TroubadourTodd Snider, the sharp-witted songwriter and unflinching observer of the human condition who rose as a pillar of Americana sound, died Nov. 14. He was 59.
His death came a day after friends and family said Snider was diagnosed with walking pneumonia.
In the weeks prior to Snider's death, Snider was arrested in Utah after trying to regain admittance to a hospital that discharged him aftertreating wounds from an alleged assault. The events led Snider to cancel his tour after one stop.
"Where do we find the words for the one who always had the right words, who knew how to distill everything down to its essence with words and song while delivering the most devastating, hilarious, and impactful turn of phrases?" friends and family posted Nov. 15 on Snider's Facebook page.
"Always creating rhyme and meter that immediately felt like an old friend or a favorite blanket. Someone who could almost always find the humor in this crazy ride on Planet Earth."
Americana singer Todd Snider dead at 59:His death followed an alleged assault, arrest in Utah
Which songs is Todd Snider famous for?
Snider was a staple of the Nashville country and folk scenes for his musical humor and storytelling since his debut in 1994. He was known for songs "Beer Run," "I Can't Complain" and "Just Like Old Times" and his eclectic style, which incorporates elements of the blues, folk, country, rock and funk.
Born in Oregon in 1966, Snider moved to California after high school. In the '80s, Snider lived in Texas and was mentored by Jerry Jeff Walker.
The 1990s brought Snider to Nashville, where he honed his songwriting under the guiding light of heroes such as Kris Kristofferson, Jimmy Buffett, Guy Clark and John Prine.
In 2004, Snider's record, "East Nashville Skyline" became an alt-country staple. The rambling album is at once playful and cutting, as Snider's songs address addiction, mortality, and the importance of finding happiness in daily life.
It was a rebellious time − a creative one. "Early East Nashville was all sort of a rolling stone's country. That's what we kind of wanted,"Snider said in 2023. "I got in this for the lifestyle ... I wanted to be free."
TV journalist Jim Avila, a former senior news correspondent for ABC News, died following a "long illness," ABC News announced on Nov. 13. He was 69. Additional details on Avila's condition were not disclosed.Avila covered politics, crime and immigration for the network, including a four-year stint covering the White House from 2012-2016.
"We thank him for his many contributions and unwavering commitment to seeking out the truth," ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic said in a statement." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Diane Ladd, the prolific actress who turned Oscar-nominated roles in "Wild at Heart" and "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" and who was the mother of Laura Dern, died on Nov. 3. She was 89. Dern shared news of her mom's death in a statement provided to The Hollywood Reporter. "She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Cleto Escobedo III, the bandleader for the "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" in-house band Cleto and the Cletones, has died at 59. Kimmel shared the news about his childhood friend on social media on Tuesday, Nov. 11.Escobedo, primarily a saxophonist, formed his band with Toshi Yanagi, Jimmy Earl, Jonathan Dresel and Jeff Babko. Escobedo's father, Cleto Escobedo Jr., also plays saxophone for the group. The musicians have been with the late-night ABC show since its 2003 debut." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
"Shirley Valentine" star Pauline Collins, who earned Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for her role, has died at 85. A Nov. 6 statement from her family, obtained by USA TODAY, announced the actress had died "peacefully" in her London care home. She had battled Parkinson's disease for several years.Acting while earning money as a teacher in London, Collins had a prolific career acting in U.K. TV shows beginning in the early 1960s. Among her notable roles was playing Samantha Briggs on Season 4 of "Doctor Who" in 1967; several years later, she found her breakout role as maid Sarah Moffa in the ITV series "Upstairs, Downstairs."
Her road to Hollywood acclaim began in 1988, when she stepped on to the stage in London's West End as the unhappy Liverpool housewife Shirley Valentine. With a Laurence Olivier Award under her belt, she brought the role in Willy Russell's one-woman play to Broadway, ultimately winning a Tony Award." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay, the only woman to have graced The Grateful Dead's lineup, died Nov. 2 at 78 after a lengthy cancer battle, according to Rolling Stone and People magazine. The Alabama native sang with the revolutionary band alongside her first husband, Keith Godchaux, from 1972 to 1979. Both went on to perform with founder Jerry Garcia's Jerry Garcia Band from 1976 to 1978, while Garcia performed with the couple as a member of the Keith and Donna Band. She also sang backing vocals on tracks by Elvis Presley, Percy Sledge, Cher and Neil Diamond." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Grammy-winning jazz musician Jack DeJohnette "died peacefully" on Oct. 26 at Kingston Hospital in New York, according to an announcement shared on DeJohnette's official Instagram page. He was 83. DeJohnette reportedly died of congestive heart failure, his wife and manager Lydia DeJohnette told NPR.DeJohnette, who played drums and piano as well as composed, performed with the likes of Alice Coltrane, Freddie Hubbard, Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. "Jack was a NEA Jazz Master," DeJohnette's death announcement stated. "His legacy will live on."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Hollywood mom June Lockhart, famous for her roles as Maureen Robinson in "Lost in Space" and Ruth Martin in "Lassie," died Oct. 23. She was 100 and her family attributed her death to natural causes.Lockhart won a Tony Award as best newcomer for her Broadway debut in 1947's "For Love or Money" and launched her Hollywood career with early parts in "Sergeant York" and "Meet Me in St. Louis." On TV, she had recurring roles in "Petticoat Junction," "General Hospital" and "Beverly Hills 90210," and even lent her voice to Nickelodeon's "The Ren & Stimpy Show." " style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist and legendary "Spaceman" of KISS, died Oct. 16 after reportedly being on life support following a fall at his home. He was 74.The rocker's family said in a statement to USA TODAY that the musician died peacefully while surrounded by his family in Morristown, New Jersey. A week before his death, on Oct. 7, Frehley canceled his remaining tour dates for 2025, citing "ongoing medical issues." The announcement came shortly after he was hospitalized for what was characterized as a "minor fall" in his studio." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Bassist Sam Rivers, a founding member of Limp Bizkit, died at 48, the band's official Instagram account announced Oct. 18.The statement, signed by Limp Bizkit's Fred Durst, Wes Borland, John Otto and DJ Lethal, remembered Rivers as "our brother," "our bandmate" and "our heartbeat." They wrote, "Sam Rivers wasn't just our bass player − he was pure magic."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
The family of Grammy-winning R&B singer, D'Angelo, announced his death on Oct. 14. He was 51.According to his family, D'Angelo's cause of death was due to cancer.
"We are saddened that he can only leave dear memories with his family, but we are eternally grateful for the legacy of extraordinarily moving music he leaves behind," the family said in a statement. "We ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time but invite you all join us in mourning his passing while also celebrating the gift of song that he has left for the world."
