As we reflect on the year 2024, it’s essential to honor and remember the notable figures who left an indelible mark on our world before their passing.
These individuals, through their unique talents, contributions, and legacies, have shaped our culture, society, and history in countless ways.
In this article, we pay tribute to the iconic personalities from various fields—including entertainment, politics, science, literature, and sports—who we bid farewell to in 2024.
Joe Flaherty – April 1
This individual is an accomplished American actor, writer, and comedian. They are well-known for their contributions to the Canadian sketch comedy show SCTV from 1976 to 1984. Additionally, they have played notable roles such as Harold Weir in “Freaks and Geeks” and Donald the heckler in “Happy Gilmore”.
Flaherty had quite the career, making appearances in a wide range of television shows. Some of his notable appearances include “The King of Queens,” “Frasier,” “That ’70s Show,” “Family Guy,” and “Married… with Children,” among others. He peacefully departed on April 1, 2024, at the age of 82 following a short illness.
Chance Perdomo – March 29
This actor has gained recognition for his performances in a range of television series and movies, such as “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina,” “Gen V,” and the “After” movies. Perdomo was born in Los Angeles, California and later relocated to Southampton, England with his mother during his childhood.
He possessed dual citizenship from both Britain and the United States. Tragically, Perdomo passed away at the young age of 27 due to a motorcycle accident.
Louis Gossett, Jr. – March 29
An American actor who has made significant contributions to the world of film, television, and stage performances. Gossett started his acting journey in the late 1950s and rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s through his remarkable performances in a range of films and TV shows.
Gossett Jr. made history by becoming the first Black man to receive the prestigious best supporting actor Oscar for his outstanding performance in “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982).
Gossett has had a prolific career, starring in a wide range of films such as “A Raisin in the Sun,” “The Deep,” the “Iron Eagle” series, and “Enemy Mine.” In 1977, he was honored with a Primetime Emmy Award for his outstanding portrayal of “Fiddler” in the ABC television miniseries “Roots”.
Gossett has had a notable presence in television, appearing in popular series like “ER,” “Watchmen,” “Stargate SG-1,” and “Boardwalk Empire,” alongside his work in film. He peacefully departed on March 28, 2024, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 87.
M. Emmet Walsh – March 19
An accomplished actor with a rich and diverse body of work in both film and television. He received recognition for his roles as a character actor in more than a hundred productions.
During his career, he made appearances in well-known films such as “Blade Runner,” “Blood Simple,”, “Serpico”, “Knieves Out,” and “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” In addition, he also appeared in several TV series including “Sneaky Pete” and “The X-Files.” Regrettably, Walsh has departed from us at the age of 88 due to cardiac arrest.
Steve Harley – March 17
English frontman for the glam rock group Cockney Rebel as well as a singer and composer. Early in the 1970s, Harley founded Cockney Rebel. The band’s music included progressive rock, glam rock, and rock elements, and in the 1970s they enjoyed considerable commercial success in the UK. His singles were “Judy Teen,” “Mr. Soft,” and the number one single “Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me).” These helped him become well-known. He died at the age of seventy-three.
Eric Carmen – March 11
American singer-songwriter, keyboardist, guitarist, and lyricist who gained recognition for his contributions to music as The Raspberries’ lead singer and as a solo performer. Carmen’s popularity began in the 1970s when he joined The Raspberries and scored successes like “Go All the Way” and “I Wanna Be With You.” After making the switch to a solo career, he achieved unprecedented success with hits like “Make Me Lose Control,” “All By Myself,” and “Hungry Eyes,” which could be heard on the “Dirty Dancing” soundtrack. Eric Carmen was 74 years old when he passed away.
T.M. Stevens – March 10
American bassist/songwriter. Stevens enjoyed a successful career as a session musician and solo performer, recording and performing with a variety of rock, funk, jazz, and pop bands. Alongside The Pretenders, Steve Vai, Billy Joel, Tina Turner, Cyndi Lauper, Joe Cocker, and Steve Vai, he performed live. Stevens was 72 when he passed suddenly.
Steve Lawrence – March 7
American comedian, actor, and singer. Being a member of the duo “Steve and Eydie” alongside his spouse Eydie Gormé was what made him most famous. With singles like “Go Away Little Girl,” “Pretty Blue Eyes,” and “Footsteps,” Lawrence enjoyed a prosperous musical career.
