Stars We've Lost Thus Far in 2023

The end of last year and start of this year has seen the loss of many beloved stars including Barbara Walters, Kirstie Alley, and Stephen "tWitch" Boss.

Lola "Gangsta Boo" Mitchell, former member of hit-heavy hip-hop group Three 6 Mafia, was found dead in her home on New Year's Day. She was 43 years old.

"The Mitchell family would like to thank everyone for their condolences regarding the untimely death of Lola 'Gangsta Boo' Mitchell. The family is asking for your continued prayers and privacy as we process the loss of our loved one."

The same day saw the loss of Earth, Wind & Fire drummer Fred White.

"Dearest Family Friends and Fans..... Our family is saddened today With the loss of an amazing and talented family member, Our beloved brother Frederick Eugene 'Freddie' White 🙏🏾🙏🏾💔💔🥁🥁,” said his brother Verdine White. He went on to call his brother a “child protégé” and noted he was a “member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old!” He was 67.

Alan Rankine, founding member of Scottish band The Associates "died peacefully at home shortly after spending Christmas with his family," said his two sons. They noted they would be keeping his social media accounts active as "the community meant a lot to our dad." He was 64 years old.

Rally driver and YouTuber Ken Block was killed in a snowmobile accident, on January 2nd.

"Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed. Please respect the family's privacy at this time while they grieve.

He passed while riding the vehicle down a slope in Utah. The snowmobile toppled over him and he was pronounced dead at the scene after succumbing to injuries sustained. 

"Mr. Block was riding with a group but was alone when the accident occurred." He was 55.

'The Wire' star Lance Reddick has also passed away at 60. He dies of "natural causes."

'John Wick' costar Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahelski have paid tribute. 

"We are deeply saddened and heartbroken at the loss of our beloved friend and colleague Lance Reddick. He was the consummate professional and a joy to work with. Our love and prayers are with his wife Stephanie, his children, family and friends. We dedicate the film to his loving memory. We will miss him dearly."

See below the complete list of stars lost so far this year:

Eileen Saki

The 'M.A.S.H' star passed on May 1st after her battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 79.

“Our sweet Eileen. Our sassy Rosie. On behalf of her husband Bob, we extend sincere appreciation for the hundreds of M.A.S.H. fans who filled Eileen’s final days with peace, encouragement, and love. She read every email and responded to as many as she could. We will share more remembrances of Eileen Saki throughout the day. You are invited to do the same. Our sweet, sweet Eileen. How we love you. How we will miss you.”

Gordon Lightfoot

He passed at the age of 84 of natural causes on May 1st. He had previously cancelled his U.S. and Canadian concert schedule weeks prior due to "health related issues."

Jock Zonfrillo

Jock passed away unexpectedly at the age of 46. 

"So many words can describe him, so many stories can be told, but at this time we're too overwhelmed to put them into words. For those who crossed his path, became his mate, or were lucky enough to be his family, keep this proud Scot in your hearts when you have your next whisky."

Jerry Springer

The TV host passed at his Illinois home on April 27th after battling a brief illness. He was 79.

“Jerry’s ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word. He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

Ron Faber

Actor best known for 'The Exorcist' passed at the age of 90 in March from lung cancer.

David Patrick Kelly paid tribute to his friend in April, calling him "a great artist and gentleman with a wonderful voice and laugh."

Harry Belafonte

He passed at the age of 96 on April 25th due to congenital heart failure.

Ginnie Newhart

Bob Newhart’s wife of 60 years died at age 82 on April 23rd after battling an illness. 

"We lost our beloved Ginnie Quinn Newhart — Wife, Mother and Grandmother on April 23rd, 2023 after a long battle with illness. She was our rock and we miss her terribly."

Len Goodman

The British TV personality known best for 'Dancing With The Stars' was 78 at the time of his passing on April 22nd. 

"A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.

Barry Humphries

Comedy actor who passed at the age of 89 in Sydney, on April 22nd.

He died in the Sydney hospital, where he spent several days with complications following hip surgery.

“He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit. With over 70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be."

He was best known for playing Dame Edna Everage, and won a Tony Award in 2000.

