24 Famous Actors Who Died in 2025
The year 2025 has been a tough one for Hollywood, with the loss of many talented actors who left their mark on film and television. From iconic leading men to beloved character actors, their work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
These performers brought unforgettable characters to life, shaping the entertainment industry with their skill and presence. Here’s a look at actors who unfortunately passed away in 2025.
Gene Hackman
Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, died on February 26, 2025, at 95. Known for roles in ‘The French Connection’ (1971) and ‘Unforgiven’ (1992), his gritty performances defined a generation of cinema.
He was found dead in his Santa Fe home alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, with heart disease and Alzheimer’s cited as causes. Hackman’s work in films like ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ (1967) and ‘Superman’ (1978) showcased his unmatched versatility.
Val Kilmer
Val Kilmer, celebrated for his charismatic roles, passed away on April 1, 2025, at 65 from pneumonia. He starred as Iceman in ‘Top Gun’ (1986) and Jim Morrison in ‘The Doors’ (1991).
His portrayal of Batman in ‘Batman Forever’ (1995) and Doc Holliday in ‘Tombstone’ (1993) showed his range. Kilmer’s cameo in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ (2022) was a heartfelt final role.
Richard Chamberlain
Richard Chamberlain, the heartthrob of ‘Dr. Kildare’ (1961-1966), died on March 29, 2025, at 90 from stroke complications. His roles in ‘Shogun’ (1980) and ‘The Thorn Birds’ (1983) made him a miniseries legend.
Chamberlain’s charm in films like ‘The Three Musketeers’ (1973) won fans globally. His long career and grace left a lasting legacy.
Joan Plowright
Joan Plowright, a Tony-winning actress, died on January 16, 2025, at 95. She starred in ‘Enchanted April’ (1991), earning an Oscar nomination, and ‘101 Dalmatians’ (1996).
Her stage work and roles in films like ‘The Entertainer’ (1960) alongside husband Laurence Olivier were iconic. Plowright retired in 2014 due to blindness but remained a beloved figure.
Leslie Charleson
Leslie Charleson, a soap opera icon, passed away on January 12, 2025, at 79 from blunt head trauma after multiple falls. She played Monica Quartermaine on ‘General Hospital’ (1977-2023).
Her nearly 50-year run on the show made her a daytime TV staple. Charleson’s warmth also shone in guest roles on ‘Happy Days’ (1974-1984).
Peter Jason
Peter Jason, a character actor, died on February 20, 2025, at 80. Known for ‘Deadwood’ (2004-2006) and films like ‘48 Hrs.’ (1982), his gruff charm was unforgettable.
He appeared in many John Carpenter films, including ‘They Live’ (1988). Jason’s versatility made him a go-to for memorable supporting roles.
Bruce Glover
Bruce Glover, known for playing Mr. Wint in ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ (1971), died on March 12, 2025, at 92. His sinister yet quirky performance stood out in the Bond classic.
Glover’s career included roles in ‘Chinatown’ (1974) and TV shows like ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ (1979-1985). His unique presence left a mark.
Rick Hurst
Rick Hurst, beloved as Deputy Cletus Hogg in ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’ (1979-1985), died on June 26, 2025, at 79. His comedic timing brought joy to fans.
Hurst also appeared in ‘Steel Magnolias’ (1989) and ‘In the Line of Fire’ (1993). His warmth and humor were celebrated by co-stars.
Taina Elg
Taina Elg, a Finnish-American actress, passed away on May 15, 2025, at 95. She starred in ‘Les Girls’ (1957) and ‘Hercules in New York’ (1970) alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Her work on ‘One Life to Live’ (1980-1982) showcased her grace. Elg’s career spanned stage and screen, earning her lasting admiration.
Chris Robinson
Chris Robinson, a soap opera veteran, died on June 9, 2025, at 86 from heart failure. He was known for ‘General Hospital’ (1978-2013) and ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ (1987-2018).
His role in the 2022 film ‘Just for a Week’ was a late-career highlight. Robinson’s steady presence made him a daytime TV favorite.
Damien Thomas
Damien Thomas, a British actor, died on April 18, 2025, at 83 from progressive supranuclear palsy. He appeared in ‘Twins of Evil’ (1971) and ‘Shogun’ (1980).
Thomas’s work in British TV, including ‘Blake’s 7’ (1978-1981), showed his range. His distinctive voice and poise were unforgettable.
Emilio Echevarría
Emilio Echevarría, a Mexican actor, passed away on January 4, 2025, at 81. Known for ‘Amores Perros’ (2000) and ‘Die Another Day’ (2002), he brought depth to every role.
