PHOTOSCelebrities Who Died in 2024: Robyn Bernard, Karl Wallinger and More
Harry Johnson
Battlestar Galactica actor Harry Johnson died of an undisclosed long illness on January 2 at the age of 81, his wife, Christiane, confirmed in a statement to Deadline. His representative, Johnathan Erickson, also confirmed the loss to The Hollywood Reporter.
"With a career spanning over 40 years, Harry was a true talent and cherished member of the community. His impact on the entertainment industry will be remembered and celebrated," ATB Talent Agency penned. "Our hearts go out to his friends and family, including Christiane, his wife of 15 years and stepchildren, Oliver and Penelope. May his memory be a blessing to all."
Johnson also notably starred in several hit TV shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Law & Order, The Incredible Hulk and Days of Our Lives.
David Soul
Actor-musician David Soul died on January 4 after a "valiant battle for life in the loving company of family." He was 80.
"He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist and dear friend," his wife, Helen Snell, said. "His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched."
Soul played the role of Ken "Hutch" Hutchinson in the hit series Starsky & Hutch. While expanding his career in the film and TV industries, he also was involved in music, releasing a song called "Don't Give Up on Us."
Angus Mitchell
Paul Mitchell's only child, Angus Mitchell, was found dead in the swimming pool of his Honolulu home on January 4. His cause of death has yet to be disclosed, but his last social media posts showed him and his friends enjoying themselves before his passing.
"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," John Paul Mitchell Systems wrote in a social media tribute.
Angus was 53 at the time of his death.
Christian Oliver
Speed Racer actor Christian Oliver and his two daughters, whom he shares with his wife, Jessica Klesper, were killed in a tragic plane crash on January 4. The pilot and plane owner, Robert Sachs, was also killed in the accident.
According to the authorities, the aircraft crashed into the Caribbean Sea while traveling to St. Lucia. It reportedly experienced "difficulties and plummeted into the ocean" a few moments after the takeoff.
Responders rushed to the scene after the crash, and the divers recovered the bodies before transferring them to Saint Vincent. Post-mortem examinations were done to determine the exact causes of death.
Following the loss, Klesper issued an emotional social media statement and expressed her grief.
"The outpouring of love I'm receiving is beyond words. From those closest to my heart, from community, from people far away to complete strangers … I see the messages, I see the word and it gives me so much strength," part of her message read.
Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins star Glynis Johns, 100, passed away at an assisted living home in Los Angeles. Her manager, Mitch Clem, disclosed she died of natural causes.
"Today's a sad day for Hollywood," Clem said. "She is the last of the last of old Hollywood."
Adan Canto
On January 8, Mexican actor Adan Canto — who starred in Narcos and X-Men: Days of Future Past — succumbed at the age of 42 following his private battle with appendiceal cancer.
A tribute on his Instagram post read, "A man who never once complained and inspired so many. We love you forever Adan."
Bill Hayes
The industry lost veteran actor Bill Hayes on January 12 following his death at 98.
"It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved Bill Hayes," a representative confirmed. "One of the longest-running characters on Days of our Lives, Bill originated the role of 'Doug Williams' in 1970 and portrayed him continuously throughout his life."
They added, "He and his wife, Susan Seaforth-Hayes, remained the foundation of the Williams-Horton family spanning more than 50 years."
Hayes had famously starred in the hit series Days of Our Lives since 1970.
Alec Musser
All My Children and Grown Ups actor Alec Musser was found dead on the bathroom floor of his Del Mar, Calif., home by his fiancée, Paige Press, on January 12. According to the coroner's report, paramedics and law enforcement responded to the residence after receiving a call; they later proclaimed him dead.
Meanwhile, the San Diego County Medical Examiner's Office ruled the manner of death as a suicide.
Joyce Randolph
Joyce Randolph, who played Trixie Norton in The Honeymooners, died on January 13. She was 99.
Her son Randolph Charles informed The Associated Press that she died of natural causes at her Upper West Side of Manhattan home. She was the last surviving main character of the 1950s comedy show.
David Gail
Beverly Hills, 90210 star David Gail died on January 20 at the age of 58.
His sister Katie Colmenares announced the devastating news about the passing of her “best friend” and “wingman” in an Instagram post.
"There’s barely been even a day in my life when you were not with me by my side always my wingman always my best friend ready to face anything and anyone w me," she captioned the post. “The bears will never be the same but I will hold you so tight every day in my heart you gorgeous loving amazing fierce human being missing you every second of every day forever there will never be another.”
He also notably appeared in hit series and movies like She Wrote, Bending All the Rules, Growing Pains and Doogie Howser.
Days after his death, a representative issued a statement for his family in which they confirmed his cause of death.
"The family has no reason to suspect the cause of his death was anything but heart failure," the message read. "David will be remembered for his love of acting and his absolute passion and dedication to his friends and family. He possessed a unique quality that made everyone feel special in his presence."
Gail was reportedly put on life support days before his death after he emergency responders tried saving his life through CPR and defibrillation when they found him unresponsive.
