Celebrity Deaths in 2023: Stars We’ve Lost

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Celebrity Deaths in 2023: Stars We've Lost

After losing beloved stars including Barbara Walters, Kirstie Alley and Stephen “tWitch” Boss in the final days of 2022, the entertainment industry continued to deal with loss in 2023. Hollywood was dealt a devastating blow with three significant losses in April: Jerry Springer, Harry Belafonte and Dancing With the Stars judge Len Goodman all died within days of his each other. [sendtonews type="float" key="mBFKH7ZJfz-2828049-14453"] The following month, the music industry and the world at large mourned the loss of Tina Turner, who died at age 83 after battling a "long illness" at her home in Switzerland, a rep for the iconic singer shared at the time. Countless celebrities, including Beyoncé, Lizzo and President Joe Biden, paid tribute to the "Proud Mary" icon. Read on to remember all the stars who have died in 2023:

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Nashawn Breedlove

Breedlove, who is best known for his rap battle against Eminem in the 2002 film 8 Mile, died at the age of 46, according to a Facebook post shared by his mother, Patricia Breedlove, on September 26.

“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved son Nashawn Breedlove's passing. Many of you knew him by his alias ‘Lotto, ox’, a name that echoed his resilience and determination. Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. No one could deny his talent,” she wrote, adding that her son’s death had left “an immense void in [her] life.” Patricia did not share how Nashawn died.

Rapper Mickey Factz also shared a tribute to Nashawn. “RIP to one of the few emcee’s to beat Eminem … Lotto from 8 Mile. Who’s friends lovingly called him, OX. You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness,” he wrote via Instagram alongside a clip of the actor in 8 Mile.

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Brooks Robinson

The former MLB third baseman, who played his entire career for the Baltimore Orioles from 1955 to 1977, died at age 86, according to a statement shared by his team on September 26.

“We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of Brooks Robinson. An integral part of our Orioles Family since 1955, he will continue to leave a lasting impact on our club, our community, and the sport of baseball," the statement read.

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Jody Kelly

Kelly, who was the oldest woman to ever compete on The Amazing Race, died at the age of 85 on September 5. She passed away while attending a Spanish language immersion camp in Minnesota, according to an obituary published in the Austin American Statesman. Kelly previously battled breast cancer, but her cause of death was not immediately revealed.

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David McCallum

The NCIS actor died on September 25 of natural causes. He was 90. “He was the kindest, coolest, most patient and loving father. He always put family before self,” McCallum’s son Peter said in a statement, confirming his father’s passing.

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Terry Kirkman

Kirkman died at age 83, according to a Facebook post shared by his band, The Association, on September 24. "He will live on in our hearts and in the music he so brilliantly wrote. Sending hugs and lots of love to [his wife] Heidi and [daughter] Sasha!" read the announcement.

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Maleesa Mooney

Mooney — the sister of Guyanese pop star Jourdin Pauline — was found dead in her Los Angeles apartment on September 12 after police responded to a welfare check call for the model, according to NBC. She was 31.

A cause of death was not revealed at the time, but the news outlet reported that Mooney’s death was being investigated as a homicide.

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Irish Grinstead

Grinstead, a member of girl group 702, died at age 43 on September 16. “It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that my beautiful sister and friend has passed away this evening,” the 702 member’s sister, LeMisha Gemini, confirmed via Instagram on September 17. “She has had a long battle and she is finally at peace.”

Her post continued: “That girl was as bright as the stars! She was not only beautiful on the outside, but also within. Sharing the stage with her was a joy I will cherish for the rest of my life! We, the family ask for prayers and respect for our privacy as we grieve an outstanding loss to our family. Love always, Misha.”

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Billy Miller

The soap opera star died on September 15 at the age of 43. A spokesperson confirmed the news to Us Weekly, but no cause of death was shared. The General Hospital alum had been suffering from manic depression at the time of his death.

