Celebrities Who Died in 2025: Uche Ojeh, George Wendt, and More Stars Who We’ve Lost

Uche Ojeh

Savannah Guthrie announced on Today on May 23 that cohost Sheinelle Jones’ husband, Uche Ojeh, had died at 45 years old after a battle with brain cancer.

“With profound sadness, we share this morning that Uche Ojeh, the husband of our dear friend and Today cohost Sheinelle Jones has passed away after a courageous battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer called glioblastoma,” the morning show host said. “There are no words for the pain that we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children. Uche was an incredible person. We all loved him.”

Sheinelle, who shared son Kayin and twins Clara and Uche with her husband, has been absent from Today since December 2024.

George Wendt

Cheers alum George Wendt died on May 20, his family confirmed via a publicist in a statement to People.

The announcement said that he “died peacefully in his sleep while at home,” while adding, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever.”

George played Norm Peterson on the beloved NBC comedy through it’s entire run from 1982 to 1993. His last public appearance was in January 2024, when he accompanied nephew Jason Sudeikis to an Emmys afterparty.

Jane Bright

Survivor: Nicaragua alum Jane Bright was found dead in her North Carolina home, her daughter announced on May 15. She was 71 years old. 

“Today Jane Hammett Bright was found passed away within her home by a good friend and county sheriff,” Ashley Hammett wrote via Facebook.

Jane took home the $100,000 fan favorite prize during her season in 2010, despite being the 13th castaway voted out.

The former contestant touched fans well beyond her time on the show “I’m devastated. Jane was my all-time favorite player. She just messaged me less than a month ago inviting me to her home,” Survivor 48 alum Charity Nelms wrote via Instagram.

Ruth Buzzi

Comedian and actress Ruth Buzzi died at age 88 on May 1, following complications from Alzheimer’s disease, her rep revealed. Her family said that Ruth had been in hospice care for several years and that she died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Texas.

Ruth was best known for starring in Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In from 1968 through 1973. She went on to appear in films including 1976’s Freaky Friday and 1979’s The Villain.

The star appeared on the children’s show Sesame Street from 1993 through 2008. Ruth found a new generation of fans when she played Screech’s mom on the teen sitcom Saved by the Bell starting in 1989.

Priscilla Pointer

Retired actress Priscilla Pointer died on April 29. Her actress daughter, Amy Irving, announced her mother’s passing the following day.

Amy told fans in an Instagram post on April 30 that her mom “died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 100, hopefully to run off with her 2 adoring husbands and her many dogs. She most definitely will be missed.”

Amy starred alongside her mom in the classic 1976 horror film Carrie. Priscilla also appeared in David Lynch’s iconic 1986 film Blue Velvet, as well as the CBS hit Dallas. Her last significant role was in a 2006 episode of Cold Case.

Virginia Giuffre

Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein’s accusers, died by suicide at the age of 41, her family confirmed.

“Virginia was a fierce warrior who fought against sexual abuse and sex trafficking,” her family said in a statement to People. “Despite everything she endured, she was a bright light who lifted so many survivors. Her children — Christian, Noah and Emily — were her greatest source of joy, and she will always be remembered for her courage, compassion, and incredible spirit.”

They added, “In the end, the toll of abuse became too heavy to bear, but we know Virginia is finally at peace.”

Pope Francis

Pope Francis passed away at the age of 88 on April 21 after suffering a stroke. The Vatican confirmed that he fell into a coma before his death.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, said in a statement. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome returned to the house of the Father. His life was devoted to serving the Lord and His Church. He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with courage, fidelity, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized.”

Cardinal Farrell added, “With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of God.”

Nicky Katt

On April 8, Dazed and Confused star Nicky Katt died at 54 years old. The Boston Public alum’s death was first confirmed by John Sloss, founder and partner at Sloss Law, the law firm that provided representation for Nicky, on April 12, Page Six reported. Two days later, his family announced that the actor had died by suicide.

“Today, with the heaviest of hearts, I share the devastating news of my brother’s passing,” his sister Elise Ravenscroft told Deadline on April 14. “He died by suicide after battling with depression — one that he fought bravely but quietly.”

Elise continued, “This is a pain no family should endure, yet far too many do. Mental illness is real, it is powerful, and it is often invisible. We hope that by sharing this, we can help break the silence and stigma that so often surrounds mental health struggles.”