His performance in ‘Babel’ (2006) earned critical praise. Echevarría’s work elevated Mexican cinema on the global stage.
Tony Slattery
Tony Slattery, a British comedian and actor, died on January 14, 2025, at 65 from heart attack complications. He was a star on ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ (1988-1998).
His roles in films like ‘Peter’s Friends’ (1992) showed his dramatic side. Slattery’s wit and improvisational skill were cherished by fans.
Kevyn Major Howard
Kevyn Major Howard, known for ‘Full Metal Jacket’ (1987), died on February 14, 2025, at 69. His role as Rafterman was a standout in Kubrick’s war epic.
Howard also appeared in ‘Sudden Impact’ (1983). His intense screen presence made his performances memorable.
Jay North
Jay North, the child star of ‘Dennis the Menace’ (1959-1963), died on April 6, 2025, at 73 from colon cancer. His mischievous charm defined the classic sitcom.
North’s later roles included ‘The Lucy Show’ (1962-1968). His early fame left a nostalgic mark on TV history.
Émilie Dequenne
Émilie Dequenne, a Belgian actress, passed away on March 16, 2025, at 43 from a rare cancer. Her breakout role in ‘Rosetta’ (1999) won her a Cannes award.
She also starred in ‘Brotherhood of the Wolf’ (2001). Dequenne’s emotional depth made her a standout in European cinema.
Denise Alexander
Denise Alexander, another ‘General Hospital’ (1973-2009) veteran, died on March 5, 2025, at 85. Her role as Dr. Lesley Webber was a soap opera cornerstone.
Alexander’s work on ‘Days of Our Lives’ (1966-1973) added to her legacy. Her warmth connected with generations of viewers.
George Wendt
George Wendt, beloved as Norm Peterson in ‘Cheers’ (1982-1993), died on May 20, 2025, at 76 from cardiac arrest. His humor made Norm a TV icon.
Wendt’s roles in ‘Fletch’ (1985) and ‘House’ (1986) showed his comedic range. His presence was a comfort to audiences.
Nicky Katt
Nicky Katt, known for ‘Dazed and Confused’ (1993), died on April 8, 2025, at 54 by suicide. His roles in ‘The Limey’ (1999) and ‘Boston Public’ (2000-2004) were gripping.
Katt’s work with directors like Christopher Nolan in ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008) highlighted his edge. His loss was deeply felt.
Harris Yulin
Harris Yulin, a versatile character actor, passed away on July 2, 2025, at 87 from cardiac arrest. Known for ‘Scarface’ (1983) and ‘Ozark’ (2017-2022), he often played intense villains.
His roles in ‘Clear and Present Danger’ (1994) and ‘Training Day’ (2001) showed his commanding presence. Yulin’s career spanned five decades.
Simon Fisher-Becker
Simon Fisher-Becker, a British actor, died in early 2025 (exact date unclear). He was known for ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ (2001) as the Fat Friar.
His work in ‘Doctor Who’ (2005-2011) as Dorium Maldovar won sci-fi fans’ hearts. Fisher-Becker’s warmth shone in every role.
Ruth Buzzi
Ruth Buzzi, a comedy legend, passed away in mid-2025 (exact date unclear). Known for ‘Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In’ (1968-1973), her characters like Gladys Ormphby were hilarious.
Buzzi’s voice work in ‘The Smurfs’ (1981-1989) and guest spots on ‘That Girl’ (1966-1971) showed her versatility. Her humor brightened countless lives.
Michael Madsen
Michael Madsen, known for his intense roles in Quentin Tarantino’s films, died on July 3, 2025, at 67 from cardiac arrest. He was iconic as Mr. Blonde in ‘Reservoir Dogs’ (1992) and Budd in ‘Kill Bill: Vol. 2’ (2004).
His performances in ‘Donnie Brasco’ (1997) and ‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015) showcased his gritty charisma. Madsen’s four-decade career, with over 300 credits, left a lasting mark on cinema.
Julian McMahon
Julian McMahon, known for his magnetic screen presence, passed away on July 2, 2025, at 56 from heart complications. He captivated audiences as Cole Turner in Charmed (1998-2006) and Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck (2003-2010).
His roles in Fantastic Four (2005) as Victor Von Doom and FBI: Most Wanted (2020-2024) showcased his commanding versatility. McMahon’s charisma and depth left an indelible mark on television and film.
Which actor’s work meant the most to you, or is there another we lost in 2025 you’d like to honor? Share your thoughts in the comments!