and returned for a memorable cameo in the sequel ‘Top Gun Maverick’ to the delight of fans. The film world remembers him as a dedicated artist who brought intensity and charisma to every role he played.

Jiggly Caliente

The beloved drag performer and actress rose to international fame as a contestant on the fourth season of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ where she became a fan favorite. She continued to build a successful career in television with a recurring role on the acclaimed series ‘Pose’ which showcased her acting talents. Her infectious personality and humor made her a staple of the drag community and a frequent guest at events and festivals worldwide. She was a vocal advocate for transgender rights and used her platform to bring awareness to important social issues. Her presence in the entertainment world brought joy and representation to many viewers across the globe.

Pope Francis

The spiritual leader of the Catholic Church was a transformative figure who emphasized humility and compassion throughout his papacy. He broke with many traditions to focus on the needs of the poor and the importance of environmental stewardship as detailed in his various writings. His efforts to reform church institutions and foster dialogue between different faiths were recognized by world leaders and religious communities alike. He was known for his simple lifestyle and his willingness to engage directly with people from all walks of life. His passing marks the end of an era for millions of followers who found inspiration in his message of hope and inclusion.

George Wendt

He was best known for his role as the affable barfly Norm Peterson on the legendary television sitcom ‘Cheers’ which ran for eleven successful seasons. His character became an iconic part of pop culture history and earned him six consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations. Beyond his work on the small screen he was a talented stage actor who appeared in numerous Broadway productions including ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Art’ to critical acclaim. He also made memorable appearances in various films and guest starred on many popular television programs throughout his long career. Fans will always remember him for the warmth and humor he brought to one of television’s most beloved characters.

Robert Benton

The acclaimed filmmaker was a major figure in the New Hollywood movement and was responsible for creating some of the most enduring films of the late twentieth century. He won multiple Academy Awards for his work as the writer and director of ‘Kramer vs Kramer’ which remains a landmark drama about family and divorce. His screenwriting credits include the classic film ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ which helped revolutionize the way stories were told in American cinema. He was known for his ability to handle complex emotional themes with sensitivity and a keen eye for character detail. His cinematic legacy is defined by a commitment to honest storytelling and artistic excellence.

Anne Burrell

The charismatic chef and television personality was a prominent fixture on the Food Network for many years as the host of several popular programs. She was best known for her role on ‘Worst Cooks in America’ where she used her culinary expertise to mentor and transform home cooks. Her signature spiky blonde hair and energetic teaching style made her a standout figure in the world of food media. Before her television career she worked in some of the most prestigious professional kitchens in New York City and Italy. Her passion for cooking and her ability to make culinary education entertaining inspired countless viewers to get into the kitchen.

Sly Stone

As the frontman of Sly and the Family Stone he played a pivotal role in the development of funk soul and rock music during the late 1960s and 1970s. His innovative fusion of different musical styles produced massive hits like ‘Everyday People’ and ‘Thank You’ which became anthems for social change. The band was known for its diverse lineup and its message of unity and peace during a turbulent time in American history. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in recognition of his groundbreaking contributions to the evolution of modern music. His influence can still be heard in the work of countless contemporary artists across various genres.

Connie Francis

She was one of the top female vocalists of the late 1950s and 1960s with a string of chart topping hits that included ‘Who’s Sorry Now’ and ‘Stupid Cupid’ across the globe. Her versatility allowed her to record music in multiple languages which earned her an enormous international following and made her a true global star. Beyond her singing career she appeared in several films such as ‘Where the Boys Are’ and became a popular figure on variety television shows. She was also recognized for her philanthropic work and her resilience in the face of numerous personal challenges throughout her life. Her legacy as a pioneer for women in the music industry remains significant and enduring.

Ozzy Osbourne

The legendary heavy metal icon first rose to fame as the lead singer of Black Sabbath before launching a massively successful solo career. Known as the Prince of Darkness he was responsible for genre defining hits like ‘Crazy Train’ and ‘Mr Crowley’ which influenced generations of rock musicians. His life was the subject of the popular reality series ‘The Osbournes’ which gave fans a candid look at his unique family dynamic and personal life. He remained a mainstay of the music industry for over five decades by continuing to release new albums and headlining major festivals around the world. His impact on the world of rock and metal music is immeasurable and his persona remains one of the most recognizable in pop culture.

