Stars We've Lost in 2021

The five-time Emmy Award-winning actress died on Dec. 31 at her home in Los Angeles. She was 99 years old. The beloved actress had a career that spanned over eight decades and earned her the Guinness World Record for “Longest TV Career for an Entertainer (Female).” She’s best known for her celebrated roles on some of TV’s most iconic and beloved series including The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Password, The Golden Girls, Hot in Cleveland and many more. White was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, and after decades on TV, the Daytime Emmys honored White with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015. 

The former Mickey Mouse Club member died on Christmas morning after she suffered a cardiac arrest. She was 46. Hale's bandmates and All New Mickey Mouse Club alumni Chasen Hampton and Deedee Magno Hall shared the devastating news on their Instagrams.

"It is with the heaviest of broken hearts that we share the sad news of the passing of our beloved sister, Tiffini Talia Hale," their post began. "Early this month, she suffered a cardiac arrest that resulted in her being left in a coma. After many prayers and with her family by her side, our dearest Tiff took her last breath Christmas morning. She is now resting peacefully."

The legendary sportscaster and football coach died on Dec. 28. He was 85. Madden served as the head coach for the Oakland Raiders for 10 seasons, and led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 1977. After retiring, Madden became a CBS color commentator in 1979 and rose to broadcasting legend status over the course of his TV career until he retired from sportscasting in 2009. He also found success as the front man for the wildly popular sports video game franchise, Madden NFL, which launched in 1988. Madden was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006 for his accomplishments as a coach. He is survived by his wife, Virginia, and two his sons, Joseph and Michael.

The critically acclaimed director passed away suddenly on Dec. 26, at his cabin outside of Quebec City, Canada. He was 58. No cause of death was immediately known. “Jean-Marc stood for creativity, authenticity and trying things differently. He was a  true artist and a generous, loving guy," Vallée's producing partner, Nathan Ross, told ET. "Everyone who worked with him couldn’t help but see the talent and vision he possessed. He was a friend, creative partner and an older brother to me. The maestro will sorely be missed but it comforts knowing his beautiful style and impactful work he shared with the world will live on.” Vallée's breakout feature film was C.R.A.Z.Y., which he wrote and directed. Vallée got his start directing music videos and his breakthrough film success came with 2013’s Dallas Buyers Club starring Matthew McConaughey and Jared Leto, which won three Oscars and earned him a nomination for film editing. He followed that up the next year with Wild, starring Reese Witherspoon. Vallée also made a name for himself in television, directing the hits series Big Little Lies and Sharp Objects, the former of which earned him an Emmy for both directing and for Outstanding Limited Series. Vallée is survived by his sons, Alex and Émile, and siblings Marie-Josée Vallée, Stéphanie Tousignant and Gérald Vallée.

The South African cleric and anti-apartheid activist died at the Oasis Frail Care Centre in Cape Town, South Africa, on Dec. 26. He was 90. "Tutu was a living embodiment of faith in action, speaking boldly against racism, injustice, corruption, and oppression, not just in apartheid South Africa but wherever in the world he saw wrongdoing, especially when it impacted the most vulnerable and voiceless in society," a statement from the Desmond & Leah Legacy Foundation shared, in confirming the news of his passing. "While Tutu was first and always an Anglican priest who made no secret of his deep dependence on the inner life of disciplined prayer, his faith burst the confines of denomination and religion, joyfully embracing all who shared his passion for justice and love. People of all faiths and no faith together christened him fondly as simply ‘The Arch.'" Tutu spent six decades actively pushing for the end of apartheid in his native of South Africa. Shortly after the end of apartheid in 1990, the then President, Nelson Mandela appointed Tutu as the chair of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Throughout his life he was honored with many prestigious accolades. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama and one of his highest honors came when he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984. Tutu is survived by his wife Nomalizo Leah Tutu, siblings Trevor Thamsanqa Tutu, Naomi Nontombi Tutu, Theresa Thandeka Tutu, Mpho Tutu van Furth and their families.

The groundbreaking American writer and journalist died at her home in Manhattan on Dec. 23, after a battle with Parkinson's disease. She was 87. Didion began her career in the '60s, when she won a Vogue magazine essay contest. The University of California, Berkeley graduate went on to publish five novels and six screenplays. She won the National Book Award for Nonfiction in 2005 and was a finalist for both the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Pulitzer Prize for Biography/Autobiography for her book, The Year of Magical Thinking. Didion was also known for covering the Hollywood lifestyle, as well as her political writing. She was the subject of a 2017 Netflix documentary, Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold, about her life and work. Most recently, she published Let Me Tell You What I Mean, a collection of 12 essays she wrote between 1968 and 2000.

The British actor, who was best known for his parts in James Bond's For Your Eyes Only (1981) and Lawrence of Arabia (1962), died on Dec. 11. He was 92 years old. The Times reported that a he died after a "short illness bravely borne" and that at his request, there will be no funeral. Aside from his film work, Hedley was featured in multiple British television shows, including The World of Tim Frazer, The Saint, Gideon's Way, Softly, Softly, Dixon of Dock Green, The Buccaneers and Who Pays the Ferryman? to name a few.

 

The British actress, who was best known for starring in the 1968 musical film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang with Dick Van Dyke, died on Dec. 19. She was 91 years old. Her nephew, Toby Howes, confirmed her death, tweeting, "I can also confirm the passing of my beloved Aunty Sally Ann Howes who died peacefully in her sleep yesterday. My brother & I thought Sally Ann might hold on until the Christmas screening of 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' as this would have greatly appealed to her mischievous side." Aside from her numerous film and TV credits, Howes had an impressive career in theater, starring in My Fair Lady and landing a part in Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music at the New York City Opera in 1990. Her career spanned over six decades.

 

The rapper, best known for tracks like "Talk to Me" and "Risky," died on Dec. 18, after being stabbed backstage at the Once Upon a Time in L.A. concert, where he was set to perform. He was 28. Scott Jawson, a publicist for Drakeo, confirmed the tragic news to ET on Dec. 19. According to the L.A. Fire Department, paramedics responded to reports of stabbing at the stadium in Exposition Park around 8:40 p.m. The man, later identified as the L.A. based rapper, was transported to the hospital where he was reported to be in critical condition. Drakeo, whose real name is Darrell Caldwell, later died from his injuries, according to law enforcement sources. His death was met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from other artists include Drake, Saweetie, Snoop Dogg and many others.

The famed entertainment manager and producer died at his home in Brentwood, California, on Dec. 14. He was 85. Throughout his long career, Kragen was a personal manager and close friend to some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Kenny Rogers, Lionel Richie, Olivia Newton-John, Burt Reynolds, The Bee Gees, Trisha Yearwood, The Smothers Brothers and many others. Kragen also worked as a producer on many film and TV projects including the legendary Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, as well as Kenny Rogers' Gambler films. Kragen was also a devoted humanitarian with ambitious aspirations for helping the world through entertainment. He was responsible for organizing and securing talent for the iconic We Are the World album in 1985, and for organizing the famous Hands Across America charity fundraising event in 1986. For his efforts, Kragen was awarded the United Nation’s Peace Medal, becoming one of only a select few private individuals to be awarded the prestigious honor.

The bestselling horror author died due to complications from a stroke on Dec. 11. She was 80. Rice's son, Christopher, confirmed the sad news in a post shared to Facebook. Rice was best known for her book series The Vampire Chronicles whose first installment, the 1976 novel Interview With the Vampire, was turned into the 1994 hit film of the same name, starring Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt and Kirsten Dunst. In June, AMC announced that the film was getting the TV treatment and is going to be turned into a TV series for its streaming service, AMC+. The upcoming Interview With the Vampire series, which will consist of an eight-episode first season, is set to premiere in 2022. Rice went on to pen several more volumes in The Vampire Chronicles, including the 13th and last book of the series, Blood Communion: A Tale of Prince Lestat, which was released in 2018. Rice is also known for the books The Feast of All Saints -- which was adapted into a 2001 Showtime miniseries -- and Cry to Heaven, plus three erotic novels.

The longtime singer/guitarist of The Monkees died on Dec. 10. He was 78. The Monkees -- comprised of Nesmith, Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Micky Dolenz -- formed in 1965 specifically for a TV audience. Their formation was a counter to The Beatles' popular musical comedies, A Hard Day's Night and Help! The Monkees would eventually hit the air in 1966 on NBC, and it was an instant success. The show lasted only two seasons but, in that short time, it earned critical acclaim after scoring an Emmy in 1967 for Outstanding Comedy Series. The Monkees' TV success laid the groundwork to their ultimate stardom on the radio. The Monkees would later split in 1971. The group reunited in 2012 after Jones died. The band had previously reunited, but not with Nesmith in the fold. Tork died in 2019. The band was forced to postpone the last four dates of their 2018 tour after Nesmith underwent quadruple bypass heart surgery. Nesmith's final show was on Nov. 14. Nesmith and Dolenz, now the lone surviving member, appeared together at the Greek Theatre in L.A. They were slated to perform on a cruise in early 2022, which was supposed to mark their true and final performance together. Nesmith, who served two years in the Air Force, is survived by his three sons and a daughter.

