Paying Tribute to the Celebrities Who Have Died in 2024

Tony Todd

Tony Todd, the prolific actor who starred in horror films such as Candyman and Final Destination, died on Nov. 6 at his home in Marina Del Rey, Calif. He was 69.

Todd’s rep confirmed his death to PEOPLE. A cause of death was not immediately available.

Todd appeared in 100 movies and television shows over the course of his long career. His horror credits include the 1990 remake of Night of the Living Dead, The Crow, and the Final Destination movies. He is perhaps most recognized for playing the titular character in 1992’s Candyman. He reprised the role twice — in 1995 and 1999 — before returning to the franchise in 2021, in a reboot directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Jordan Peele.

Virginia Madsen, who starred alongside Todd in the original Candyman, shared an emotional tribute to the actor on Instagram.

“My beloved. May you rest in power sweet to the sweet in heaven,” she wrote. “The great actor Tony Todd has left us and now is an angel. As he was in life. More later but I can’t right now. I love you.

Bobby Allison

Bobby Allison, the 1983 NASCAR Cup Series champion, died peacefully at his home on Nov. 9, NASCAR announced.

“Bobby Allison personified the term ‘racer.’ Though he is best known as one of the winningest drivers in NASCAR Cup Series history, his impact on the sport extends far beyond the record books,” NASCAR chairman and CEO Jim France said in a statement.

A Hall of Fame driver, Allison won 85 career races, with career highlights that included the 1983 Winston Cup Series Champion victory, three Daytona 500 wins and becoming a member of NASCAR’s second Hall of Fame class in 2011.

He was 86 at the time of his death.

Quincy Jones

Legendary music producer Quincy Jones died at his home in Los Angeles on Nov. 3. his publicist Arnold Robinson revealed.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” his family said in a statement. “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him.”

The musician is survived by his seven children: Rashida Jones, Kidada Jones, Kenya Kinski-Jones, Quincy Jones III, Jolie Jones Levine, Martina Jones, and Rachel Jones. He is also survived by grandchildren Isaiah Jones Koenig, Quincy Renzo Delight Jones IV and Nea Jones.

The family held a private funeral for their beloved patriarch a week after his death.

Georgina Cooper

British model Georgina Cooper — who rose to fame during the "Cool Brittanica" wave of the '90s — died in October at age 46, her friends confirmed via Instagram on Nov. 8.

According to The Daily Mail, she died from a blood-brain hemorrhage as a result of long COVID.

Her agent, Dean Goodman, told the outlet she “tragically died [in Greece] a fortnight ago.” 

“Georgina had been unwell during Covid and had developed some health problems and had been in and out of hospital,” Goodman continued. “But she had plans for the future. She had just married and was looking forward to her life. Everybody is devastated. She was a genuine superstar.” 

Cooper fell ill while on vacation and was flown via helicopter to Crete. She remained in the ICU for five days before she died. Her body was flown back to England the week of Oct. 28.

Paul Di'Anno

Former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno died on Oct. 21, long-time label Conquest Music revealed in a statement. He was 66.

"On behalf of his family, Conquest Music are sad to confirm the death of Paul Andrews, professionally known as Paul Di'Anno. Paul passed away at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66," the statement said.

"Despite being troubled by severe health issues in recent years that restricted him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023."

Ron Ely

Ron Ely, who starred in the Tarzan television series back in the '60s died at age 86, his daughter Kirsten Ely revealed on Oct. 22. She did not indicate how or when the actor died.

"The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known – and I have lost my dad," Kirsten wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post.

"My father was someone that people called a hero. He was an actor, writer, coach, mentor, family man and leader. He created a powerful wave of positive influence wherever he went."

Michael Newman

Baywatch star Michael Newman died on Oct. 20, after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006. He was 67.

Newman's close friend, Matt Felker — who directed the Hulu docuseries After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun — revealed the late actor died "from heart complications" and he was "surrounded by his family and friends," at the time of his passing.

Mimi Hines

Legendary Broadway performer and singer Mimi Hines, who famously replaced Barbra Streisand in the original cast of Funny Girl, died on Oct. 21. She was 91.

Mark Sendroff, Hines' longtime attorney, confirmed her death in a statement to PEOPLE, revealing that she died peacefully in her home in Las Vegas of natural causes.