Norman Jewison
Oscar-nominated Hollywood director Norman Jewison died at his home on January 20, his publicist confirmed in a statement. He made his last theatrical effort two decades ago, working with Michael Caine in the 2003 flick The Statement.
Gary Graham
Star Trek: Enterprise actor Gary Graham, 73, passed away on January 22. His wife of 25 years, Becky, told The Hollywood Reporter that he died of cardiac arrest while admitted at a hospital in Spokane, Wash.
Melanie Safka
The official Facebook page of Melanie, born Melanie Anne Safka-Schekeryk, announced the heartbreaking news of her passing through a statement her children penned.
"She was one of the most talented, strong and passionate women of the era and every word she wrote, every note she sang reflected that," the message read. "Our world is much dimmer, the colors of a dreary, rainy Tennessee pale with her absence today, but we know that she is still here, smiling down on all of us, on all of you, from the stars."
A celebration of life will be held soon to honor her legacy, though the details have yet to be shared with the public.
Jesse Jane
KFOR reported that on January 24, adult film star Jesse Jane — who appeared on Entourage — and her boyfriend, Brett Hasenmueller, were found dead in their Moore, Okla., home when the Moore Police Department responded after receiving a wellness check request.
They had not been heard from for days before their deaths, although the authorities said no foul play was seemingly involved. They also said the duo’s apparent cause of death was an overdose.
The official cause of death will be determined by the state medical examiner’s office, per the report.
Gary Graham
Star Trek and Alien Nation star Gary Graham died on January 22 after suffering a cardiac arrest at a hospital in Spokane, Wash., his wife, Becky Graham, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. He was 73.
Isabelle Thomas
Killers of the Flower Moon producer Bradley Thomas’ wife, Isabelle Thomas, was found dead at a Los Angeles hotel on January 29.
According to the online records by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, the 39-year-old was found with multiple traumatic injuries after jumping from a balcony at the Hotel Angeleno. She reportedly died by suicide.
Her bereaved family issued a statement to The Los Angeles Times where they called Isabelle “the light of our lives.”
“She was courageous and took all life’s opportunities without fear, showering love and kindness on her friends, family, and children along the way. Her projects were as diverse as her passions, reflecting a curiosity about people and our culture that inspired everyone lucky enough to spend time with her. We remember her as a soulmate, beautiful daughter, sister, devoted mother and wife.”
They also requested everyone to donate to the Mental Health Coalition in her honor.
Chita Rivera
On January 30, Broadway legend Chita Rivera passed away following a brief illness. She was 91.
The Tony Award-winning performer famously appeared in different musicals and flicks like Tick, Tick… Boom!, Sweet Charity and Chicago.
Mark Gustafson
Guillermo del Toro’s co-director in Pinocchio, Mark Gustafson, passed away on February 1 at the age of 64.
“I admired Mark Gustafson, even before I met him. A pillar of stop-motion animation – a true artist. A compassionate, sensitive and mordantly witty man,” del Toro wrote in his tribute. “A Legend – and a friend that inspired and gave hope to all around him. He passed away yesterday. Today we honour and miss him.”
No cause of death was given, though several media outlets reported he suffered a massive heart attack that led to his passing.
Carl Weathers
The Mandalorian star Carl Weathers’ manager Matt Luber confirmed the beloved star’s death to CNN, saying he died peacefully at home on February 1. He was 76.
“Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” his family wrote in a statement to the media outlet. “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.”
Wayne Kramer
On February 2, Wayne Kramer’s official Instagram page announced his death following his battle with pancreatic cancer.
“He will be remembered for starting a revolution in music, culture, and kindness,” the message continued.
It told fans they could honor the MC5 founding member by donating to his organization, which provides musical instruments and mentorship to incarcerated individuals.
Toby Keith
Legendary country musician Toby Keith passed away at the age of 62 following his courageous battle with stomach cancer. His family released the statement on X on Monday, February 5, shortly after his death.
Keith revealed his diagnosis in 2022 but continued performing in several shows in the months leading to his death.
“I’ve spent the last 6 months receiving chemo, radiation and surgery. So far, so good. I need time to breathe, recover and relax,” he shared at the time. “I am looking forward to spending this time with my family. But I will see the fans sooner than later. I can’t wait.”
Michael Jayston
Doctor Who and Only Fools and Horses star Michael Jayston died on February 5 at the age of 88 following a "short illness," M&M Famous Faces confirmed in a statement.
"Those who knew Michael will know he was full of love, laughs and happiness. He adored meeting his fans all over the world," the message continued. "His family and friends would appreciate privacy at this time."
Jayston notably became part of other famous flicks and plays, including The Sound of Music 1981 stage revival, You Only Live Twice, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and A Bit of a Do.
Henry Fambrough
On February 7, The Spinners' last surviving member, Henry Fambrough, passed away from natural causes at the age of 85. He and his bandmates in the R&B group released hit songs like "Could It Be I'm Falling in Love," "I'll Be Around" and "It's a Shame."
"He got to experience those accolades. He was able to bask in the accomplishment, and that was something he was really happy about," Tanisha Jackson told the Detroit Free-Press. "He was glad to represent the ones who had gone before him."