Jay North

Jay North, who starred as the titular Dennis Mitchell in the 1959 sitcom Dennis the Menace, died at 73 years old at his home in Lake Butler, Florida, on April 6 after a years-long colon cancer battle, his friends Jon Provost and Laurie Jacobson confirmed via Facebook.

“Jeanne Russell just called us with terribly sad, but not unexpected news. Our dear friend JAY NORTH has been fighting cancer for a number of years and this morning at noon EST, Jay passed peacefully at home,” the post read.

The tribute continued, “As many of his fans know, he had a difficult journey in Hollywood and after … but he did not let it define his life. He had a heart as big as a mountain, loved his friends deeply. He called us frequently and ended every conversation with, ‘I love you with all my heart.’ And we loved him with all of ours. A life-long friend of Jon’s, a brother to Jeanne and a dear friend to me, we will miss him terribly. He is out of pain now. His suffering is over. At last he is at peace.”

Val Kilmer

Val Kilmer died at age 65 on April 1, his daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed to The New York Times. She told the outlet his cause of death was pneumonia.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain’s death from complications of a stroke was announced on March 31 by his life-long partner, Martin Rabbett. The actor was 90 years old.

“Our beloved Richard is with the angels now. He is free and soaring to those loved ones before us. How blessed were we to have known such an amazing and loving soul,” Rabbett said in a statement to multiple outlets. “Love never dies. And our love is under his wings lifting him to his next great adventure.”

George Foreman

George Foreman died at age 76 on March 21, his family announced via Instagram.

“Our hearts are broken. With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr. who peacefully departed on March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved ones,” the boxer’s family wrote alongside a photo of George surrounded by his kids and grandchildren.

The continued, “A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers, and kindly ask for privacy as we honor the extraordinary life of a man we were blessed to call our own.”

Jack Lilley

Little House on the Prairie actor Jack Lilley died at 91 years old, his costar Melissa Gilbert confirmed on March 21.

“The little house family has lost one of our own. Jack Lilley has passed away,” she wrote in a touching social media tribute. “Jack always felt like home to me. He lived quite a life. I am so lucky that he was my friend.”

Prince Frederik

Luxembourg’s Prince Frederik died after battling a rare illness, his family announced. He was 22 years old. In a blog post for the POLG Foundation, his father announced the news and opened up about his son’s battle with POLG Mitochondrial disease.

“Last Friday, February 28th, on ‘Rare Disease Day,’ our beloved son called us in to his room to speak to him for one last time. Frederik found the strength and the courage to say goodbye to each of us in turn – his brother, Alexander; his sister, Charlotte; me; his three cousins, Charly, Louis, and Donall; his brother-in-law, Mansour; and finally, his Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Mark,” the post said. “He had already spoken all that was in his heart to his extraordinary mother, who had not left his side in 15 years. After gifting each of us with our farewells – some kind, some wise, some instructive – in true Frederik fashion, he left us collectively with a final long-standing family joke. Even in his last moments, his humour, and his boundless compassion, compelled him to leave us with one last laugh….to cheer us all up.”

Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff

TMZ reported on March 6, authorities were dispatched to Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff’s home the previous evening, where they found her unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. She was 62.

“Our family is deeply saddened by the recent passing of Pamela Hasselhoff,” ex-husband David Hasselhoff said in a statement to the publication. “We are grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time but we kindly request privacy as we grieve and navigate through this challenging time.”

Carl Thomas Dean

Carl Thomas Dean, the husband of singer Dolly Parton, died at the age of 82 on March 3.

“Carl Dean, husband of Dolly Parton, passed away March 3rd in Nashville at the age of 82. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony with immediate family attending. He was survived by his siblings Sandra and Donnie,” a statement on Dolly’s Instagram read just hours after his passing.

The text post continued with a message from Dolly. “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together. Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy,” she wrote.

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa

Oscar winner Gene Hackman died at the age of 95 after his and his wife Betsy Arakawa’s bodies were discovered inside their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Their pet dog’s body was also found. No foul play was suspected and his daughter Elizabeth Jean Hackman told TMZ that she believed carbon monoxide poisoning was what caused their deaths.