Fernando Valenzuela

Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and broadcaster Fernando Valenzuela died at age 63, the Dodgers announced on Oct. 22. The organization did not provide a cause of death.

“He is one of the most influential Dodgers ever and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of franchise heroes," Stan Kasten, president & CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers, said in a statement.

"He galvanized the fan base with the Fernandomania season of 1981 and has remained close to our hearts ever since, not only as a player but also as a broadcaster. He has left us all too soon. Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Linda and his family.”

Liam Payne

Former One Direction member and "Strip That Down" singer Liam Payne died on Oct. 16, after falling from his hotel balcony in Argentina.

Sources confirmed to ABC News that a partial autopsy revealed the 31-year-old "had multiple substances in his system," one of them being pink cocaine," a recreational drug that generally includes a combination of methamphetamine, ketamine, MDMA — and not necessarily cocaine — per the National Capital Poison Center.

His former bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan — shared a joint statement on Instagram, saying they are processing "the loss of our brother."

Mitzi Gaynor

Mitzi Gaynor, best known for her roles in movie musicals in the '50s, died at the age of 93, her management team announced in a statement on Oct. 17.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and client Mitzi Gaynor. She passed away peacefully today of natural causes at the age of 93," Rene Reyes and Shane Rosamonda wrote on social media.

"For eight decades she entertained audiences in films, on television and on the stage," they continued. "She truly enjoyed every moment of her professional career and the great privilege of being an entertainer."

Gavin Creel

Broadway star Gavin Creel, who had memorable roles in Hair, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Into the Woods, She Loves Me and Hello, Dolly! (for which he won a Tony) died Sept. 30 at age 48 from sarcoma, an aggressive cancer, just months after receiving the diagnosis.

"As you might assume from his open, exuberant purity on stage, Gavin radiated light and kindness. He lived in a constant state of searching for joy," his Hair costar Will Swenson said in a post on American Theater in honor of his friend. Broadway theaters agreed to dim their their marquees in his honor.

Maggie Smith

On Sept. 27, Dame Maggie Smith's sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin revealed the beloved actress had died. "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September," they said in a statement via publicist Clair Dobbs.

"An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother."

Drake Hogestyn

Drake Hogestyn, the soap opera star who played John Black for 38 years on Days of Our Lives died on Sept. 28, one day shy of his 71st birthday.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn," a statement from Days of Our Lives read.

"He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones."

John Amos

On Oct. 1, Kelly Christopher "K.C." Amos announced that his father, beloved Good Times and Roots actor John Amos, best known for his roles on Good Times, Roots and Coming to America, died on Aug. 21.

According to a death certificate obtained by PEOPLE, John died of congestive heart failure at a hospital in Inglewood, Calif. 

Gena Rowlands

Gena Rowlands, best known for her roles in The Notebook, A Woman Under the Influence, and Gloria, died at age 94 on Aug. 14 surrounded by her family - including her husband Robert and daughter Alexandra - at her Indian Welles, Calif. home. Her son's agent confirmed the news to Variety.

The news came a few months after her son Nick Cassavetes revealed that she had been living with Alzheimer's for the past five years. Cassavetes, who directed his mother in 2004’s The Notebook. reflected on working with her for the hit Nicholas Sparks adaptation as the film celebrated its 20th anniversary in June.

"I got my mom to play older Allie, and we spent a lot of time talking about Alzheimer's and wanting to be authentic with it, and now, for the last five years, she's had Alzheimer's," Cassavetes told EW about his mother who played the older version of Rachael McAdams’ character in the film. "She's in full dementia. And it's so crazy — we lived it, she acted it, and now it's on us."

Autumn Crittendon

16 and Pregnant alum Autumn (Oxley) Crittendon died on July 20. She was 27.

In a statement shared with PEOPLE, the Henrico County Police Department revealed authorities were called to a home in Sandston, Virginia, on the afternoon of July 20. When they arrived, there was a medical emergency regarding an unresponsive adult woman. And though they "attempted life-saving measures," Crittendon was "pronounced deceased on the scene."

