From musicians inducted to the Hall of Fame to accomplished Hollywood actors, these stars left behind their legacy when they sadly lost their lives. Here's a list of the celebs that will be sorely missed in 2022.
Chadwick Boseman
Marvel fans will recognize Chadwick Boseman for his memorable role in Black Panther. He was the first African American actor to star in a Marvel film. After making his mark in the franchise, he was later cast in 3 more MCU movies.
But, little did fans know, Boseman was actually battling colon cancer while filming his movies. Sadly, he passed away in 2020 from the disease. Former President Barack Obama reacted, "To be young, gifted, and Black; to use that power to give them heroes to look up to; to do it all while in pain – what a use of his years."
Kobe Bryant
Arguably the biggest household name of the NBA, Kobe Bryant, was an inspiration to thousands. The Philadelphia native played for the Los Angeles Lakers between 1996-2016. The basketball player won three back-to-back NBA championships. But he didn't stop there, in 2008 and 2012 Bryant also won an Olympic gold medal.
After 20 seasons of playing, the athlete retired to spend more time with his family. Tragically, he only got to do this for 4 years before he lost his life in early 2020. He and 8 others sadly all passed away from a helicopter crash. Bryant's passing came as a shock, leaving family, friends, and fans heartbroken.
Naya Rivera
Glee fans know Naya Rivera as Santana Lopez, the spiteful sassy cheerleader she played on the hit show. Her character represented thousands of LGBTQ high school students who, at the time, hardly ever saw themselves portrayed in the media. Even outside of her role, Rivera advocated for gay rights.
While fans hardcore shipped Santana and on-screen girlfriend, Britney, the actress married Ryan Dorsey. The two had a son in 2015, named Josey. Unfortunately, while the mom-son duo were on a boating trip, Rivera tragically passed away. She used the last of her energy to save her son. Her legacy will not be forgotten.
Willie Garson
Willie Garson was a Hollywood star, who played the reoccurring role of Stanford Blatch, on the popular TV series, Sex in the City. He also played Mozzie in the drama White Collar. But, Garson didn't just stick to TV shows, he also excelled in movies, like Freaky Friday and There's Something About Mary.
His career was terribly cut short when he lost his life to pancreatic cancer at age 57. Sarah Jessica Parker reacted to the sad news, "All I can say right now is that it’s as if a scoop has been taken out of me this week, and I don’t expect it to be filled. It’s such a loss."
Daniel Mickelson
Meredith Mickelson's older brother, Daniel, was a social media influencer and actor. His debut film, The Killer Clown Meets the Candy Boy was released in 2019. But, the rising celeb also had other talents. Mickelson was a model, he was signed with Storm Models and worked with many fashion brands.
Beloved by many, including Kaia Gerber and the Hamlin sisters, Daniel's passing came as a shock. Owing to substance-related issues, his family and friends were devastated. "Thank you for being the reason for so much laughter and happiness in the world. It won't be the same without you... I love you," wrote Gerber.
Mary Pat Gleason
Many may recognize Mary Pat Gleason as the sweet waitress from A Cinderella Story. Or maybe from her character Mary, on CBS's Mom. The actress's face is certainly familiar, she made appearances in many shows including Friends, Sex in the City, Grey's Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, and more.
The talented actress even starred in her own one-women show to promote mental health awareness. She was always open about her struggles with mental health. Sadly, Gleason lost her life at age 70 to cancer in 2020. Her former co-star, Hilary Duff shared, "Mary was a wonderful woman. I loved being on set with her."
Fred Willard
Fred Willard has acted in many hit shows and movies. Such as, Anchorman, Modern Family, Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle, and more. Thus, the New York Times, back in 2008, said that Willard, "has become the king of the deadpan cameo, the guy who makes a one-shot appearance... [and] ends up stealing the scene.”
But, his most consistent role was on Everybody Loves Raymond, as Hank MacDougall. The part got him nominated for an Emmy Award three times! Sadly, at age 86, he passed away in his Los Angeles home. Fellow actor Steve Carell said, "Fred Willard was the funniest person that I've ever worked with. He was a sweet, wonderful man."