He also starred in a number of Broadway productions, TV shows (including “The Nanny”), and motion pictures (including “The Blues Brothers”). He died at the age of eighty-eight from complications brought on by Alzheimer’s.
Akira Toriyama – March 1
Renowned Japanese character designer and manga artist, well known for her creations of “Dragon Ball” and “Dr. Slump.” Born in Nagoya, Japan, on April 5, 1955, Toriyama became well-known for his works that had a profound effect on the manga and animation industries all over the world. “Dragon Ball” would go on to become one of the world’s most well-known and prosperous manga series.
It is one of the best-selling manga series ever, having sold 260 million copies worldwide, and is credited with being a major factor in the mid-1980s and mid-1990s manga circulation boom. At the age of 68, Toriyama passed away from an acute subdural hematoma.
Brian Mulroney – February 29
From 1984 to 1993, a Canadian lawyer, businessman, and politician led the country as its 18th prime minister. Major economic reforms, including the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement, the goods and services tax (GST), which replaced the manufacturers’ sales tax, and the privatization of 23 out of 61 Crown corporations, including Air Canada and Petro-Canada, were introduced during Mulroney’s term as prime minister.
Mulroney’s popularity sharply declined as a result of the GST’s unpopularity and the controversy surrounding its Senate passage, as well as the early 1990s recession, the collapse of the Charlottetown Accord, and growing Western alienation that led to the Reform Party’s rise. Mulroney resigned in June 1993 and gave his cabinet minister, Kim Campbell, full control of the government. In a Palm Beach, Florida, hospital, Brian Mulroney passed away. He had fallen at his Palm Beach house and ended up in the hospital. His age was eighty-four.
Richard Lewis – February 28
An American comedian and actor. He gained recognition for his stand-up comedy and made appearances in a range of television shows and films, such as “Anything But Love” and “Robin Hood: Men in Tights” where he played the role of Prince John. Lewis has also appeared consistently on the HBO series “Curb Your Enthusiasm” since it first aired in 2000. Lewis has sadly passed away at the age of 76.
Jacob Rothschild – February 26
Jacob Rothschild, also known as the 4th Baron Rothschild, was a distinguished British peer, accomplished investment banker, and esteemed member of the renowned Rothschild banking family. Rothschild had a significant presence in British public life, holding a position in the House of Lords.
He was highly regarded for his dedication to arts philanthropy, notably through his influential roles at the National Gallery and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. In addition, he was well-known for his philanthropic efforts, generously supporting various charitable causes in the U.K., Europe, and Israel. He was also a strong advocate for Jewish culture, demonstrating his passion and dedication. He peacefully departed this world at the age of 87.
Charles Dierkop – February 25
An accomplished character actor, renowned for his exceptional performances in notable films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, “The Hustler”, and “The Sting”. In addition, he played the role of Detective Pete Royster on the television series “Police Woman” from 1974 to 1978. Dierkop has sadly passed away at the age of 87.
Kenneth Mitchell – February 24
An actor from Canada. He gained recognition for his performances in popular TV series like “Jericho”, “Ghost Whisperer”, “The Astronaut Wives Club”, “Notorious”, “Frequency”, and “Star Trek: Discovery”. He portrayed Joseph Danvers in “Captain Marvel” and played various Klingon characters, including Kol, Kol-Sha, and Tenavik, as well as Aurellio, in “Star Trek: Discovery”. He sadly passed away at the young age of 49.
Ewen MacIntosh – February 21
A well-known British actor and comedian, famous for portraying Keith Bishop in the original UK series of “The Office” (2001–2003). In addition to his role in “After Life,” “Little Britain,” and “Miranda,” he has also made appearances in films such as “The Lobster” and “Big Fat Gypsy Gangster.” MacIntosh sadly passed away at the age of 50.
Andreas Brehme – February 20
A talented soccer player from Germany. Brehme had the opportunity to showcase his skills in various teams across Germany, such as FC Kaiserslautern and Bayern Munich. He also had the chance to play in Italy for Inter Milan and in Spain for Real Zaragoza.
In 1987, he achieved victory in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, and in 1998, he repeated this success with Kaiserlauten. He achieved great success with Inter Milan, winning the Serie A in 1989 and being recognized as the player of the year. Additionally, he helped the team secure the UEFA Cup in 1991.
Brehme was capped 86 times for Germany, scoring eight goals, which included the winning goal in the 1990 FIFA World Cup Final against Argentina from an 85th-minute penalty.