Three months after she died on Oct. 22, a spokesperson from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in the Virginia Department of Health confirmed to PEOPLE that Crittendon had died from toxicity from fentanyl and para/meta-fluorofentanyl, which is a synthetic opioid similar to fentanyl. Her manner of death was ruled as accidental.

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty died at age 53 on Saturday, July 13, after years of living with cancer.

"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," Doherty's longtime publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE on Sunday, July 14.

"The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace," Sloane continued.

The Beverly Hills 90210 star was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.

Richard Simmons

Richard Simmons died at age 76 in July, his longtime publicist, Tom Estey, confirmed to PEOPLE. The professional fitness coach died at his Los Angeles home after his birthday. TMZ was first to report the news on Saturday, July 13, citing law enforcement. "The world has truly lost an angel," Estey told PEOPLE of Simmons.

Dr. Ruth Westheimer

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the sex therapist who became a pop culture phenomenon in the 1980s, died at age 96 on July 12, her publicist Pierre Lehu confirmed to PEOPLE.

"She was restful when she passed away. Her son and daughter were with her and holding her hand at that moment," Lehu said, adding, "It was as peacefully as she could possibly go. She was 96."

He continued of his late friend, "It's amazing, there was stuff still going on in her life [she has a book coming out this fall with Allison Gilbert] and someone wants to make a biopic about her."

Shelley Duvall

The Shining actress Shelley Duvall died at age 75 on Thursday, July 11, at her home in Blanco, Texas, her partner Dan Gilroy told The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. THR and The New York Times reported that Duvall died from complications of diabetes.

Gilroy told THR, “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley."

Shifty Shellshock

Shifty Shellshock, the frontman of Crazy Town, died at the age of 49 on June 24. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner shared on its website that the musician, whose real name is Seth Binzer, died at his Los Angeles home, however, no cause of death was listed.

Donald Sutherland

Donald Sutherland, known for The Hunger Games and Ordinary People and more films and television roles, died at age 88 on June 20 in Miami after a long illness, CAA’s Missy Davy confirmed with PEOPLE. 

His son Kiefer also confirmed the news on X writing, "With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think 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, and one can never ask for more…"

Johnny Wactor

Actor Johnny Wactor, who played Brando Corbin on General Hospital, died at the age of 37 following a fatal shooting on May 25 in Los Angeles.

The actor's mother Scarlett Wactor confirmed his death to TMZ, revealing that Wactor and a colleague saw three men trying to steal a catalytic converter from his vehicle, and although he did not attempt to stop them, he was shot and subsequently rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Grayson Murray

Professional golfer Grayson Murray died at the age of 30 in May. His parents later confirmed his cause of death as suicide in a statement released through the PGA Tour on May 26.

"We have so many questions that have no answers. But one," Eric and Terry wrote in the statement. "Was Grayson loved? The answer is yes. By us, his brother Cameron, his sister Erica, all of his extended family, by his friends, by his fellow players and – it seems – by many of you who are reading this. He was loved and he will be missed."

Morgan Spurlock

Morgan Spurlock, the filmmaker-star of documentaries like 2004's Super Size Me, died on May 23 in New York from complications of cancer. He was 53.

His brother Craig said in a statement, "It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan. Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him."

Charlie Colin

Musician Charlie Colin, a founding member of the band Train, died at age 58 in May. TMZ was first to report the news of Colin's death, with his mother telling the outlet he was house-sitting for a friend in Belgium,when he slipped and fell in the shower. 

Dabney Coleman

Actor Dabney Coleman died on May 16 at his home in Santa Monica, Calif. He was 92. His daughter confirmed the news in a statement to PEOPLE.

"My father crafted his time here on Earth with a curious mind, a generous heart and a soul on fire with passion, desire and humor that tickled the funny bone of humanity,” Quincy said. “As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence and mastery."

"A teacher, a hero and a king, Dabney Coleman is a gift and blessing in life and in death as his spirit will shine through his work, his loved ones and his legacy eternally."

Chance Perdomo

Chance Perdomo, known for his roles on Gen V and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina died at the age of 27 in March as a result of a motorcycle accident. A statement provided to PEOPLE on behalf of Perdomo’s family and representatives read, “His passion for the arts and insatiable appetite for life was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth will carry on in those who he loved dearest.”