The former Senate majority leader and former Republican presidential candidate died in his sleep on the morning of Dec. 5. He was 98. Dole had been diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in February. "It is with heavy hearts we announce that Senator Robert Joseph Dole died early this morning in his sleep. At his death, at age 98, he had served the United States of America faithfully for 79 years," the Elizabeth Dole Foundation announced on Twitter. When Dole became the Republican presidential nominee in 1996, it was the high point of more than a half-century in the national spotlight as a congressman, senator, vice-presidential candidate, two runs for the presidency, national chair of the Republican Party and longtime leader of Senate Republicans. Dole was the last of the presidential candidates who served in World War II, and in the '96 campaign he offered himself as a link to the so-called Greatest Generation and another, better time. Dole received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1997 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 2018 for his lifelong dedication to public service.

The celebrated film and TV producer died on Dec. 4 after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 67. The widow of the late iconic producer Dino De Laurentiis, Martha was a major producing force throughout her own career, with credits including Unforgettable, Breakdown, U-571, The Last Legion, Hannibal, Red Dragon, Hannibal Rising and the Hannibal TV series. Her most recent credit comes as an executive producer on the forthcoming remark of Stephen King's Firestarter, which is currently in post-production.

The artistic director for Louis Vuitton and Off-White founder died after a private two-year battle with cancer on Nov. 28. He was 41. Abloh's family revealed that the designer was battling a "rare, aggressive" form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. The family noted that Abloh chose to keep his diagnosis private while he continued his work in the world of fashion. Abloh founded the street wear label, Off-White, and served as Kanye West’s longtime creative director before becoming Louis Vuitton's first Black artistic director in 2018, and one of the few Black designers at the helm of the French design house.

The Broadway legend behind shows like Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, Company and more died on Nov. 26. He was 91. Sondheim's lawyer and friend, F. Richard Pappas, announced the death to the New York Times, noting that Sondheim died early in the morning at his home in Roxbury, Connecticut. One of the most lauded and central figures in 20th century American theater, Sondheim, who was born in New York City in 1930, was the composer and lyricist best known for Broadway hits A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (1962), Company (1970), Follies (1971), A Little Night Music (1973), Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (1979), Sunday in the Park with George (1984), and Into the Woods (1987). He also wrote the lyrics for West Side Story (1957) and Gypsy (1959). Sondheim was awarded nine Tony Awards (including a Lifetime Achievement Tony in 2008), an Academy Award, eight GRAMMY Awards, a Pulitzer Prize, a Laurence Olivier Award, and a 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom. He is survived by his husband, Jeffrey Romley, and a half brother, Walter Sondheim.

The actor, who was best known for his role of Howard Epps on Bones, died on Nov. 13. He was 41. "We are truly devastated at the loss of our beloved Heath Freeman. A brilliant human being with an intense and soulful spirit, he leaves us with an indelible imprint in our hearts," Freeman's team told ET in a statement. "His life was filled with deep loyalty, affection, and generosity towards his family and friends, and an extraordinary zest for life." Freeman's first acting credit came in 2001 on ER. Throughout his career, he appeared on shows including NCIS, Without a Trace and Raising the Bar. Freeman was most recently seen in the film The Outlaw Johnny Black, which was released on Nov. 3. He was next set to appear in Devil's Fruit and Terror on the Prairie.

The drummer and co-founder of The Moody Blues died at age 80, the band's frontman, Justin Hayward, confirmed on Nov. 11. 

Bassist John Lodge also paid homage to Edge on the band's Facebook page, and praised his spoken word talents. "To me he was the White Eagle of the North with his beautiful poetry," he said. "His friendship, his love of life and his 'unique' style of drumming that was the engine room of the Moody Blues. ...I will miss you Graeme."

The groundbreaking political commentator and comedian died on Oct. 26, at his home in Mill Valley, California. He was 94. Sahl is widely regarded as one of the originators of modern stand-up comedy, and influenced many generations of comedy icons with his politically charged social commentary that took aim at government and authority figures. Sahl also broke ground when it came to live events and recordings. He was the first stand-up to record a comedy album, the first comedian to ever win a GRAMMY, and was the first comic to ever appear on the cover of Time magazine.

The actor, best known for his role on Friends, died on Oct 24. He was 59. The actor died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles after a battle with stage 4 prostate cancer, his rep confirmed in a statement to ET. "Michael loved live music, cheering on his Clemson Tigers, and would often find himself in fun and unplanned adventures. If you met him once you made a friend for life," the statement shared. Tyler is best known for his role as Gunther on Friends, a manager at Central Perk coffee shop where the show's titular friends spend most of their time when not in their apartments. He appeared in 150 episodes of the beloved sitcom. Tyler was first diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018, and went on the Today show this past June to open up about his diagnosis and to encourage others to get tested as early and regularly as possible. He is survived by his wife, Jennifer Carno.

The actor, best known for his role on the HBO prison drama Oz, died on Oct. 10, after a lengthy battle with cancer. Granville's first acting role came playing Detective Jeff Westby on the police procedural Homicide: Life of the Street. He was later cast in his most famous role, playing Zahir Arif on Oz from 1997 to 2003. His final screen role came in 2011 in the indie drama Magic City Memoirs. After appearing to first publicly announce his cancer diagnosis in December, several of his famous friends and former TV co-stars launched a GoFundMe Page in February to help support him financially through his cancer battle. Several friends, including Dean Winters, Kirk Acevedo, and Oz showrunner Tom Fontana, took to Instagram to pay tribute to him after his death.

 

The actor and comedian's rep confirmed the news of his death to ET on Sept. 20 "with great sadness." Johnson was 55. "He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold," Johnson's rep said in part in a statement to ET. "We will be in constant prayer for his entire family including his wife Lexis, 3 children, brother Edward 'Peanut' Smith, sister Sheila, and lifetime manager and friend Mike D." Johnson's first film came in 1990, when he landed the role of E.Z.E. in House Party. Perhaps his best-known project, the role of Ezal in Friday, followed three years later. Throughout his career, Johnson appeared on TV shows including Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show, as well as in movies including Panther and How to Be a Player. Prior to his death, he had completed filming on a TV movie, The Way Men Think, and was next set to appear in two films, I Want It All and Caught Up In.

The Saturday Night Live alum died on Sept. 14, his manager confirmed to ET. Macdonald's death came after a nine-year, private battle with cancer, his management firm, Brillstein Entertainment, told Deadline. Lori Jo Hoekstra, Macdonald's longtime producing partner and friend, was with the comedian when he died, and told the outlet that, though Macdonald had been battling cancer for nearly a decade, he was determined to keep his health struggles private, and away from his family, friends and fans. "He was most proud of his comedy," Hoekstra said. "He never wanted the diagnosis to affect the way the audience or any of his loved ones saw him. Norm was a pure comic. He once wrote that 'a joke should catch someone by surprise, it should never pander.' He certainly never pandered. Norm will be missed terribly." 



The Canadian-born Macdonald began his career as a writer on Roseanne, a job he held from 1992 to 1993. He went on to appear on SNL from 1993 to 1998. He anchored the show's "Weekend Update" segment for three seasons. Following his SNL stint, Macdonald led his own sitcom, The Norm Show, for three years. Throughout his career, Macdonald appeared in films including Billy Madison, Funny People and Grown Ups, and on TV series like Sunnyside, Girlboss and The Middle. He is survived by his 28-year-old son, Dylan Macdonald.

The celebrated actor, best known for his roles on The Wire and Boardwalk Empire, died on Sept. 6. He was 54. Williams' rep confirmed the tragic news in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, sharing, "It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Emmy nominated actor Michael Kenneth Williams. They ask for your privacy while grieving this unsurmountable loss." Williams was found dead in the living room of his Brooklyn apartment by his nephew. Drug paraphernalia was also found in Williams' apartment, and the NYPD told the Associated Press that his death is being investigated as a possible drug overdose. The five-time Emmy-nominated actor is currently nominated for a 2021 Emmy Award for Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for playing Montrose Freeman on HBO's Lovecraft Country. Williams became famous for his role as Omar Little on the cult-classic TV series The Wire, and as Chalky White on Boardwalk Empire. Additional acting credits include When They See Us, Hap and Leonard, The Night Of, Community, CSI, Law & Order, Walk This Way, Ghostbusters and Triple 9, among many others.

