In 2024, the world bid farewell to numerous celebrities whose contributions spanned entertainment, sports, politics, and beyond. Here are 26 notable figures we lost this year:
1. Jimmy Carter
The 39th President of the United States, known for his commitment to human rights and diplomacy, passed away at the age of 100.
2. Dame Maggie Smith
Renowned British actress celebrated for roles in “Downton Abbey” and the “Harry Potter” series, died at 89.
3. James Earl Jones
Esteemed actor with a commanding presence and iconic voice, known for voicing Darth Vader in “Star Wars,” passed away at 93.
4. Quincy Jones
Legendary music producer and composer who shaped the music industry with works like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” died at 91.
5. Kris Kristofferson
Influential singer-songwriter and actor who transformed country music, passed away at 88.
6. Shelley Duvall
Actress best known for her role in “The Shining,” died at 75.
7. Donald Sutherland
Canadian actor who charmed audiences in movies such as “MAS*H,” “Klute,” and “The Hunger Games,” passed away at 88.
8. Shannen Doherty
Former teen star known for “Beverly Hills, 90210,” passed away at 53.
9. Liam Payne
Former One Direction member, died at 31 after a tragic accident.
10. Olivia Hussey
Actress known for her role in “Romeo and Juliet,” died peacefully at home at 73.
11. Tony Todd
Actor best known for his role in the “Candyman” series, passed away at 70.
12. Françoise Hardy
French pop icon who influenced 1960s fashion and music, died at 80.
13. Annie Nightingale
Pioneering BBC Radio 1’s first female DJ, passed away at 84.
14. Peter Higgs
Physicist who discovered the Higgs boson particle, died at 95.
15. Alex Salmond
Former SNP leader, recognized for revolutionizing Scottish politics, passed away at 70.
16. OJ Simpson
American football star known for his controversial trial, died at 77.
17. Alfa Anderson
Disco vocalist and former member of Chic, passed away at 68.
18. Bob Bryar
Former drummer of My Chemical Romance, died at 45.
19. Dikembe Mutombo
NBA legend known for his defensive prowess, passed away at 58.
20. Phil Donahue
Pioneering talk show host who redefined daytime television, died at 89.
21. Sergio Mendes
Brazilian musician who popularized bossa nova worldwide, passed away at 83.
22. Toby Keith
Country music star known for hits like “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue,” died at 63.
23. Phil Lesh
Bassist for the Grateful Dead, passed away at 84.
24. Dickey Betts
Guitarist and founding member of the Allman Brothers Band, died at 81.
25. Fatman Scoop
Rapper and hype man known for his booming voice, passed away at 45.
26. Duane Eddy
Rock and roll guitarist famous for his twangy sound, died at 86.
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