Star Deaths of 2024: Tribute to Shannen Doherty, Toby Keith and More Hollywood Celebrities Who ​Died

Jimmy Carter

Former President Jimmy Carter died on December 29 at age 100.

“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” his son Chip Carter said in a statement. “My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”

Linda Lavin

Linda Lavin died on December 29 at age 87 from “complications from recently discovered lung cancer.”

Dayle Haddon

Model Dayle Haddon died on December 27 from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning at age 76.

Greg Gumbel

Sportscaster Greg Gumbel, brother of Bryant Gumbel, died on December 17 at age 78.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved husband and father, Greg Gumbel,” his family said in a statement. “He passed away peacefully surrounded by much love after a courageous battle with cancer. Greg approached his illness like one would expect he would, with stoicism, grace and positivity.”

Diane Delano

Northern Exposure actress Diane Delano died on December 13 at age 67 after a brief illness.

“When Diane entered any room you knew she was there! She was full of life and loved being an actor. She will be missed,” her agent, Dennis Sevier, said in a statement to People.

Teri Garr

Teri Garr died on October 29 at age 79 from complications of multiple sclerosis. She was “surrounded by family and friends,” her publicist said.

Tony Todd

Tony Todd died at the age of 69 at his home in Marina Del Rey, California, on November 6. He was well known for his roles in horror films like the original Candyman in 1992 and the Final Destination series, but he had more than 240 credits in movies and TV shows under his belt.

Chuck Woolery

Chuck Woolery died on November 23. His podcast cohost Mark Young confirmed the news via X, writing, “It is with a broken heart that I tell you my dear brother @chuckwoolery has just passed away. Life will not be the same without him, RIP brother.”

Mark was at home with Chuck and Chuck’s wife, Kim Barnes, when the 83-year-old — who was the original host of Wheel of Fortune — began having trouble breathing, according to TMZ.

Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones’ family confirmed that he died at the age of 91 on November 3.

“He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created,” they said in a statement about the music legend. “Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.”

Mitzi Gaynor

Mitzi Gaynor died at age 93 on October 17.

“As we celebrate her legacy, we offer our thanks to her friends and fans and the countless audiences she entertained throughout her long life,” her longtime managers said in a joint statement to The Associated Press. “Your love, support and appreciation meant so very much to her and was a sustaining gift in her life.”

Cissy Houston

Cissy Houston died at age 91 on October 7 after entering hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease.

“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We loss the matriarch of our family,” Pat Houston said in a statement.

John Amos

John Amos died on August 21 at age 84.

Ron Ely

Ron, who starred as Tarzan in the eponymous TV series from 1966 to 1968, was 86 years old when he passed away in October. His daughter, Kirsten Ely, shared a statement on his death via Instagram but did not indicate when or how the actor died.

“The world has lost one of the greatest men it has ever known — and I have lost my dad,” she wrote. “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. The impact he had on others is something that I have never witnessed in any other person – there was something truly magical about him. This is how the world knew him.”

Kirsten continued, “I knew him as my dad — and what a heaven sent honor that has been. To me, he hung the moon. My father was my world — and what an incredible world he created. He was strong and protective. He was brilliant and ridiculously funny. He was stoic and sensitive. He was dynamic and powerful. He was my role model and inspiration. He was humble and inherently received respect — the respect he so deserved.”

She described her father’s life as “one of relentless perserverence, unending dedication to his family and friends, courage to do what was right, and willing sacrifice to facilitate the dreams of those he loved.”

“It was also a story of joy and love — something everyone close to him had the privilege of experiencing,” Kirsten added. “Once you knew my father’s love, the world grew to be a brighter and more meaningful place. I am doing my best to walk this path of loss with the strength and grace that I know he would want for me. I’m picking up the pieces of my heart that feel like pieces of him — and cementing those firmly in place before I pick up the rest of the broken bits. It makes me feel like part of him is still here — and I need that — and the world needs that.”