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Brandon Hunter

The former NBA player, who played on the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic in the early 2000s, died at age 42 on September 12. His mother-in-law, Carolyn Cliett, told NBC News that Hunter collapsed during a hot yoga session, a workout he did "regularly."

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Mike Williams

The former NFL wide receiver died on September 12 at the age of 36. Williams’ agent Hadley Engelhard confirmed the news, revealing that Williams passed away two weeks after being hospitalized for a construction site accident that left him partially paralyzed and on a ventilator.

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Charlie Robison

The singer died on September 10, his family told the Associated Press. He was 59.

Robison had been in the music industry since the 1980s as a member of various bands before he went solo in 1996. He was known for his 2001 country hit “I Want You Bad," and he was a judge on USA Network’s Nashville Star. He retired from music in 2018 after a throat surgery left him unable to sing.

Robison is survived by wife Kristen Robison and his five children, three of whom he welcomed with ex-wife Emily Strayer of The Chicks. (They were married from 1999 to 2008.)

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Gayle Hunnicutt

The actress died on August 31, her family told The Times of London. She was 80 years old.

Hunnicutt was best known for playing Vanessa Beaumont on the iconic '80s drama Dallas. She also appeared in The Beverly Hillbillies and Get Smart as well as the movie Marlowe.

She is survived by sons Nolan and Edward as well as several grandchildren.

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Gary Wright

Wright, known for writing and performing hits “Dream Weaver” and “Love Is Alive,” died on September 4 at age 80 at his home in California. His family told NBC News that Wright had been battling Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia for several years.

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Steve Harwell

The former Smash Mouth singer died at age 56 on September 4, one day after news broke that he was receiving hospice care amid liver failure.

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Jimmy Buffett

Buffett died “peacefully” on September 1. He was 76.

“Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1st surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs,” a statement posted on Buffett’s Instagram read. “He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”

The “Margaritaville” singer is survived by wife Jane Slagsvol and their three children.

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Jack Sonni

Dire Straits announced the death of Sonni via social media on August 31, sharing a throwback photo of the guitarist with the message, “Rest In Peace.” Sonni famously played on the band's 1985 album, Brothers in Arms, and appeared with the gruop that year at Live Aid.

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August 08

Def Jam Records confirmed on August 29 that the musician, who was born Ray Jacobs and also adopted the name August Grant, died at age 31. 

"The entire Def Jam family mourns the tragic loss of Ray ‘August 08’ Jacobs," a representative for Def Jam Records shared in a statement to USA Today at the time. "A brilliant songwriter, an accomplished musician and a singular artist, August will remain in our memory as a beloved colleague and friend. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and loved ones."

The Los Angeles-based music collective 88 Rising, of which August was a member, also paid tribute to the artist following his death, writing via Instagram, “It is with great sadness that we mourn the loss of Ray Jacobs, also known as AUGUST 08. RIP August the kindest and most talented genius you will be missed beyond words. Thank you for being an amazing mentor and a steadfast friend through all these years."

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Bernie Marsden

The former Whitesnake guitarist’s family confirmed his death on August 28. He was 72.

“On behalf of his family, it is with deep sadness we announce the death of Bernie Marsden,” a statement shared via Marsden’s Instagram read. “Bernie died peacefully on Thursday evening with his wife, Fran, and daughters, Charlotte and Olivia, by his side. Bernie never lost his passion for music, writing and recording new songs until the end.” 

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Arleen Sorkin

The actress died at age 67, Entertainment Weekly confirmed on August 27. No cause of death was shared.

Sorkin played Calliope Jones Bradford on Days of Our Lives from 1984 to 1990, returning to the soap opera several times throughout the years, most recently in 2010. She two Daytime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress.

She was the also first actress to voice Harley Quinn, who was supposed to be a one-episode character on Batman: The Animated Series in 1992. Sorkin's performance made such an impression that Harley eventually became a comic book character and is now one of the great villains in DC Comics and DC Studios movies.

