Director Jim Abrahams and More Celebrity Deaths of 2024 (2024)

Hollywood mourned many celebrities in 2024.

Speed Racer star Christian Oliver (born Christian Klepser) died at the age of 51 during a fatal plane crash on January 5. Oliver was traveling home from a Caribbean vacation with his two daughters — Madita and Annik, whom he shared with wife Jessica Klepser — on January 4. The aircraft had engine trouble and fell into the ocean. The plane’s pilot also died onboard in the accident.

In addition to being an actor, Oliver was also a realtor at Beverly Hills brokerage The Agency.

“Christian, Madita and Annik, you will be missed. May you rest in peace,” The Agency founder Mauricio Umansky wrote in a social media tribute. “My prayers are with you and your entire Agency family. You are a great friend, father, husband, actor and agent. You made us laugh, you care more than most. You are missed and loved.”

Four days later, news broke that The Cleaning Lady star Aden Canto had died at the age of 42.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” Canto’s rep said in a statement, revealing the actor privately battled appendiceal cancer. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Canto is survived by his wife, Stephanie Canto, and their two children: Roman and Eve.

Keep scrolling to remember the stars who died in 2024:

The writer and director of films such as Hot Shots, Airplane! and the Naked Gun series died at age 80 on November 26. His son Joseph confirmed the news to Variety, but a cause of death was not revealed at the time.

Abrahams was known for popularizing the spoof genre and slapstick comedy as one of the members of the filmmaking trio ZAZ, alongside Jerry and David Zucker. Abrahams’ final directing credit was the 1998 film Mafia!, while his most recent writing credit was on the 2004 comedy Scary Movie 4.

Woolery, who was the original host of Wheel of Fortune and had an 11-year run hosting the popular dating show Love Connection, died at his home in Texas at the age of 83, according to his friend and podcast cohost Mark Young who announced the death early on November 24. A cause of death was not given at the time.

The original drummer of the Bee Gees died at age 78 on November 19. “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our dear friend Colin 'Smiley' Petersen,” the band The Best of the Bee Gees announced in a Facebook post. “He enriched our lives and bound our group with love, care and respect. Not sure how we can go on without his glowing smile and deep friendship. We love you Col. Rest in Peace.” A cause of death was not revealed at the time.

Petersen was among the group’s original members alongside Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb and played on some of the band’s earliest albums and tracks.

The One Tree Hill alum died at age 35 on November 15 following an undisclosed health battle.

“Paul, you were my soulmate, my soon-to-be-husband, my rock, and my future,” Teal’s partner, Emilia Torello, wrote via Instagram on November 17. “You filled my lungs with laughter, my stomach with butterflies, and my heart with love. You were taken too soon, in a battle that you fought bravely without fail.”

The Russian ballet dancer died on November 16 after a fatal fall from the fifth floor of a building. He was 39.

“Tonight, the public's favorite, star premier of the Mariinsky Theatre Vladimir Shklyarov tragically died,” a statement on the Mariinsky Theatre’s website reads, which is the company where he danced since 2003. “This is a huge loss not only for the theatre's staff, but for all of today's ballet art. Our condolences to the artist's family, loved ones, friends and all the numerous admirers of his work and talent.”

The message added, “His boundless creative abilities were recognized with numerous awards, but he received his main title — the most valuable for Vladimir — in 2020, becoming an Honored Artist of Russia. An expressive, absolutely inimitable actor and a virtuoso, academically impeccable dancer who can master all styles — this is how Vladimir Shklyarov will be remembered by the audience.”

Shklyarov is survived by his wife, fellow ballet dancer Maria Shirinkina, and their two children.

The South Korean actor was found dead in his Seoul apartment on November 12. He was 39. A police official told CNN at the time that there was no evidence of foul play. Song was best known for his roles in films and shows such as Actresses, Moon Embracing the Sun, We Got Married and La Rose De Versailles.

The Candyman and Final Destination franchise star died on November 6 at age 69. According to his wife, Fatima, Todd battled a long, undisclosed illness.