He was widely recognized as one of the top left-backs of his time, praised for his exceptional technical skills, endurance, defensive prowess, anticipation, and tactical acumen. Additionally, his ability to make offensive runs allowed him to effectively cover the flank and make valuable contributions in both defense and attack. Brehme passed away at the age of 63 on February 20, 2024, due to a cardiac arrest.
A prominent figure in Russian politics, known for his activism against corruption and his background in law. He became well-known for his extensive inquiries into corruption within the Russian government and for his strong stance against President Vladimir Putin. Navalny has consistently voiced his concerns about the Kremlin, accusing top officials of engaging in widespread corruption.
Navalny had affiliations with the Russian Opposition Coordination Council, served as the leader of the Russia of the Future party, and played a key role in establishing the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK).
He received recognition from Amnesty International as a prisoner of conscience and was honored with the Sakharov Prize for his dedication to human rights. Navalny miraculously survived after being poisoned with a military nerve agent during a business trip in Russia in 2020.
He was taken into custody upon his arrival in Russia in January 2021 and tragically passed away while in prison on February 16, 2024. Navalny experienced discomfort after going for a walk and quickly lost consciousness, according to the prison service. He was forty-seven years old.
Bob Edwards – February 11
An American broadcast journalist who gained recognition as the host of National Public Radio’s (NPR) “Morning Edition” for an impressive 25-year tenure, from 1979 to 2004. In addition to co-hosting “All Things Considered,” he went on to host “The Bob Edwards Show” on Sirius XM Radio and “Bob Edwards Weekend” distributed by Public Radio International. Edwards was highly regarded in his field, having received the prestigious Peabody Award and being recognized as a member of the National Radio Hall of Fame. He peacefully departed this world at the age of 76.
Kelvin Kiptum – February 11
Kenyan marathoner with a strong track record in long-distance running. When Kiptum ran the Chicago Marathon in 2 hours and 35 seconds in 2023, he broke the men’s marathon world record and attracted attention from throughout the world. Kipchoge’s previous record had stood for 34 seconds. With a timing of 2:01:25, he also won the London Marathon in 2023. Keptum lost his life in a deadly car crash in Kenya. His age was twenty-four.
Sebastián Piñera – February 6
politician and businessman from Chile who presided over the country twice, from 2010 to 2014 and from 2018 to 2022. In addition, he was an investor and billionaire businessman. At the age of 74, Piñera tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash. During his administration, he faced considerable protests and was well-known for his pro-business policies. Political leaders around Latin America have paid tribute to Piñera, and his passing has prompted a national mourning period in Chile.
Toby Keith – February 5
American singer-songwriter, record producer, actor, and performer of country music. “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” “How Do You Like Me Now?!”, “Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue,” and “As Good As I Once Was” are some of his well-known tunes. He put out 19 studio albums and several compilation albums, selling over 40 million albums worldwide. Twenty of his songs, out of almost forty, were number one successes on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. In 2022, Toby Keith was diagnosed with stomach cancer; he died at the age of 62.
Don Murray – February 2
US actor. His role with Marilyn Monroe in the 1956 movie “Bus Stop” was one of his most noteworthy performances. Murray portrayed the innocent cowboy Bo Decker, who fell head over heels for Monroe’s persona. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor as a result of his performance.
In addition, Murray starred in other noteworthy movies including “Hoodlum Priest” (1961) and “Advise and Consent” (1962). His role in the science fiction picture “Conquest of the Planet of the Apes” (1972) was that of Governor Breck, the harsh dictator.
Murray has a successful television career in addition to his work in films. He has starred in multiple TV series, including “Twin Peaks,” “Sons and Daughters,” and “The Outcasts.” Murray was 94 when he passed away.
Christopher Priest – February 2
Science fiction and novelist from Britain. “The Inverted World,” “The Affirmation,” “The Glamour,” “The Islanders,” and “The Separation” are a few of his works. Among his best-known books is “The Prestige,” a 1995 book that Christopher Nolan turned into a movie starring Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, and David Bowie. At the age of 80, Christopher Priest passed away.
Carl Weathers – February 1
American actor who played football professionally in the past. Weathers’ most well-known part is that of Apollo Creed from the “Rocky” film series, for which he won critical acclaim. He has also starred in several well-known movies including “Predator” and “Happy Gilmore,” as well as television series like “Arrested Development,” “The Mandalorian,” “The Shield,” “Chicago Justice,” and “Street Justice.” In death, Weathers was 76 years old.
