Celebrity Deaths of 2024: Chuck Woolery, Tony Todd and More Stars We Lost This Year

Chuck Woolery

Original Wheel of Fortune host Chuck Woolery was 83 years old when he died at his home in Texas on November 23. His longtime friend and podcast cohost Mark Young was the one to confirm the news via X.

Tony Todd

Horror icon Tony Todd died at his home in Marina Del Rey, California on November 6 at the age of 69. He was best known for his role in the 1992 film Candyman, and he continued making a mark in the world of horror with the character Bludworth in the Final Destination movies.

Quincy Jones

Music legend Quincy Jones died at the age of 91 on November 3.

“Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing,” the family said in a statement at the time. “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.”

Michael Kelcourse

Michael served up refreshing drinks and endless laughs while working for Southern Charm’s Patricia Altschul for over 20 years. Patricia announced his death via Instagram on October 23, and gushed that his “humor and kindness quickly made him a fan favorite.”

“Over the past two weeks, he was deeply touched by the incredible number of cards and well-wishes from fans,” she wrote in the caption. “I’ve been told there were hundreds, and they brought him immense joy during his final days.”

Liam Payne

The One Direction alum died on October 16 in Argentina after falling off of a hotel balcony, TMZ reported.

Ethel Kennedy

Ethel died on October 10 at 96 years old.

“It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of my mother, Ethel Kennedy. She died this morning from complications related to a stroke suffered last week,” Ethel’s daughter Kerry wrote via X hours later.

Frank Fritz

The reality star’s family confirmed on October 1 that Frank had died the night before. “This is a very tough announcement to make. Frank passed away last night around 7:30,” his family wrote in a Facebook post. “He was surrounded by myself, Mike Wolfe made a high speed to get back here from Nashville and other friends.”

The statement continued, “Please understand this is a very rough time for us. Including Mike so be kind as we are trying to figure out how to cope with this. Thank you all for your love and support through the years.”

Maggie Smith

Beloved actress Maggie Smith passed away on September 27. Her sons, Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin, confirmed that Maggie died peacefully in her hospital bed in the early hours of the morning. A cause of death has yet to be revealed.

“She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” Maggie’s publicist Clair Dobbs said in a statement to the Associated Press.

Tito Jackson

Tito, an original member of the Jackson 5, died at 70 years old on September 15 from a suspected heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma, the Jackson family’s former manager, Steve Manning, told Entertainment Tonight.

His sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ, announced Tito’s death via Instagram on September 16. “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” the trio, known as 3T, wrote. “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

They continued, “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. 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.”

James Earl Jones

The EGOT winner died on September 9 and was surrounded by his loved ones during his final moments of life. He was 93.

Peter Marshall

Peter Marshall, the beloved host of Hollywood Squares, died at the age of 98 on August 15 from kidney failure, his publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed.

Gena Rowlands

The Notebook star Gena Rowlands’ death at the age of 94 was announced on August 14 after she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Hailey Merkt

Bachelor season 21 contestant Hailey Merkt died at the age of 31 following her battle with cancer.

“She will forever be remembered as anything but boring, always hysterically funny and as someone who lived fully in the present moment,” a statement on her Instagram profile read. “Hailey embraced life with an unmatched zest; her beautiful spirit has touched countless lives.”

Kim Johnson

Kim’s daughter Kerry Johnson Tichi confirmed that the Survivor: Africa star had died at 79 years old in a statement to People on July 29. “Our mom leaves a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness and generosity,” she said. “She wore her rose colorized glasses right up until the end. She was the coolest mom and grandmother in the world. We will miss her forever…”

Kim competed on Survivor: Africa in 2002 and came in second place.

Autumn Crittendon

16 and Pregnant season 5 star Autumn Crittendon’s older sister, Misty, announced her death via Facebook on July 21.

“To my dearest baby sister, my twin, my rock, my babies mother, my go to, my world, the only one who got me and most of my childhood trauma, who endured it all with me, my Arnold,” Misty wrote. “You were robbed of your life at such a tender age, you left before anyone could tell you goodbye.. how much we love you.. how amazing you are and how proud we are of you for staying sober through some of the toughest parts of your life, how far you’ve came from where you were, how thankful we are to have had all these years with you, how proud of you we are as a mother, how grateful we are for the 3 tiny parts of your heart that are still walking this earth.”

Misty did not share details on how Autumn died.

Joe Bryant

Joe Bryant, the father of Kobe Bryant, died at the age of 69 following a stroke.