“The industry has lost a legend. We have lost a cherished friend. Rest in peace, Tony,” New Line Cinema, which produced Final Destination, wrote via Instagram on November 8.

Todd is survived by his wife and their two children, Alex and Ariana.

The supermodel died in Greece in October. She was 46.

“Goodbye beautiful girl 🤍. Devastated to share the news of George’s passing,” friend and fellow model Jade Parfitt wrote via Instagram. “One of the funniest and naughtiest, never mind most beautiful friends, we all wanted to hang out with George backstage. Sending so much love to her son, family. And friends. Gone too soon.”

Cooper is survived by son Sonny and husband Nigel, whom she married just months before her death. (She shared Sonny with a past partner.)

The legendary music producer died at age 91 on November 3, according to a statement from his family. "Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing. And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him," the message read.

Rachins’ wife, Joanna Frank, confirmed the Emmy-nominated actor’s death to The Hollywood Reporter on November 2. Rachin, known for his roles in L.A. Law and Dharma & Greg, died in his sleep of heart failure early that morning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. He was 82.

One month after suffering a venomous snake bite, the South African wildlife conservationist died at the age of 44.

“Good evening family and friends. I want to start off by thanking you all for your incredible support and the love that we have felt over the past few weeks,” Dinkelman’s wife, Kristy, wrote in a Facebook statement shared on October 26. “Today is one month since the incident and we have experienced such comfort and love from your messages and prayers from all over the world.”

She continued, “Dingo fought incredibly hard throughout this very difficult period. We know that he was fighting to be here with us and we are so grateful for this. … His presence has brought so much warmth, love, passion and laughter to our lives, as well as all of those who knew him, loved him and supported him. We love you Dingo and we will always celebrate your incredible impact on each of our lives.”

The couple shared three children.

The Tootsie actress died on October 29, her manager, Marc Gurvitz, confirmed to CNN. She was 79. Garr battled multiple sclerosis (MS) for more than two decades.

The actor, known for his role as Cochise in 1979's The Warriors, died at age 75 on October 26. According to The New York Times, Harris' cause of death was cancer-related.

The Philadelphia Union soccer player died on October 26 at the age of 25.

“We want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Holden passed away this afternoon surrounded by his family and friends,” a statement shared via Trent’s Instagram page read. “Details on services and celebration of life are forthcoming. Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden.”

Trent is survived by his family and fiancée Brianna Losito, with whom he was set to marry in 419 days.

Former New York Yankees pitcher Rudy May died Saturday, October 19, at the age of 80, according to the New York Post.

May had a 16-year career in Major League Baseball, which also included stints with the California Angels, Montreal Expos and Baltimore Orioles.

A cause of death was not given.

May finished his lengthy professional tenure with a 152-156 record, a 3.46 ERA and 1,760 strikeouts.

According to a local Hawaii news station, the Naked and Afraid alum died on October 22, two days after being involved in a car accident. Danser was the passenger in a vehicle that lost control and hit another parked car, per a police report. She was 34.

The singer died on September 23 at a hospital in Rancho Mirage, California, his stepdaughter Nicole Whitty told The Hollywood Reporter. He battled leukemia for two years prior to his death.

The Grammy winner was known for singing The Love Boat theme song for the show's first eight seasons. His songs also made the soundtracks of movies such as Good Morning, Vietnam (1987), Goodfellas (1990), Bobby (2006) and American Hustle (2013).

He is survived by his sixth wife, Eleonara, two daughters, two stepdaughters and three grandchildren.

The former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, known by fans as “El Toro,” died at age 63 on October 22. “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Dodgers great Fernando Valenzuela,” the MLB wrote in a social media statement. “’Fernandomania’ swept through baseball in 1981 when the 20-year old rookie sensation began the season 8-0 with a 0.50 ERA. The lefthander capped off his incredible year by winning both the NL Rookie of the Year and Cy Young Awards while helping lead Los Angeles to a World Series title.”