He had been married three times, and is survived by wife Lizzie Spender, his four children and 10 grandchildren.

Esther Jenner

Caitlyn Jenner's mother passed away on April 21st.

"I am heartbroken to announce my mom passed away yesterday morning, peacefully. Losing a mother is unique in the sense that she is the only person that loved me my entire life. I will miss her tremendously. She was a few weeks shy of 97 and lived a full life. Love you mom."

Elizabeth Hubbard

The soap opera star passed at age 89. Her son, Jeremy Bennett, confirmed her death on April 10th.

“I’m sorry to say with a broken heart my mum passed over the weekend. Thank you for being an unmovable rock that guided me through life. I will try to honour your memory for as long as I live.”

Michael Lerner

He was 81 years old. His nephew Sam Lerner confirmed the news on April 9th.

"We lost a legend last night. It’s hard to put into words how brilliant my uncle Michael was, and how influential he was to me. His stories always inspired me and made me fall in love with acting. He was the coolest, most confident, talented guy, and the fact that he was my blood will always make me feel special. Everyone that knows him knows how insane he was— in the best way. I’m so lucky I got to spend so much time with him, and we’re all lucky we can continue to watch his work for the rest of time. RIP Michael, enjoy your unlimited Cuban cigars, comfy chairs, and endless movie marathon 💖."

He was best known from 'The Candidate,' and 'Barton Fink and Harlem Nights.'

He was also recognisable from 'Elf.'

Paul Cattermole

The S Club 7 singer passed away unexpectedly in April at age 46, two months after the group revealed a reunion tour.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole. Paul was found yesterday, 6th April 2023 at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon."

"Dorset Police has confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances. Paul's family, friends and fellow members of S Club request privacy at this time.”

Brian ‘Brizz’ Gillis

Former LFO member, who cofounded the group in 1995, died on March 29th. 

His former bandmate Brad Fischetti confirmed the news. 

“I am really struggling to process this tragic loss.”

Paul O’Grady

British comedian, actor and TV host, best known for his docuseries 'Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs,' as well as his drag queen alter-ego, Lily Savage.

He was 67 years old when he passed on March 28th. 

“It is with great sadness that inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.

Gunter Nezhoda

Best known for 'Storage Wars,' he passed on March 21st after battling cancer. He was 67.

“This is a very sad day and this is a very hard video for me to make. My dad, six months ago, was diagnosed with lung cancer — he’s been smoking for 30 years. He’s been smoking for a long time and last night he passed away in his sleep peacefully from complications from lung cancer.”

It was confirmed he had “all sorts of holes in his lungs” and there was “nothing else that doctors could do” regarding treatment.

He is survived by his two sons, Rene and Ricky, and two granddaughters.

Paul Grant

Known for his roles in 'Harry Potter' and 'Star Wars.'

He was declared brain dead after collapsing at a London train station on March 16th. 

He was later pronounced dead on March 20th. He was 56. 

"I'm heartbroken. No girl deserves their dad to be taken away. He was so well-known and loved. He's gone too soon."

“My dad was a legend in so many ways. He always brought a smile and laughter to everyone's face. He would do anything for anyone."

Lance Reddick

He passed on March 17th, at age 60 due to natural causes.

"Acclaimed actor Lance Reddick passed away suddenly this morning from natural causes. He is survived by his wife Stephanie Reddick and children Yvonne Nicole Reddick and Christopher Reddick. Donations in his memory can be made to momcares.org in Baltimore, his hometown. Lance will be greatly missed. Please respect his family’s privacy at this time."

Bobby Caldwell

The singer passed at age 71 on March 15th.

"Bobby passed away here at home. I held him tight in my arms as he left us. I am forever heartbroken. Thanks to all of you for your many prayers over the years."

His wife explained he was "floxed," a term for suffering from "fluoroquinolone-associated disability." A side effect from taking a fluoroquinolone medication that can negatively affect "tendons, muscles, heart and nerves. The illness "took his health over the last 6 years and 2 months. Rest with God, my Love."

Robert Blake

He passed away on March 9th due to heart disease.