“We are saddened to announce the passing of La Salle basketball great Joe Bryant,” the La Salle Men’s Basketball team’s account wrote via X on July 16. “Joe played for the Explorers from 1973-75 and was a member of our coaching staff from 1993-96. He was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty died at the age of 53 on July 13, 2024. She had been battling cancer for years before her death and the news was confirmed in a statement from her publicist.

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

Richard Simmons

Richard Simmons died at the age of 76 on July 13, 2024. He passed away one day after his birthday.

Shelley Duvall

The Shining star Shelley Duvall died at the age of 75 following complications from diabetes on July 11, her longtime partner Dan Gilroy confirmed.

“My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” he told The Hollywood Reporter, adding that she died at her home in Texas. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”

Mike Heslin

Special Ops: Lioness star Mike Heslin died unexpectedly on July 2 at the age of 30. His death was confirmed by his husband, Scotty Dynamo, via Instagram. Scotty said Mike’s death was caused “from an unexpected cardiac event after a week long battle in the hospital,” and that he was “young” and “in perfect health.” He added that the doctors had no explanation for what caused the cardiac event.

Andrew Jury

Andrew Jury, who starred in Married at First Sight season 1, was found dead at the Mt Eden Corrections Facility in Auckland, New Zealand, on June 27. The New Zealand Herald reported that Andrew was facing charges of assault with intent to injure, willful damage and possession of an offensive weapon. His body was found only hours before he was to appear in court. The publication also reported that Andrew’s death was not being investigated as suspicious, and Andrew was allegedly “struggling” while in prison.

Martin Mull

Roseanne’s Martin Mull passed away at the age of 80 on June 29. His daughter, Maggie Mull, confirmed his death via Instagram.

“He was known for excelling at every creative discipline imaginable and also for doing Red Roof Inn commercials,” Maggie wrote. “He would find that joke funny. He was never not funny. 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.”

The longtime comedic actor first garnered fame after his role on Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman and its spinoff, Fernwood Tonight. He later starred in 1985’s Clue and had roles in Arrested Development, Veep and more.

Bill Cobbs

Actor Bill Cobbs, best known for his performances in The Bodyguard and Air Bud, died at the age of 90.

“A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones,” a family member confirmed via Facebook on June 26. “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.”

Shifty Shellshock

Crazy Town frontman Shifty Shellshock – whose real name was Seth Brooks Binzer – died at the age of 49 on June 24.

His cause of death was not confirmed one day after his passing, though the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s website confirmed he died at his residence.

Sarah Becker

MTV’s The Real World: Miami star Sarah died at 52 years old after committing suicide in Illinois, a family member reportedly confirmed to TMZ on June 23. The outlet reported that Sarah had “struggled with mental health in recent months” and that a recent skateboarding accident worsened the issues.

Donald Sutherland

Donald’s son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, confirmed via Instagram on June 20 that his dad had died at 88 years old.

“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 than that. A life well lived,” he wrote.

Tom Bower

The Die Hard 2 actor died in his sleep in his L.A. home at the age of 86, his rep confirmed to In Touch on June 6.

“Tom was an insanely great actor and human being. What a loss,” his rep Marsha McManus told In Touch in a statement.

Bill Walton

Former professional basketball player Bill Walton died at the age of 71 on May 27 following his battle with cancer.

“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver shared in a statement. “As a cherished member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be deeply missed by all those who came to know and love him.”

Johnny Wactor

Johnny Wactor, who starred on General Hospital as Brando Corbin, died at the age of 37 on May 25 after he was shot during an attempted robbery in Los Angeles.

His mother, Scarlett, confirmed his death to TMZ, and said that Johnny was with a coworker when they saw three men trying to break into his car. She said he did not try to get involved in the situation, though he was killed when he was shot at during the altercation.

Morgan Spurlock

Morgan, who gained fame for his documentary, Super Size Me, died on May 23 at the age of 53, following a private battle with cancer.

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

The director is survived by his two sons.

Sam Rubin

Sam Rubin, who had a legendary career as a newscaster on KTLA, died at the age of 64 in May.

“We have some news from the KTLA family which is shocking and hard to comprehend at the moment … the role that he cherished most was husband and father,” the network said in a statement while on-air on May 10.

Mandisa

Mandisa’s rep confirmed her death on April 18 in a statement to In Touch.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time,” the Media Collective said.

Kyle Marisa Roth

Kyle Marisa Roth, who was known for posting TikTok videos with celebrity blind items, died at 36 years old in April 2024. Her mom, Jacquie, confirmed the news via LinkedIn.