Barbara Rush

Actress Barbara Rush, known for roles in It Came from Outer Space and Peyton Place, died on Easter at age 97.

Rush’s death was confirmed by her daughter, Claudia Cowan, in a statement to Fox News. "My wonderful mother passed away peacefully at 5:28 this evening. I was with her this morning and know she was waiting for me to return home safely to transition."

"It’s fitting she chose to leave on Easter as it was one of her favorite holidays and now, of course, Easter will have a deeper significance for me and my family," the statement concluded.

Jennifer Leak

Jennifer Leak, known for her role in 1968'sYours, Mine and Ours, died on March 18 at her home in Jupiter, Fla. She was 76. The actress was diagnosed with the rare neurological disease progressive supranuclear palsy seven years before her death, as reported by The East Hampton Star. 

Robyn Bernard

General Hospital actress Robyn Bernard died at age 64 in March. The soap actress was found dead in an "open field behind [a] business" in San Jacinto, California, according to a press release from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office. A spokesperson for the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office tells PEOPLE that foul play was not suspected.

Anne Whitfield

Anne Whitfield, who starred in the holiday classic White Christmas, died at age 85 on Feb. 14. She was surrounded by her family at Valley Memorial Hospital in Yakima, Wash. at the time of her death, following an “unexpected accident” during a walk in her neighborhood, according to her obituary. 

Toby Keith

Country singer Toby Keith, known for hits such as “Red Solo Cup” and “Should Have Been a Cowboy,” died on Feb. 5 after being diagnosed with stomach cancer in fall 2021. He was 62.

"Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on Feb. 5 surrounded by his family," his family shared in a statement. “He fought his fight with grace and courage." 

Kenneth Mitchell

Actor Kenneth Mitchell, best known for his roles in Star Trek: Discovery, died at age 49 on Feb. 24, five years after being diagnosed with ALS.

His family confirmed the news in a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter). “With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kenneth Alexander Mitchell, beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, son and dear friend,” read the post, which was also shared on Instagram.

“Ken was widely known as an actor in many films and television shows. He’s portrayed an Olympic hopeful, an apocalypse survivor, an astronaut, a superhero’s dad, and four unique Star Trekkers,” the statement continued.

Chris Gauthier

Actor Chris Gauthier, known for his roles in Once Upon a Time, Eureka, and Smallville, died at age 48 on Feb. 23. His manager told TV Line that he died "suddenly and unexpectedly" following a short illness. The English-born Canadian actor’s death was also confirmed by his agency TriStar Appearances/Event Horizon Talent in a statement obtained by PEOPLE.

"We can confirm that our friend and client, Chris Gauthier, passed away on Friday morning, February 23, at the age of 48 after a brief illness," the statement read. “As a beloved Vancouver-based character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we do ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly.”

Richard Lewis

Richard Lewis, the comedian and actor known for his role on Curb Your Enthusiasm, died at age 76 in February. Lewis' rep Jeff Abraham confirmed the news in a statement to PEOPLE, writing, "Comedian/Actor Richard Lewis passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles last night after suffering a heart attack. His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time."

Carl Weathers

The actor, known for roles in Rocky, Predator and The Mandalorian, died at age 76 on Feb. 1. His family confirmed the news in a statement to Deadline and Variety, saying that he "died peacefully in his sleep."

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers," said the family, adding, "Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner and friend."

Christian Oliver

Actor Christian Oliver was killed in a plane crash in January. Oliver, known for films including Speed Racer and The Baby-Sitters Club, was 51. A statement from the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force said the incident occurred off the island of Bequia. The small single-engine aircraft was traveling from the J.F. Mitchell Airport in Paget Farm to St. Lucia.

Three other passengers were aboard the aircraft, including the actor's two daughters, Madita, 10, and Annik, 12. The pilot was identified as Robert Sachs, who also owned the plane.

Harry Johnson

Harry Johnson, well known for his roles on Battlestar Galactica and Law & Order, died at age 81. The actor died Jan. 3 in Los Angeles after a “long illness,” his wife Christiane confirmed to Deadline. 

Angus Mitchell

Angus Mitchell, the only child of hairstylist Paul Mitchell, was found dead in January. He was 53. John Paul DeJoria, co-founder and chairman of John Paul Mitchell Systems, confirmed Angus' sudden death in an emotional social media tribute.