The league’s statement continued: “Valenzuela pitched 17 Major League seasons, was a 6-time All-Star, and has the most wins (173) and strikeouts (2,074) of any Mexican-born pitcher. He spent the last 22 years as a Spanish language broadcaster for the Dodgers, who retired his No. 34 in 2023. He was 63.”

The Baywatch alum died from heart complications on Sunday, October 20, at age 68. A close friend told People that the actor, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2006, was "surrounded by his family and friends" at the time of his death.

The actress died of natural causes on October 17, her representatives announced.

She was known for classic films such as South Pacific (1958), We're Not Married! (1952) and There's No Business Like Show Business (1954). She also received top billing on The Ed Sullivan Show the same night The Beatles appeared, making their U.S. debut.

The founding member of One Direction died at age 31 on October 16 after falling off a balcony in Buenos Aires, per CNN.

The social media personality died on October 11 at the age of 27, according to an online obituary.

Yaffe previously battled a rare form of liver cancer called fibrolamellar carcinoma. She was diagnosed when she was 20 and underwent surgery, radiation and proton therapy treatment.

The former UFC fighter and mixed martial artist, who briefly dated Demi Lovato in 2017, died at age 38, his family announced via Facebook.

"We were waiting for you to come for Christmas, that will no longer happen," his uncle, Walter Vasconcelos Jr., wrote in a roughly translated tribute. "May the God who is able to receive you in His infinite mercy and comfort all who have always loved you!"

The family of the New York City rapper (real name Kasem Ryan) announced via Instagram that he died at age 52 on October 12. “Born and raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Ka lived a life of service — to his city, to his community, and to his music,” the statement read, highlighting his work as a veteran of the NYC Fire Department.

The family’s message continued: “He leaves an extraordinary legacy as a recording artist, including eleven remarkable self-released solo albums. Ka is survived by his wife, mother, and sister.”

The Cuban musician died at age 37 on October 10, one week after he suffered a gunshot wound to the head. “From the moment of his arrival, a team of physicians at Jackson Memorial worked tirelessly to provide him with the care he needed. We are extremely grateful,” his family wrote in an Instagram Story statement, per multiple outlets. “During this incredibly difficult time, family, friends and supporters joined together in prayer, hope and support, seeking a miracle. To all who offered their prayers, we thank you. Sadly, this afternoon, El Taiger was pronounced dead and is now reunited with his beloved mother in heaven.”

Revill’s family confirmed via Instagram on Saturday, October 12, that the Scottish DJ, also known as “Jackmaster,” had passed away “following complications rising from an accidental head injury.”

“His family—Kate, Sean, and Johnny — are utterly heartbroken,” the statement read. “While deeply touched by the overwhelming support from friends, colleagues, and fans, the family kindly requests privacy as they navigate the immense grief of this devastating loss.”

The General Hospital and Port Charles star died on October 7 at the age of 89 following a battle with cancer.

“He starred on #Broadway and delivered terrific work in Film and TV for over 60 years. But to me, he was my friend,” soap star Jon Lindstrom wrote via Instagram. “One of the best I've ever had. He was a mentor, a sounding board, a trusted confidant, and even a father figure beyond, yes, playing my own father on #GH and #PortCharles.”

The TikTok star’s husband announced via Instagram on October 5 that Taylor died at the age of 25. “No one ever expects to have to deal with this kind of pain and heartache, especially at our age,” Cameron Grigg captioned a pic of Taylor. “This past year Taylor has dealt with more pain and suffering than most people do in a lifetime. And in spite of that she still has been such a light and always brought joy to everyone around her.”

Cameron’s lengthy message continued: “She’s no longer in pain, but her body has been made whole in Jesus name. We can praise God that she will endure no more suffering and she is truly set free from these earthly chains! SHES BEEN MADE WHOLE AND PERFECT!” (He did not confirm her cause of death at the time.

The General Hospital star died at his home in St George, South Carolina on August 27, according to an online obituary. He was 78. A cause of death was not revealed at the time.