Born Michael Eugene Archer, D'Angelo epitomized the neo-soul movement of the mid-'90s, coproducing the hit 1994 single "U Will Know" and releasing his debut solo album, "Brown Sugar," in 1995. He won four Grammy Awards for his work on his second and third albums, "Voodoo" and "Black Messiah." The latter, released in 2014, marked his final album." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Artist Drew Struzan, who designed many of the most iconic movie posters of all time for films like "Back to the Future" and "Star Wars," died on Oct. 13, his family confirmed. He was 78. Struzan had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease for several years, according to his wife."The disease, this particular disease, took the wind out of him," his family said in a statement. "He could no longer speak his language out loud. We respected the tenacity, his ability to hold on to the fire within that continued to rage."
Struzan created posters for a long list of blockbuster movies, including installments in the "Indiana Jones," "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter" franchises.
Diane Keaton died Oct. 11, at the age of 79, according to People.The Oscar-winning actress found success in the 1970s following her breakthrough role as Kay Adams-Corleone in "The Godfather" franchise.
Her prestigious career continued with roles in "The First Wives Club," "Something's Gotta Give" and "Annie Hall," which landed her an Academy Award in the best actress category.
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Grammy-winning music producer Ike Turner Jr. (right), son of musicians Ike Turner (left) and Tina Turner, died at 67.Singer Afida Turner, his late half-brother Ronnie Turner's wife, shared the news in an Oct. 5 Instagram post. "Rest in peace Ike Jr.," she wrote in the caption, adding that he "was (an) amazing brother in law" and that she's "glad" to have spoken with him over the phone before his death. His cousin Jacqueline Bullock, who is Tina Turner's niece, confirmed his passing to TMZ and Page Six on Oct. 5.
In 2007, Ike Turner Jr. shared a Grammy win in the best traditional blues album category with his father for what ended up being Ike Turner's final studio album, "Risin' With The Blues."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Kimberly Hébert Gregory, an actress known for her TV roles including Belinda Brown on "Vice Principals" and Yvette on "Kevin (Probably) Saves the World," died Oct. 3, ex-husband Chester Gregory confirmed on his verified Instagram account. She was 52 and no cause of death was given. Her many guest appearances included "Gossip Girl," "The Big Bang Theory" and "Grey's Anatomy," and she had roles in the films "I Think I Love My Wife" and "Five Feet Apart." She also founded the Black Rebirth Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Black women artists. Her former husband paid tribute to her as "brilliance embodied" and her costar Walton Goggins remembered her as "one of the best" who "made me laugh like no other."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Claudia Cardinale, the Italian movie star known for the films "Once Upon a Time in the West" and "The Pink Panther," died on Sept. 23 at the age of 87, the actress's agent Laurent Savry confirmed to USA TODAY. A cause of death was not shared.Although Cardinale had become a household name in Italian cinema in the late 1950s and 1960s, it was her roles as Princess Dala in the touchstone comedy "The Pink Panther" and Jill McBain in the spaghetti Western "Once Upon a Time in the West" that launched the actress into the American zeitgeist." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Robert Redford, the legendary leading man with good looks and charm who used his star power to advocate for independent filmmaking, environmentalism and LGBTQ rights, died at 89 on Sept. 16 at his home at Sundance in the Utah mountains, "the place he loved, surrounded by those he loved. He will be missed greatly," his rep Cindi Berger told USA TODAY.During an acting career lasting more than 60 years, Redford became a Hollywood icon with an uncanny knack for finding the perfect scene partner. He saddled up with Paul Newman in the 1969 Western buddy adventure "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and 1973 hit con-man caper "The Sting" (which snagged Redford a best actor Oscar nomination), starred with Barbra Streisand in the 1973 romance "The Way We Were," and teamed with Dustin Hoffman for 1976's journalism thriller "All the President's Men."
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"Grey's Anatomy" actor and celebrity photographer Brad Everett Young died at 46 on Sept. 15, due to injuries sustained from a traffic accident in Los Angeles. As an actor he had TV roles in "Boy Meets World" and "Charmed" while also appearing in films like "Charlie's Angels" and "Jurassic Park II." He was the founder of grassroots project Dream Loud Official, which works to restore and preserve arts programs at schools nationwide." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Rick Davies, founding member of the British rock band Supertramp, died at 81 after a lengthy battle with multiple myeloma.The band, known for hits like "Breakfast in America" and "The Logical Song," announced on its website that the singer and musician died Sept. 6 after a decadelong cancer battle.
"As co-writer, along with partner Roger Hodgson, he was the voice and pianist behind Supertramp's most iconic songs, leaving an indelible mark on rock music history," the group wrote.
Mark Volman, singer and co-founder of '60s and '70s rock bands The Turtles and Flo & Eddie, died at age 78.Volman died Sept. 5 in Nashville after a "brief, unexpected illness," his representatives told People and The Associated Press.
He previously told People he had been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, a common type of dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease that causes a progressive decline in mental and physical abilities, in 2020.
Rolling Ray, the beloved social media star and Zeus Network alum, died at 28, according to a social media tribute by the network on Sept. 4. His death was also reported by TMZ and FOX 5 DC, but a cause was not immediately shared. The Washington, D.C. native, real name Raymond Harper, was known for his witty one-liners and viral videos." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Giorgio Armani, the famed Italian fashion designer who achieved elegance and timelessness through his namesake brand, died at 91, the Armani Group announced in a statement Sept. 4."Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones," the Armani Group said in the statement. "Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Canadian actor Graham Greene, the Oscar-nominated star of "Dances With Wolves" and "Green Mile," has died at age 73.His agent Michael Greene, no relation, said in a statement to USA TODAY that Greene died "after a lengthy illness." "He was a great man of morals, ethics and character and will be eternally missed," Michael Greene wrote.
The Canadian First Nations actor, a tireless advocate for Indigenous representation in Hollywood," made a huge career leap in "Dances with Wolves," playing the wise and compassionate Sioux medicine man Kicking Bird.
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"The Sopranos" star Jerry Adler died "peacefully in his sleep," a representative confirmed to USA TODAY on Aug. 24. He was 96. Adler was known for his role as Herman "Hesh" Rabkin, an adviser to Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini), on "The Sopranos." A former stage manager and theater director who began acting in his 60s, Adler also starred on shows such as "The Good Wife" and "Mad About You."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Oscar-nominated actor Terence Stamp, best known for his role as "Superman" arch-villain General Zod, died on Aug. 17 at the age of 87, his family confirmed to Reuters. Stamp's cause of death was not immediately known."He leaves behind an extraordinary body of work, both as an actor and as a writer, that will continue to touch and inspire people for years to come," Stamp's family said." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Tristan Rogers, best known for his longtime role as Robert Scorpio on "General Hospital," died at 79. Rogers' longtime manager, Meryl Soodak, confirmed the soap star's "unfortunate passing" to USA TODAY on Aug. 15.The news came a month after the soap star shared with fans that he had been diagnosed with cancer.
