Liam Payne and More Stars We Loved and Lost in 2024

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.”

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."

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."

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' 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.

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’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.

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.

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.

O.J. Simpson, 76, died on April 10 following his short battle with cancer. The football star was diagnosed with the dreaded illness in May 2023, and his family confirmed his death one day after he died.

"I was pretty certain it was prostate cancer; ultimately, that was the cause," his longtime lawyer, Malcolm LaVergne, confirmed to People. "He thought it had beaten it. I thought this was done, but you know how cancers go. They come back, and they come back with a vengeance."

Simpson's success on the field was overshadowed by his infamous double murder acquittal during the Trial of the Century following the deaths of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in 1994.

While he was acquitted after the 11-month trial, he lost in the wrongful death case filed by the Brown and Goldman families. He was ordered to pay them $33.5 million, but he was reportedly not able to complete the payment at the time of his death.

Titanic and The Lord of the Rings legend Bernard Hill died on May 5 at the age of 79. His fiancée, Alison, and his son Gabriel were beside him at the time of his death.

No cause was given.

Dabney Coleman's daughter, Quincy Coleman, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that the 9 to 5 star died on May 16 at his home in Santa Monica. He was 92.

"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. As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence and mastery," she said in the statement, adding, "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."

Dabney famously appeared in Tootsie, The Slap Maxwell Story, Drexell's Class, The Guardian and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, among others.

Founding drummer of Staind, Jon Wysocki, passed away on May 18, a statement on his social media page confirmed.

The post did not disclose his cause of death, but Lydia’s Castle member Shawna Hornbeck shared in a Facebook post the musician was in the ICU due to "issues with his liver" that "required him to be under the attention of medical professionals to ensure that he is treated properly."

"We first met Jon through mutual friends in 1994. We came together with Mike, Aaron, and Johnny April in 1995 and founded Staind," Stain wrote in a statement. "The 17 years that followed were some of the best memories of our times together. From practice in Ludlow, Mass to touring around the world, Jon was integral to who we were as a band. Our hearts go out to Jon’s family, and fans around the world who loved him."

Documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock died due to complications of cancer on May 23.

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

Famed professional golfer and two-time PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning on May 25, the Daily Mail reported.

His parents, Eric and Terry Murray, confirmed their son died by suicide.

"We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone. It’s surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world. It’s a nightmare," they said.

General Hospital star Johnny Wactor passed away following a fatal shooting incident in downtown Los Angeles on May 25. The 37-year-old actor's agent, David Shaul, confirmed his death in a statement on May 26.

“Johnny Wactor was spectacular human being. Not just a talented actor who was committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him. Standing for hard work, tenacity and a never give up attitude. In the highs and lows of a challenging profession he always kept his chin up and kept striving for the best he could be,” he said in a statement obtained by Variety.

He continued, “Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone. He would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”

Johnny's younger brother, Grant Wactor, told the Daily Mail that the Army Wives alum had finished a bartending shift and escorted one of his female coworkers when men surrounded his car.

"Once he turned around, he saw what was happening and he put his coworker behind him. And that’s when they shot him," Grant said of Johnny's final moments.

The coroner's report obtained by RadarOnline.com also divulged that Johnny died by homicide, and his manner of death was a gunshot wound to the chest.

On the other hand, the Los Angeles Police Department sought the public to help them trace the three suspects. Joseph Iniguez, the Los Angeles County DA's chief deputy, revealed in the latest news conference that they are working with the LAPD in the "very active" investigation."

Michelle Obama's 86-year-old mother, Marian Robinson, died peacefully on May 31, the family confirmed in a statement.

Obama also released a separate statement to express her heartbreak, writing, "My mom Marian Robinson was my rock, always there for whatever I needed."

The Honeymoon Killers and The Seven-Ups star Tony Lo Bianco died on June 11 at his Poolesville, Md., horse farm on June 11. He was 87.

His wife, Alyse, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.

Donald Sutherland, the award-winning Canadian actor who famously starred in The Hunger Games and Ordinary People, died on Thursday, June 20, in Miami after a long illness. He was 88.

His son, Kiefer Sutherland, delivered the heartbreaking news in an Instagram post.

"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 than that. A life well lived," the caption read.

Creative Artists Agency's Missy Davy told People a private celebration of life will be held by the Sutherland family after the loss.

Hawaii Five-0 actor Taylor Wily died on June 20 at the age of 56, the series' executive producer Peter Lenkov confirmed the news to The Associated Press.