Michelle Trachtenberg

Michelle Trachtenberg died at the age of 39 on February 26. “On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at approximately 0801 hours, police responded to a 911 call of an aided individual at 1 Columbus Place, within the confines of the Midtown North Precinct. Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old female unconscious and unresponsive,” police said in a statement obtained by Closer. “EMS responded to the location and pronounced the victim deceased. Criminality is not suspected. The Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing.”

Joan Plowright

British actress Joan Plowright died at the age of 95, her family confirmed in a statement on January 17.

“She enjoyed a long and illustrious career across theatre, film and TV over seven decades until blindness made her retire,” the family wrote in a statement obtained by AP News. “We are so proud of all Joan did and who she was as a loving and deeply inclusive human being.”

David Lynch

Director David Lynch died at age 78 on January 16, his family announced in a Facebook post.

“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch. We would appreciate some privacy at this time,” the family statement read. “There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”

The Twin Peaks director, who was previously diagnosed with emphysema.

Bob Uecker

Beloved MLB sportscaster Bob Uecker died on January 16 after suffering a “private battle with small cell lung cancer.” He was 90.

Bob’s hometeam, the Milwaukee Brewers announced the devastating news on social media and mourned his death by honoring his name.

“Even in the face of this challenge, his enthusiasm for life was always present, never allowing his spirit to falter,” a portion of the statement read.

Dalyce Curry

Dalyce Curry, the retired film star whose credits include The Ten Commandments and Lady Sings the Blues, was sadly found at her home in Altadena, California, after her house was scorched by the Eaton Fire.

In a post on Facebook shared on January 12, her granddaughter Dalyce Kelley revealed a coroner confirmed Dalyce’s remains were indeed found at the property.

“It was total devastation,” the star’s granddaughter told ABC7. “Everything was gone except her blue Cadillac.”

Leslie Charleson

Four-time daytime Emmy nominee Leslie Charleson’s death was announced on January 12.

“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague, Leslie Charleson,” executive producer Frank Valentini wrote in a tribute. “Her enduring legacy has spanned nearly 50 years on General Hospital alone and, just as Monica was the heart of the Quartermaines, Leslie was a beloved matriarch of the entire cast and crew. I will miss our daily chats, her quick wit and incredible presence on set.”

Rory Sykes

Rory Sykes’ mother, Shelley Sykes, revealed she desperately tried to save her “beautiful” and “wonderful” son before their property was engulfed in flames. He died on January 8. 

Rory, who was blind and had cerebral palsy, lived in a private cottage on her 17-acre Malibu estate and had difficulty walking.

His mother did not have the strength to lift or move him due to her broken arm. “He said, ‘Mom, leave me.’ And no mom could leave their kid,” she shared. “He was my baby, and he died needlessly,” she added. “Guess what didn’t work? 911. All the phone lines were down.”

Peter Yarrow

Peter Yarrow, known for being a part of the popular folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, and their hit “Puff the Magic Dragon,”died at 86 on January 7.

“Our fearless dragon is tired and has entered the last chapter of his magnificent life. The world knows Peter Yarrow the iconic folk activist, but the human being behind the legend is every bit as generous, creative, passionate, playful, and wise as his lyrics suggest,” his daughter Bethany Yarrow shared in a statement to honor her father.

Wayne Osmond

Wayne Osmond, who sang and played lead guitar in the groups The Osmond Brothers and The Osmonds, died of a stroke at 73 years old on New Year’s Day. His family shared the news with the world on January 2.

“Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him, especially me. He was the ultimate optimist and was loved by everyone,” Donny Osmond fondly shared in a sentimental statement. “I’m sure I speak on behalf of every one of us siblings when I state that we were fortunate to have Wayne as a brother.”

Richard Cohen

Former Today anchor Meredith Vieira‘s husband, Richard Cohen, passed away on Christmas Eve 2024 after battling multiple sclerosis. He was 76 and spent his life working as a journalist, author and advocate for those dealing with chronic illnesses.

“I was diagnosed when I was 25 years old and essentially told there is no hope,” Richard shared in 2018. “Diagnosed and adios. Nothing much we can do.”

The news personality was married to Richard for nearly four decades and the couple share three children together: sons Benjamin Cohen and Gabriel Cohen as well as daughter Lily Cohen.