"General Hospital" Executive Producer Frank Valentini said in a statement that "Tristan has captivated our fans for 45 years and Port Charles will not be the same without him (or Robert Scorpio)." Rogers' 55-year career on screen also included roles as Colin Atkinson on "The Young and the Restless," Hunter Jones on "The Bold and the Beautiful" and Lex Martin on "The Bay."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Mississippi author Greg Iles (center), the best-selling writer of the "Natchez Burning" trilogy, died Aug. 15 at age 65. His literary agent, Dan Conaway, confirmed his death a day later on Facebook. Iles had dealt with multiple myeloma, an incurable blood cancer, for decades. The trilogy, which also includes "The Bone Tree" and "Mississippi Blood," was a subset of his Penn Cage series. Iles was also a member of the Rock Bottom Remainders, a charitable rock group whose bandmates include Stephen King (left, with Roger McGuinn at right)." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Kseniya Alexandrova, a Russian model and TV personality who competed in the 2017 Miss Universe competition, died on Aug. 12 at the age of 30, Alexandrova's modeling agency, Modus Vivendis, confirmed in an Aug. 13 Instagram post. A cause of death was not disclosed, although the model's husband told Russian media that Alexandrova sustained a head injury in a car accident. "Kseniya was bright, talented and extraordinarily bright," the agency said. "She knew how to inspire, support and give warmth to everyone around her. For us, she will forever remain a symbol of beauty, kindness and inner strength."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Singer-songwriter and instrumentalist Bobby Whitlock, best known as the keyboardist for Eric Clapton's blues-rock band Derek and the Dominos, died on Aug. 10 at age 77 following a battle with cancer, Whitlock's representative Carol Kaye confirmed to USA TODAY.Whitlock met Clapton while working in the group Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, which was headed by soul-rock singer-songwriters Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett. Derek and the Dominos released one album, 1970's "Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs," which featured the hard rock classic "Layla."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Eddie Palmieri, a Grammy-winning pianist and bandleader who helped define Latin jazz, has died. He was 88. The famed musician died Wednesday, Aug. 6, according to Fania Records, a label responsible for several of his hit albums. "Today, Fania Records mourns the loss of the legendary Eddie Palmieri, one of the most innovative and unique artists in music history," the company wrote in a statement.
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Kelley Mack, a film producer and actress who appeared in "The Walking Dead" and "Chicago Med," died Aug. 2. She was 33. Born Kelley Lynne Klebenow, the Chapman University graduate died in her hometown of Cincinnati following a cancer battle, having been diagnosed with glioma of the central nervous system. Her agent, Julie Smith, confirmed the news to USA TODAY on Aug. 5 after Mack's sister, Kathryn Klebenow, shared news of her death on Mack's Instagram," style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Loni Anderson, the savvy blonde bombshell best known for her role as receptionist Jennifer Marlowe on TV's beloved '70s and '80s sitcom "WKRP in Cincinnati," died Aug. 3 at age 79, just two days short of her 80th birthday. She suffered "an acute prolonged illness," her representative Cheryl J. Kagan told USA TODAY. Anderson, the ex-wife of Burt Reynolds, earned two Primetime Emmy nominations as outstanding supporting actress in a comedy for her performance during the show's four-year run." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Robert Wilson, the theater and opera director, visual artist and founder of New York's The Watermill Center, died July 31 "after a brief but acute illness," according to a press release his representative shared with USA TODAY. Wilson was 83 years old."One of the world's foremost avant-garde artists in theater," Wilson boasted a wide range of creative collaborators over the years, including Allen Ginsberg, Tom Waits, Laurie Anderson, Willem Dafoe and Lady Gaga." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Alon Aboutboul, an Israeli actor best known for his roles in The Dark Knight and Rambo film franchises, died on July 29 at age 60, Aboutboul's representative Mark Teitelbaum confirmed to USA TODAY. A cause of death was not disclosed."Alon was a brilliant actor, a true artist, an Israeli icon, but more importantly, he was a loving father of his four children, and a dear friend of mine and many others," Teitelbaum said in a statement." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Singer-songwriter Tom Lehrer, a satirist who gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s for his acerbic take on politics and social life, died on July 26, Lehrer's friend David Herder confirmed to The New York Times and The Associated Press. He was 97. A cause of death was not disclosed. Lehrer, who also had an academic career as a mathematics scholar, is best known for his albums "Songs by Tom Lehrer" and "More of Tom Lehrer." His debut album "Songs," recognized for pioneering the "sick" comedy genre, was inducted into the National Recording Registry in 2004." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
WWE icon and onscreen star Hulk Hogan died of a heart attack in Clearwater Beach, Florida, on July 24. He was 71. Born Terry Bollea, Hogan was WWE's first major star as "Hulkamania" took over the fanbase. His popularity extended outside of wrestling, appearing on TV shows like "Hogan Knows Best" and movies including "Rocky III."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
British jazz singer Cleo Laine, who performed with musical greats such as Frank Sinatra and starred as an actor in London's West End and on Broadway, died July 24, according to reporting from multiple outlets. She was 97.The Guardian and The New York Times reported the news July 25, citing a statement from Laine's children, musicians Jacqui and Alec Dankworth. The Stables Theatre, a U.K. music venue that Laine co-founded with her late husband, confirmed the news in a statement posted to its website." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Chuck Mangione, a prolific composer and musician, died July 22, his family confirmed in a statement to the Rochester, New York, Democrat and Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network, on July 24. He was 84.The family noted Mangione, who released 30 albums in his career but is best known for the 1977 hit single "Feels So Good," died "peacefully" in his sleep at his home in Rochester, New York. The virtuoso flugelhorn and trumpet player's 1977 instrumental track also became a bit on TV's animated "King of the Hill," where it was frequently referenced, with Mangione himself nabbing a recurring voice-acting role." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, the Grammy-winning Prince of Darkness, died July 22, his representative confirmed to USA TODAY. He was 76."It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning," a statement from his family read. "He was with his family and surrounded by love."
The Black Sabbath star had had one of the most recognizable screams in modern history, from his "All aboard!" opening of "Crazy Train" to his oft-meme'd "Sharon!"
He died just weeks after reuniting with Black Sabbath for a final show in England.