“My daughter Kyle has passed away,” she wrote. “She touched some of your lives personally and some of your lives via her immense life on another platform. Kyle loved and lived fiercely. Nothing makes sense now and we’ll understand more in the next few days. Be kind to one another.”

O.J. Simpson

Former NFL star O.J. Simpson died after a battle with cancer on April 10.

“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” O.J.’s family wrote via X on April 11. “He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”

O.J.’s fame from his NFL career and a stint in Hollywood became overshadowed in the 90s when he found himself at the center of a murder trial. He was accused of murdering his wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman outside of their home in Los Angeles. O.J. was acquitted of murder in ​a highly televised trial.

Chance Perdomo

A representative for Chance Perdomo confirmed the young star’s death on March 30, 2024. The actor, who was best known for roles on Gen V and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, was just 27 years old.

“On behalf of the family and his representatives, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident,” the statement said.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr., who previously made history as the first Black man to win an Oscar for supporting actor in An Officer and a Gentleman, died at the age of 87 on March 29.

“It is with our heartfelt regret to confirm our beloved father passed away this morning. We would like to thank everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time,” his family said in a statement, per CNN.

Krystal Anderson

The former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader died on March 20 after she delivered her stillborn daughter, Charlotte Willow Anderson at stillbirth.

Krystal’s husband, Clayton Anderson, paid tribute to his late wife and child in a GoFundMe post.

“Krissy sought out hospitalization during her 21st week of pregnancy, and despite the trauma of losing her baby girl, Charlotte, during childbirth, she fought on,” the message reads. “Her fight with sepsis, led to organ failure, and she was placed on life support. Krissy underwent three surgeries, but the source of infection remained elusive.”

Kris Jenner’s Sister Karen Houghton

The Kar-Jenner matriarch mourned her sister in a touching post made on Instagram.

“It is with the heaviest heart and deepest sadness that I share that my sister Karen passed away yesterday unexpectedly,” Kris wrote in March. “My heart aches for my mom MJ and my niece Natalie and I pray that God guides us all through this difficult time. Karen was beautiful inside and out.”

Robyn Bernard

General Hospital star Robyn Bernard died at the age of 64 on March 12. Her body was found in an “open field behind [a] business” in San Jacinto, California, the Riverside County Sheriff confirmed.

Robert Garrison Brown

Flagstaff Police confirmed in a statement to In Touch that Sister Wives’ Garrison Brown had died at age 25 after an apparent suicide. His brother Gabriel Brown arrived home and discovered Garrison dead as a result of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities were then called to the scene. An investigation is underway, but foul play is not suspected at this time.

Janelle and Kody addressed their son’s death with a statement on their separate Instagram accounts. “Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown,” Janelle wrote. “He was a bright spot in the lives of all who knew him. His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away. We ask that you please respect our privacy and join us in honoring his memory.”

Richard Lewis

The Curb Your Enthusiasm star “passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles” at the age of 76 after suffering a heart attack, his representative confirmed to In Touch in a February 28 statement.

The self-deprecating comedian was best known for his starring role alongside Larry David on the HBO sitcom.

“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time,” the message concluded.

Thomas Kingston

The financier and son-in-law of Prince Michael of Kent – the late Queen Elizabeth II’s cousin – died at the young age of 45 on February 27. His passing came as a “great shock to the whole family.”  

Ewen MacIntosh

The beloved actor, who played Keith Bishop on the hit British sitcom The Office, died on February 19. Although his cause of death was not immediately revealed, he had reportedly struggled with his health for years before his untimely death.

“Extremely sad news,” his former costar Ricky Gervais wrote via X on February 21. “The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP.”

Kelvin Kiptum

The marathon world record holder died in a car accident at the age of 24 on February 11. His death came just months before the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, where he was expected to be a top contender for a gold medal.

In a statement following his sudden death, President William Ruto of Kenya described the late sports star as a “hero” and “arguably one of the world’s finest sportsmen who broke barriers to secure a marathon record.”

“An extraordinary sportsman has left an extraordinary mark in the globe,” ​President Ruto continued. “Our thoughts are with the family and the sporting fraternity. Rest In Peace.”

Toby Keith

Toby Keith was 62 when he passed away on February 5, 2024, after battling stomach cancer for more than two years. His family shared the news on his official social media accounts the following morning.

“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5th, surrounded by his family,” the statement confirmed. “He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”

Carl Weathers

Carl’s family announced his death on February 2. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” their statement read. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … 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.”

