Celebrities Who Died in 2023: Remembering the Stars We Lost This Year

Nic Kerdiles

Savannah Chrisley‘s ex-fiancé Nic Kerdiles died on September 23 after injuries he sustained following a motorcycle crash in Nashville, according to Nashville Police who spoke to TMZ.  The former couple got engaged in December 2019 after a year of dating but broke up in September 2020, when the reality star announced on Instagram, “Nic and I have decided to call it quits.”

The former pro-hockey player was working as a real estate broker at the time of his death.

Steve Harwell

The Smash Mouth singer died on September 4 while in hospice care during his final stage of chronic liver failure. He was 56 ​years old.

“Steve will be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom,” the official Smash Mouth Twitter page wrote following his death. “Rest in peace knowing you aimed for the stars, and magically hit your target. Rest easy.”

Jimmy Buffett

Jimmy Buffett, most known for his hit song “Margaritaville,” died on September 1 at the age of 76.
“Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs,” a statement on his Instagram read. “He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”

Josh Seiter

The former Bachelorette contestant’s family announced on August 28 that he had died following a battle with mental health issues. “It is with an extremely heavy heart that we share the tragic news of Joshua’s unexpected passing. As all who knew him can attest, Joshua was an incredibly bright light in an increasingly dim world,” they wrote in a statement posting via his official Instagram account.

The announcement continued, “His fearless voice and indomitable spirit helped thousands of people in their darkest moments feel just a little less alone. Although our heartache at Joshua’s passing pains us beyond measure, we find comfort knowing that he is finally at peace.” Four days prior, Josh shared a smiling photo with the caption, “Surviving depression and anxiety one day at a time with a smile.” He competed on Kaitlyn Bristowe‘s season of The Bachelorette.

However, on August 29, Josh himself took to his Instagram with a video saying that he is “alive and well” and that his account had been hacked. “For the last 24 hours I have been trying desperately to get into it,” he said. “Someone was playing a cruel joke and mocking my mental illness and the struggles I’ve gone through with depression and suicide attempts. I am sorry for all the pain they caused when they made that post.”

Josh continued, “I just got back into my account. I am going to do all I can with my team to try to identify who was behind this, but again, I apologize for the confusion and I will update you guys as more facts come in.”

The death announcement post has also been deleted from his Instagram page.

Bob Barker

Bob Barker, known as the longtime host of The Price Is Right, died at the age of 99.

The legendary game show host died on August 26 in his Los Angeles home of natural causes, his rep confirmed in a statement.

Ron Cephas Jones

Ron Cephas Jones, known for his role on This Is Us, died at the age of 66 after a battle with a “long-standing pulmonary issue,” his rep confirmed in a statement on August 19.

“Throughout the course of his career, his warmth, beauty, generosity, kindness and heart were felt by anyone who had the good fortune of knowing him,” the statement continued. “He began his career at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and his love for the stage was present throughout his entire career, including his recent Tony nominated and Drama Desk Award winning performance for his role in Clyde’s on Broadway.”

Pope the Barber

TikTok star Pope the Barber was found dead in San Diego on August 11.

“My heart is shattered … You were my best friend, my true love, my partner and my other half. Truly my missing puzzle piece. Life made sense with you. You changed millions of peoples lives with your bright light and love. You were unlike anyone I’ve ever met. The most amazing human,” Pope’s ex, Lisa, shared via social media. “I’ll forever cherish our time together. I miss you and I love you.”

Bryan Randall

Sandra Bullock’s longtime partner, Bryan Randall, died at the age of 57 after a private three-year battle with ALS. His family confirmed his death in a statement to People. 

“It is with great sadness that we share that on August 5, Bryan Randall passed away peacefully after a three-year battle with ALS,” his family shared in the statement on August 7. “Bryan chose early to keep his journey with ALS private and those of us who cared for him did our best to honor his request.”

The statement continued: “We are immensely grateful to the tireless doctors who navigated the landscape of this illness with us and to the astounding nurses who became our roommates, often sacrificing their own families to be with ours.”

Angus Cloud

The Euphoria star died at the age of 25 in his family home in Oakland, California, according to multiple reports. 

“It is with the heaviest heart that we had to say goodbye to an incredible human today,” his family shared in a statement. “As an artist, a friend, a brother and a son, Angus was special to all of us in so many ways.”

His family noted that the HBO star buried his father the week prior and “intensely struggled” with the loss. 

“The only comfort we have is knowing Angus is now reunited with his dad, who was his best friend. Angus was open about his battle with mental health and we hope that his passing can be a reminder to others that they are not alone and should not fight this on their own in silence,” the family continued. “We hope the world remembers him for his humor, laughter and love for everyone. We ask for privacy at this time as we are still processing this devastating loss.”