Chaim Topol

The 'Fiddler on the Roof' star passed away on March 9th in Israel. He was 87. No cause of death was reported, but he was previously diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

Gary Rossington

The Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist passed away at the age of 71 on March 5th.

He was the last surviving founder of the group.

“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today. Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does. Please keep Dale, Mary, Annie and the entire Rossington family in your prayers and respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.”

Ricou Browning

The actor best known for playing the titular character in 'Creature From the Black Lagoon' died on February 27th at his home in Miami. He was 93.

He is survived by son Ricou Jr. and daughters Renee, Kelly and Kim, as well as 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Tom Sizemore

On March 3rd, the 'Black Hawk Down' star passed away in his sleep at St Joseph’s Hospital Burbank after suffering a brain aneurism. He was 61. 

“In the early hours of Saturday, February 18, 2023, Tom Sizemore collapsed at his Los Angeles home and was transported to a hospital by Paramedics. He was found to be suffering from a brain aneurism that occurred as a result of a stroke. Since that day, Tom has remained in critical condition, in a coma and in intensive care. Tom has remained in Intensive care since that day and not regained conciseness.”

 

The family planned to hold a “private cremation service” before a “larger celebration of life” would take place in the following weeks. Fans were thanked for their support and requested privacy “during this difficult time.” 

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my big brother Tom. He was larger than life. He has influenced my life more than anyone I know. He was talented, loving, giving and could keep you entertained endlessly with his wit and storytelling ability. I am devastated he is gone and will miss him always."

Steve Mackey

The bassist for the British band Pulp, died on March 2nd, due to an illness. He was 56 years old.

"After three months in hospital, fighting with all his strength and determination, we are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye to my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey. Steve died today, a loss which has left myself, his son Marley, parents Kath and Paul, sister Michelle and many friends all heartbroken. Steve was the most talented man I knew, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker. As in life, he was adored by everyone whose paths he crossed in the multiple creative disciplines he conquered.”

His family thanked “all of the NHS staff who worked tirelessly” for the star and asked the public to respect the family’s privacy at this time.

Jansen Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere's brother died at age 28 on February 20th.

Richard Belzer

'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit' actor passed away on February 19th at his home in France. The actor was 78.

“He had lots of health issues, and his last words were, ‘F–k you, motherf–ker.'"

Belzer is survived by his wife, Harlee McBride, and stepdaughters Jessica and Bree.

Barbara Bosson

The 'Hill Street Blues' alum, who earned five Emmy nominations for playing Fay Furillo on the series, died on February 18th. She was 83. Her son revealed she had “more spirit and zest than you could shake a stick at.”

Kyle Jacobs

On February 17th, Kellie Pickler's husband died by an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at the age of 49.

“Nashville’s Department of Emergency Communications received a 911 call at 1:21 p.m. Friday from a home on Sneed Road in the police department’s West Precinct. Officers and Nashville Fire Department personnel responded and located resident Kyle Jacobs, 49, deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound in an upstairs bedroom/office. His death is being investigated as an apparent suicide. Mr. Jacobs’ wife, Kellie Pickler, reported that she awoke a short time earlier, did not see her husband, and began looking for him. After she and her personal assistant were unable to open the door to the upstairs bedroom/office, the assistant telephoned 911.”

Stella Stevens

The actress who starred alongside Elvis Presley in 1962’s 'Girls! Girls! Girls!', died on February 17th. She was 84.

She passed away following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Raquel Welch

She died on February 15th at age 82. 

"The legendary bombshell actress of film, television and stage, passed away peacefully early this morning after a brief illness. Her career spanned over 50 years starring in over 30 films and 50 television series and appearances. The Golden Globe winner, in more recent years, was involved in a very successful line of wigs. Raquel leaves behind her two children, son Damon Welch and her daughter, Tahnee Welch." 

Austin Majors

Austin Majors' sister confirmed his death on February 13th.

“My big brother, Austin, is gone. He died last night. It’s so surreal to me still. He was only 27 with so much life left to live. I’ve told some of you already but if you’re interested in his services please reach out.”