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"The Cosby Show" actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner died on July 20 after drowning off the coast of Costa Rica, according to ABC News and The Associated Press. He was 54.Warner was best known for his role as Theodore Huxtable, son of Bill Cosby's Cliff Huxtable, on the hit sitcom "The Cosby Show." He starred in the role for eight seasons.
Warner's other notable performances included roles as Malcolm McGee in the UPN sitcom "Malcolm & Eddie" and Dr. AJ Austin on Fox's medical drama "The Resident."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Broadway actor and writer Tom Troupe, best known for his television appearances in "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," "Star Trek" and "Cheers," died July 20 at 97. According to a press release, Troupe died in his Beverly Hills, California, home from natural causes, two years after his late wife, "Sixteen Candles" actress Carole Cook.Troupe's lengthy inventory of acting credits span more than 60 years and include "Murder, She Wrote," "The Fugitive," "Mission: Impossible," "The Wild Wild West," "Knots Landing," "Frasier" and "ER." He played Judge William E. Grey in "Cheers," and Lt. Harold in the original "Star Trek" series." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Alan Bergman, half of one of the greatest American songwriting duos alongside late wife Marilyn Bergman, died on July 17, according to a family spokesperson. He was 99.The Bergmans won three Oscars, four Emmys and two Grammy awards, and were also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1980. Singers ranging from Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra to Johnny Mathis, Barbra Streisand and Sting recorded their songs." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Actor Julian McMahon died at 56 "after a valiant effort to overcome cancer," his wife, Kelly McMahon, confirmed to USA TODAY in a statement on July 5.McMahon was best known for his roles as Christian Troy on "Nip/Tuck," Cole Turner on "Charmed" and Doctor Doom in a pair of "Fantastic Four" movies.
"He loved his family," Kelly McMahon added. "He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Michael Madsen, a prolific actor and longstanding Quentin Tarantino collaborator, has died at 67. Madsen died July 3, following a cardiac arrest, manager Ron Smith confirmed to USA TODAY. Madsen appeared in some of Tarantino's biggest films, including "Reservoir Dogs," "Kill Bill: Vol. 2" and "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood," and was known for playing a tough guy on screen and enjoyed success in the movie business for over four decades, racking up some 300 credits." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Bill Moyers, a former press secretary to President Lyndon B. Johnson who became a respected broadcast journalist in his post-political career, died June 26 after a long illness. He was 91. His death was confirmed by Tom Johnson, a former CNN CEO who worked for Moyers in LBJ's administration. "I believe he reached the same stature as Edward R. Murrow," Tom Johnson told USA TODAY, adding he was "in many ways the son LBJ never had."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Bobby Sherman, a 1960s teen idol and pop star-turned-public servant, has died. He was 81.John Stamos announced Sherman's death in a June 24, Instagram announcement in collaboration with Sherman's wife, Brigitte Poublon Sherman.
"From one ex teen idol, to another - rest in peace Bobby Sherman," Stamos wrote.
"It is with the heaviest heart that I share the passing of my beloved husband, Bobby Sherman," Poublon said in an ensuing statement. "Bobby left this world holding my hand—just as he held up our life with love, courage, and unwavering grace through all 29 beautiful years of marriage."
Mick Ralphs, whose guitar playing colored the songs of British rock bands Bad Company and Mott the Hoople, has died. He was 81.Kymm Britton, a representative for Ralphs and Bad Company bandmates Paul Rodgers and Simon Kirke, confirmed Ralphs' death. No cause was provided.
"Our Mick has passed, my heart just hit the ground. He has left us with exceptional songs and memories. He was my friend, my songwriting partner, an amazing and versatile guitarist who had the greatest sense of humour," Rodgers said in a statement. Kirke also expressed his love for "a dear friend, a wonderful songwriter and an exceptional guitarist."
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David Hamilton, an Emmy-nominated composer and cofounding keyboard player of the band Pavlov's Dog, died at age 74, his reps confirmed to Deadline. His death on June 20 was also confirmed via an official obituary.Hamilton studied classical music in the United Kingdom before returning to his birth city of St. Louis to help found rock band Pavlov's Dog, to moderate success. He left the band to pursue work as a television and film composer. His music was featured at least 15 movies and TV shows, including the CBS legal drama "Orleans," which got him a Primetime Emmy nomination for outstanding music composition for a series in 1997." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Chef and TV personality Anne Burrell, best known for her numerous appearances on the Food Network, died on June 17 at her home in New York, according to a press release from the Food Network. She was 55. A cause of death was not disclosed. Burrell, a recognizable figure on the culinary channel thanks to her spiky platinum blonde hairdo and tart wit, made her Food Network debut in 2005 on "Iron Chef America." She also hosted her own series "Secrets of a Restaurant Chef" and "Worst Cooks in America."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Lou Christie, who topped the Billboard chart in 1966 with "Lightnin' Strikes," died June 17 at 82 years old, representative Mary Fox confirmed to USA TODAY.Christie's early hits included "The Gypsy Cried" and "Two Faces Have I." His rendition of "Beyond the Blue Horizon" achieved a resurgence in 1988 after the song was featured in the Oscar-winning film "Rain Man."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Brian Wilson, an eclectic genius whose sunny Beach Boys songs helped define a revved-up era of American popular music, has died at age 82. Wilson's family announced his death on social media June 11, and did not cite a cause. Wilson's epic career arc spanned most of his life and was as defined by prolonged bouts of mental illness as it was by meticulously constructed pop confections.
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Sly Stone, a onetime San Francisco DJ turned pop and funk music innovator who was the frontman of Sly and the Family Stone, died at 82. The news was shared in a statement released by his family June 9. His death came "after a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues," his family said. "Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family." After huge chart-topping success in the 1960s and 1970s, Stone had become an enigmatic and largely reclusive figure plagued by homelessness and health issues. But despite such misfortunes, the music created by the Texas-born California transplant and his trendsetting multi-racial, multi-gendered Bay Area band, the Family Stone, had never stopped being a touchstone for generations of musicians." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Randy White, husband of country singer Lorrie Morgan, has died following a battle with mouth cancer, Morgan announced in an emotional June 1 post on her social media pages. He was reportedly 72. "Randy has been my partner, my champion and my rock for 17 years," Morgan wrote. "Our big, wonderful family and I are devastated at the loss of this truly kind and incredible man. I was blessed by his love. Ran-Ran, I will love and miss you forever."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Renée Victor, an actress and singer known for her roles in films like "Coco" and shows like "Weeds," died on May 30 at age 86.Victor voiced Abuelita in the 2017 Pixar animated movie "Coco" and starred as housekeeper Lupita on Showtime's "Weeds." She also had roles on shows like "Dead to Me," "Snowpiercer," "Vida" and "ER."