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Bob Barker

The longtime Price Is Right host died on August 26 at the age of 99. Barker’s rep confirmed to Us Weekly that he died of natural causes.

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Bray Wyatt

WWE executive Triple H announced that Wyatt died on August 24. He was 36.

“Just received a call from WWE Hall of Famer Mike Rotunda who informed us of the tragic news that our WWE family member for life Windham Rotunda — also known as Bray Wyatt — unexpectedly passed earlier today,” Triple H announced via Twitter. “Our thoughts are with his family and we ask that everyone respect their privacy at this time.” 

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Hersha Parady

The Little House on the Prairie alum — who played teacher Alice Garvey — ​​died on August 23. The actress, who also had a three-episode arc as the principal on Kenan & Kel, was 78 years old. One month before her death, Parady’s son created a GoFundMe revealing his mom was suffering from a “brain tumor known as meningioma.”

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Terry Funk

The retired wrestler died at age 78, the WWE announced in a statement on August 23. The Hall of Famer was honored by WWE icon Ric Flair via Twitter.

“In My Entire Life, I’ve Never Met A Guy Who Worked Harder. Terry Funk Was A Great Wrestler, Entertainer, Unbelievably Fearless, And A Great Friend!” Flair wrote. “Rest In Peace My Friend Terry Funk Knowing That No One Will Ever Replace You In The World Of Professional Wrestling!”

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Nancy Frangione

Frangione — best known for her role as villain Cecile on Another World — died on August 18. The late actress, who also starred on All My Children from 1977 to 1979, was 70 years old.

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Ron Cephas Jones

The This Is Us actor died at age 66 "due to a long-standing pulmonary issue," his rep announced on August 18. He is survived by daughter Jasmine Cephas Jones, who is an actress.

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Christopher Peluso

The Broadway performer — whose credits included Assassins, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Mamma Mia! and more — died on August 15 at age 40, his family confirmed to Playbill. Peluso’s death came one year after taking a break from acting to seek mental health treatment for schizoaffective disorder.

The actor is survived by his wife, Jessica Gomes, and their two children.

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Darren Kent

Kent’s agency announced his death at age 36 on August 15. “It is with deep sadness we have to tell you that our dear friend and client Darren Kent passed away peacefully on [August 11],” the company said in a statement. “His parents and best friend by his side. Our thoughts and love are with his family in this difficult time.”

Kent was perhaps best known for his brief but memorable role in the Game of Thrones season 4 finale as a goatherder who visited Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) with the body of his daughter, who was killed by Daenerys’ dragons.

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Alex Collins

The former NFL star, who played for the Seattle Seahawks and Baltimore Ravens, died on August 14 as the result of a motorcycle accident. He was 28. 

"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Alex Collins this morning," Collins' family said in a statement issued through the Seahawks at the time. "Alex was cherished by his family and friends as well as supporters from all around the world. All who truly know him can attest to his drive, determination, and larger-than-life personality. We kindly request your thoughts and prayers for our family during this difficult time. We ask for privacy as we navigate through our grief. We will provide updates regarding funeral arrangements as they become available."

Seahawks executive VP and general manager, John Schneider, also shared a touching tribute following Collins’ death. 

"Alex's infectious smile and classic river dance skills will forever be missed. Alex would light up a room and was beloved by our entire building,” he shared. “He enjoyed life and attacked it on the football field. He was one of the most productive runners in SEC history. Our sincere condolences to his immediate family, the Gatewood family, and his agent Kelli Masters. You will be forever be missed, Alex. On behalf of Jody Allen, Pete Carroll, Chuck Arnold, Chad Morton and the entire Seahawks community, rest in peace brother." 

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Magoo

The rapper died on August 13 at age 50, his wife, Meco Barcliff, told The New York Times.

Magoo, real name Melvin Barcliff, was best known for his collaborations with Timbaland, Missy Elliott and Pharrell Williams. He is survived by the aunt and uncle who raised him, Magdaline and Hiawatha Brown, as well as two sisters, Portia Brown and Lynette Hawks.