In a second tribute, she posted a collage of images of her sibling and his family over the years. “💔,” was the caption.

Trugoy the Dove

Born David Jude Jolicoeur, Trugoy the Dove died at age 54. The musician's rep confirmed February 12th, but no cause of death was provided.

Cody Longo

On February 10 the star died at the age of 34.

“He was an amazing father and the best husband. Our whole world is shattered.”

The 'Bring It On: Fight to the Finish' star is survived by his wife Stephanie Clark and their three children.

Burt Bacharach

The legendary songwriter and composer died at age 94 on February 8th. 

It was confirmed he died at home in Los Angeles from natural causes. 

He was known for composing numerous classic songs, including 'Walk on By,' 'I Say a Little Prayer' and 'Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head.' 

His film soundtracks included 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid', 'What's New Pussycat?' and 'Arthur.'

Charlie Thomas

Singer from The Drifters known for hits including 'Under the Boardwalk,' died on January 31st. He was 85.

He passed away at his home in Bowie, Maryland, after battling liver cancer.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Thomas, and five children as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Scott Alexander

The America’s Got Talent magician died on February 5th at age 52. 

His wife said he “suffered a stroke on a cruise ship in St Kitts and did not make it home to us.”

Charles Kimbrough

The actor passed on January 11th, his son John Kimbrough, confirmed in February. Charles was 86.

He was known for his role as Jim Dial on 'Murphy Brown,' which earned him his Emmy nomination.

 
He got his big break in the original 1970 Broadway production of 'Company,' which earned him a Tony Award nomination.

He is survived by his son as well as stepdaughter Holly Howland and his sister, Linda Kimbrough.

Melinda Dillon

Melinda's family the 'A Christmas Story' star died on January 9th at age 83. A cause of death was not revealed.

Paco Rabanne

Spanish designer, known for his perfumes, died at his home in France on February 3rd. He was 88. 

"The House of Paco Rabanne wishes to honour our visionary designer and founder who passed away today at the age of 88. Among the most seminal fashion figures of the 20th century, his legacy will remain a constant source of inspiration. We are grateful to Monsieur Rabanne for establishing our avant-garde heritage and defining a future of limitless possibilities.”

Jose Manuel Albesa, President of Puig’s beauty and fashion division said, “Paco Rabanne made transgression magnetic. Who else could induce fashionable Parisian women to clamor for dresses made of plastic and metal.”

Cindy Williams

The 'Laverne & Shirley' superstar passed away at age 75 on Janaury 25th. 

“The passing of our kind, hilarious mother, Cindy Williams, has brought us insurmountable sadness that could never truly be expressed. Knowing and loving her has been our joy and privilege. She was one of a kind, beautiful, generous and possessed a brilliant sense of humor and a glittering spirit that everyone loved.”

Barrett Strong

The Motown singer and songwriter died at age 81.

“It is with great sadness that we share the passing of legendary @classicmotown singer and songwriter Barrett Strong. The voice behind @motownrecords’ first hit, the iconic 'Money (That’s What I Want)' was born in West Point, Mississippi on February 5, 1941 and was raised in Detroit.”

Lisa Loring

Known for playing the original Wednesday Addams in the 1960s sitcom 'The Addams Family,' she died at age 64 on January 28th. 

“She went peacefully with both her daughters holding her hands. It was reported that she died of complications from a stroke caused by high blood pressure.

Annie Wersching

Known for '24,' 'The Vampire Diaries' and 'The Rookie,' died on January 29th at age 45. 

She'd battled cancer since 2020 and kept her diagnosis private. 

She is survived by her husband Stephen Full and three sons, Freddie, Ozzie and Archie. 

Tom Verlaine

The star died on January 28th in Manhattan. He was 73. 

The punk rock musician's death was announced by Jesse Paris Smith, the daughter of Patti Smith, who said that he died “after a brief illness.”

Lance Kerwin

His death was confirmed by his daughter Savannah on January 25th, revealing he died one day prior. The actor was 62. 