Robert Redford

The iconic actor director and producer was a major force in Hollywood for over sixty years and was known for his rugged charm and commitment to independent film. He starred in legendary classics such as ‘Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’ and ‘The Sting’ which made him one of the biggest stars of his era. As a director he won an Academy Award for ‘Ordinary People’ and continued to create thought provoking films throughout his career. He was also the founder of the Sundance Institute and the Sundance Film Festival which helped launch the careers of countless independent filmmakers. His dedication to environmental activism and the preservation of the arts has left a lasting impact on the world beyond the screen.

Diane Keaton

The Academy Award winning actress was a beloved figure in cinema known for her unique style and her collaborations with some of the industry’s most prominent directors. She achieved international stardom for her role in ‘Annie Hall’ which earned her an Oscar and made her a fashion icon of the 1970s. Her career spanned decades and included memorable performances in films such as ‘The Godfather’ trilogy and the hit comedy ‘The First Wives Club’ with other legendary stars. She was also an accomplished author and photographer who shared her creative vision through various books and exhibits. Her enduring presence in Hollywood was marked by a commitment to authentic and complex female characters.

June Lockhart

The veteran actress was a familiar face to television audiences for decades as the matriarch of two very popular and long running series. She was best known for her roles as Ruth Martin in ‘Lassie’ and Maureen Robinson in the science fiction classic ‘Lost in Space’ during the 1960s. Her career began on the stage and in films like ‘A Christmas Carol’ and ‘Meet Me in St Louis’ where she showcased her dramatic range. She remained active in the industry well into her later years by making guest appearances on various shows and participating in fan conventions. Her contributions to the golden age of television made her a cherished figure for generations of viewers.

Diane Ladd

The acclaimed actress was known for her intense and emotionally resonant performances across film television and the theatre for over sixty years. She received three Academy Award nominations for her work in ‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore’ and ‘Wild at Heart’ among other notable projects. Her career was also marked by her close professional relationship with her daughter the actress Laura Dern with whom she frequently shared the screen. She was a respected acting coach and an author who shared her knowledge and experiences with aspiring performers throughout her life. The industry remembers her as a powerful talent who brought depth and authenticity to every character she portrayed.

Dick Cheney

The former Vice President of the United States was a central figure in American politics for several decades and served under multiple administrations. He was a key architect of national security policy during the early 2000s and played a major role in the response to the events of September 11. Before his time as vice president he served as the Secretary of Defense and as a member of the House of Representatives from Wyoming. His career was marked by his strong convictions and his significant influence on both domestic and foreign affairs during a pivotal era in history. His passing represents the conclusion of a long and often debated chapter in the American political narrative.

Sophie Kinsella

The bestselling author was widely known for her popular ‘Shopaholic’ series which brought joy to millions of readers around the world. Her novels were celebrated for their humor and relatable characters who navigated the challenges of modern life and romance. Beyond her famous series she wrote numerous standalone books and also published work under her real name Madeleine Wickham earlier in her career. Her writing style influenced the chick lit genre and led to successful film adaptations of her most famous works. Her legacy lives on through the many stories she told that continue to entertain and inspire her dedicated fan base.

Rob Reiner

The multi talented actor and director first became a household name as Michael Stivic on the groundbreaking sitcom ‘All in the Family’ in the 1970s. He transitioned to a highly successful career behind the camera by directing modern classics like ‘The Princess Bride’ and ‘When Harry Met Sally’ for major studios. His work often blended humor with deep emotional themes which earned him critical acclaim and numerous award nominations. He was also a passionate political activist who used his platform to advocate for various social and environmental causes throughout his life. The entertainment community mourns a versatile creator whose work has become a permanent part of the cinematic landscape.

Brigitte Bardot

The French actress and model was one of the most famous sex symbols of the 1950s and 1960s who became an international sensation. She starred in influential films like ‘And God Created Woman’ which challenged social norms and helped redefine the image of the modern woman in cinema. After retiring from the film industry at the height of her fame she dedicated her life to animal rights activism and founded a major organization to protect endangered species. Her work as an activist made her a prominent and often controversial figure in her later years as she fought for various environmental causes. She remains an enduring icon of style and a pioneer for celebrity driven social advocacy.

Hulk Hogan

The legendary professional wrestler was a major force in the pop culture landscape for decades and was instrumental in the mainstream success of the industry. He became a global icon during the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation and was known for his massive physique and charismatic promos. Beyond the ring he starred in several films and had his own reality television series titled ‘Hogan Knows Best’ which followed his family life. His influence on the world of sports entertainment is unparalleled and he remains one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling history. Fans around the world remember him for the energy and excitement he brought to the squared circle for so many years.

Please share your thoughts on the impact these incredible legends had on your life in the comments.