She concluded by noting that her “greatest comfort is knowing that my dad is with my momma and my brother,” referencing the 2019 incident where Ron’s son, Cameron, allegedly stabbed and killed his mother, Valerie. Cameron was later shot and killed by police.

“It is also my greatest sadness because I miss them all so much that it’s etched into my soul,” Kirsten wrote. “I will proudly carry all of my favorite pieces of them – lovingly cemented into my heart – until we all meet again.”

Ethel Kennedy

Ethel Kennedy died at age 96 after losing a battle of health complications following a stroke.

“It is with our hearts full of love that we announce the passing of our mother, Ethel Kennedy. Please keep our mother in your hearts and prayers,” Ethel’s daughter Kerry captioned her X post later that day.

Frank Fritz

The antiques dealer’s family confirmed his death in a statement via Facebook on October 1.

“This is a very tough announcement to make Frank passed away last night around 7:30,” the statement read. “He was surrounded by myself, Mike Wolfe made a high speed to get back here from Nashville and other friends.”

His family 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.”

Kris Kristofferson

Kris Kristofferson’s family shared that the singer-songwriter died on September 28. He was 88.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news our husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28 at home. We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all,” they said in a statement.

Drake Hogestyn

Days of Our Lives announced the death of actor Drake Hogestyn on September 28 after he battled pancreatic cancer. He was 70.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. 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,” the statement from his family said. “After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

John Ashton

John Ashton’s manager, Alan Somers, confirmed his death to Variety. The Beverly Hills Cop actor died on September 26 at age 76 after battling cancer.

Maggie Smith

On September 27, Dame Maggie Smith’s two sons released a statement confirming that she had died in a London hospital that morning.

“She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother,” the statement said. The actress was known for roles in Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter franchise.

Chad McQueen

Chad McQueen, son of actor Steve McQueen, died of organ failure at his home on September 11, his friend Arthur Barens told The Hollywood Reporter. Chad was a race car driver and actor, with appearances in the Karate Kid franchise and more. He was 63.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones, who starred in the Star Wars franchise as the voice of Darth Vater, died in the presence of his family inside his New York home on September 9.

Phil Donahue

Talk show icon Phil Donahue died on August 18 at age 88 “following a long illness,” his family said in a statement to Today. He was at home surrounded by his family, including his wife of 44 years, Marlo Thomas, his kids and his grandkids.

Peter Marshall

Former The Hollywood Squares host Peter Marshall died at the age of 98 on August 15. His publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed his cause of death was kidney failure and he was at his Encino, California, home when he passed.

Gena Rowlands

Gena Rowlands died at age 94 on August 14, the office of the agent who represents Rowlands’ son, Nick Cassavetes, confirmed to multiple outlets. In the months prior to his mother’s death, Nick shared that she had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Kim Johnson

The Survivor: Africa alum’s daughter Kerry Johnson Tichi confirmed Kim’s death at 79 years old via a statement to People on July 29. “Our mom leaves a legacy of strength, resilience, kindness and generosity. 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,” Kerry said.

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

Bob Newhart

Comedy legend Bob Newhart died at the age of 94 on July 18. His longtime publicist confirmed his death in a statement obtained by Rolling Stone, explaining that he passed away in his Los Angeles home after “a series of short illnesses.”

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty died on July 13 after a years-long battle with cancer. She was 53. Shannen’s publicist confirmed her passing in a statement to People on July 14.

“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty,” her publicist shared. “On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease. 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.”

Richard Simmons

Fitness guru Richard Simmons died on July 13 after he was found unresponsive at his home by his housekeeper. He was 76.

Richard had posted on Facebook several times before his death as he thanked fans for their birthday wishes.

“Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard,” the former aerobics instructor wrote via Facebook on July 12.

Dr. Ruth Westheimer

Dr. Ruth Westheimer died on July 12 at age 96.

Shelley Duvall

Shelley Duvall’s longtime partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed she died at the age of 75 following complications from diabetes.