"I am so sorry to those we have not been able to reach out to personally to notify but Lance Kerwin passed away yesterday morning. We appreciate all the kind words, memories, and prayers that have been shared. As the coming weeks progress, I will share more information about after life ceremonies. He loved each and every one of you."

Lloyd N. Morrisett

'Sesame Workshop' confirmed on January 23rd that the 'Sesame Street' co-creator died at 93.

"Sesame Workshop mourns the passing of our esteemed and beloved cofounder Lloyd N. Morrisett, PhD. A Lifetime Honorary Trustee, Lloyd leaves an outsized and indelible legacy among generations of children the world over, with Sesame Street only the most visible tribute to a lifetime of good work and lasting impact.”

Jeremy Ruehlemann

The supermodel has died at age 27, his loved ones confirmed on January 22nd. His cause of death has not been revealed.

Anton Walkes

The MLS player died on January 19th at age 25. 

It was confirmed he sustained injuries during a boating accident in Miami one day prior. 

"We are deeply saddened to share that Anton Walkes has tragically passed away this morning. May he rest in peace."

Jay Briscoe

The former 'Ring of Honor' wrestling champ passed away due to a car accident on January 17th. He was 38.

“Sadly, Jamin Pugh has passed away. Known to fans as Jay Briscoe, he was a star in ROH for over 20 years, from the first show until today. Jay and his brother Mark dominated ROH, reigning as champions to this day. We’ll do whatever we can to support his family. Rest In Peace Jamin.”

Gina Lollobrigida

The iconic Italian star known for roles like the Queen of Sheba in 1959's 'Solomon and Sheba' and as Esmerelda in 1956's 'Hunchback of Notre Dame,' died at a clinic in Rome on January 16th. She was 95.

Al Brown

Best known for playing Stan Valchek on 'The Wire,' died on January 13th at age 83. 

A representative for Brown announced the news on January 14.

"May his memory be a blessing to his family, his friends, and each of you. This page will remain as a testimony to Al's work and love for his fans." 

Brown's daughter Jenny revealed her father had been battling Alzheimer's.

CJ Harris

'American Idol' superstar died on January 15th after suffering a heart attack. He was 31. 

He finished in sixth place on the 13th season of the singing competition, which aired in 2014.

Lisa Marie Presley

The daughter of Elvis Presley died on January 12th, hours after going into cardiac arrest. She was 54.

“It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us. She was the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known. We ask for privacy as we try to deal with this profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers. At this time there will be no further comment.”

Carole Cook

It was announced the 'Sixteen Candles' star died of heart failure on January 11th, just three days shy of her 99th birthday, at the age of 98.

Jeff Beck

Legendary guitarist died at age 78 after a short and "sudden" battle with meningitis on January 11th.

"On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing. After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss."

Tatjana Patitz

The supermodel who rose to fame in the '80s and '90s and appeared on numerous Vogue covers, died at age 56 on January 11th.

King Constantine II

The final Greek monarch and Prince William's godfather, died on January 10th.

The King, who was also Prince Philip's nephew and King Charles III's cousin, was 82 at the time of his death.

Quinn Redeker

The soap actor known from 'Days of Our Lives' and 'The Young and the Restless,' died at age 86. 

His daughter, Arianne Raser, confirmed in January that her father passed away from natural causes one month prior.

Adam Rich

He died on January 7th at the age of 54.

A family member confirmed that he was found dead in his Los Angeles home. 

A cause of death has not been announced.

Gangsta Boo

The Three 6 Mafia rapper was found dead in her home on January 1st. She was 43.

Fred White

“Dearest Family Friends and Fans..... Our family is saddened today With the loss of an amazing and talented family member, Our beloved brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White. 🙏🏾🙏🏾💔💔🥁🥁. He joins our brothers Maurice, Monte and Ronald in heaven and is now drumming with the angels! 🥁🥁Child protégé, member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old!”

Ken Block

The social media personality died on January 2nd after being involved in a snowmobile accident in Utah. 

He was killed from the injuries sustained in the crash.

Alan Rankine

The Associates cofounder “died peacefully at home shortly after spending Christmas with his family," on January 3rd. “He was a beautiful, kind and loving man who will be sorely missed.”