Steve Wright
Sunday Love Songs host Steve Wright was found dead in his flat on February 12 after responders received a call about an "incident." An exact cause of death was not disclosed.
However, media outlets said he underwent heart surgery "14 or 15 months ago" after wrapping up his Steven Wright in the Afternoon program ended.
BBC tapped Nicki Chapman as a temporary host following Wright's death.
Ewen MacIntosh
Just Right Management released a statement confirming The Office actor Ewen MacIntosh's death on February 19 at the age of 50.
"His family thank all who supported him, especially Willow Green care home. There will be a private cremation for family & close friends soon & a celebratory memorial later in the year," the company continued.
MacIntosh's spokesperson, Chelle Just, informed the LA Times about The Lobster's health two years before his passing. He reportedly died "peacefully from undisclosed causes."
Robin Windsor
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor was found dead in a hotel room in London on February 20. The TV personality, who was 44 at the time of his death, reportedly returned to the city after performing on a cruise in South Africa.
While his cause of death was not revealed, his friends detailed in their tribute messages the brave battle Windsor had against mental health issues and suicidal thoughts.
John Savident
Known for playing Fred Elliott's character on Coronation Street, John Savident left everyone devastated when his representatives confirmed his death on February 21.
"We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21 February. He was a much-loved husband and father of two, and will be sorely missed by all who knew him," his representative told PA.
Kenneth Mitchell
On February 24, Star Trek: Discovery actor Kenneth Mitchell died following his five-year battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). He was 49.
An obituary posted on his social media pages on February 25 honored his life and legacy following his brave battle against the dreaded illness.
Meanwhile, the official Star Trek franchise released a statement on its website to remember Mitchell's notable performances as Kol-Sha and Tenavik.
"The entire Star Trek family sends their condolences to Mitchell's family, friends, loved ones, and fans around the world," the statement continued.
Richard Lewis
Richard Lewis' representative, Jeff Abraham, confirmed the comedian's death on February 28, saying he passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles after suffering a heart attack the night prior.
A few days later, his death certificate disclosed that he died from cardiopulmonary arrest, with Parkinson's disease as the secondary cause.
The Curb Your Enthusiasm actor was 76 at the time of his death.
Dave Myers
The Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers passed away on February 28 at the age of 66 with his wife, family and close friends surrounding him. The statements from his loved ones and colleagues did not disclose his cause of death, though his fans knew about his cancer battle after announcing his treatment in 2022.
"I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment. My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can't follow," said Si King, the other half of The Hairy Bikers duo. "I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime. I wish you god's speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world."
Iris Apfel
Famed interior and fashion designer Iris Apfel passed away at her Palm Beach, Fla., home on March 1 at the age of 102. Her representative, Lori Sale, issued a statement to multiple media outlets to confirm the loss, though she did not disclose the fashion icon’s cause of death.
“Iris Apfel was extraordinary,” she wrote via The Hollywood Reporter. “Working alongside her was the honor of a lifetime. I will miss her daily calls, always greeted with the familiar question: ‘What have you got for me today?’ Testament to her insatiable desire to work.”
Sale continued, “She was a visionary in every sense of the word. She saw the world through a unique lens – one adorned with giant, distinctive spectacles that sat atop her nose. Through those lenses, she saw the world as a kaleidoscope of color, a canvas of patterns and prints. Her artistic eye transformed the mundane into the extraordinary and her ability to blend the unconventional with the elegant was nothing short of magical.”
Karl Wallinger
Karl Wallinger’s publicist announced his death in a statement on Sunday, March 10. World Party’s official Facebook page also posted an update to honor the musician who “left behind a loving family.”
The Welsh-born frontman played for the Waterboys before joining the World Party in 1986. He continued promoting with his bandmates until his break in the 2000s after he suffered a brain aneurysm.
Leah Smith
On March 11, TikTok star Leah Smith died after battling a rare type of bone cancer for four years. She documented her journey on the platform until she passed away at the age of 22.
Her boyfriend, Andrew, confirmed the news in a TikTok video via her official page, saying, “I just want to say thank you to everyone. All your comments did help, like, she did actually read all of them. Anyone who said anything nice ever, it means more than you realize.”
Smith battled Ewing Sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer, for years. The condition causes pain, swelling and fever as it targets long bones and soft tissues. She reached the disease’s stage 4 before her death.
Robyn Bernard
General Hospital star Robyn Bernard was found dead on March 12.
According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, they found the Kings for a Day actress in an open field behind a business in San Jacinto, Calif. She was 64.
Her cause of death was not identified, but the authorities ruled there was no foul play involved in her death.
Giorgi ‘Tzane’ Janelidze
Internet personality and fitness influencer Giorgi “Tzane” Janelidze got involved in a freak accident which led to his death. He was 23.
News outlet Ethnos reported about his passing while filming content in Italy on March 13. Janelidze reportedly slipped and fell into a ravine while in the Roghudi Vecchio, Calabria, an abandoned mountain village in the country.
Firefighters responded to the scene but were unable to revive him. Helicopters soon arrived to retrieve his body.