“My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” he told The Hollywood Reporter on July 11, sharing that she passed away at her home in Texas. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”

Martin Mull

Longtime comedic actor Martin Mull died at the age of 80 on June 29. His daughter, Maggie Mull, paid tribute to her father and 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.”

Martin had numerous roles over the years in TV series like Arrested Development, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and more. He also starred in a number of films, including 1985’s Clue, Mr. Mom and more.

Bill Cobbs

Legendary actor Bill Cobbs’ death was announced on June 26 in a statement shared by his family on Facebook.

“We are saddened to share the passing of Bill Cobbs. On Tuesday, June 25, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in California,” the statement read. “A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones. 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.”

Donald Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland confirmed on June 20 that his dad, M*A*S*H star Donald Sutherland, 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 on Instagram.

Tom Bower

The actor died at the age of 86 in his Los Angeles home, his rep confirmed to Closer on June 6. His sister-in-law told the Hollywood Reporter that Tom passed away in his sleep on May 30.

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

Janis Paige

Broadway icon Janis Paige died of natural causes at age 101 on June 2, her friend Stuart Lampert confirmed to The Associated Press. She earned more than 100 acting credits throughout her career and costarred alongside greats like Fred Astaire and Bob Hope.

Erich Anderson

Erich Anderson, known for his role in Felicity, died on May 31, his wife, Saxon Trainor, confirmed on Instagram.

“My husband Erich died this morning,” she wrote. “I am sharing my brother-in-law Michael O’Malley’s words as I am too bereft now to write anything.”

Bill Walton

The former Boston Celtic, Los Angeles Clippers and Portland Trailblazer died “following a prolonged battle with cancer” while “surrounded by his family,” the NBA announced in a May 27 press release.

“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind. As a Hall of Fame player, he redefined the center position. His unique all-around skills made him a dominant force at UCLA and led to an NBA regular-season and Finals MVP, two NBA championships and a spot on the NBA’s 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams,” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement.

He continued, “Bill then translated his infectious enthusiasm and love for the game to broadcasting, where he delivered insightful and colorful commentary which entertained generations of basketball fans.”

“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. My heartfelt condolences to Bill’s wife, Lori; his sons, Adam, Nate, Luke and Chris; and his many friends and colleagues,” Adam concluded.

Johnny Wactor

Johnny Wactor, who was best known for playing Brando Corbin on General Hospital, died at the age of 37 after he was shot during an attempted robbery on May 25.

His mother, Scarlett, confirmed his death to TMZ, explaining that he was shot when he and a coworker witnessed three men attempting to break into his car in downtown Los Angeles.

Morgan Spurlock

Super Size Me director Morgan Spurlock‘s death from complications of cancer was announced in a statement by his family on May 24. He was 53.

“It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan,” his brother Craig Spurlock said in a statement. “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.”

Dabney Coleman

9 to 5 actor Dabney Coleman died on May 16 at age 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,” his daughter, Quincy Coleman, said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “As he lived, he moved through this final act of his life with elegance, excellence and mastery.

Sam Rubin

Legendary newscaster Sam Rubin died at the age of 64 after he suffered a heart attack.
“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,” KTLA said in a statement on May 10.

Mandisa

American Idol alum Mandisa died at age 47, her rep confirmed to Closer in a statement on April 19.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” the statement read. “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.”

O.J. Simpson

O.J. Simpson’s death was announced on April 11 in a statement by his family.

“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” the statement read. “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.”

Barbara Rush

Barbara Rush, best known for her roles in It Came from Outer Space and Peyton Place, died on March 31. She was 97.

“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,” her daughter, Claudia Cowan, said in a statement to Fox News. “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.”

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr., known for his Oscar-winning role in An Officer and a Gentleman, died on March 28. Louis, who was the first Black man to win a Supporting Actor Oscar, was 87 years old. His death was confirmed by his cousin Neal L. Gossett in a statement to The Associated Press.

“Never mind the awards, never mind the glitz and glamor, the Rolls-Royces and the big houses in Malibu. It’s about the humanity of the people that he stood for,” his cousin said in the statement.