The Girls Aloud singer died after a battle with breast cancer, her mom shared on her Instagram on Sept. 5. She was 39. "It’s with deep heartbreak that today I’m sharing the news that my beautiful daughter Sarah has sadly passed away," Harding's mom, Marie, wrote in part. "Many of you will know of Sarah’s battle with cancer and that she fought so strongly from her diagnosis until her last day. She slipped away peacefully this morning." 

Harding rose to fame as part of Girls Aloud, winning Popstars: The Rivals in 2002 alongside Cheryl Cole, Nicola Roberts, Nadine Coyle and Kimberley Walsh. She first revealed she had been diagnosed with cancer in August 2020, sharing in her memoir, Hear Me Out, that she thought the strap of her guitar had "probably irritated an area around my breast." The Celebrity Big Brother alum ended up undergoing chemotherapy and a mastectomy. 

The legendary Today show weatherman has died. He was 87. Al Roker confirmed Scott's death on Sept. 4 by paying tribute to his former Today colleague on his Instagram. Roker shared a slideshow filled with photos of him and his "second dad." "We lost a beloved member of our @todayshow family this morning. Willard Scott passed peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by family, including his daughters Sally and Mary and his lovely wife, Paris," Roker wrote. "He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit. Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him."

Scott began his career in broadcast in the 1950s after graduating from American University in Washington. In 1955 he hosted "Joy Boys" radio on the NBC station WRC until it ended in 1974. In the '60s he also hosted children's TV shows, playing a range of characters including Bozo the Clown, as well as was the first person to play Ronald McDonald. Scott then joined Today in 1980 and was best known for wishing happy birthday to viewers turning 100. He delighted fans by doing forecasts on the road and dressing up for special events. The beloved TV personality passed his weatherman duties over to Roker in the '90s. In 1985, President Ronald Reagan awarded Scott a Private Sector Award for Public Service. After a 35-year career on Today and 65 years with NBC, Scott announced his retirement in December 2015.

The beloved Bollywood actor died after suffering from a heart attack in Mumbai, the BBC reported. He was 40. While his doctor clarified to the BBC that his exact cause of death was not yet known, the doctor confirmed that Shukla was already dead from the heart attack by the time he was transported to the hospital on Sept. 2. Shukla starred in a number of hit TV shows and Bollywood films, making his television debut with Babul Ka Aangann Chootey Na in 2008. In 2014, he stepped onto the Bollywood scene with Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania. He also dabbled in the world of reality television, winning the 13th season of the popular Indian reality TV show Bigg Boss, a Big Brother spinoff, in 2019 and Khataron ke Khiladi, India's version of Fear Factor. He later hosted a few of his own shows, including Savdhaan India and India's Got Talent.

Constantine, known for his role as Gus in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, has died. He was 94. The beloved actor died on August 31 of natural causes, Constantine's agent confirmed the news to multiple outlets. The Nia Vardalos-written romantic comedy -- which is the highest-grossing rom-com of all time -- was released in 2002, with Constantine making audiences laugh and smile as the Portokalos patriarch. He reprised his role as the Windex-toting father in the sequel, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, as well as the short-lived CBS series, My Big Fat Greek Life. With over 180 credits to his name, Constantine began his acting career in New York stages in the mid-1950s. He starred as Seymour Kaufman in Room 22 from 1969 until 1974. The role earned him a Best Supporting Actor Emmy win in 1970.

The beloved, seven-time Emmy-winning actor, best known for his role on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, died surrounded by family at his home in Tarzana, California, on Aug. 29. He was 91. Asner was a former president of the Screen Actors Guild who enjoyed a career of more than 60 years. Asner made his TV debut in the 1957 Emmy-winning TV series Studio One in Hollywood in 1957. From there, he went on to make his Broadway debut in the 1960 production of Face of a Hero alongside Jack Lemmon. His early acting credits including appearing on The Outer Limits, The Alfred Hitchock Hour, The Eleventh Hour, The Fugitive, Gunsmoke, and The Untouchables, before he scored the coveted multi-Emmy winning role as Lou Grant on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which debuted in 1970. After seven seasons and 29 Primetime Emmys, The Mary Tyler Moore show came to an end in 1977. The series produced the spin-offs, Phyllis, starring Cloris Leachman, Rhoda, starring Valerie Harper, and Lou Grant, starring Asner. His acting career continued into the final years of his life, with iconic roles in TV shows and films, including Elf, Up, The Practice, Cobra Kai, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and American Dad! among his hundreds of acting credits.

The child star known for his role in Our Idiot Brother was been found dead after being reported missing from Millersville University. He was 19. Millersville University President Daniel A. Wubah confirmed Mindler's death in a statement released on Aug. 28, saying, "It is with a grieving heart that I let you know of the death of 19-year-old Matthew Mindler from Hellertown, Pennsylvania, a first-year student at Millersville University. Our thoughts of comfort and peace are with his friends and family during this difficult time. A search had been underway for Matthew since Thursday, after he was reported missing." Mindler's first acting credit was in a 2009 episode of As the World Turns. He also had a role in Bereavement, appeared on Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Chad: An American Boy and the short film Frequency. He played Emily Mortimer and Steve Coogan's son in the 2011 comedy-drama Our Idiot Brother. His last acting credit was in 2016.

The celebrated Rolling Stones drummer died on Aug. 24, in a hospital in London, England, surrounded by his family. He was 80. "It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Charlie Watts," a statement from his spokesperson read. "Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also as a member of The Rolling Stones one of the greatest drummers of his generation." Watts had been a member of the Rolling Stones since 1963, when he joined Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Brian Jones. He had dealt with health issues in the past. He battled throat cancer in 2004, and the cancer had gone into remission. On Aug. 5, he dropped out of the resumption of the Rolling Stones' No Filter Tour due to rehabilitation from an unspecified surgery and was replaced by Steve Jordan. He is survived by his wife, Shirley, daughter Seraphina and his granddaughter, Charlotte.

 

The former NHL player died on Aug. 23. He was 31. The cause of death has not yet been made public. According to ESPN, Hayes is survived by his wife, Kristen, and two sons. Hayes was selected in the second round with the 60th pick in the 2008 NHL Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Massachusetts native tallied 109 points (54 goals and 55 assists) in his NHL career, which included time with the Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks, Florida Panthers and New Jersey Devils. His best season came with the Panthers in 2014-15, when he scored 19 goals in 72 games. Hayes last played hockey during the 2018-19 season for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, which are the AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Before reaching the NHL, Hayes was a standout at Boston College. In the 2009-10 season as a sophomore, he scored 13 goals, recorded 22 assists and helped the team win a national championship. That Boston College team won the Frozen Four Final against Wisconsin.

The actor, who was best known for roles on Dynasty and All My Children, died on Aug. 23, ET confirmed. He was 76. Nader died at his home in Northern California from an untreatable form of cancer, with his wife, Jodi Lister, and his rescue dog, Storm, by his side. Lister confirmed Nader's death in a statement to Michael Fairman TV, saying, "With heavy heart, I’m sharing the news of the passing of my beloved, Michael. We had 18 wonderful years together with the many dogs we fostered and adopted." Nader's career began in the 1960s, with roles in movies including Beach Party and How to Stuff a Wild Bikini. He went on to appear on TV shows including Gidget, As the World Turns and Magnum, P.I. He next landed a recurring role on Bare Essence, which was followed by lengthy stints on Dynasty and All My Children, and most recently appeared on Prospect Park's online revival of All My Children in 2013. Nader is survived by Lister, and his daughter, Lindsay Nader.

The musician, the last surviving member of the Everly Brothers, died at his home in Nashville on Aug. 21, according to multiple reports. He was 84. "Don lived by what he felt in his heart," Everly's family said in a statement to ET. "Don expressed his appreciation for the ability to live his dreams ... living in love with his soulmate and wife, Adela, and sharing the music that made him an Everly Brother. Don always expressed how grateful he was for his fans. Everly and his younger brother Phil, who died in 2014 at age 74, were rock n' roll pioneers. Their harmonies and country roots set them apart, and in 1986, they were one of the first artists to be inaugurated in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, alongside Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Buddy Holly and Jerry Lee Lewis. Everly is survived by his mother, Margaret; his wife, Adela; his son, Edan; and his daughters Venetia, Stacy and Erin. 

The "I Love" singer died at his Franklin, Tennessee, home on Friday, Aug. 20, his son Dean Hall confirmed the news on social media.

"With great sadness, my father, Tom T. Hall, died this morning at his home in Franklin, Tennessee. Our family asks for privacy during this difficult time," Dean wrote in Twitter.

Dubbed "The Storyteller" by Country Music Hall of Fame member Tex Ritter for "writing songs distinguished by their narrative quality, their rich detail and their keen insight into the beauty of everyday life," per Country Music Association, who also confirmed his death.