Pixar paid tribute to Victor in an Instagram post, writing, "We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Renée Victor, the voice Abuelita in 'Coco' and an incredible part of the Pixar family. We will always remember you."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Valerie Mahaffey, the Emmy-winning actress best known for her role as Eve on "Northern Exposure," died Friday, May 30, after a battle with cancer.Mahaffey also appeared in films like "Seabiscuit," "Sully" and "French Exit" and shows like "The Doctors" and "Young Sheldon."
She is survived by her husband Joseph Kell and daughter Alice." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for playing head nurse Maj. Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on the classic TV series "M*A*S*H," died May 30 of suspected natural causes, her publicist said in a statement shared with USA TODAY. She was 87.Through all 11 seasons of CBS' Korean War dramedy, Swit infused humanity into the highly capable head nurse for the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Actor Ed Gale, best known for playing Chucky in 1988's "Child's Play," died at 61, his representative confirmed to USA TODAY on May 28. Among Gale's dozens of film and TV credits were "Spaceballs," "Howard the Duck" and "The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle," per IMDB." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Professional hunter and TV personality Phil Robertson, best known for his role on the reality series "Duck Dynasty," has died following a recent Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, Robertson's son Willie and daughter-in-law Korie confirmed in a May 25 social media post. Robertson, pictured here with wife Marsha Kay "Miss Kay" Carroway Robertson, was 79."Thank you for the love and prayers of so many whose lives have been impacted by his life saved by grace, his bold faith, and by his desire to tell everyone who would listen the Good News of Jesus," Willie and Korie wrote. "We are grateful for his life on earth and will continue the legacy of love for God and love for others until we see him again."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
George Wendt, best known for his role as beer-quaffing bar regular Norm Peterson on the NBC hit comedy "Cheers," died May 20. He was 76.His publicist confirmed the actor's death to USA TODAY, writing in a statement that he'd "died peacefully in his sleep while at home."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Filmmaker James Foley died at 71 following a year-long battle with brain cancer, a representative confirmed to USA TODAY on May 9. The "House of Cards" director made his cinematic debut with 1984's "Reckless" and went on to direct films such as "Glengarry Glen Ross," "Fifty Shades Darker" and "Fifty Shades Freed."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Ruth Buzzi, a variety-show veteran most famous for her role on "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In," died May 1. She was 88.Buzzi died at her Texas home, her agent Michael Eisenstadt confirmed to USA TODAY in a May 2 statement. A female comic from an era when they were scarce, Buzzi "died peacefully in her sleep" following several years of hospice care for Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative condition.
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Jill Sobule, the singer/songwriter whose hits included "I Kissed A Girl" and the "satirical gem" "Supermodel" from the "Clueless" soundtrack, died at 66.Sobule's representatives announced the news in a May 1 press release, which revealed her cause of death was "a house fire early this morning" in Minnesota. The musician was slated to perform throughout the U.S. in 2025, with a Colorado show scheduled for the day after her death.
On Sobule's website, "I Kissed A Girl" is described as "the first ever openly queer-themed Billboard Top 20 record."
Actress Priscilla Pointer, best known for her roles in the 1980s soap opera "Dallas" and horror film classic "Carrie," died on April 28 at age 100, Pointer's son David Irving confirmed to USA TODAY. Pointer died of natural causes at an assisted-living facility in Ridgefield, Connecticut.Pointer's children also included fellow actress Amy Irving, left, who Pointer co-starred with in the 1976 supernatural horror "Carrie." Amy played Sue Snell, a classmate of Carrie's who is scarred by the girl's deadly rampage, while Pointer portrayed Snell's mother." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Comedian and singer Lulu Roman, best known for her appearances on the country music variety show "Hee Haw," died "unexpectedly" on April 23 at age 78, according to a press release. A cause of death was not disclosed.On "Hee Haw," which debuted in 1969, Roman charmed audiences with her comedic timing, infectious laughter and powerful singing voice. Outside the show, Roman also enjoyed a successful career as a gospel singer, winning several Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Actress and former child star Sophie Nyweide, best known for her roles in the films "Mammoth" and "An Invisible Sign," died on April 14 at age 24, according to an obituary published on Legacy.com April 17. Nyweide's mother, actress Shelly Gibson, confirmed her daughter's death to The Hollywood Reporter and TMZ in articles published April 22. A cause of death was not disclosed. "Sophie. A life ended too soon. May it not be in vain," Nyweide's obituary stated. "May we all learn from her brief life on earth and do better. Yes, we must all protect our children and do better."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
TV and radio host Wink Martindale, best known for helming the game shows "Gambit" and "Tic-Tac-Dough," died April 15 at age 91, according to The Hollywood Reporter and the Los Angeles Times. The former disc jockey, born Winston Conrad Martindale, died in Rancho Mirage, California, while surrounded by his family. A cause of death was not given.After hosting the musical game shows "What's This Song?" and "Words and Music" for NBC, Martindale became a household name when he was chosen by CBS to head its blackjack-themed series "Gambit" in 1972. He hosted the show's original run through 1976 and later emceed a Las Vegas spinoff on NBC from 1980-1981.
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Les Binks, the drummer responsible for Judas Priest's beats in the late-'70s, has died at 73, the band announced on social media April 15. A funeral notice for Binks lists his passing at a London hospital, with some reports adding his death occurred March 15.Judas Priest wrote in an Instagram post: "We are deeply saddened about the passing of Les and send our love to his family, friends and fans. The acclaimed drumming he provided was first class – demonstrating his unique techniques, flair, style and precision. Thank you, Les – your acclaim will live on …"
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Peruvian writer Mario Vargas Llosa, who enchanted readers with his intellectual rigor and lyrical prose for five decades and came close to being president of his country, died April 13 at 89.He died in Lima, Peru, surrounded by his family and "at peace," his son Alvaro Vargas Llosa, a well-known political commentator, said on X.
"His departure will sadden his relatives, his friends and his readers around the world, but we hope that they will find comfort, as we do, in the fact that he enjoyed a long, adventurous and fruitful life, and leaves behind him a body of work that will outlive him," his son wrote.
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British actress and writer Jean Marsh, best known for co-creating and starring in the series "Upstairs, Downstairs," died April 13 at age 90, according to reports. Marsh died "peacefully in bed" due to complications of dementia, the actress's close friend, filmmaker Michael Lindsay-Hogg, told The New York Times and The Guardian. Marsh's agent also confirmed her death to the BBC.Marsh created "Upstairs, Downstairs," which tackled the decline of British aristocracy in the early 1900s, with Eileen Atkins, John Hawkesworth and John Whitney. The period drama received critical acclaim, winning two BAFTA awards, seven Primetime Emmys (including a best drama actress win for Marsh) and a Golden Globe for best drama series.