Chita Rivera – January 30
US singer, dancer, and actor. Rivera gained notoriety mostly for her services to the musical theater industry. Anita in the original Broadway production of “West Side Story” (1957) and Velma Kelly in the original Broadway production of “Chicago” (1975) are two of her noteworthy roles. She received three Tony Awards, including one for Lifetime Achievement, and was a ten-time contender for the prestigious Tony Award. Her age at death was 91.
Gary Graham – January 22
American singer-actress-dancer. Rivera’s contributions to the musical theater industry were especially well-known. Anita in the original Broadway production of “West Side Story” (1957) and Velma Kelly in the original Broadway production of “Chicago” (1975) are among of her noteworthy roles. She was nominated for eleven Tony Awards, and she won three of them, including a lifetime achievement award. At ninety-one, she passed away.
Gary Graham – January 22
US actor. His work in “Star Trek: Enterprise” and as Detective Matthew Sikes in the television series “Alien Nation” made him most famous. Graham passed away at 73 years old.
Dexter King – January 22
American novelist, lawyer, and fighter for animal rights and civil rights. Civil rights activists Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King Jr. were the parents of Dexter King. In addition to his efforts for civil rights, Dexter King has strived to uphold and honor his parents’ heritage. Following the passing of his mother in 2006, he assumed the role of chairman of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. The King Center is committed to achieving nonviolent social change and the legacy and philosophy of Martin Luther King Jr. He was sixty-two when he died.
Gigi Riva – January 22
Football player from Italy. He was considered by many to be among the all-time great Italian attackers. It is especially well-known that he plays for the Italian national team. Between 1965 and 1974, he scored 35 goals in 42 matches, making him Italy’s all-time top goalscorer. In addition to competing for Italy in three FIFA World Cups (1966, 1970, and 1974), Riva was a key player in his country’s 1968 UEFA European Championship win. He also enjoyed a fruitful Serie A club career with Cagliari. Riva was 79 when she passed away.
James Kottak – January 9
America’s most well-known drummer is from the rock group Scorpions. He became the longest-serving drummer for Scorpions when he joined the group in 1996 and stayed for 20 years. Former Motörhead member Mikkey Dee took his spot in 2016. At the age of 61, Kottak was discovered dead in his Louisville, Kentucky, home’s toilet.
Adan Canto – January 8
A talented Mexican actor, recognized for his remarkable performances in popular TV series like ‘Narcos’, ‘The Following’, ‘The Cleaning Lady’, and ‘Designated Survivor’, as well as his portrayal of Sunspot in the film ‘X-Men: Days of Future Past’, has sadly left us at the age of 42.
Franz Beckenbauer – January 7
one of the best defenders and players in football history, and a German player by most accounts. Born in 1945, Beckenbauer gained notoriety for his remarkable talent, cunning on the field, and versatility as a central defender or sweeper.
Playing for Bayern Munich and then the New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League, he enjoyed an incredibly successful career. As captain and standout player, Beckenbauer won multiple championships, including four Bundesliga crowns with Bayern Munich, three European Cups, and a crucial part in Germany’s 1974 FIFA World Cup victory.
Following his playing career, Beckenbauer made the move to management. He enjoyed great success as a coach, helping the German national team win the World Cup in 1990. At the age of 78, Beckenbauer passed away.
Mario Zagallo – January 5
Brazilian coach and player of football. In both Brazilian and international football history, he played a crucial role. Zagallo was the first player to win the World Cup in both his roles as a coach (1970) and a player (1958 and 1962). He was ninety-two when he died.
David Soul – January 4
American-British singer and actor best known for his television roles, especially as Detective Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson on the hit show “Starsky and Hutch” in the 1970s. Alongside Paul Michael Glaser, who portrayed Detective Dave Starsky, he became well-known. Soul enjoyed success in music in addition to his acting career. In the late 1970s, he scored hits with songs like “Don’t Give Up on Us” and “Silver Lady”. He died at the age of eighty.
Glynis Johns – January 4
British actress, well-known for her stage and film roles. Johns starred in thirty plays and almost sixty movies. She is well-known from her parts in films such as “Mary Poppins,” in which she portrayed Mrs. Banks, the mother of the kids Mary Poppins looks after. She was nominated for a Golden Globe for “The Chapman Report” and an Academy Award for “The Sundowners.” She also won a Tony Award for “A Little Night Music.” She died at the age of 100.