The Good Times actor died at age 84 in August, according to his son, K.C.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. said in an October 1 statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”

The American Pickers star died at age 60 on September 30 two years after suffering a stroke. "It’s with a broken heart that I share with all of you that Frank passed away last night," read a statement from his former cohost Mike Wolfe on October 1. "I’ve know Frank for more [than] half my life and what you’ve seen on TV has always been what I have seen, a dreamer who was just as sensitive as he was funny. The same off camera as he was on, Frank had a way of reaching the hearts of so many by just being himself."

Wolfe added, "Who would have ever dreamed we would share the cockpit of a white cargo van in front of millions of people interested in our adventures."

News broke on September 30 that the Broadway actor, known for playing Lion in The Wiz and Old Deuteronomy in Cats, died at age 70. "My heart is broken," read a Facebook post from producer Dorian Hannaway.

The MLB legend died on September 30. He was 83. The former Cincinnati Reds player’s agent, Ryan Fiterman, confirmed the news to TMZ Sports, sharing that Rose died at his home in Las Vegas.

Former player and sports broadcaster Eduardo Pérez interrupted his SportsCenter interview that evening to confirm the athlete’s death. “It’s hard,” the emotional journalist added. “It’s a big hit for a lot of baseball families.”

The former professional basketball player and hall of famer died at age 58 following a battle with brain cancer, the NBA confirmed on September 30.

"Dikembe Mutombo was simply larger than life," commissioner Adam Silver shared in a statement. "On the court, he was one of the greatest shot blockers and defensive players in the history of the NBA. Off the floor, he poured his heart and soul into helping others.”

Silver noted that Mutombo was the first Global Ambassador for the sports league.

“He was a humanitarian at his core. He loved what the game of basketball could do to make a positive impact on communities, especially in his native Democratic Republic of the Congo and across the continent of Africa,” the statement continued. “I had the privilege of traveling the world with Dikembe and seeing first-hand how his generosity and compassion uplifted people. He was always accessible at NBA events over the years — with his infectious smile, deep booming voice and signature finger wag that endeared him to basketball fans of every generation."

The Tony Award winner died at his home in New York on September 30 after being diagnosed with metastatic melanotic peripheral nerve sheath sarcoma earlier this year. He was 48.

The country music star died on September 28, his family confirmed via Instagram the following day. “We’re all so blessed for our time with him,” they wrote in a statement. “Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.”

The Longtime Days of Our Lives star, who played John Black for nearly four decades, was one day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on September 28. He battled pancreatic cancer, according to a statement from his family shared by the Days of Our Lives social media accounts.

The British actress, an EGOT winner best known for her roles in the Harry Potter film franchise and Downton Abbey died at age 89 on September 27. “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September,” Smith’s sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens said in a statement to the BBC. “An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.”

Their statement continued: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.”

The Beverly Hills Cop star died on September 26 at age 76 following a battle with cancer.

John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service,” his rep, Alan Somers, shared in a statement to Page Six. “His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him.”

The statement concluded: “John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

Kathryn Crosby, the second wife and widow of Bing Crosby, died September 20 at her home in Hillsborough, California, according to a family spokesperson. No cause of death was given. She was 90.

Prior to marrying Crosby, she was an actress working under the name Kathryn Grant, appearing in such films as Operation Mad Ball, The 7th Voyage of Sinbad and Anatomy of a Murder. She cut her acting career short upon marrying Crosby in 1957, but made appearances on her husband's television specials. She also appearaed on the stage several times following his death in 1977.

She is survived by her three children with Crosby, Harry, Mary and Nathaniel, as well as several grandchildren.

Michael Jackson’s brother, an original member of the Jackson 5, died on September 15 after a suspected heart attack, per multiple outlets.

His sons, Taj, Taryll and TJ, shared a tribute to their late father via Instagram.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce that our beloved father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Tito Jackson is no longer with us,” they wrote, in part. “We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their well-being.”