Paul Reubens

Paul Reubens, who was best known for playing the character Pee-wee Herman, died at the age of 70 on July 30 after a battle with cancer.

“Last night we said farewell to Paul Reubens, an iconic American actor, comedian, writer and producer whose beloved character Pee-wee Herman delighted generations of children and adults with his positivity, whimsy and belief in the importance of kindness,” his team wrote in a statement. “Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit. A gifted and prolific talent, he will forever live in the comedy pantheon and in our hearts as a treasured friend and man of remarkable character and generosity of spirit.”

Bill Cunningham

Bill Cunningham, who was the original voice behind the famed Ken doll, died at the age of 96 on July 21. The news spread on July 26, amid the whirlwind surrounding the release of Greta Gerwig‘s Barbie. After voicing Ken in the 1960s, Bill went on to found CESD Talent Agency, spreading the network across the United States. He was 96 years old.

Sinead O’Connor

Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor died at the age of 56 on July 26, 2023, according to reports.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” a statement from the “Nothing Compares 2 U” hitmaker’s family read. “Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time.”

Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett has died at the age of 96 following his battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto in Astoria, Queens on August 3rd, 1926, has passed away in his hometown of New York City at the age of 96 earlier today,” his rep said in a statement. “The beloved singer, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2016, is survived by his wife, Susan Benedetto, his two sons, Danny and Dae Bennett, his daughters Johanna Bennett and Antonia Bennett and 9 grandchildren.”

Jane Birkin

British actress and singer Jane Birkin died on July 16 at the age of 76.

“Her collaborations with the greatest (Serge Gainsbourg, Etienne Daho and Agnès Varda) have made her a timeless French-speaking icon,” the French Culture Ministry tweeted, confirming her passing.

Andrea Evans

The soap opera icon died on July 9 after a battle with cancer, her rep confirmed to Life & Style. Andrea was 66 years old. She first began starring on daytime dramas in 1979, playing Tina Lord on One Life to Live. The Daytime Emmy nominee also appeared on CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful and The Young and the Restless but was best known for playing Rebecca Hotchkiss on NBC’s Passions from 2000 through 2008.

Caleb Willingham

1000-Lb. Sisters star Caleb Willingham, known for his relationship with wife Tammy Slaton, died at the age of 40 on June 30. 

Caleb’s brother shared the tragic news via Facebook saying, “Today GOD called my big brother home.”

“I can’t believe I’m even making this post,” Caleb’s brother wrote. “R.I.P. Caleb Willingham aka Killla K aka Double K aka one half of the dynamic WWF tag team champions The W Boys aka my biggest supporter in anything I do. You will be forever loved and missed. Until we meet again.”

Alan Arkin

Actor Alan Arkin, famous for his roles in Little Miss Sunshine, Get Smart and Argo, died at 89 years old, his children told People on June 30.

“Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man,” Alan’s sons, Adam, Matthew and Anthony, told the outlet. “A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed.”

Tommy Wayne Lester

Jim Bob Duggar‘s uncle, Tommy, died of a heart attack on June 25. He was 75 years old.

Glenda Jackson

Glenda Jackson died at the age of 87 on June 15.

“Glenda Jackson, two-time Academy Award-winning actress and politician, died peacefully at her home in Blackheath, London this morning after a brief illness with her family at her side,” the Women in Love star’s agent, Lionel Larner, told People. “Today we lost one of the world’s greatest actresses and I have lost a best friend of over fifty years.”

Treat Williams

Everwood and Hair actor Treat Williams died at 71 following a motorcycle accident on June 12, his agent, Barry McPherson, told People.

“He was killed this afternoon,” Barry told the outlet. “He was making a left or a right [and] a car cut him off. I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented. He was an actor’s actor. Filmmakers loved him. He’s been the heart of the Hollywood since the late 1970s. He was really proud of his performance this year. He’s been so happy with the work that I got him. He’s had a balanced career.”

Vermont State Police confirmed that Ryan Koss was charged with grossly negligent operation with death resulting, noting that he was driving a Honda Element SUV that turned into Treat’s path. Stating that he voluntarily met with officials, Ryan – who was friends with the actor – said that the charges are “unwarranted.” 

“I am devastated by Mr. Williams’s tragic passing,” Ryan said in his statement. “I have known Treat for years, both as a member of this tight-knit community and fellow theater maker. I considered him a friend. I know his family feels his sudden loss even more deeply than I do, and I offer my sincerest condolences to them.”

Mike Batayeh

Mike Batayeh, who was known for his role as the manager of Gus’ laundromat in Breaking Bad, died after enduring a heart attack on June 1.

“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that my sisters and I announce the passing of our dear brother,” his family announced on June 9. “He will be greatly missed by those who loved him and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many.”