The martial arts legend and star of Kill Bill has died. He was 82. The actor and martial artist died in mid-August from complications from COVID-19, ET confirmed. Chiba's career in film and television began in the 1960s and spanned five decades. Chiba has appeared in countless Japanese films and several popular American movies, such as Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill: Volume 1 in which he played Hattori Hanzo, a retired swordsman and owner of a sushi restaurant who crafts a blade for Uma Thurman’s character. He also had roles in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, The Bullet Train and more. In many of his projects, he showcased his expert martial arts skills, and even went on to choreograph fight scenes later in his career. Born Sadaho Maeda in Fukuoka, Japan, on Jan. 22, 1939, Chiba  began learning martial arts while at Nippon Sport Science University in 1957 and earned a first-degree black belt. In 1984, he received a fourth-degree black belt. He also held black belts in ninjutsu, shorinji kempo, judo, kendo and goju-ryu karate.

The screen star of Hollywood's Golden Age died in Burbank, California, on Aug. 7, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 95. Withers' film career began in the early 1930s, with her first big break coming in 1934's Bright Eyes, when she was just 8 years old, starring opposite Shirley Temple. The following year -- after signing a seven-year contract with Fox Films -- Withers landed her first starring role in Ginger, and appeared in three to five movies every year as part of her contract throughout the rest of the decade. She retired early at the age of 21, in 1947, and later returned to acting in 1956, when she appeared in Giant, opposite James Dean. Following Giant, Withers returned to acting regularly, landing many roles in movies and on TV. One of her most enduring parts came when she was cast as Josephine the Plumber in a popular series of Comet Cleaner commercials in 1960, the same year she received her own star on the Walk of Fame. She is survived by four children from her two marriages.

The celebrated comic, and co-founder of the Whitest Kids U Know sketch group, died following an accident at his home on Aug. 6. He was 41. In 1999, Moore started Whitest Kids U Know with Zach Cregger and Sam Brown at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Timmy Williams and Darren Trumeter later joined the group. From 2007 to 2011, the TV program of the same name ran for five seasons on IFC, and the group is still active, posting regularly on Twitch and YouTube. Moore is survived by his wife, Aimee Carlson, and his son, August.

The celebrated TV star died on Aug. 7, after battling cancer for almost four years. She was 70. Post started her acting career in the late '70s with more than 75 credits to her name. She is best known for her recurring role as Terri Michaels in the series The Fall Guy, and for her role as Christine Sullivan on the series Night Court. She played Mary's mom in the hit 1998 comedy There's Something About Mary alongside Cameron Diaz and had a recurring role on Chicago P.D. as Barbara "Bunny" Fletcher. Post is survived by her husband, Michael A. Ross, daughters, Kate Armstrong Ross and Daisy Schoenborn, and her 5-month-old granddaughter.

The veteran soap opera star died on July 29, at his home in Idaho, while filming a scene for his upcoming movie, Treasure Valley. He was 60. Pickett's rep, Marc Chancer, confirmed the news to ET on Sunday, sharing, "Jay was shooting a film that he wrote and was producing and collapsed on set and couldn’t be revived. I’m totally in shock and devastated. He was not only a client, but he was also a close personal friend. Possibly one of the nicest humans it’s ever been my privilege to know." 

Pickett began his screen acting career in the late 1980s, with small roles on numerous TV shows and movies. He entered the world of soap operas in 1991, with a recurring role on Days of Our Lives that lasted one year. Pickett joined the cast of Port Charles as Frank Scanlon in its premiere in 1997, and stayed on the show for 762 episodes until its cancellation in 2003. He then joined the cast of General Hospital in 2006 as Det. David Harper, where he appeared until 2008. He is survived by his wife of nearly 35 years, Elena, as well as their three children.

Mike Howe, the lead singer for the heavy metal band Metal Church, died on July 26. He was 55. The band's official Facebook page made the announcement, revealing that the "true legend of heavy metal music" passed away at his home in California, on Monday morning. "It is with our deepest regrets that we must announce the passing of our brother, our friend and true legend of heavy metal music. Mike Howe passed away this morning at his home in California," the announcement read. "We are devastated and at a loss for words. Please respect our privacy and the Howe family’s privacy during this most difficult time." Led by Kurdt Vanderhoof, Metal Church was formed in 1980 and has been considered a major influence in the world of  thrash metal. The band has released 12 studio albums and counted over 20 members, past and present. Howe first joined the band in 1988, replacing then-singer David Wayne. Howe stepped away from the band in 1996, effectively breaking up the group. He later rejoined the band in 2015, and they went on to put out two new full-length albums and a slew of new tracks, B-sides and covers.

The legendary guitarist, best known for playing in the glam metal group Cinderella, died on July 14. He was 58. Bandmates Tom Keifer, Eric Brittingham and Fred Coury paid tribute to LaBar in a statement, sharing, "Heavy hearts cannot begin to describe the feeling of losing our brother Jeff. The bond between us over decades of creating music and touring the world is something that we as a band uniquely shared. Those memories with Jeff will be forever alive in our hearts. It’s unimaginable that one of our band brothers has left us... Jeff’s memory and music will be with us forever." LaBar joined Cinderella in 1985 (replacing original guitarist Michael Schermick), and played with the band until they went on hiatus in 1995. He later returned to tour with the group -- best known for hits like "Nobody’s Fool" and "Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone)" -- for multiple reunions over the next two decades. LaBar released his debut solo album, One for the Road, in 2014. A cause of death has yet to be released. LaBar is survived by his wife, Debinique, and his son, Sebastian.

The WWE Hall of Famer, known by the stage name Mr. Wonderful, died on July 12. He was 71. His son, Travis Orndorff, shared the news on Instagram, writing, "It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father, Paul Parlette Orndorff Jr. . He is better known as “Mr. #1derful” Paul Orndorff. Most of you will remember him for his physique. Many will remember his intensity. But if I could only get you to understand and see his heart. He will always be Pop, Paw Paw, and Daddy at home. And as much as many of you hated him as a wrestler, he absolutely loved you for it. He was an amazing father that showed me more love than I ever deserved. I love you Daddy." Orndorff began his wrestling career in the 1970s, and went on to sign with the WWF in 1983, where he was eventually managed by Roddy Piper and given the "Mr. Wonderful" nickname. Orndorff was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.

The veteran TV actor died on July 11, due to cardiac arrest and a battle with cancer. He was 75. Robinson's career lasted over 50 years with roles both on television and on stage. His first film role came in Jack Nicholson's 1971 directorial debut, Drive, He Said. The same year, Robinson was cast in his first TV role, with a part on Owen Marshall, Counselor at Law. His most iconic role came in 1984, playing the court clerk Mac Robinson in the second season of the iconic sitcom Night Court. It was a part he played for 180 episodes, throughout the show's 9 season run. Robinson is survived by his wife, Dolorita, and his children -- Luca, Charlie, Christian, and Byron -- as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The accomplished filmmaker, actor, writer, director and the father of Robert Downey Jr., died on July 7, after a years-long battle with Parkinson's disease. He was 85. Downey Jr. confirmed via Instagram that his father died in his sleep at his home in New York City. "RIP Bob D. Sr. 1936-2021. Last night, dad passed peacefully in his sleep after years of enduring the ravages of Parkinson's," his post read. "He was a true maverick filmmaker, and remained remarkably optimistic throughout. According to my stepmoms [Rosemary Rogers-Downey's] calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years. Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint and our thoughts and prayers are with you." Downey Sr. is best known for writing and directing the underground film Putney Swope and Greaser's Palace. He also appeared in movies like Boogie Nights, Magnolia and To Live and Die in L.A. The most recent film he worked on was 2011's Tower Heist. In addition to his wife and son, Downey Sr. is also survived by his daughter, Allyson.

The actress -- well-loved for her leading role as matriarch Jerri Peterson on Robert Townsend's WB sitcom The Parent ‘Hood and for her part in Netflix's When They See Us -- died on July 6. She was 64. A rep for Douglas confirmed the news to ET, saying, "The industry has lost a truly talented artist with the passing of Suzzanne Douglas. She touched everyone who knew her and was lovely in every sense of the word. The family appreciates your support and asks for their privacy during this difficult time." The actress earned a NAACP Image Award for her role in Tap. The rest of her credits include playing Cissy Houston, mother of Whitney Houston, in the 2015 biopic Whitney, School of Rock, the 1990 Fox series Against the Law, The Cosby Show, Touched By An Angel, The Parkers, and The Good Wife. Most recently, the actress played Grace Cuffee in Ava Duvernay's 2019 Netflix miniseries, When They See Us. The late actress is survived by her neuro-radiologist husband of 32 years, Roy Jonathan Cobb, and their daughter, Jordan.