Lenkov also shared several tributes online to honor his "brother."

"T, as I told you many times, I fell in love with you at the first audition," Lenkov captioned a video montage. "You came in with a towel on your head mopping up sweat, and I was smitten. You charmed me into making you a regular… on the show… and in my life. You were family. And I will miss you every day, brother."

Wily's manager, Michael Henderson, told USA Today that Wily passed away due to "natural causes."

Crazy Town frontman Shifty Shellshock was found dead at his residence on June 24, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's website reported. The cause has not yet been disclosed.

The vocalist, born Seth Brooks Binzer, was 49.

On June 25, famed actor Bill Cobbs, who starred in hit films like The Bodyguard and Night at the Museum, died "peacefully at his home in California." One of his family members delivered the news via Facebook.

"A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones," his family wrote in the message. "As a family we are comforted knowing Bill has found peace and eternal rest with his Heavenly Father. We ask for your prayers and encouragement during this time."

"Solid American" hitmaker Kinky Friedman died in his sleep on June 27 at the age of 79.

The country singer-songwriter's official X page shared the news about his death, writing, "Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends. Kinkster endured tremendous pain & unthinkable loss in recent years but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung."

Friedman's close friend Larry Sloman told The New York Times that the cause of death was complications of Parkinson's disease.

Martin Mull, the comic actor who notably appeared on hit shows like Roseanne and Clue, passed away on June 27. He was 80.

His daughter, Maggie Mull, wrote a statement on Instagram to confirm her father's death after his "valiant fight against a long illness."

"He was known for excelling at every creative discipline imaginable and also for doing Red Roof Inn commercials. He would find that joke funny. He was never not funny," said Maggie. "My dad will be deeply missed by his wife and daughter, by his friends and coworkers, by fellow artists and comedians and musicians, and — the sign of a truly exceptional person — by many, many dogs. I loved him tremendously."

Shelley Duvall, the award-winning actress who notably appeared in The Shining, died at the age of 75 on July 11.

Her spokesperson, Gary Springer, told The Hollywood Reporter that the star died in her sleep at her Blanco, Texas, home due to complications from diabetes. Meanwhile, Duvall's life partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed the passing of his "dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend."

Fitness personality and TV host Richard Simmons died on July 13, a day after marking his 76th birthday.

His longtime publicist Tom Estey confirmed the loss in a statement, revealing they "lost an Angel today – a true Angel."

Simmons' brother, Lenny Simmons, issued a separate tribute message to CNN to remember his sibling's contribution to the industry.

“I don’t want people to be sad about my brother. I want them to remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives,” said Lenny. “He truly cared about people. He called, wrote, and emailed thousands of people throughout his career to offer help. So don’t be sad. Celebrate his life.”

A Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson disclosed they conducted a death investigation at a place in the Hollywood Hills, which was later confirmed to be a house owned by Richard and his family.

No cause of death was given, but Richard's death came after he confirmed his skin cancer diagnosis in March.

Beverly Hills, 90210 star Shannen Doherty died on July 13 after her lengthy battle with cancer, her publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed. She was 53.

"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.

Doherty was first diagnosed with b----- cancer in 2015. She battled the dreaded illness for two years before going into remission. However, her cancer returned in 2019 and progressed into a metastatic stage 4 cancer in 2020.

In June 2023, Doherty said the cancer spread to her brain and pushed her to undergo surgery.

"It's going to come out in a matter of days or a week that I'm stage 4. So my cancer came back, and that's why I'm here," Doherty said on Good Morning America. "I don't think I've processed it. It's a bitter pill to swallow in a lot of ways."

Prior to her death, she appeared in her last podcast interview where she expressed her hope and positivity ahead of her next chemotherapy treatment.

On July 14, former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones passed away. He was 40.

His family did not disclose his cause of death, but they noted he died "peacefully" at his New Orleans home.

"The family, including his mother, Emily and his son, Little Jacoby, are together and are asking for prayers, privacy, and support as they navigate through this difficult time," the statement read.

Actress Chang Pei-pei died at the age of 78 on July 17.

Pei-pei, who earned the titles Queen of Martial Arts and Queen of Kung Fu Cinema, passed away peacefully at her home while surrounded by her loved ones, a statement on Facebook read.

Her family confirmed she was diagnosed with a rare, progressive disease known as corticobasal degeneration (CBD), which affects a person's cognitive functions.