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Canadian Bulgarian director Ted Kotcheff, best known for his work on the '80s classics "Weekend at Bernie's" and "First Blood," died April 10 at age 94, the filmmaker's family confirmed to The Globe and Mail and The Canadian Press. Kotcheff died of heart failure, his daughter Kate Kotcheff told The Canadian Press."First Blood," which starred Sylvester Stallone as Vietnam War veteran John Rambo, spawned a sprawling media franchise that included four sequels, an animated TV series and a comic book series.
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Mel Novak, who showed off his dark side as villains in the action films "Black Belt Jones," "Game of Death" and "An Eye for an Eye," died April 9 at age 90, the actor's daughter Nikol Conant confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter and TMZ. Novak died of natural causes at a hospice facility in Granada Hills, California, Conant told the outlets.Novak appeared in 1981's "An Eye for an Eye" as Tony Montoya in a star-studded cast that featured Chuck Norris, Christopher Lee and Richard Roundtree.
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Theater composer and lyricist William Finn, best known for his work on the Tony Award-winning musical "Falsettos," died on April 7 following a battle with pneumonia, Finn's literary agent Ron Gwiazda confirmed to USA TODAY. He was 73.The playwright's Broadway breakthrough came in 1992 with "Falsettos," a sung-through musical that combined the stories of Finn's previous shows "March of the Falsettos" and "Falsettoland." The emotional musical, which takes inspiration from the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, won Finn a pair of Tony Awards for best original score and best book of a musical.
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"Top Gun" star Val Kilmer, whose leading roles included both Batman and Jim Morrison of The Doors, died April 1 at 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed his death to The New York Times and The Associated Press. He had previously battled throat cancer and died from pneumonia. The handsome star of the '80s and '90s, who was also known for starring in "Willow" and "Heat," lost his voice to a tracheotomy but reprised his role as Tom "Iceman" Kazansky opposite Tom Cruise in 2022's blockbuster "Top Gun: Maverick."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Johnny Tillotson, the crooner behind 1960s hits like "Poetry in Motion," died April 1, according to a post on Facebook from his wife Nancy."Johnny will be missed every single day for the rest of my life," she wrote. "He was simply the best." Tillotson, himself a teen idol, also found secondary popularity as major stars opted to cover his original tracks. "It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin," one of his most famous songs, was performed by both Dean Martin and Elvis Presley.
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Richard Chamberlain, the TV heartthrob who starred as "Dr. Kildare" and in popular miniseries such as "The Thorn Birds" and "Shōgun," died March 29 after suffering complications from a stroke. He died two days short of his 91st birthday. The three-time Golden Globe winner, a U.S Army veteran who served in Korea, was dubbed "the king of the miniseries" for his influential roles in the "The Thorn Birds" and "Shōgun," and received four Emmy nominations. He also enjoyed a robust stage career, starring as Captain von Trapp in "The Sound of Music" on Broadway." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Jesse Colin Young, the former Youngbloods frontman known for the hit song "Get Together," died at his home in Aiken, South Carolina. He was 83.Young died March 16, according to a statement from Young's wife and manager, Connie Young, provided to USA TODAY.
The New York City-born singer and guitarist – with Jerry Corbitt, Lowell "Banana" Levinger and Joe Bauer – fronted the 1960s-70s era rock band. "Get Together," the iconic call for love and peace written by Chet Powers, was the group's sole hit.
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Bruce Glover, remembered by James Bond fans for his role in "Diamonds Are Forever," died on March 12 at the age of 92, his son Crispin Glover revealed on social media. A representative for Crispin Glover confirmed to USA TODAY on March 30 that Bruce died of natural causes. Aside from his role as Mr. Wint in "Diamonds," Glover racked up dozens of other film and TV credits throughout his career, including "Chinatown," "Walking Tall," "Perry Mason," "Bonanza," "Mission: Impossible" and "Gunsmoke."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Grammy-nominated singer and guitarist D'Wayne Wiggins died March 7 after "privately and courageously battling bladder cancer," his family said in a statement shared on social media. Wiggins — a founding member of the seminal R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné! alongside his brother Raphael Saadiq and their cousin Timothy Christian Riley — had experienced "medical complications" two days earlier, his family revealed. " style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Jazz-funk musician Roy Ayers, the "godfather of neo-soul" behind the hit '70s song "Everybody Loves the Sunshine," died at 84 years old on March 4, his family said in a statement shared on his social media accounts. Ayers, who formed Roy Ayers Ubiquity in the 1970s and is known for tracks like "Searching" and "Running Away," has had his works sampled by the likes of Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and Ye." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
R&B singer Angie Stone died in a car crash in the early hours of March 1. She was 63.Stone was traveling with members of her band from Mobile, Alabama, to Atlanta when their van collided with a semi-truck on Interstate 65 about five miles south of Montgomery, according to police and her label. Stone, who was a passenger in the van, was declared dead at the scene. Eight other passengers of the van were injured and transported to hospitals for treatment, Lt. Jeremy Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency told USA TODAY.
Grammy-nominated singer rose to prominence in the 1970s as a member of female rap group The Sequence before a solo career that produced hits like "Wish I Didn't Miss You."
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David Johansen, a punk legend and the last surviving member of the pioneering band the New York Dolls, died Feb. 28.Johansen, 75, had been living with cancer for nearly a decade and a brain tumor for five years, according to a Sweet Relief Musicians Fund fundraiser.
"David Johansen passed away peacefully at home, holding the hands of his wife Mara Hennessey and daughter Leah, in the sunlight surrounded by music and flowers," the family posted on the fundraiser site. Johansen's death was confirmed by his stepdaughter, Leah Hennessey, The New York Times and Rolling Stone reported.
The New York Dolls, formed in 1971 and fronted by Johansen, were the forerunners of punk – thus, considered proto-punk pioneers – and glam rock as well, showing the way for bands such as Queen and Kiss.