The former Detroit Lions player died at age 92 on September 11. “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Schmidt. Joe was a Lion through and through, having spent his entire career in Detroit, including 13 years as a linebacker and six seasons as our head coach,” the team wrote in a statement via their website.

The message continued: “He patrolled the middle of our defense with such ferocity that he was named to 10 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1955 to 1964. Joe was an enduring link to our Championship era and one of the proudest Lions you will ever meet. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1973 and was an inaugural member of our team's ring of honor, the Pride of the Lions, which will ensure his place in our history forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Marilyn, and the entire Schmidt family as we all mourn his passing."

The Karate Kid actor and son of the legendary Steve McQueen died at age 63 according to a social media statement made by his family.

“His remarkable journey as a loving father to us, along with his unwavering commitment to our mother, truly exemplified a life filled with love and dedication,” his children Jeanie, Chase and Madison wrote via Instagram on September 12. “His passion for racing not only highlighted his exceptional talent, but also served as a way to honor his father’s legacy, a testament to the values instilled in him.”

Beverly, who founded the funk band Maze, died at age 77 on September 10, his family announced via Facebook the following day. "He lived his life with pure soul, as one would say, and for us, no one did it better. He lived for his music, family and friends,” the family wrote. “Love one another as he would want that for us all."

The legendary actor died at age 93 on September 9.

Jones passed at his home in Dutchess County, New York, his rep confirmed to Deadline. He was known for roles in iconic films such as Dr. Strangelove, Coming to America, Star Wars and The Lion King.

He is survived by son Flynn Earl Jones (born 1982).

The voice actor, who is best known for portraying Master Splinter on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, was found dead inside his home on September 8. He was 89. The Burbank Police Department said there were “no signs of trauma or foul play,” telling People, “The death appears natural.”

The actor, known for starring in the 1959 movie Gidget and on the police drama T.J. Hooker, died in his sleep on September 2. He was 88 years old.

"He had entered the hospital for an aortic valve replacement but was deemed too weak to have the surgery; he went home but had to return. Our thoughts and prayers are with Evy and the family in this time of grief," read a message shared via his website.

The actor, who starred as Bodie Wells on Dawson’s Creek, died at age 51 in late August.

His sister, Nkem Ndefo, announced his death via Facebook on Saturday, August 31, writing, "Heartbroken at the loss of my younger brother and knowing he’s finally at peace." A cause of death was not shared.

The actor, who also appeared on Stargate SG-1 and NCIS: Los Angeles, was the founder of the L.A. nonprofit Arts Alliance for Humanity.

The rapper died on August 30at the age of 53, hours after collapsing during a Connecticut concert. He was given CPR on stage before being taken to a local hospital.

“It is with profound sadness and very heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of the legendary and iconic Fatman Scoop. Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life,” his family wrote in a statement. “Fatman Scoop was not just a world-class performer, he was a father, brother, uncle and a friend. He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength and courage.”

Fatman Scoop is survived by his two children, whom he shared with a past partner.

The Columbus Blue Jackets hockey player and his brother, Matthew, were killed by a suspected drunk driver on August 30. The family was in Oldsman Township, New Jersey, for their sister Katie's wedding. “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the Ohio hockey team said in a statement. “Johnny was not only a great hockey player, but more significantly a loving father, son, brother and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family and friends on the sudden death of Johnny and Matthew.”

Eudy’s family confirmed the professional wrestling legend died in August after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 63. Known in the ring by nicknames like “Sycho Sid,” “Sid Vicious” and “Sid Justice,” Eudy was a six-time world champion who wrestled for the WWE, WCW and WWF.

Aprea, who portrayed the young Salvatore Tessio in The Godfather Part II and the father of John Stamos’ character on Full House, died August 5 at the age of 83, his manager confirmed to Us Weekly.

The Hollywood dog trainer — son of Rudd Weatherwax, the original owner and trainer of Lassie — passed away August 15, his rep confirmed to Us Weekly. He was 83.