 

The veteran filmmaker and TV director died on July 5. He was 91. He began his career with hopes of becoming an actor, but soon found work directing commercials before moving on to direct TV shows. He helmed episodes of several iconic Western series, before directing six episodes of The Twilight Zone in 1963-64, including arguably the series' most famous episode, "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet." Donner's break-through into directing for the big screen came in 1976 when he helmed the iconic horror film The Omen. Donner then went on to change the face of cinema permanently in 1978 when he directed one of the first big-budget super hero tentpole films, Superman, starring Christopher Reeves as the famous Man of Steel. The acclaimed filmmaker went on to direct many films that have earned classic and cult classic status, including 1987's Lethal Weapon -- as well as all three of the Lethal Weapon sequels -- as well as The Goonies, Scrooged, and Maverick, among several others. Donner is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lauren Shuler Donner.

The veteran soap opera star died on June 29. He was 84. The longtime TV star was best known for his role as Chief of Staff Alan Quartermaine on the long-running soap General Hospital, a role Damon played for 30 years -- from the character's introduction in 1977 until his character's death in 2007. He also portrayed the character on the General Hospital spin-off series Port Charles. He portrayed the ghost of Quartermaine several times over the next year until December 2008. Damon reprised his role in a dream sequence in 2011, and appeared as part of the show's 50th anniversary in 2013. After leaving General Hospital, Stuart landed roles on the daytime soaps Days of Our Lives and As the World Turns. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Deirdre Ottewill, as well as their two children, Jennifer and Christopher.

 

The veteran sitcom star and TV director died at his home in Laguna Niguel, California, on June 16, from complications due to Lewy body dementia. He was 79. Bonner is best known for playing the colorful sales manager Herb Tarlek on the beloved sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati from 1978 to 1982 -- a character he reprised for the revival series The New WKRP in Cincinnati, which ran for two seasons, from 1991 to 1993. Bonner also notably portrayed Father Hargis, headmaster of St. Augustine’s Academy, in the Growing Pains spin-off series Just the Ten of Us, among many other film and TV roles. The performer was also an accomplished TV director, helming all 105 episodes of the late-'90s NBC sitcom City Guys, and served as a director on USA High, Saved by the Bell: The New Class, Head of the Class, Family Ties and many others. He is survived by his wife, Gayle, his four children -- Desiree, DeAndra, Justin and Matthew -- as well as seven grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

The veteran character actor died on June 13 from natural causes. He was 83. Beatty was born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1937, and, after acting in region theater productions for several years, made his film debut with an iconic performance in the 1972 thriller Deliverance. In 1976, Beatty starred as Arthur Jensen in the classic drama Network, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Additional film roles include Superman, 1941, Stroker Ace, Back to School, Shooter, Charlie Wilson's War, and Rampart. He also did voice acting, providing the voice of the mayor in 2011's Rango, and most famously he voiced the antagonistic Lotso in 2010's Toy Story 3. He is survived by his wife, Sandy, as well as his eight children.

The actor-- best known for roles in The Mod Squad, Purple Rain and Sugar Hill -- died in Los Angeles on June 4, after a battle with colon cancer. The Harlem native began his career in theater and went on to earn a Tony nomination in 1965 for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his work in Slow Dance on the Killing Ground. From 1968 to 1973, he starred as undercover cop Lincoln Hayes on the ABC drama The Mod Squad. On the big screen, Williams played Prince’s troubled father in 1984's Purple Rain, Wesley Snipes and Michael Wright’s dad in 1993's Sugar Hill and Maynard in 2013's Lee Daniels’ The Butler. Williams’ other film credits include Half-Baked, The General’s Daughter, Deep Cover, The Brave, and Life. He is survived by his sister Sondra Pugh, daughter Jamey Phillips, niece Suyin Shaw, grandnephews Elliot Shaw and Ese Shaw, and grandniece Azaria Verdin.

The longtime actor, and father of Blake Lively, died of cardiac complications in Los Angeles

on June 3. He was 74. Ernie was born Jan. 29, 1947 in Baltimore, Maryland. He married Elaine Lively in 1979 and welcomed two children together, Blake and Eric Lively. The actor adopted his wife's three children -- Lori, Robyn and Jason -- from her previous marriage. With a career spanning 50 years and over 110 credits to his name, Ernie got his first role in 1975 on The Waltons. He would go on to nab parts in TV shows like McCloud, The Dukes of Hazzard, Falcon Crest, Hangin' With Mr. Cooper, The X-Files, Murder, She Wrote, The West Wing, That '70s Show and many more. His film credits include playing Blake's father in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and its sequel. He also appeared in American Pie 2, Turner & Hooch, Passenger 57, The Beverly Hillbillies and The Man in the Moon, among others.

The actor, best known for his role as Captain Stubing on The Love Boat, died on May 29, in Rancho Mirage, California. He was 90. With a career spanning six decades, the New York native began his acting career in 1957. He starred on McHale's Navy (1962–1964) as Joseph "Happy" Haines, and on The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977) as Murray Slaughter. MacLeod appeared on all 168 episodes of the series and received two Golden Globe nominations for his role. He was also the lead on The Love Boat, portraying the ship's captain for the entire 10-season run. MacLeod also appeared in films like The Sword of Ali Baba, A Man Called Gannon, The Thousand Plane Raid and Kelly's Heroes. In 2013, he released an autobiography, titled This is Your Captain Speaking: My Fantastic Voyage Through Hollywood, Faith & Life. Additionally, MacLeod was part of George Eastman’s Happy Hour production at the Coachella Valley Repertory Theater in Rancho Mirage, California, in 2015.

The beloved comedian, actor and writer -- best known for his work with Richard Pryor -- died on May 19. He was 79. Mooney died after suffering from a heart attack at his home in Oakland, California, his rep confirmed to ET. The comedian had also reportedly been suffering from dementia. Mooney was best known for his work as the head writer on The Richard Pryor Show. He also wrote for shows like In Living Color, Good Times, The Larry Sanders Show, Chappelle’s Show and Real Husbands of Hollywood. In addition to comedy, Mooney appeared as an actor in movies like The Buddy Holly Story, Bustin' Loose, Hollywood Shuffle, Bamboozled and Meet the Blacks.

Grodin died at his home in Wilton, Connecticut, on May 18, after a battle with bone marrow cancer. He was 86. Grodin began his acting career in the '60s in television, before transitioning to film. He is best known for his roles in 1972's The Heartbreak Kid, 1988's Midnight Run alongside Robert De Niro, and later, more family-oriented films like 1992's Beethoven and its sequel, Beethoven's 2nd. More notable credits include 1968's Rosemary's Baby, 1970's Catch-22, 1978's Heaven Can Wait and 1993's Heart and Souls. Also a writer, he won an Emmy in 1978 for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Special for the Paul Simon Special alongside Chevy Chase, Lorne Michaels, Paul Simon and Lily Tomlin.

The actress and '80s music video vixen died on May 7. She was 59. Her children -- Wynter and Raine Finley, whom she shared with ex-husband baseball player Chuck Finley -- posted the heartbreaking news on her Instagram. Kitaen, whose legal name was Tawny Finley, died in her home in Newport Beach, California. Kitaen made waves after appearing on the album cover of Ratt's debut 1983 EP and 1984 debut studio album Out of the Cellar, after dating the band's guitarist Robbin Crosby. Kitaen is also seen in Ratt's "Back for More" video. Over the '80s she appeared in music videos for the band Whitesnake, including "Here I Go Again," "Still of the Night," "Is This Love," and "The Deeper the Love."

The actress, known for her roles in Moonstruck and Steel Magnolias, died May 1. She was 89.

"My beloved sister, Olympia Dukakis, passed away this morning in New York City," her brother, Apollo, wrote on Facebook. "After many months of failing health she is finally at peace and with her Louis."

Additionally, Dukakis’ rep, Allison Levy, said in a statement to ET, "It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Olympia Dukakis. After months of failing health, Olympia Dukakis passed away this morning, May 1st, at her home in New York City, with her daughter Christina Zorich by her side."

"Olympia was married to actor Louis Zorich, who passed away in 2018. Her brother Apollo Dukakis, her sons Stefan and Peter Zorich, and four grandchildren thank you for your love, prayers, and kind remembrances during this difficult time," the statement concluded.