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Actor Gene Hackman died alongside wife Betsy Arakawa on Feb. 26, the sheriff's office in Santa Fe, New Mexico, confirmed. An intense character actor who won two Oscars in a more than 60-year career, Hackman brought a rogue charm and everyman believably to iconic roles such as his best acting-winning performance as Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in "The French Connection."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
"Gossip Girl" star Michelle Trachtenberg was found dead the morning of Feb. 26 in New York City, a spokesperson for the New York Police Department confirmed to USA TODAY. She was 39. The NYPD said no criminal involvement is suspected and the investigation is ongoing. Trachtenberg rose to fame as a teenager, with roles in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "Ice Princess."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Screenwriter and producer Roberto Orci, co-creator of the CBS reboot "Hawaii Five-O," died at 51 after battling kidney disease, manager Mike De Trana confirmed to USA TODAY on Feb. 25. Orci, who often worked with filmmaker Alex Kurtzman, also boasted credits in the "Star Trek" and "Transformers" movies as well as 2009's "The Proposal" and the Fox shows "Sleepy Hollow" and "Fringe."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Between her smoky voice and cooing ballads, Roberta Flack distinguished herself as a soulful standout.The singer died Feb. 24, 2024, at 88. A statement from her representative noted that Flack "died peacefully, surrounded by her family."
Flack's manager, Suzanne Koga, said in an appreciation of the multi-genre star, "If Roberta Flack was unlike singers who came before her, there were many who would emulate her in her wake. In fact, her influence has never stopped reverberating. She was a woman who sang in a measured voice, but her measurements moved times and events as much as they moved hearts."
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Jesus Guerrero, a celebrity hairstylist who worked with stars including Kylie Jenner and Jennifer Lopez, died at 34, according to a statement shared to his Instagram Story on Feb. 23.A GoFundMe page that appeared to be organized by Guerrero's sister did not confirm a cause of death but said "his passing came very suddenly and unexpectedly."
Guerrero's clients ranged from the Kardashian family to Selena Gomez, Katy Perry, Demi Moore, Blackpink's Lisa and Rosalía. One of his final projects involved styling Lopez's hair while she was in Abu Dhabi to perform for Saadiyat Nights on Feb. 20-21.
Jerry Butler, cofounder of the Impressions and baritone singer/songwriter known for hits such as "For Your Precious Love" and "Only The Strong Survive," reportedly died Feb. 20. He was 85.
The R&B/soul musician, who earned two Grammy nods in his lifetime, had been living with Parkinson's disease, according to the Chicago Sun-Times, The New York Times and The Washington Post.
Butler, along with childhood friend Curtis Mayfield, formed the Impressions alongside Sam Gooden, Richard Brooks and Art Brooks in the late 1950s.
Butler struck out on his own as a solo artist in 1960. "Only the Strong Survive" became his highest-charting hit, per Billboard, and went on to be covered by the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Presley and Rod Stewart.
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Paquita La Del Barrio, a Mexican songstress known for feminist anthems like "Tres veces te engañe" and "Rata de dos patas," died at 77, a post to her official Instagram confirmed Feb. 17."With profound pain and sadness, we confirm the passing of our dear 'Paquita La Del Barrio,' in her Veracruz home," the statement, originally written in Spanish, read. "A unique and irreplaceable who left a permanent fingerprint on the heart of all of us who knew her and enjoyed her music."
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South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found dead at her home by a friend who was planning to meet her, Reuters and South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reported on Feb. 16. She was 24. A cause of death was not immediately released.Kim began acting when she was 9 and was known for her performances in the films "A Brand New Life" and "The Man from Nowhere," the latter of which was South Korea's highest-grossing film of 2010. She also appeared in the 2023 Netflix series "Bloodhounds." In 2022, Kim was engulfed in controversy after being involved in a drunk driving incident. She released an apology at the time.
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Record executive and music producer Irving "Irv Gotti" Lorenzo, who helped launch music careers for Ashanti, DMX and Ja Rule, has died at 54.Def Jam Recordings, where Gotti worked as an executive and Murder Inc.'s parent company when it was founded, confirmed Gotti's death in a Feb. 5 statement. "Def Jam Recordings and the extended Def Jam family of artists, executives and employees, are deeply saddened at the loss of Irv Gotti," Def Jam said in the statement.
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Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, who rose to fame across East Asia as the romantic lead in the 2001 television drama "Meteor Garden," had died. She was 48.Her sister confirmed the news on Feb. 3 and revealed she had died of influenza.
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Marianne Faithfull, a singer and actress known for hits like "As Tears Go By" and ex of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger, died Jan. 30, a spokesperson confirmed. She was 78.Faithfull's music rose to popularity in the 1960s, and helped helm the female wing of the British invasion, a term for U.K. artists becoming popular in the U.S. commonly associated with The Beatles. A fruitful and fraught relationship with the Rolling Stones helped define her early career.
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Ryan Whyte Maloney, a contestant from Season 6 of "The Voice" who turned all four judges' chairs in 2014, died at 44 years old. The singer, who was due for a stint of performances at the Ole Red Las Vegas, was proclaimed dead from an apparent suicide in the early morning of Jan. 28, 2025, the Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner told USA TODAY." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
died Jan. 20. She was 51. Ban's death was announced by her son Sebastian in an emotional Instagram post. "My mum passed away on Monday. I know she wanted to share her journey after her accident and brain surgery, so I thought she would appreciate one last post sharing the news to people who supported her," he wrote." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Jules Feiffer, best known for his eponymous comic strip in The Village Voice, died Jan. 17 of congestive heart failure, his representative Gail Hochman confirmed to USA TODAY. He was 95. Feiffer's big break came in 1956 when his "Feiffer" comic strip was picked up by the New York-based publication. It ran in syndication from 1959 until Feiffer's departure from The Village Voice in 1997, though he continued to create new editions for other publications through 2000. A satirical cartoon known for its literate captions, the series often featured monologues in which the speaker exposed his own insecurities." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
died Jan. 21, his former manager, Jim Della Croce confirmed with USA TODAY. He was 87. Hudson played keyboard for The Band, the influential rock group that formed in 1957 and was originally called the Hawks. The band famously performed with Bob Dylan and in 1968 released its debut studio album, "Music from Big Pink."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
reportedly died Jan. 16. He was 39. A coroner's report from the Los Angeles Medical Examiner and reviewed by USA TODAY appeared to correspond to the late star, which People and Deadline cited. The coroner's report cited suicide as the cause of death.