Robyn Bernard

Robyn Bernard, best known for playing Terry Brock on ABC’s General Hospital for a six-year run during the 1980s, was found dead in San Jacinto, California, on March 12, TMZ reported. She was 64 years old. The Riverside County Coroner identified her body through fingerprints after responding to a death investigation call. A cause of death has not yet been determined.

Richard Lewis

The actor, who was best known for his role on Curb Your Enthusiasm, died of a heart attack on February 28 at the age of 76, his representative confirmed to Closer. Richard had been living with Parkinson’s Disease, which he was diagnosed with in April 2023.

“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time,” a statement from his publicist concluded.

In addition to playing a fictionalized version of himself on the HBO sitcom, Richard was a stand-up comic known for his self-deprecating humor.

Thomas Kingston

The son-in-law of Prince Michael of Kent – the cousin of late Queen Elizabeth II – died at the young age of 45, his family confirmed on February 27.

Toby Keith

Country music lost one of its greats after the death of legend Toby Keith. The “Red Solo Cup” singer died at age 62 after a battle with stomach cancer and his passing was announced on February 6.

“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family,” read the statement shared via the musician’s verified X account. “He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time.”

Carl Weathers

Carl’s family revealed the news of the actor’s death on February 2.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” they said in a statement. “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.”

In addition to Rocky, Carl was known for starring in The Mandalorian, Happy Gilmore, Action Jackson and more.

Chita Rivera

Broadway icon Chita Rivera died at the age of 91, her friend Merle Frimark confirmed in a statement on January 30.

“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,” Merle revealed, noting that Chita had passed “after a brief illness.”

Harry Connick Sr.

Harry Connick Sr., the former longtime district attorney for the city of New Orleans, died on January 25. He was the father of singer and actor Harry Connick Jr. and served as the district attorney for three decades beginning in 1973 to when he retired in 2003.

Connick Jr.’s publicist stated that Connick Sr. died peacefully at his home and surrounded by his family.

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.

Gary Graham

Alien Nation and Star Trek: Enterprise alum, Gary Graham, died at the age of 73.

“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,” his ex-wife, Susan Lavelle, announced on Facebook on January 22. “We are completely devastated especially our daughter Haley. His wife, Becky was by his side.”

She said that the actor’s death was “sudden,” adding, “Please pray for our daughter as she navigates through this thing called grief.”

Lynne Marta

Footloose alum Lynne Marta died on January 11 after battling cancer, her friend Chris Saint-Hillaire confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.

“We lost a beautiful light today. My friend, Lynne Marta lost her good fight,” Marta’s friend Joan Sobel wrote on Facebook. “A wonderfully talented actress and a beautiful singer whose voice was of the angels. A dear heart who adored her friends both human and furry. I will miss her terribly.”

Joyce Randolph

Joyce Randolph died on January 13 at age 99 from natural causes, her son, Randoph Charles, confirmed to multiple outlets. The Honeymooners actress starred on the iconic series from 1955 to 1956 before stepping away from Hollywood to focus on her family.

Alec Musser

Alec Musser died at age 50 in his in Del Mar, California, home on January 12. The All My Children actor’s cause of death was not immediately revealed.

“RIP to the love of my life,” Alec’s fiancée, Paige Press, wrote in an Instagram Story on January 13. “I will never stop loving you. My heart is so broken.”

Adan Canto

The Cleaning Lady’s Adan Canto died at age 42 on January 8 after battling appendiceal cancer.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew,” his publicist, Jennifer Allen, said in a statement to The Associated Press. “Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many.”

David Soul

Starsky & Hutch actor David Soul died at age 80 on January 4 in London.

“David Soul – beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother – died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family,” a statement from his wife, Helen Snell, 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.”

Glynis Johns

Glynis Johns, perhaps best known for portraying Mrs. Banks in 1964’s Mary Poppins, died at age 100 on January 4.

“Glynis powered her way through life with intelligence, wit and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives,” her manager, Mitch 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.”