The legendary rapper died on April 22. He was 57. Shock G -- real name Gregory Jacobs -- was the lead vocalist for the pioneering hip-hop group Digital Underground. He formed the group in 1987 with Chopmaster J (real name Jimi Dright) and Kenny-K (real name Kenneth Waters). According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office, Shock G was found dead in a hotel in Tampa, Florida. Members of Digital Underground rotated throughout the years, and the group was credited with launching the career of Tupac Shakur. Shock G was one of the producers on Tupac's debut solo album, 2Pacalypse Now, and was featured on Pac's 1993 song "I Get Around."  In addition to his work with 2Pac, Shock G also worked with artists Dr. Dre, Prince and KRS-One throughout his career. He announced in 2008 that after approximately 20 years of touring, Digital Underground would officially disband. Their 2008 album ..Cuz a D.U. Party Don't Stop! was their last studio effort.

The "Whoa!" rapper died of kidney failure on April 17. He was 52. Rob was born Robert Ross in Buffalo, New York; he grew up in East Harlem, where he started rapping as a kid. The artist went on to release four studio albums and is best known for "Whoa!," which peaked at No. 43 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2000. Rob and collaborator Mark Curry were also both featured on Diddy's "Bad Boy 4 Life." Rob left Bad Boy Records in the mid-2000s, but reunited with the group for several dates on the Bad Boy Family Reunion Tour in 2016.

The actress, known for her role in Harry Potter, died after a battle with cancer. Her husband, actor Damian Lewis, announced the sad news on April 16.

Lewis and McCrory had been married since 2007 and shared two children together -- 14-year-old daughter Mannon and 13-year-old son Gulliver. Lewis said she died peacefully at home.

"I'm heartbroken to announce that after a heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and mighty woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of loss from friends and family," Lewis wrote in a statement he shared on social media. "She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air, and thank you."

Queen Elizabeth II's husband of more than 70 years, died on April 9. He was 99.

"It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh," read a statement bu Buckingham Palace. "His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle."

"The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss," the statement continued, adding that "further announcements will be made in due course."

Philip's death came after several health scares in recent years. Most recently, he was hospitalized in February as "a precautionary measure" on the advice of his doctor after not feeling well.

He was later transferred from King Edward VII's Hospital to another London facility, St. Bartholomew's Hospital, with the palace noting that he was continuing to be treated for an infection in addition to undergoing testing and a procedure for a pre-existing heart condition. He left the hospital in March after a 28-day stay.

The actor -- best known for playing Cousin Itt on The Addams Family -- died on April 16, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 84. Silla, who was born in Roccacasale, Italy, in 1937, performed on tour with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus before transitioning to film and TV. He starred as Cousin Itt in 17 episodes of The Addams Family, which ran from 1965 to 1966. In addition to his role on the sitcom, he also had parts on Bonanza, The Monkees, H.R. Pufnstuf, Bewitched, Battlestar Gallactica, Mork & Mindy, The Dukes of Hazzard, Star Trek and Married... with Children. Silla also played an Ewok in Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi, and appeared in other films like Planet of the Apes, Spaceballs and Batman Returns. He is  survived by his wife, Sue, and their two children.

The groundbreaking performer -- best known for his roles in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf and sitcoms such as Just Shoot Me! and The Goldbergs -- died on April 6.

Segal's wife of over two decades, Sonia Segal, confirmed the news in a statement to ET, sharing, "The family is devastated to announce that this morning George Segal passed away due to complications from bypass surgery."

The actor's longtime friend and manager, Abe Hoch, also expressed his condolences and his memories of the beloved actor, sharing, "I am saddened by the fact that my close friend and client of many years has passed away. I will miss his warmth, humor, camaraderie and friendship. He was a wonderful human."

The iconic rapper -- whose real name was Earl Simmons -- died at the age of 50, his family announced on April 9. DMX was hospitalized in White Plains, New York, on April 2 after suffering a heart attack and was in critical condition.

His family addressed his hospitalization in a statement on Sunday, stating, "On Friday night, April 2nd, 2021, our brother, son, father, and colleague DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, was admitted to White Plains (NY) Hospital, facing serious health issues. We ask that you please keep Earl/DMX and us in your thoughts, wishes, and prayers as well as respect our privacy as we face these challenges. Thank you."

The actor died on April 7 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease, according to multiple reports. He was 84.

Hampton was best known for his roles in F Troop and Teen Wolf, as well as in The Longest Yard, for which he earned a Golden Globe nomination. He spent more than 50 years in the industry as an actor, director, writer and producer before retiring to his native Texas.

The entertainer was born in Oklahoma City in 1936, but raised in Dallas. He attended the University of North Texas as a theater arts major and was drafted into the U.S. Army, joining the cavalry at Fort Knox before serving overseas. He later returned to acting, and landed a role in the hit series Gunsmoke.

The beloved children's book author died on March 25, in Carmel, California, where she’d lived since the 1960s. She was 104. The prolific writer's career spanned more than 50 years and more than 40 books, beginning with her first, Henry Huggins, which was published in 1950. Clearly also penned the Ramona Quimby series, and other popular titles like The Mouse and the Motorcycle, Strider, Dear Mr. Henshaw and more. Cleary was predeceased by her husband, Clarence Cleary, and is survived by their two children, Malcolm and Marianne, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

The veteran actress died in her sleep at home in New York City on March 24. She was 80. Walter was best known for her roles on Arrested Development and Archer. "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of my beloved mom Jessica," Walter's daughter, Brooke Bowman, said in a statement to ET. "A working actor for over six decades, her greatest pleasure was bringing joy to others through her storytelling both on screen and off. While her legacy will live on through her body of work, she will also be remembered by many for her wit, class and overall joie de vivre." Walter's most recent role was as Mallory Archer on Archer, which was renewed for season 12 and expected to premiere this year. Walter is survived by daughter Brooke Bowman and grandson Micah Heymann.

The celebrated actor -- best known for his roles in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf and sitcoms such as Just Shoot Me! and The Goldbergs -- died on March 23. He was 87. Segal's wife of over two decades, Sonia Segal, confirmed the news in a statement to ET Tuesday evening, sharing, "The family is devastated to announce that this morning George Segal passed away due to complications from bypass surgery." Segal found early success in acclaimed films in the mid-1960s, with roles in Ship of Fools, King Rat and Lost Command, among many others. His biggest film role came in 1966 with Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, which earned him an Oscar nomination. Segal transitioned to television roles in the 1980s, but appeared less and less on the big screen. His career received something of a resurgence in the late '90s when he was cast as Jack Gallo, the sweetly out-of-touch yet wealthy publisher of a New York fashion magazine, in the hit NBC sitcom Just Shoot Me! The role earned him two Golden Globe nominations and the show ran for seven seasons. His next major starring role came in 2013, when he was cast in The Goldbergs, playing the affable grandfather Albert. It was a role he was still playing through the show's eighth season. His last episode is currently slated to air on April 7. Segal is survived by his wife as well as his two daughters, Polly and Elizabeth.

The veteran character actor died on March 18 in Los Angeles following a brief illness. The actor's screen career began in the 1970s with roles on numerous TV shows and films. One of his most well-known roles came on the 1980s CBS sitcom Designing Women, where he met his future wife, Jean Smart. Gilliland and Smart tied the knot in 1987, and welcomed two children during their nearly 34-year marriage -- 31-year-old son Connor and 12-year-old daughter, Bonnie. Over the course of his long career, Gilliland racked up over 90 acting credits to his name with roles in the big and small screen alike. His more prominent projects include the TV series Operation Petticoat, McMillan & Wife, The Love Boat, Thirtysomething, CSI, 24, and Imposters, among many others.

The legendary jazz pianist and innovative composer died after a battle with cancer on Feb. 9. He was 79. "He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather, and a great mentor and friend to so many," read a statement shared by his family to his website. "Through his body of work and the decades he spent touring the world, he touched and inspired the lives of millions." Corea's career spanned over 50 years, and he worked with some of the most iconic jazz artists including Miles Davis, Herbie Mann and Dizzy Gillespie. He also holds the record for most GRAMMY awards for a Jazz artist, with 23 wins and 67 total nominations. He is survived by his wife, Gayle Moran, his children -- son Thaddeus and daughter Liana -- as well as two grandchildren.

The TV news reporter for NBC New York died suddenly on Feb. 10. She was 47. Creag's death came as a shock to her colleagues and her love ones. WNBC reported that Creag had not been ill prior to her death, and had worked earlier in the day. Creag had been with the station for 10 years and was a familiar face in the morning for many viewers for her work on Today in New York. Amy Morris, WNBC's vice president of news, sent an email to the staff reflecting on Creag's passing and paying tribute to her life and memory. "For ten years Kat was one of our cornerstones, always willing to help in any situation, whether it was a colleague in need or a shift that needed to be covered," Morris wrote. "She was thoughtful, funny and relentless. And even on the toughest days she was a bright light, quick with a kind word and a smile." Creag is survived by her husband of 14 years, Bill Gafner, and their three young children -- a son and two daughters.