Anna Shay

Anna Shay, known for her role in the Netflix series Bling Empire, died at the age of 62. 

“It saddens our hearts to announce that Anna Shay, a loving mother, grandmother, charismatic star, and our brightest ray of sunshine, has passed away at the early age of 62 from a stroke,” the family shared in a statement to Life & Style on June 5. “Anna taught us many life lessons on how not to take life too seriously and to enjoy the finer things. Her impact on our lives will be forever missed but never forgotten.”

Tina Turner

The late “What’s Love Got to Do With It” artist died at 83 years old, Tina’s verified Instagram confirmed on May 24.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner,” the statement read. “With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly.”

Jacklyn Zeman

General Hospital star Jacklyn Zeman died at the age of 70 .

“Just like her character, the legendary Bobbie Spencer, she was a bright light and true professional that brought so much positive energy with her to work,” executive producer Frank Valentini said Wednesday in a statement via Twitter on May 10. “Jackie will be greatly missed, but her positive spirit will always live on with our cast and crew. We send our heartfelt sympathy to her loved ones, friends, and family, especially her daughters Cassidy and Lacey.”

Micah Meggs

Welcome to Plathville star Olivia Plath’s brother Micah Meggs died after getting into a fatal bike crash on May 4, she announced via her Instagram Stories shortly afterward.

“Hey guys, I’m jumping off of social media for a bit,” Olivia wrote. “Don’t worry if you don’t see me around – I’m taking some space now. I lost a younger brother last night to an unexpected accident, and I need some clarity and space for grieving.”

Jerry Springer

The talk show host died at his home in Chicago at age 79 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, Life & Style confirmed.

“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,” Jene Galvin, a lifelong friend and spokesman for the family, shared in a statement obtained by Life & Style. “He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humor will live on.”

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte died at the age of 96 on April 25. His longtime spokesman, Ken Sunshine, told the New York Times that his cause of death was congestive heart failure.

In addition to being an accomplished musician, Harry was a respected civil rights activist.

Len Goodman

The Dancing With the Stars judge and famed ballroom dancer died of bone cancer at age 78 on April 22.

“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,” his manager, Jackie Gill, shared in a statement to BBC. “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”

Mark Sheehan

The Script guitarist Mark Sheehan died at the age of 46 on April 14.

“Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness,” a post on the band’s Instagram account read. “The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time.”

Paul Cattermole

British band S Club 7 announced the death of member Paul Cattermole in a heartfelt tribute posted to Instagram on Friday, April 7. 

“We are truly devastated by the passing of our brother Paul. There are no words to describe the deep sadness and loss we all feel,” read the statement. “We were so lucky to have had him in our lives and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. He will be so deeply missed by each and every one of us. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family and of the band at this time.”

Lance Reddick

The acclaimed actor, who was best known for playing Cedric Daniels on HBO’s The Wire as well as appearing as Charon in the John Wick film franchise, died on March 17 at the age of 60 from natural causes, ​his representative confirmed to Life & Style. He is survived by his wife Stephanie Reddick and children Yvonne Nicole Reddick and Christopher Reddick.

Lance was found dead at his Studio City, California, home and had been in the middle of a promotional tour for John Wick: Chapter 4. Donations can be made to momcares.org in Baltimore, his hometown, in his honor.

Queer Eye’s Tom Jackson

Tom Jackson, a fan favorite from season 1 of the Netflix series, died on March 3 after losing his battle with metastatic adenocarcinoma. 
“It’s with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to a member of our Queer Eye family,” the show’s official Instagram shared. “Rest in peace, Tom Jackson.”

Tom Sizemore

The Saving Private Ryan actor died at age 61 after previously suffering from a brain aneurysm one month prior, his rep, Charles Lago, confirmed to CNN on March 3.

Anthony Ciccone

Madonna’s older brother, Anthony Ciccone, died at age 66, his brother-in-law Joe Henry announced via Instagram on February 25.

“I’ve known him since I was 15, in the spring of our lives in Michigan so many years now gone,” Joe wrote, adding that Anthony, “was a complex character; and god knows: we tangled in moments, as true brothers can. But I loved him, and understood him better than I was sometimes willing to let on.”

Jansen Panettiere

Hayden Panettiere’s younger brother Jansen Panettiere died on Sunday, February 19, according to multiple outlets. His cause of death is currently unclear. He was 28 years old.

Richard Belzer

Known for his role as Detective John Munch on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and Homicide: Life on the Street, Richard Belzer died on February 19 at age 78, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

Kyle Jacobs

The accomplished songwriter and husband of American Idol star Kellie Pickler died by apparent suicide on February 17. He was 49 years old. Nashville authorities were called to the couple’s home after Kellie woke up from a nap and could not locate her husband. After being unable to open a locked door in the home, Kellie’s assistant called 911. The country musician died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. 