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Clarence Avant

The record executive died on August 13. He was 92.

Known as "the godfather of Black music," Avant played a large part in the careers of Bill Withers, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson and more iconic acts.

"Clarence was part of a generation that served as a bridge from a time when there was very little opportunity for Black people to a time when doors began to open," former President Barack Obama said in a statement on August 14. "He demanded the world make room, and he paved the way for the rest of us. Michelle and I will always be grateful for Clarence’s friendship and wise counsel."

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Linda Haynes

The actress's son, Greg Sylvander, confirmed her death on August 11. "It is with great sadness that I report that my mother, Linda Haynes Sylvander, has passed away, peacefully at home," he wrote via Facebook. "My mom moved up to South Carolina to live with us over three years ago, and it was some of our very best times together."

Haynes rose to fame in films such as Rolling Thunder, Human Experiments and Brubaker. She is survived by her son, daughter-in-law and multiple grandchildren.

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Sean Dawkins

The retired NFL star died at age 52, Cal Athletics confirmed on August 9. Dawkins,, who was a wide receiver on the Indianapolis Colts from 1993 to 1997,, was honored by Colts owner and CEO Jim Irsay after his passing. “Rest in peace, Sean Dawkins,” Irsay tweeted at the time. “I am shocked and saddened. My prayers and condolences to Sean’s family.”

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DJ Casper

The DJ — born Willie Perry Jr. — died on August 7 after a years-long battle with kidney and liver cancer, as reported by his wife, Kim. He was 58. Born in Chicago, the musician was best known for “Cha Cha Slide,” a 2000 hit that has remained a staple of weddings, birthday parties and bar mitzvahs for more than two decades.

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William Friedkin

The Oscar-winning director, best known for directing classic films such as The Exorcist and The French Connection, died at the age of 87 on August 7. At the time, Friedkin’s wife, Sherry Lansing, confirmed to The New York Times that he passed away from pneumonia and heart failure in his Bel Air home.

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Sharon Farrell

The actress died at age 82 in May. The actress' son, Chance Boyer, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter on August 5.

Farrell was best known for her early roles in the films It's Alive, Marlowe and The Reivers. Later in her career, she was known for The Young and the Restless, which she starred on from 1991 to 1997. 

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Mark Margolis

Margolis, best known for playing Hector Salamanca on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, died on August 3 at age 83 following a short illness. “He was one of a kind,” Margolis’ manager, Robert Kolker, told TVLine in a statement. “We won’t see his likes again. He was a treasured client and a lifelong friend. I was lucky to know him.”

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Marc Gilpin

Marc’s sister — Frasier alum Peri Gilpin — confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that the Jaws 2 actor died on July 29 after a long battle with glioblastoma, which is a type of brain cancer. He was 56.

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Adrian Street

The Welsh wrestler's wife, Linda, announced his death at age 82 on July 31. "He'd had a heart problem a while ago which was resolved," she said, noting that Street died on July 24 after brain surgery. "But then he had a stroke earlier this month which resulted in a bleed on the brain. He was recovering from that at home when he developed colitis — a chronic inflammatory bowel disease — which later turned into sepsis. That's what killed him."

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Angus Cloud

The Euphoria star died on July 31 one week after he buried his father. Cloud was 25.

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Paul Reubens

Reubens — beloved for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman — died on July 30 after a years-long private 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,” a statement shared via Reubens’ official Pee-wee Herman Instagram account read. “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.”

The Instagram slideshow also contained an apology from Reubens to his fans for keeping his illness close to the vest.

“Please accept my apology for not going public with what I’ve been facing the past six years,” the statement read. “I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you.”

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Bill Cunningham

Cunningham — who provided the original and singing voice of the Ken doll — died July 15 at age 96. In addition to lending his voice as crooning Ken on Barbie Sings! in 1961, Cunningham released multiple albums of his own and toured with Judy Garland. He was most well-known for founding premier talent agency CESD.