"It is with tremendous sadness that we mourn the sudden passing of Angus Mitchell. As a hairdresser and co-owner of JPMS, Angus had a deep love of family, community, and the beauty industry," DeJoria shared. "Angus had a huge heart that impacted countless people who crossed his path. We are grateful for the time we got with him, though it ended far too soon. During this shocking and difficult time, we kindly request privacy as we navigate this profound loss.”

Angus reportedly died in an apparent drowning in a pool at his Honolulu home, law enforcement sources told TMZ.

Glynis Johns

Glynis Johns, the Academy Award-nominated actor who costarred with Julie Andrews in the classic 1964 film Mary Poppins as Winifred Banks, died at age 100 in January. Her manager, Mitch Clem, told Variety Johns died at an assisted living facility in Los Angeles of natural causes.

“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” Clem said in a statement. “She entered my life early in my career and set a very high bar on how to navigate this industry with grace, class, and truth. Your own truth. Her light shined very brightly for 100 years."

"She had a wit that could stop you in your tracks powered by a heart that loved deeply and purely," he added. "Today is a somber day for Hollywood. Not only do we mourn the passing of our dear Glynis, but we mourn the end of the golden age of Hollywood.”

David Soul

David Soul, best known for playing detective Kenneth "Hutch" Hutchinson on TV's Starsky & Hutch, died on Jan. 4 at age 80. 

His wife of 13 years, Helen Snell, shared the news in a statement with PEOPLE, describing Soul as a "beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother."

The actor "died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family,” the statement read. “He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist and dear friend. His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched."

Adan Canto

Actor Adan Canto, best known for his work on The Cleaning Lady and Designated Survivor, died at age 42 following a private journey with appendiceal cancer, according to The Wrap.

"Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever," Canto's reps at UTA, Entertainment360 and Viewpoint said, per Deadline. "He will be greatly missed by so many."

Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment also shared a statement in the wake of Canto's death, expressing how they were "heartbroken" to learn of the devastating news.

"A wonderful actor and dear friend, we were honored to have him as part of the Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment families since his U.S. debut in The Following more than a decade ago," the statement read.

"Most recently, he lit up the screen in The Cleaning Lady with a powerful performance that showcased his artistry, range, depth and vulnerability," the statement continued. "This is an unfathomable loss, and we grieve alongside his wife Stephanie, their children and loved ones. We will miss Adan dearly."

Alec Musser

In January, actor Alec Musser died at age 50. His fiancée Paige Press announced the news on her Instagram Story, writing, "RIP to the love of my life. I will never stop loving you. My heart is broken."

The San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office later revealed that the All My Children star died by suicide after an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Musser was found by Press at their home in Del Mar, California. According to a press release, Press knew him to be alive before she went to bed and found him the next morning "slumped forward on the bathroom floor" with a firearm identified as a shotgun nearby.

Dexter Scott King

Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, died at 62 on Jan. 22. The King Center announced that Dexter died after a "valiant battle with prostate cancer," according to a statement obtained by PEOPLE.

“He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu,” his wife of 11 years, Leah Weber King, said in a statement. “He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. As with all the challenges in his life, he faced this hurdle with bravery and might,” she added.

Gary Graham

Gary Graham, best known for his role in Star Trek: Enterprise, died at 73 on Jan. 22. The actor’s ex-wife, Susan Lavelle, shared the news in a Facebook post. “It is with deep profound sadness to say that Gary Graham, my ex husband, amazing actor and father of our beautiful only child together, Haylee Graham, has passed away today,” she wrote in the tribute posted early Jan. 23.

Isabelle Thomas

Isabelle Thomas, the wife of Killers of the Flower Moon producer Bradley Thomas, died by suicide at a Los Angeles hotel on Jan. 29, according to authorities. She was 39 years old.

Chita Rivera

The Tony-winning actress died at 91. "It is with immense personal sorrow that I announce the death of the beloved Broadway icon Chita Rivera. My dear friend of over 40 years was 91," shared her rep Merle Frimark in a statement on Jan. 30.

According to a statement released by her daughter Lisa Mordente, Rivera died in New York "after a brief illness."