"Bob spent his whole life in the entertainment dog training business," his team said in a statement. "Bob was at his father’s side, assisting with dogs in his father's kennels almost from the day he learned to walk. ... It was pure magic to see that process that didn't involve tricks or any equipment. It was Bob's magic to be able to connect through voice, eye, gesture, a simple nudge, a raising of arms. The dogs always knew what was meant, and audiences reaped the rewards."

The Great White frontman died on August 15 after battling multiple system atrophy and Lewy body dementia. He was 63.

“Jack is loved and remembered for his sense of humor, exceptional zest for life, and unshakeable contribution to rock and roll where his legacy will forever thrive,” his family wrote in a statement via Instagram.

Great White, a glam metal group, was formed in 1977 and went platinum with their 1987 album Once Bitten and the 1989 follow-up …Twice Shy.

Kihn died on August 13 at age 75 after battling Alzheimer's disease, according to a eulogy posted on his website. The rock musician was best known for his songs "Jeopardy" and "The Breakup Song.”

News broke on August 14 that the actress, whose career spanned nearly seven decades and included a role in The Notebook, died at age 94. Rowlands' son, Nick Cassavetes, revealed two months prior that she had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

The model and actress died at age 86 on August 10 due to complications of dementia, according to her son, Christopher Claxton.

The WWE confirmed Sullivan’s death at age 74 via its website on August 9. “A unique and influential figure in sports-entertainment history, Sullivan found success both in the ring and behind the scenes with his penchant for far out ideas that pushed creative boundaries,” the organization wrote. Sullivan’s cause of death was not immediately revealed.

The 77 Sunset Strip star’s family announced his death on August 7, revealing that Logan had passed months prior.

Logan died on May 6 from natural causes at age 82.

“He was the embodiment of agape, literally the Platonic ideal of spousal or familiar love,” his family shared in a statement to People, noting that they “felt so lucky, so blessed, to experience that; so lucky and so blessed to know him.”

The Black Panther star, who appeared as a tribal leader in the Marvel movie, died at age 72 on August 6.

Chiume’s family revealed that the actress had gone through “a period of illness” prior to her death.

“The Chiume family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for all the messages of support and condolences during this difficult time, as they cope with the loss of their mother,” an Instagram statement read. "Her children would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors and nursing staff who provided exceptional care during her stay.”

The message concluded: “Details of the memorial and funeral services will be shared on Connie's social media platforms in due course, as the family takes time to make the necessary arrangements."

The retired athlete died at age 60 after a yearlong battle with cancer, the Major League Baseball organization confirmed on August 6.

Bean, who had been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, played as an outfielder/first baseman for the Detroit Tigers, San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers from 1986 until his 1995 retirement. He became the second-ever MLB player to publicly come out as gay in 1999 and was appointed as the MLB's first Ambassador for Inclusion in 2014.

The Star Trek: The Next Generation actress died on August 5, her rep told Variety. She was 70.

The actress, who also appeared on Beef, Grey's Anatomy and Cold Case, had been fighting cancer after being diagnosed with a rare form of T-cell lymphoma.

She is survived by siblings Linda Hayashi and Steve Yasutake.

The actor, known for his work in the Halloween franchise, died at age 85 on August 4 after a brief illness.

"Charles was a lovable and sensitive man," his manager Chris Roe told Variety in a statement. "He always had the best stories, and you got a full performance while he told you. He was a close friend and client [of] many years who will be dearly missed."

The author died at age 92 on July 28 after a battle with lymphoma, her daughter confirmed to The New York Times. Pascal was the creator of the Sweet Valley High series, which debuted in 1983 and came to include nearly 200 books.

Samoan boxing coach Lionel Elika Fatupaito died at the 2024 Paris Olympics on July 26.

The Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee confirmed that the manager passed away in the Olympic athletes’ village in Saint-Denis due to “natural causes” at the age of 60.

Three members of Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame quartet The Nelons were killed in a tragic plane crash that left no survivors on July 26, according to their management.