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Randy Meisner

The Eagles announced via the band’s website on July 27 that Meisner died at age 77 due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). "Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band," the statement read.

Meisner was a founding member of the '70s rock band, playing bass and singing on some of their biggest hits.

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Bo Goldman

Goldman, an Oscar-winning screenwriter, died on July 25 at age 90. A cause of death was not specified. Goldman won two Academy Awards over the course of his career for writing the screenplays for 1975's One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest and 1980's Melvin and Howard.

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Sinead O'Connor

The Irish singer, best known for her cover of Prince’s “Nothing Compares 2 U,” passed away at the age of 56. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad,” her family confirmed in a statement to RTE on July 26. “Her family and friends are devastated and have request privacy at this very difficult time.” O’Connor’s cause of death was not immediately revealed.

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Pamela Blair

The actress, who originated the role of Valerie Clark in Broadway's A Chorus Line, died at age 73 on July 23. She passed away in Arizona after battling an undisclosed illness.

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Tony Bennett

The Grammy-winning jazz artist died on July 21 at age 96 following his battle with Alzheimer's.

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Nick Benedict

Days of Our Lives and The Young and the Restless alum died at the age of 76 on July 14 following complications from a recent spinal cord surgery, according to an online obituary.

A Facebook post from the restaurant Jake’s Steakhouse, at which Benedict’s wife, Ginger Loli-Benedict, works as a bartender, also confirmed the actor’s passing. “Nick Benedict’s birthday was July 14. He went to be with the Lord this day. Play pray for Ginger,” they captioned a July 15 post.

Prior to his death, a GoFundMe page was created to assist him and his wife amid his “emergency spinal cord surgery.” It states, “On July 4th [Benedict] was admitted to hospice. He is paralyzed from the neck down. He will need constant care and support.”

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Jane Birkin

The British actress — who was inspiration for the name of the iconic Hermès bag — died on July 16. She was 76. 

"The most French of Britons is gone," the head of the French Ministry of Culture, Rima Abdul Malak said in a tweet at the time. "Jane B was mischief, impertinent elegance, the never-outdated emblem of an entire era, a murmuring voice that remains our idol."

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Joe Campbell

The former NFL defensive end, who won Super Bowl XV with the Oakland Raiders in 1980, was found dead on July 9 after going on a hike in Florida. Campbell’s brother, Patrick Campbell, confirmed the news to the Delaware News Journal several days later.

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Mikala Jones

The professional surfer died at age 44 after a surfing accident, his daughter shared via Instagram on June 9.

"I'm not sure how to put this in words, but my dad got into a bad surfing accident and didn't make it," she wrote on Instagram July 9. "Im happy he was doing what he loved the most."

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Jeffrey Carlson

The All My Children actor died at age 48 on July 9. No cause of death was reported at the time. 

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George Tickner

Tickner, who cofounded the band Journey with Neal Schon, died at the age of 76.

“Journey Junkies, I have some very sad news. George Tickner, Journey’s original rhythm guitarist and songwriting contributor on their first three albums, has passed away,” Schon wrote via Facebook on July 6. "Godspeed, George. … Thank you for the music. We will be paying tribute to you on this page indefinitely.”

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CoCo Lee

Lee, who provided the voice for Mulan in the Mandarin dubbed version of the classic film, died by suicide on July 5. She was 48.

“CoCo had been suffering from depression for a few years but her condition deteriorated drastically over the last few months,” her sister Nancy Lee said via an Instagram statement. “Although, CoCo sought professional help and did her best to fight depression, sadly that demon inside of her took the better of her."

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Alan Arkin

The veteran actor and Oscar winner died at age 89 on June 29, according to a statement from his family. “Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man," his sons, Anthony, Adam and Matthew said. "A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed."

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Ryan Mallett

The former NFL quarterback died after an apparent drowning in Destin, Florida. White Hall High School, where Mallett worked as head coach of varsity football, confirmed his death via Facebook on June 27. 