“She chose not to make this news public so that she could deal with her condition in private and spend her remaining time with her children and grandchildren,” the statement continued. “To all her friends, colleagues, and fans, thank you for all the support you showed her over the years. Our mom wanted to be remembered by how she was: the legendary Queen of Martial Arts… a versatile, award-winning actress whose film and television career spanned over six decades, not only in Asia but internationally as well."

On July 18, comedy icon Bob Newhart passed away in Los Angeles. He was 94.

His publicist, Jerry Digney, confirmed Newhart died "after a series of short illnesses," though he did not share the exact conditions the Newhart star suffered from.

Four Tops' last surviving original member, Abdul "Duke" Fakir, died on July 22 following heart failure, his family confirmed to the Detroit Free Press. His death preceded the passing of Lawrence Payton, Obie Benson and Levi Stubbs.

"Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a trailblazer, icon and music legend who, through his 70-year music career, touched the lives of so many as he continued to tour until the end of 2023, and officially retired this year," his family continued.

Fakir was 88.

On August 5, Star Trek actress Patti Yasutake died at the age of 70 following a cancer battle.

Her longtime manager, Kyle Fritz, issued a statement to confirm the news.

"Patti was not only a client but a 'chosen family member,'" Fritz shared. "She was the very first actress I ever signed and a friendship of over 30 years ensued. It was an honor to know her, work with her and love her."

South African TV star Connie Chiume, who notably appeared in the Marvel film Black Panther, passed away at the age of 72 on August 6, after a "period of illness."

"Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay," her family announced on Instagram. "Details of the memorial and funeral services will be shared on Connie's social media platforms in due course, as the family takes time to make the necessary arrangements."

The Notebook and Gloria actress Gena Rowlands, who started battling Alzheimer's in 2019, died at her Indian Wells, Calif., home on August 14. She was 94.

On September 9, James Earl Jones — the actor acclaimed for his work in Star Wars and The Lion King — died at his Dutchess County, N.Y., home. He was 93.

Jones' cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

The Jackson 5 member Tito Jackson passed away at the age of 70 on September 15.

According to former Jackson family manager Steve Manning, the "Love One Another" singer died following an apparent heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma.

His children, Taj, Taryll and TJ, shared the devastating news on Instagram.

"It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us. We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being. Some of you may know him as Tito Jackson from the legendary Jackson 5, some may know him as 'Coach Tito' or some know him as 'Poppa T.' Nevertheless, he will be missed tremendously," the statement read.

The post continued, "It will forever be 'Tito Time' for us. Please remember to do what our father always preached and that is 'Love One Another.' We love you Pops. Your boys,Taj, Taryll and TJ."

Famed Harry Potter star Maggie Smith died in a London hospital on September 27, her sons confirmed. She was 89.

“She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” her children, through publicist Clair Dobbs, said.

Days of Our Lives actor Drake Hogestyn, 70, died on September 28 — just one day shy of his 71st birthday.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn," his family said in a statement shared by the soap opera's official X page. "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."

The blurb continued, "He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

Country star Kris Kristofferson died peacefully at his Maui, Hawaii, home on September 28, family spokeswoman Ebie McFarland revealed in an email. He was 88.

Former One Direction member Liam Payne died after falling from the third floor of his hotel room balcony in Buenos Aires on October 16, local police confirmed. He was 31.

According to local media outlets, emergency services received a call from a hotel staff who notified them of an "aggressive man who could be under the effects of drugs and alcohol."

The hotel manager said on the emergency call, obtained by CNN’s Argentine affiliate Todo Noticias: “He breaks things up. He is tearing the whole room apart.”

When the authorities arrived, the hotel manager said he heard a loud noise in the area, and the police soon found a man who had fallen from the balcony of his room. Police's statement did not name the guest in question, but it was later confirmed that the deceased individual was Payne.

On October 17, Mitzi Gaynor's management team confirmed her death in a statement online. The South Pacific actress was 93.

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

The message continued, "Off stage, she was a vibrant and extraordinary woman, a caring and loyal friend and a warm, gracious, very funny and altogether glorious human being. And she could cook, too! As we celebrate her legacy, we offer our thanks to her friends and fans and the countless audiences she entertained throughout her life."

Reyes and Rosamonda also thanked Gaynor's fans for their "love, support and appreciation" for many years and asked everyone to keep the late actress in their prayers.