The Atlanta-based group’s cofounder, Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband Jason Clark, and their daughter Amber Nelon Kistler died in the crash, as well as assistant Melodi Hodges and Kistler’s husband Nathan. The pilot of the plane, which crashed in Wyoming en route to an event in Alaska, also lost his life, along with his wife. The fourth member of the group, Autumn Nelon Streetman, was not aboard.

The British singer-songwriter and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer died at age 90 in his California home on July 22. A statement released via the musician’s Instagram revealed he was “surrounded by his loving family” at the time of his death.

“Health issues that forced John to end his epic touring career have finally led to peace for one of this world’s greatest road warriors,” the statement read. “John Mayall gave us ninety years of tireless efforts to educate, inspire and entertain.”

The last surviving member of the musical group the Four Tops died at age 88 on July 22. Fakir’s family confirmed in a statement that he suffered heart failure in Detroit and was surrounded by his wife, Piper, and loved ones.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of a trailblazer, icon and music legend who, through his 70-year music career, touched the lives of so many as he continued to tour until the end of 2023, and officially retired this year,” the statement read. “As the last living founding member of the iconic The Four Tops music group, we find solace in Duke’s legacy living on through his music for generations to come.”

The Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives actor’s friend, Tommy McLoughlin, told The Hollywood Reporter on July 20 that Rydbeck died of complications from cancer while in hospice care. He was 79.

“We lost not only a truly funny comedian and actor…but one of the most good hearted human beings I’ve ever known,” McLoughlin wrote via Instagram. “God Bless You and Rest in Peace..Whitney Rydbeck. Our Loss is Heavens’ Gain.”

Us confirmed the All My Children star died at age 51. Her goddaughter Barbie Ashley told TMZ that the actress died on July 18.

“Esta was such a kind, loving, giving, and caring person,” TerBlanche’s manager, Annie Spoliansky, said in a statement to Us. “She cared so deeply for all people and animals. She had squirrels she fed and looked after daily, her two cats, and recent kittens that she cared for as her own children. Esta was never anything but generous and lovely to me, and I’m grateful to have known her for the time that I did, and devastated to learn of her passing.”

The actress, best known for her performances in the 1996 film Come Drink With Me and the 2000 film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, died at age 78 on July 17 after suffering from a degenerative brain disorder.

“Our mom Cheng Pei Pei wanted to be remembered for who she was: the legendary ‘Queen of Martial Arts,’” her family said in a statement to The New York Times. “She loved being an actress and knew, even with her hard work, how fortunate she was to have the career she had.”

The Beverly Hills, 90210 alum died on July 13 at the age of 53.

"It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease,” publicist Leslie Sloane told People the next day. “The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace.”

The legendary comedian died on July 18 after a series of short illnesses, according to his publicist. Newhart, who is best known for starring in The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart as well as playing Pappa Elf in Elf, was 94.

The Top Chef Masters alum died on July 13 at the age of 49 after drowning in an inner tube and paddleboard accident in Oregon. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office announced on July 16 that Pomeroy’s body had not been found yet after she was pulled under water in the Willamette River near Corvallis, Oregon, three days prior.

The actor, known for his work on Hill Street Blues and Doogie Howser, M.D., died of dementia on July 13. He was 90 years old.

"In a remarkable career, Sikking's wonderfully exciting face gave us drama, comedy, tragedy and hilarious farse. His career spanned over six decades in television, film and on stage," his publicist told Deadline in a statement. "His talent, integrity and imagination intrigued and delighted audiences."

The fitness instructor died on July 13 at age 76.

He died at his home in Los Angeles. A cause of death was not immediately announced.

The 2013 Super Bowl champion died at his home in Houston at age 40 on July 14. A cause of death was not immediately announced.Jones played as a wide receiver in the NFL for the Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Chargers and Pittsburgh Steelers.

Sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer died on July 12. She was 96.

The Holocaust survivor was known for decades as an expert on sex and relationship advice.

Duvall died at age 75 following complications from diabetes, her longtime partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on July 11.

“My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” the statement read. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”