“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Coach Ryan Mallett. Coach Mallett was a beloved coach and educator,” the post read. “We ask that you remember his family, team, students, fellow coaches, and the White Hall School District staff in your prayers.”

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Julian Sands

The San Fernando Sheriff’s Department confirmed on June 27 that the British actor was dead — and his body had been recovered — after going missing in California’s Mount Baldy area in January. He was 65.

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Nicolas Coster

The All the President's Men actor — best known for his work on daytime dramas including Santa Barbara and All My Children — died at age 89, his daughter announced on June 26.

"It’s with great sadness that I am posting this to my father’s [Face]book page,” Dinneen Coster shared at the time. “Nicolas Coster passed on this evening in a hospital in Florida. Please remember him as a great artist. He was an actor’s actor! I will always be inspired by him and know how lucky I am to have such a great father!! Rest In Peace.”

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Lew Palter

Palter, who was best known for playing a fictionalized version of Isidor Straus in Titanic, died on May 21 at age 94 after a battle with lung cancer. His daughter, Catherine, confirmed the news on June 26. Prior to his death, Palter was an acting teacher at CalArts from 1971 until his retirement in 2013. His students included Cecily Strong, Don Cheadle and Ed Harris.

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Frederic Forrest

The Apocalypse Now actor — who was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in The Rose opposite Bette Midler — died on June 23. He was 86 years old.

Calling her costar "great" and "beloved," Midler announced Forrest's death via Twitter at the time: "Thank you to all of his fans and friends for all their support these last few months. He was a remarkable actor, and a brilliant human being, and I was lucky to have him in my life. He was at peace.”

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Larry 'Mr. Buttermilk Biscuits' Myers Jr.

Myers' cousin Todd Darrell announced via social media on June 17 that the My 600-Lb. Life star died days after turning 49.

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Paxton Whitehead

Whitehead, whose numerous acting credits include a stint on Friends as Rachel's boss at Bloomingdale's, died at age 85 in June.

"He was a cherished client, a luminary in the acting world who is renowned for his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft," his agent told E! News in a statement. "He was admired for his versatility and many roles he performed on stage, TV and film. His contributions to the world of entertainment will be cherished and remembered for years to come."

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Big Pokey

The Texas-based rapper died at age 45 on June 18 after an on-stage collapse, according to a post shared via his Instagram account. "He was well loved by his family, friends and loyal fans. In the coming days, we will release information about his celebration of life and how the public can pay their respects. We ask that you respect his family and their privacy during this difficult time," the message read.

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Glenda Jackson

The two-time Oscar winning actress died at the age of 87 at her home in London on June 15, according to her agent, Lionel Larner. “Today we lost one of the world’s greatest actresses and I have lost a best friend of over 50 years,” Larner added, noting that Jackson’s family was “by her side” when she passed.

Shortly before her death, Jackson had completed filming The Great Escaper with costar Michael Caine.

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John Romita Sr.

The comic book artist known for his work on The Amazing Spider-Man series died on June 12 at age 93. "He is a legend in the art world and it would be my honor to follow in his footsteps. ... He was the greatest man I ever met," his son wrote in an Instagram tribute.

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Treat Williams

Williams’ rep, Barry McPherson, confirmed on June 12 that the Everwood star died after being involved in a motorcycle accident. He was 71. 

“He was killed this afternoon. He was making a left or a right [and] a car cut him off," McPherson told People in a statement at the time. “I’m just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented.”

He continued: “He was an actor’s actor. Filmmakers loved him. He’s been the heart of 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.”

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Mike Batayeh

The Breaking Bad star’s family confirmed to The New York Post on June 12 that Batayeh died in his sleep of a heart attack at the age of 52.

“He will be greatly missed by those who loved him and his great ability to bring laughter and joy to so many,” his family told TMZ in a statement at the time. 

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Pat Cooper

The Seinfeld alum died on June 6 at the age of 93, his wife, Emily Connor, confirmed.