Raquel Welch

The actress, who rose to fame throughout the 1960s and 1970s, died after a “brief illness” on February 15, Life & Style confirmed.

Austin Majors

The former child actor was best known to the fans of the ABC police drama NYPD Blue, playing Dennis Franz‘ Detective Andy Sipowicz’ son Theo in 48 episodes of the show from 1999 through 2004. Austin’s cause of death has been deferred by the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office for pending additional investigation.
His sister, Kali Raglin, shared a series of photos alongside her brother in a February 13, Instagram post, writing in the caption, “My big brother, Austin, is gone. He died last night,” adding, “It’s so surreal to me still. He was only 27 with so much life left to live.”

Cody Longo

Cody Longo, known for his role on Days of Our Lives, died on February 10 at just 34 years old, Life & Style can confirm. His cause of death is not known. The actor’s body was found in a residence in Austin, Texas, according to TMZ, who was the first to break the news.

“He was an amazing father and the best husband. Our whole world is shattered,” his wife, Stephanie Nicole Clark, told TMZ in Friday, February 10 statement.

Scott Alexander

The America’s Got Talent season 6 alum and professional magician died on February 5, after suffering a stroke while working aboard a cruise ship in the Caribbean. He was 52 years old.

“I lost my husband yesterday. My kids lost their father. He suffered a stroke while working on a cruise ship in St Kitts and did not make it home to us. We are shattered. Please hold us in your prayers,” Scott’s wife Jenny shared in an Instagram post.

Cindy Williams

The star of the iconic sitcom Laverne & Shirley died at the age of 75 following a brief illness, Cindy’s children, Zak and Emily Hudson, revealed in a statement released on January 30, 2023.
“The passing of our kind, hilarious mother, Cindy Williams, has brought us insurmountable sadness that could never truly be expressed,” the statement read. “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.”
Cindy played Shirley Feeney opposite Penny Marshall‘s Laverne DeFazio for eight seasons on the ABC hit, which aired from 1976 through 1983.

Annie Wersching

The 24 actress died on January 29 after a battle with cancer, Deadline confirmed. She was 45.

Her husband, Stephen Full, released a statement saying, “There is a cavernous hole in the soul of this family today. But she left us the tools to fill it. She found wonder in the simplest moment. She didn’t require music to dance. She taught us not to wait for adventure to find you. ‘Go find it. It’s everywhere.’ And find it we shall.”

David Crosby

The singer — who founded the Byrds and Crosby, Stills & Nash — died at 81 years old, his wife confirmed in a statement to Variety on January 19.

“It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away. He was lovingly surrounded by his wife and soulmate Jan and son Django. Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and kind soul will continue to guide and inspire us,” she shared. “His legacy will continue to live on through his legendary music. Peace, love, and harmony to all who knew David and those he touched. We will miss him dearly. At this time, we respectfully and kindly ask for privacy as we grieve and try to deal with our profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers.”

CJ Harris

The talented singer, who competed on season 13 of Fox’s American Idol, died on January 14 after being rushed to the hospital in his hometown of Jasper, Alabama, following a medical emergency. He was 31 years old. CJ finished in sixth place in 2014 and went on to participate in the show’s live tour.

Lisa Marie Presley

The daughter of late musician Elvis Presley died at age 54 on January 12, Life & Style confirmed. News of Lisa Marie’s death came hours after she suffered cardiac arrest.

“She was the most passionate strong and loving woman I have ever known,” Priscilla Presley shared in a statement to People. “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.”

Jeff Beck

Legendary guitarist Jeff Beck – who toured with Johnny Depp in 2022 – died on January 10. He was 78 years old. 

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing,” his rep told Life & Style in a statement. “After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”

Tatjana Patitz

One of the OG supermodels, Germany-born Tatjana died at the age of 56, Vogue reported on January 11. No cause of death has been disclosed. She costarred in George Michael’s iconic “Freedom ’90” music video, alongside fellow supermodels Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista and Christy Turlington, and was a familiar face on magazine covers and runways throughout the 1990s.

Adam Rich

Adam Rich, known for his role in Eight Is Enough, died on January 7 at the age of 54. 

The actor died in his Los Angeles area home, his family confirmed to TMZ. 

Fred White

Fred White, a drummer for iconic 70’s band Earth, Wind & Fire, died on January 1 at the age of 67. 

“Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our beloved brother Frederick Eugene ‘Freddie’ White,” his older brother and former bandmate, Verdine White, confirmed in a statement on Instagram.

Anita Pointer

Pointer passed away in the early hours of January 1 after battling an unknown form of cancer, TMZ reported.

Jeremiah Green

Green died in his sleep after a battle with an unknown form of cancer on December 31, 2022.