The controversial founder of Hustler magazine died on Feb. 10. He was 78. Flynt became a divisive figure in America when he debuted his now-famous adult magazine in 1974. The magazine was immediately controversial for its unprecedented level of nudity, and Flynt became an inadvertent champion and advocate of free speech as he fought for the right to publish his magazine. In 1978, Flynt was shot by a white supremacist serial killer, who went uncaught for many years. The shooting left Flynt with permanent spinal damage and he was confined to a wheelchair for the remainder of his life. Flynt's legal battles, his controversial rise to fame and his eventual shooting were chronicled in the Oscar-nominated 1996 biographical drama The People vs. Larry Flynt. Larry Flynt Publications has since grown, and includes Hustler, as well as several other publications, multiple pornographic TV channels and websites. Flynt is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Berrios, as well as four daughters and a son.

The legendary singer and founding member of The Supremes died at her home in Henderson, Nevada, on Feb. 8. She was 76. Wilson is best known for her work with the iconic Motown singing group -- alongside Diana Ross and the late Florence Ballard -- who became one of the biggest musical acts of the 1960s, and created over a dozen No. 1 singles. Some of the group's biggest hits include “Where Did Our Love Go,” “Baby Love,” “Come See About Me,” “Stop! In the Name of Love,” and “Back in My Arms Again,” among countless other timeless classics. Aside from her indelible music career, Wilson was also known for her work as a motivational speaker, an advocate for social change and a cultural ambassador for the United States. Wilson is survived by her daughter, Turkessa, her son, Pedro Antonio Jr., as well as 10 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

The Alaskan Bush People star died on Feb. 8, after suffering a seizure. He was 68. News of his death was first posted by his son, Bear Brown, on Instagram. "He was our best friend — a wonderful and loving dad, granddad and husband and he will be dearly missed. He lived his life on his terms, off the grid and off the land and taught us to live like that as well. We plan to honor his legacy going forward, and to continue with his dream," Bear said of his late father. The Brown family has been the center of the Discovery channel series Alaskan Bush People for 12 seasons, beginning in 2014. The docuseries follows the Browns as they survive in the harsh Alaskan wilderness, detached from society and most modern conveniences. Billy is survived by his wife, Ami Brown, as well as five sons, two daughters and several grandchildren.

The Oscar, Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor died on Feb. 5, at his home in Connecticut, with his wife of 53 years, Elaine Taylor, by his side. He was 91. Plummer's longtime friend and manager of 46 years, Lou Pitt, confirmed to ET that the screen legend's death was due to a blow to the head as a result of a fall. Over his more than 60-year career, Plummer amassed dozens of credits in TV, film and theater, including The Sound of Music, Inside Man, A Ghost in Monte Carlo, A Beautiful Mind, National Treasure, Knives Out and Beginners, which earned Plummer a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2012. Plummer also had a special talent for playing real-life people, like journalist Mike Wallace in The Insider, attorney F. Lee Bailey in the TV film American Tragedy, and Russian writer Anton Chekhov in the The Good Doctor. In 2017, Plummer portrayed J. Paul Getty (after Kevin Spacey was dropped from the already-completed film over sexual assault allegations) in Ridley Scott’s All the Money in the World. The film role earned Plummer his third Academy Award nomination, making him the oldest actor to be nominated for an Oscar. He is survived by his wife and his daughter, actress Amanda Plummer, from a previous marriage.

The former undisputed heavyweight champion died on Feb. 5, after a five-year cancer battle. He was 67. The legendary pugilist -- who won Olympic gold in 1976 -- went on to upset Muhammad Ali via split decision over 15 rounds just five years later. The fight saw Spinks make history in just his eighth pro bout as the quickest boxer to win the heavyweight championship. Born in St. Louis in 1953, Spinks served in the United States Marine Corps from 1973 until 1976, when he won Olympic gold as a light heavyweight in Montreal. His son, Cory Spinks, won world titles as a welterweight and junior middleweight before retiring in 2013. Spinks retired in 1995 at the age of 42 after losing five of his final eight fights. He is survived by wife  Brenda Glur Spinks, as well as his sons, Cory and Darrell, and one grandchild.

The famed New York-based photographer -- best known for his career photographing artists, musicians in the Big Apple while documenting the city's iconic pop culture allure -- was found dead in his West Village apartment on Feb. 1, the New York Times reports. He was 59. No cause of death has yet been released, although Powell had been diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease last year. The famed photographer was best known for his snapshots documenting the rise of New York City's hip hop scene and he was popularly known as the "fourth Beastie Boy" after touring with the trio from 1986 to '94. Powell also published several books of his photography and was the subject of the 2020 documentary Ricky Powell: The Individualist.

The actor died following a cancer battle on Feb. 1. He was 44. A member of Diamond's team confirmed the sad news to ET. "We are saddened to confirm Dustin Diamond’s passing on Monday, February 1st, 2021 due to carcinoma," the statement reads. "He was diagnosed with this brutal, relentless form of malignant cancer only three weeks ago. In that time, it managed to spread rapidly throughout his system; the only mercy it exhibited was its sharp and swift execution. Dustin did not suffer. He did not have to lie submerged in pain. For that, we are grateful." Diamond was best known for playing the character Screech on Saved by the Bell, though he did not appear in the show's recent reimagining.

The six-time Emmy-winning TV writer and producer died on Jan. 30. He was 85. Burns' death was first reported by his longtime friend and writing partner James L. Brooks, who shared the news with a heartfelt tribute on Twitter. "Alan Burns, my writing  partner during the Mary Tyler Moore days, died yesterday. His singular writing career brought him every conceivable recognition But, you had to  know him to appreciate his full rarity. He was simply the finest man I have every known. A beauty of a human," Brooks wrote. Burns is best known for co-creating The Munsters, The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spinoff series, Rhoda, Lou Grant and Phyllis -- the latter of which starred Cloris Leachman, who died days before Burns on Jan. 27.

The legendary actress and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient died on Jan. 28 at the age of 96.

"With heavy heart, the family of Miss Cicely Tyson announces her peaceful transition this afternoon," Tyson's family said, via her manager, Larry Thompson. "At this time, please allow the family their privacy.  A formal statement and details will follow."

Tyson was an icon of television, film and Broadway, having won an Emmy, Tony and Screen Actors Guild awards. Born in Harlem, New York, to immigrant parents from the West Indies, she first entered the limelight as a model, appearing on the cover of Ebony magazine, and got into acting through roles on NBC’s Frontiers of Faith and plays including The Blacks.

Tyson’s rise in the acting world continued as she gained critical acclaim for playing Rebecca Morgan in 1972's Sounder, earning Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress. She then took home two Emmy Awards for her portrayal of a young slave in the 1974 television movie, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman.

The famed actress' rep confirmed to ET that Leachman died in her sleep on Jan. 27, at her Encinitas, California, home, with her daughter, Dinah Englund, by her side. She was 94. Leachman appeared in over 100 films and televisions shows including The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Raising Hope,The Facts of Life, Phyllis, Malcolm in the Middle, American Gods, The Longest Yard, Bad Santa, Touched by an Angel, Lassie, Kiss Me Deadly and Perry Mason among countless others. She also worked with fellow Hollywood legends like Katharine Hepburn, Alfred Hitchcock and Paul Newman, and appeared in three films helmed by famed director Mel Brooks: Young Frankenstein, High Anxiety and History of the World: Part 1. In 1972, she took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Last Picture Show, and she earned one Golden Globe and eight Emmys over the course of her career. In 2006, Drake University presented Leachman with an honorary doctorate. Two years later, Leachman took her talents to Dancing With the Stars, becoming the oldest person to compete on the show. Leachman's accolades also include being inducted into the Television Academy Hall of Fame in 2011 and receiving an honorary doctorate from her alma mater, Northwestern University, in 2014. PETA also gave Leachman a lifetime achievement award in 2017, commemorating her work as an animal activist. Leachman is survived by her four children and six grandchildren.

The celebrated stage and screen star died at his home in Beverly Hills on Jan. 23. He was 95. Holbrook's death was not announced until Feb. 1. Holbrook was best known for his role as Mark Twain, whom he portrayed for decades in a one-man show he developed, Mark Twain Tonight! Between the 1950s and 2010, Holbrook performed the show over 2,000 times throughout multiple productions on Broadway and in other venues nationwide. The beloved show would go on to earn him a Best Actor Tony Award in 1966, and a TV adaptation earned him his first of many Emmy nominations in 1967. Holbrook also had an incredible film and TV career spanning over six decades, with over 130 credits and innumerable accolades -- including five Emmy awards out of a total of 12 nominations. Holbrook had memorable roles in many acclaimed films including Lincoln, The Firm, Men of Honor, All the President's Men and Into the Wild, which snagged him an Oscar nomination and a Screen Actors Guild nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He is survived by three children and two stepdaughters, as well as four grandchildren.