Cooper was an iconic stand-up comedian, who had featured roles in the likes of Analyze This and the original Charlie’s Angels.

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Pat Robertson

The 700 Club personality, who pioneered the Christian Broadcasting Network, died in June at the age of 93. CBN confirmed his passing via a statement but did not disclose a cause of death.

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Paul Eckstein

The Godfather of Harlem creator unexpectedly died in his sleep on June 6, according to a statement given to Deadline.

“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of our brilliant colleague, Paul Eckstein,” MGM+ and ABC Signature, who produced the Godfather of Harlem, said. “Working on the series was a labor of love for Paul, who based the show in part on his family’s personal history. Paul was passionate, a creative force, known for his kindness, and generosity. He was a mentor and friend to many, and he will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and his longtime collaborator Chris Brancato.”

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The Iron Sheik

Pro wrestler Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, better known by his ring name "The Iron Sheik," died at age 81 in June. The announcement was made via his Twitter profile, which has more than 640,000 followers.

"It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of The Iron Sheik, but we also take solace in knowing that he departed this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations to come," the Twitter statement read. The post did not include any details regarding the cause of the WWE Hall of Famer's death.

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Anna Shay

The Bling Empire star unexpectedly died at age 62 following a stroke, her family shared in a statement on June 5.

“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 late reality star's family told People. “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.”

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Barry Newman

The actor, known for his work in 1971's The Vanishing Point and on the NBC series Petrocelli, died of natural causes at age 92. His wife, Angela, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter on June 4.

"[He] was a rock for so many people, whose spirit he lifted and allowed to be free," she told the outlet.

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Sergio Calderón

Calderón died on May 31 at age 77. The Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End actor, who is also known for his roles in Men in Black and The Ruins, was surrounded by family when he passed, according to Deadline. 

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John Beasley

The Soul Man star’s son Tyrone Beasley confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that his father died at age 79 in a hospital in Omaha, Nebraska, on Tuesday, May 30. He had been undergoing tests on his liver before taking an unexpected turn for the worse, according to the outlet. 

“Man ... you know this is a part of life ...  but that doesn't make it any easier,” John’s other son Michael Beasley wrote via Facebook. “I lost my best friend today. They say you shouldn't ever meet your heroes because they don't turn out to be who you thought they were. That is so wrong. My hero was my father. Thank you for everything. I hope I made you proud. Love you more.” 

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Milt Larsen

Hollywood’s Magic Castle cofounder died on May 28 at age 92. Larsen, who was also an actor, producer and TV writer, passed away in his sleep at his Hollywood home, per TMZ.

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George Maharis

The Fantasy Island alum died on May 25 at age 94. "George is well known for his stardom in Route 66, stage productions, singing, artist, and above all a great guy would do anything for anyone,” Maharis’ longtime friend and caretaker, Marc Bahan, wrote via Facebook at the time. “My dear friend, you’ll be terribly missed.”

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Bill Lee

Spike Lee's father, a musician who composed the soundtracks of many of his son's films — including School Daze and Do the Right Thing — died at 94, the filmmaker confirmed on May 25.

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Tina Turner

After battling a “long illness,” the eight-time Grammy winner died peacefully at the age of 83 in her Switzerland home on May 24, according to a statement from her rep. Turner’s death was also announced via the “Proud Mary” singer’s Instagram account that same day.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner. With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow,” read the tribute alongside a black-and-white photo of the iconic artists. “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.”

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Chas Newby

The musician, who formerly played bass for The Beatles during the group’s early days, died at the age of 81 on May 23. “It’s with great sadness to hear about the passing of Chas Newby,” the Cavern City Liverpool music venue wrote in a Facebook statement. “Chas stepped in for The Beatles for a few dates when Stuart Sutcliffe stayed in Hamburg and latterly he played for The Quarrymen.”

The statement went on to note that he was the “first left-handed bass guitarist” for the British rock band. “RIP Chas Newby thoughts and well wishes from everybody at The Cavern Club,” the message concluded.