Carl was known for playing Apollo Creed in Rocky and his appearances in The Mandalorian, Happy Gilmore, Action Jackson and more.

Hinton Battle

The German-American actor and singer died at the age of 67 following a “lengthy illness,” per CBS News.

“He fought this battle to live and be creative impacting audiences and young people across the globe,” his friend, fellow veteran actress Debbie Allen, wrote via Instagram on January 30. “Let us always hold him high in our hearts and in our mind’s eye and forever speak his name.”

Chita Rivera

Chita, who originated the role of Anita in the Broadway production of West Side Story, died at the age of 91 following a “brief illness,” her daughter Lisa Mordente confirmed in a statement.

“It is with immense personal sorrow that I announce the death of the beloved Broadway icon Chita Rivera,” Chita’s longtime rep, Merle Frimark, shared in a statement on January 30. Merle asked that donations be made in Chita’s honor to Broadway Cares and Equity Fights AIDS.

Harry Connick, Sr.

Harry Connick, Sr., the father of singer Harry Connick, Jr., died on January 25, at his home and surrounded by his family. Connick, Sr. served as the district attorney for the city of New Orleans from 1973 to 2003 before he retired.

A statement provided to the AP included sympathies from New Orleans’ current district attorney Jason Williams.

“Mr. Connick remains the longest-tenured district attorney, serving from 1973-2003. Such a longstanding public servant gives an enormous amount of themselves to their community — as do their families. Our thoughts are with the Connick family during this difficult time,” Williams said.

Connick, Sr. was 97.

Gary Graham

Gary Graham, known for his iconic roles on Star Trek: Enterprise and Alien Nation, died at the age of 73 on January 22, his ex-wife confirmed on social media.

“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,” Susan Lavelle announced on Facebook. “We are completely devastated especially our daughter Haley. His wife, Becky was by his side.”

David Gail

David Gail, best known for his role as Stuart Carson on Beverly Hills, 90210, died at the age of 58. His cause of death is not known.

“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,” the actor’s sister, Katie Colmenares, wrote in a January 20 Instagram post. “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,” Katie concluded under a photo of the two hugging.

Shawn Barber

Shawn Barber, a world champion pole vaulter who competed for Canada during the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, died on January 17 due to medical complications. He was only 29 years old.

“He was a guy that had zero enemies. Everybody liked him,” Dennis Mitchell, Shawn’s former coach, said. “He was everybody’s buddy all around the world. You would travel with him around the world and he would have friends everywhere.”

Mile de Jesus

Fans were shocked to learn about the death of weight loss influencer Mila De Jesus at the age of 35. Mila shared her weight loss journey on social media after she underwent bariatric surgery.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mila de Jesus this Friday [January 12],” the Instagram post, which had been translated, read. “In this moment of pain, respect family and friends and we will express our respect to Mila who will miss her a lot.”

She is survived by her daughter Anna Clare and her husband George Kowszik.

Lynne Marta

Lynne Marta, who was best known for her roles in Footloose and Starsky and Hutch, died in her home on January 11, after a battle with cancer. She was 78.

Alec Musser

Alec Musser died by suicide at the age of 50 on January 13. He first appeared on All My Children after winning a SOAPnet reality TV contest called I Wanna Be a Soap Star. Alec acted in the popular daytime soap from 2005-2007 before moving on to films. He had a small role in Adam Sandler’s Grown Ups, but his time in the film was enough to leave a mark on his costars.

“I loved this guy,” ​Adam, 57, wrote on Instagram, along with a photo of Alec in the movie. “Cannot believe he is gone. Such a wonderful, funny, good man. Thinking of Alec Musser and his family and sending all my love. A true great sweetheart of a person.”

Adan Canto

Adan Canto, who had prominent roles in TV series like The Cleaning Lady and Designated Survivor, died on January 8, after a battle with appendiceal cancer. He was 42.

“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,” Fox and WBTV said in a statement to Deadline of the Mexican-American actor. “Most recently, he lit up the screen in The Cleaning Lady with a powerful performance that showcased his artistry, range, depth and vulnerability.”

Christian Oliver

On January 4, actor Christian Oliver died along with his two young daughters when the small plane he was traveling on experienced unexplained mechanical issues.

A few days before his death, the Speedracer star took a moment on social media to wish his followers the best for 2024.

“Greetings from somewhere in paradise! To community and love …2024 here we come!” he captioned the January 1 photo of a sunset on what appeared to be a Caribbean island with the silhouettes of three young girls and two adults.