The veteran TV and radio host known for his signature suspenders and legendary interviews, died Jan. 13. He was 87.

King's company, Ora Media, shared the news on social media, writing that the iconic broadcaster died at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. A cause of death was not given, though King was hospitalized with COVID-19 in early January.

"For 63 years and across the platforms of radio, television and digital media, Larry's many thousands of interviews, awards and global acclaim stand as a testament to his unique and lasting talent as a broadcaster," the statement read, in part. "Additionally, while it was his name appearing in the shows' titles, Larry always viewed his interview subjects as the true stars of his programs, and himself as merely an unbiased conduit between the guest and audience."

On Jan. 22, CBS46 reported that Henry Louis “Hank” Aaron, Hall of Famer, one-time home run king and Atlanta Braves legend, passed away at the age of 86.

Aaron remains baseball’s runs batted in leader with 2,297 and total base leader with 6,856. Hammerin’ Hank finished his career with 755 home runs, an all-time record that stood for decades until Barry Bonds passed him and finished with 762 home runs. His #44 jersey was retired by both the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers.

The baseball Hall of Famer died in his sleep at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, on Jan. 18, after a battle with cancer. He was 75. Throughout his 23-year career as a starting pitcher, Sutton was four-time All-Star and played mainly for the Los Angeles Dodgers, although he also spent time with the Athletics, the Astros, the Angels and the Brewers. "Don Sutton's brilliance on the field, and his lasting commitment to the game that he so loved, carried through to his time as a Member of the Hall of Fame," Jane Forbes Clark, Chairman of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, shared in a statement. "I know how much he treasured his moments in Cooperstown, just as we treasured our special moments with him. We share our deepest condolences with his wife, Mary, and his family." Sutton ranks third in all-time career starts behind only Cy Young and Nolan Ryan. He was inducted in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1998.

The son of supermodel Stephanie Seymour and billionaire industrialist Peter Brant, died of an accidental overdose of prescription drugs on Jan. 17. He was 24. "We will forever be saddened that his life was cut short by this devastating disease," Brant's parents said in a statement to The New York Times. "He achieved a lot in his 24 years, but we will never get the chance to see how much more Harry could have done… Harry was not just our son, he was also a wonderful brother, loving grandson, favorite uncle and a caring friend. He was a creative, loving and powerful soul that brought light into so many people's hearts. He was truly a beautiful person inside and out."

The convicted murderer and famed music producer died of natural causes on Jan. 16. He was 81. The news of Spector's death was announced by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation on Sunday. In 2009, Spector was sentenced to 19 years to life for the fatal shooting of Lana Clarkson at his Alhambra, California mansion in 2003. Before his newfound infamy, Spector was regarded as a revolutionary music producer who pioneered a recording formula that he called the Wall of Sound. Throughout his life, Spector worked with some of the biggest acts in music including The Beatles, The Ramones, Leonard Cohen, Ike & Tina Turner, Cher and countless others.

The Three's Company star died of natural causes at his home in Woodland Hills, California, on Jan. 14. He was 93.



"Richman leaves a legacy of creative endeavors spanning over eight decades of work in the performing and visual arts. However, it was for his marriage to actress Helen Richman and for his roles as father and grandfather of which he was most proud," reads a statement from his rep.

Richman appeared on Broadway in A Hatful of Rain and Masquerade, and portrayed Jerry in over 400 performances of Edward Albee's original NY production of The Zoo Story. He also had roles in films like Friendly Persuasion, Black Orchid, The Strange One, Naked Gun 2 and Friday the 13th Part 8. He also starred as Nick Cain in his own NBC series Cain's Hundred, and appeared in Three's Company, Beverly Hills, 90210, Dynasty, and many more.

The legendary Siegfried & Roy magician died in Las Vegas on Jan. 13, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 81. Siegfried's death comes eight months after his longtime collaborator, Roy Horn, died due to complications from COVID-19. Throughout their 50-year career, Siegfried & Roy became Las Vegas legends, maintaining a four decade-long run of their act, which included both illusions and animals. The pair hit the height of their success with a 14 year-run at The Mirage, which began its $30 million production in 1990. Siegfried & Roy’s legacy lives on at The Secret Garden of Siegfried & Roy at The Mirage.

The General Hospital star died on Jan. 9. He was 84. His daughter, Caitlin Reilly, shared the news and a tribute to her late father on social media, posting a throwback pic from her childhood. "The brightest light in the world has gone out," she wrote. "Imagine the best person in the world. Now imagine that person being your dad. "I’m so grateful he was mine. I’m so grateful I got to love him. I’m so grateful I made it in time to hold him and say goodbye. I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do, but I know he’ll be with me. I love you forever Daddy." Reilly, best known for his role as Sean Donely on General Hospital, was a veteran actor who appeared on other soaps like Sunset Beach and Passions throughout his career. He began acting in the 1960s with roles on shows like Death Valley Days, Apple’s Way and Gunsmoke. Reilly replaced John Colenback as Dr. Dan Stewart on As the World Turns in 1974, and stayed on the show until 1976. In addition to his TV work, Reilly appeared in the films The Main Event in 1979 and Gorp in 1980. He is survived by his wife, Liz, and three daughters.

The beloved Hall of Fame manager for the Los Angeles Dodgers died on Jan. 7. He was 93. The official Twitter accounts for Major League Baseball and the L.A. Dodgers confirmed the news, sharing, "Lasorda suffered a sudden cardiopulmonary arrest at his home at 10:09 p.m. He was transported to the hospital with resuscitation in progress. He was pronounced dead at 10:57 p.m." The statement continued, "Regarded by many as baseball's most popular ambassador, Lasorda spent 71 seasons in the Dodger organization with the Dodger Blue running through his veins." Throughout his time managing the Dodgers from 1976 to 1996, the team won two World Series titles, four National League pennants and eight division crowns. Lasorda is survived by his wife, Jo, their daughter, Laura, and granddaughter, Emily Tess.

Dearon "Deezer D" Thompson, best known for his role as Nurse Malik McGrath on ER, died on Jan. 7. He was 55. The actor's brother, Emmery Thompson, confirmed the tragic news in a post shared to Instagram on Friday. "My Big Brother! God is with you," he wrote. "I will miss you. #deezerd." Dearon was found unresponsive at his home in Los Angeles Thursday morning, according to TMZ, who was first to report the news. His family told the outlet that they believe he may have died of a heart attack. In addition to appearing on ER from 1994 through 2009, Dearon also starred in films like CB4 and Fear of a Black Hat, and performed as a hip-hop artist and motivational speaker. Other credits include Bringing Down the House, The John Larroquette Show, and Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.

The star of screen and stage died on Jan. 7 at her home in Los Angeles. She was 73. Ramsey is best remembered for her role as the soft-spoken Officer Laverne Hooks in the Police Academy franchise, beginning with the first film in 1984., Ramsey reprised the role for every subsequent installment in the series until Police Academy 6: City Under Siege. Additional film and TV credits include MacGyver, Beverly Hills, 90210, The Nanny, Modern Family, and Return to Babylon. Her most notable recent role came in 2015's SyFy campy cult hit Lavalantula, where she appeared opposite her former Police Academy co-star Steve Guttenberg. She reprised the role for the 2016 sequel, 2 Lava 2 Lantula. Ramsey also enjoyed a long career on stage, appearing in numerous Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. She is survived by her three brothers.

The British rocker died of a heart infection on Jan. 3. He was 78. Marsden's close friend, Pete Price, announced the news on Twitter, writing "It's with a very heavy heart after speaking to the family that I have to tell you the Legendary Gerry Marsden MBE after a short illness which was an infection in his heart has sadly passed away. Sending all the love in the world to Pauline and his family. You'll Never Walk Alone." Marsden, the lead singer of the British rock group Gerry and the Pacemakers, was best known for his cover of "You'll Never Walk Alone," from the musical Carousel, as well as his song "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Crying."

The Food Network star and celebrated cake designer died on Jan. 2. She was 75. The TV personality's death was announced on Facebook by the non-profit organization she founded, the Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show, on Saturday. "It is with great sadness that I have to report the passing of Kerry Vincent earlier this evening," the post shared. "Being a very private person when it came to all things not cake, she did not want to put her illness out there to the public. Unfortunately her fight has come to an end but she will no longer have any pain. She will be sorely missed by all who she has touched through the Sugar Arts as [well] as personally." Throughout her career, Vincent was best known for serving as a judge on Food Network Challenge, as well as The Great Australian Bake Off.  Vincent also hosted her own Food Network show, Save My Bakery, which ran for one season in 2014. She is survived by her husband, Doug Vincent.