25 Celebs Who Have Been Shot
Celebrity lives often look untouchable from the outside, yet many stars have faced terrifying moments that changed everything. Some survived and rebuilt their lives and careers. Others were taken far too soon, leaving behind music, films, and memories that still shape culture today.
This list gathers well known figures from music, film, fashion, sports, and art who were shot in incidents that shocked fans around the world. The stories are difficult, but they also show courage, resilience, and the lasting impact these people made while they were here.
50 Cent
Before his breakout as a global rap star, 50 Cent survived a near fatal attack in Queens in 2000. He was shot multiple times and spent months recovering.
The experience became part of his origin story as an artist and entrepreneur. He returned to the studio with renewed focus and went on to release hits like ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin” that defined an era.
Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion was shot in the foot in 2020 after leaving a gathering in Los Angeles. She needed surgery and faced an intense public spotlight while she healed.
She later spoke openly about the trauma and the pressure that followed. Her honesty resonated with fans and helped spark wider conversations about protecting Black women and believing survivors.
Tupac Shakur
Tupac Shakur was shot in Las Vegas in 1996 after leaving a boxing match. He died days later and the loss stunned music fans everywhere.
His legacy only grew in the years that followed. Albums, films, and poetry kept his ideas alive and his influence remains easy to hear across hip hop and beyond.
Brandon Lee
Brandon Lee was shot on a film set in North Carolina in 1993 while filming ‘The Crow’. He was taken to a hospital and died hours later, and the film industry reeled from the tragedy.
Fans and colleagues remembered a charismatic star on the rise. His death led to renewed attention on set safety and his final performance gained a lasting cult following.
The Notorious B.I.G.
The Notorious B.I.G. was shot in Los Angeles in 1997 while riding in an SUV. He was pronounced dead soon after and the music world mourned one of its greatest storytellers.
His two studio albums became landmarks of rap. Generations of artists studied his wordplay and cadence and his songs continue to chart long after his passing.
John Lennon
John Lennon was shot outside his Manhattan home in 1980. The sudden loss sent shock waves across the globe.
Fans gathered in vigils and remembered his music and activism. His work with The Beatles and his solo catalog still inspire new listeners every year.
XXXTentacion
XXXTentacion was shot in Florida in 2018 during an apparent robbery. He died shortly after and his fans were left reeling.
He had already built a large audience at a young age. The discussion around his art and life remained complex and ongoing as listeners processed the tragedy.
Selena Quintanilla
Selena was shot in Texas in 1995 by the former head of her fan club. She was only 23 and on the cusp of a massive crossover.
Her voice and style helped redefine Tejano music. Tributes, festivals, and biographical projects keep her spirit vivid for new generations.
Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye was shot at his parents home in Los Angeles in 1984. He died one day before his forty fifth birthday.
His music remains timeless. Songs like What’s Going On and Let’s Get It On still anchor playlists and remind listeners of the depth of his talent.
Bob Marley
Bob Marley survived an assassination attempt in Jamaica in 1976. He and several others were wounded when attackers stormed his home.
He returned to perform soon after and delivered one of his most famous shows. His message of unity and love carried around the world and never faded.
David Ortiz
Baseball legend David Ortiz was shot in the Dominican Republic in 2019. He underwent multiple surgeries and recovered.
Ortiz later returned to public life with his signature energy. Fans celebrated his resilience and his continued presence as a beloved ambassador for the sport.
Nipsey Hussle
Nipsey Hussle was shot outside his store in Los Angeles in 2019. The community he uplifted with business and outreach efforts felt the loss deeply.
His music and entrepreneurship created a blueprint for independent artists. Murals and memorials across the city speak to the love people still hold for him.
Christina Grimmie
Christina Grimmie was shot at a meet and greet after a show in Orlando in 2016. She was taken to a hospital where she died.
Her voice first won hearts online, then on television. Friends and fans honored her kindness and talent, and her family established efforts to support others.
Dimebag Darrell
Guitarist Dimebag Darrell was shot on stage in Ohio in 2004. The attack happened during a club performance and multiple people were killed.
He was known for explosive riffs and a generous spirit with fans. The metal community continues to celebrate his playing and influence.
Gianni Versace
Fashion icon Gianni Versace was shot outside his Miami Beach home in 1997. The news dominated headlines and stunned the fashion world.
His bold designs and branding changed how luxury felt and looked. The house he built continued under new leadership while honoring his vision.
Phil Hartman
Actor and comedian Phil Hartman was shot at home in 1998 in a murder suicide. He was known for a warm wit and impeccable timing.
Fans remember him for scene stealing work in films and television. His characters on ‘Saturday Night Live’ remain classics that still make people laugh.
Young Dolph
Young Dolph was shot in Memphis in 2021. He died at the scene and the city he often celebrated in his music went into mourning.
He was admired for his independence and business savvy. His efforts to give back in his hometown became a key part of his legacy.
Jam Master Jay
Jam Master Jay was shot at his recording studio in Queens in 2002. He died that night and hip hop lost a pioneer of the turntables.
As a member of Run DMC he helped bring rap to mainstream audiences. His style and scratches shaped the sound of a generation.
Pop Smoke
Pop Smoke was shot during a home invasion in Los Angeles in 2020. He died before emergency services could save him.
He had just begun his rise with a distinctive voice and drill sound. Posthumous releases showed how much potential he carried.
Takeoff
Takeoff was shot at a private gathering in Houston in 2022. He was pronounced dead at the scene and fans were heartbroken.
Known for a cool flow and precision, he brought balance to his group and to his solo work. Tributes poured in from across music and sports.
Lil Tjay
Lil Tjay was shot multiple times during an attempted robbery in New Jersey in 2022. He survived after intensive medical care and rehabilitation.
He returned to recording and performing with gratitude. His comeback connected with listeners who followed his recovery every step of the way.
Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne shot himself when he was 12 and survived. He later shared that the incident was a cry for help.
His openness encouraged conversations about mental health. He went on to become one of the most prolific rappers of his era.
Boosie Badazz
Boosie Badazz was shot in the leg in Dallas in 2020. He received treatment and recuperated.
He kept working while recovering and stayed close to fans. His experience added urgency to his views on safety and community.
Benny the Butcher
Benny the Butcher was shot in the leg during an attempted robbery in Houston in 2020. He was treated and recovered.
He soon got back to the studio with focus. His gritty storytelling continued to draw praise from both critics and peers.
Andy Warhol
Andy Warhol was shot in his New York studio in 1968. He barely survived and lived with serious health issues afterward.
Even after the attack he continued to create and to shape pop art. Museums and collectors still celebrate his eye for culture and fame.
Share your thoughts and memories of these figures in the comments and tell us who you think should be added to a future list.