Martin broke into primetime television with his portrayal of Fabian on "Jane the Virgin."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
died at 95, her family told the BBC, The Independent and other British outlets on Jan. 17. The Golden Globe- and Tony Award-winning actress and British dame made her acting debut in the 1956 film "Moby Dick" and broke out several years later in the 1960 film adaptation of "The Entertainer" alongside Laurence Olivier, whom she later married." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
David Lynch died at 78, his family announced Jan. 16 on Facebook. A cause of death was not given, though Lynch revealed last year that he received a diagnosis of emphysema, a lung disease caused primarily by smoking, in 2020. Nevertheless, he told fans on social media at the time, "I am filled with happiness, and I will never retire." Lynch was the mastermind behind "Twin Peaks," the cult-classic TV series, and famous for a string of surreal films including the original "Dune" (1984), "Blue Velvet" (1986) and "Mulholland Drive" (2001). His big awards contender "The Elephant Man" (1980) garnered eight Oscar nominations, including best picture and best director." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Sam Moore died Jan. 10 at the age of 89, according to his representatives. He was one half of the duo Sam & Dave." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Peter Yarrow, the singer-songwriter, activist and founding member of the folk band Peter, Paul and Mary, died Jan. 7 at 86 after battling bladder cancer, his publicist Ken Sunshine confirmed to USA TODAY. Alongside Paul Stookey and Mary Travers, Yarrow formed and contributed compositions to the trio, which found success with original songs like "Puff, the Magic Dragon" and "Norman Normal."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Richard Cohen, award-winning journalist and husband to former "Today" host Meredith Vieira, died after battling pneumonia for two months, Vieira's rep confirmed to USA TODAY on Jan. 7. He was 76. Cohen was a journalist, winning three Emmy awards for his work at CBS News before moving to CNN. Vieira and Cohen were married for nearly four decades and share three children: Benjamin, 36, Gabriel, 34, and Lily, 32." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences announced on Jan. 4. He was 80. A cause of death was not disclosed. "The AMACC laments the sensitive death of actor Emilio Echevarría, who forged an enormous career in film and theater," the Mexican Academy wrote." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Jeff Baena, a screenwriter and director who was married to actress Aubrey Plaza, died on Jan. 3. He was 47. Baena died at his home in California, according to records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner reviewed by USA TODAY. A cause of death was not available. Baena and Plaza collaborated on numerous projects, including the 2014 dark comedy "Life After Beth," which Baena wrote and directed." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
died on Jan. 1 at the age of 93, a company official said. She had launched the business in 1953 with her husband, the late Ottavio Missoni, developing a brand which gained international recognition and awards for its distinctive patterns and avant-garde use of textiles and an approach to fashion often compared to modern art. Rosita Missoni remained creative director for the womenswear collections until the late 1990s, when she passed the task on to her daughter, Angela Missoni." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
Leo Dan, the legendary Argentine singer-songwriter of romantic hits that took Latin America by storm, has died. He was 82. Dan died on Jan. 1, his family announced on his social media accounts. "This morning our beloved Leo Dan left his body in peace and with the love of his family," read the statement on Instagram, originally written in Spanish. "Thus, he returned to the pure light of his Heavenly Father, to guide us and take care of us from infinity. ... We invite everyone who was part of his story and who were touched by his legacy, to celebrate his love, his music and his life." His hit records include "Celia," "How I Miss You, My Love" ("Cómo Te Extraño Mi Amor") and "Ask Me for the Moon" ("Pídeme la Luna")." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />
a statement released Jan. 3 by his publisher, Penguin Random House. A Booker Prize-shortlisted author, Lodge was known for works such as "Small World" and "Nice Work," part of his "Campus Trilogy," as well as "Changing Places" and "The British Museum is Falling Down."" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Passages 2025: Jim Avila, Diane Ladd, Pauline Collins and more stars we've lost
TV journalistJim Avila, a former senior news correspondent for ABC News, died following a "long illness," ABC News announced on Nov. 13. He was 69. Additional details on Avila's condition were not disclosed.Avila covered politics, crime and immigration for the network, including a four-year stint covering the White House from 2012-2016."We thank him for his many contributions and unwavering commitment to seeking out the truth," ABC News President Almin Karamehmedovic said in a statement.
Todd Snider's songs were covered by Loretta Lynn, Tom Jones and more
Artists including Gary Allan, Mark Chesnutt, Loretta Lynn, Robert Earl Keen and Tom Jones recorded Snider's songs. Snider wrote alongside Lynn, John Ingram, Will Kimbrough and more, and inspired artists from Jack Ingram to Amanda Shires.
"I've learned a lot from him, especially about how important it is to stay close to your art,"Shires said in 2016. "I don't think anybody does it as well as he does. …When he's on point, there's nobody that can outwrite him."
Snider's 2008 EP "Peace Queer" dove into political commentary. That same year, Snider founded his label Aimless Records.
In 2012, Snider released an album of Walker's songs, as well as his record "Agnostic Hymns and Stoner Fables," which addressed economic inequality in America. Snider had become a sharp-tongued lyricist who used his pen to amplify injustice.
"Helicopters over the house again / We got the projects two or three blocks from here / They pull the kids over for Driving-While-African / And the ones that with the warrants always run in fear," he sings in his 2006 song "The Devil You Know."
"Sometimes you rise above it / Sometimes you gonna sneak below / Somewhere in between believing in heaven / And facing the devil you know."
Snider's career was interrupted by chronic pain, battles with drug addiction and rehab stints, but it didn't stop him from funneling adversity into song.
As his heroes began to die − John Prine and Jerry Jeff Walker died in 2020 − Snider struggled with debilitating grief, openly questioning his art as he pushed forward.
"I'm having a hard time with the loss of some people that are the people that I was, in my mind, maybe doing this for. Jimmy helped me a lot, a lot, a lot," Snider said after Buffett's death in 2023.
"I sing about dead friends more than girls these days," he added earlier this year.
In 2021, he released his record "First Agnostic Church of Hope and Wonder" and in 2023, his lost East Nashville record, "Crank It, We're Doomed."
His final work arrived on Oct. 17: "High, Lonesome and Then Some," a nine-track record he recorded at his Nashville home.
'I sure did love him': Jason Isbell reacts to Todd Snider's death
"Freak flags at half-staff for the Storyteller and all the songs he still had left to write,"singer and songwriter Jason Isbell said on social media. "I sure did love him."
Added Fiona Prine, widow of John Prine, via social media: "You are in the best of company now with Guy, John, Jerry Jeff and the troubadours who loved you as one of the own.
Snider's team of family and friends used his social media account to grieve.
"How do we move forward without the one who gave us countless 90 minute distractions from our impending doom?" they questioned. "Today, put on one of your favorite Todd Snider records. ... We love you Todd, sail on old friend, we'll see you again out there on the road somewhere down the line. You will always be a force of nature."
They ended with the lyrics of Snider's 2019 song "Like a Force of Nature."
"If we never get together again / Forgive me for these fools I've been / See if you can remember me when / I was listening to my better angels," Snider sang.
"May you always play your music / Loud enough to wake up all of your neighbors / Or may you play at least loud enough / To always wake yourself up."
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean:Todd Snider death mourned by Americana music stars