Pop Smoke
Pop Smoke made headlines in 2019, after releasing his debut album, Meet the Woo. His second record, Meet the Woo 2, became the 7th biggest on BillBoard's top 200 in the US. He quickly gained popularity for his work. He was even featured on Travis Scott's Jackboy's song and music video, 'Gatti.'
Pop Smoke's success grew even more, the artist was planning to go on his first tour to promote his two albums. It was even announced that a documentary series about his life was going to be made. Unfortunately, the rapper was unable to, when he passed away at just 20 years old. His memory will be remembered by many.
Alex Trebek
Fans of Jeopardy know Alex Trebek for his charming and skillful hosting abilities. The Canadian native worked on the popular game show from 1984-2020, that's a total of 37 seasons! It's clear the well-liked host was talented and kept viewers entertained.
So, when the beloved host passed away, many celebrities and fans reacted sorrowly. Artist John Legend shared to Twitter, "I was obsessed with Jeopardy as a nerdy kid growing up in Ohio. I’ve loved and revered Alex Trebek since I can remember. What an iconic career. RIP Alex Trebek."
Larry King
Larry King rose to fame when he created The Larry King Show in 1978. The talk show was aired throughout the night and was televised nationally. But, in 1985, King moved on to hosting Larry King Live. He remained known as an easy-going and un-aggressive interviewer. So, celebrities enjoyed appearing on the show.
After spending 25 years on the CNN production, King decided to retire in 2010. He sadly passed away on January 23, 2021. "I’m saddened to hear of the passing of Larry King. He was the real deal and it didn’t matter where you came from, who you were or the color of your skin, he welcomed everyone with open arms," Akon reacted.
Tanya Roberts
Tanya Roberts had many successful roles during her career. But, the actress's breakthrough role came about when she was cast as Julie Rogers on Charlie's Angels. She continued to appear on screens as the quirky Midge Pinciotti on That 70's Show. The starlet even starred as the Bond girl in A View to Kill.
On January 3rd, 2021, Roberts tragically passed away, she was 65 years old. Tropher Grace, her That 70's Show co-star reacted to the news, "I was so sad to hear that Tanya Roberts has passed away... I had never acted before and, to be honest, a little nervous around her. But she couldn’t have been kinder. We’ll miss you, Midge."
James Michael Tyler
Fans of the hit sitcom Friends easily recognized James Michael Tyler for his role as Gunther. The actor did an amazing job at playing the awkward waiter at the iconic coffee shop. Actually, Tyler once admitted that the only reason he got the part was because he knew how to use a coffee machine.
Unfortunately, he lost his life at age 59 from prostate cancer. Jennifer Aniston, who played Gunther's crush, responded to his passing, "Friends would not have been the same without you. Thank you for the laughter you brought to the show and to all of our lives. You will be so missed."
Karl Lagerfeld
Karl Lagerfeld was named head creative director of Chanel, the French luxury fashion house, in 1983. Since then, the designer made many great strides in high fashion history. A notable achievement for Lagerfeld was the collaboration he did with a more inexpensive brand, H&M. He made lavish clothing more accessible.
Lagerfeld also worked with many famous designers and models during his career. Including Donatella Versace, Bella Hadid, Alexa Chung, Kendell Jenner, and more. He sadly passed away at the age of 85. The contributions he made to the fashion industry will not be forgotten.
Micheal K. Williams
Brooklyn native, Michael K. Williams, went from being a periodically homeless dancer to a successful actor. Arguably best known for his role as Omar Little on HBO's The Wire, or for his part on 12 Years a Slave. His acting on Lovecraft Country, as Montrose Freeman was the one that got him nominated for an Emmy award.
Williams sadly passed away from substance-related issues in 2021. Many of his co-stars were shaken, Wendell Pierce described him as, "An immensely talented man with the ability to give voice to the human condition portraying the lives of those whose humanity is seldom elevated until he sings their truth."
Sean Connery
Sean Connery was the original James Bond back in 1962. He played the 007 secret agent in Dr. No and in the following 5 Bond films. But, the British spy wasn't the only character he mastered. Connery appeared in Murder on the Orient Express, Indiana Jones and the Last Crucible, and The Untouchables as Jim Malone.
His part as Malone earned the Scottish actor an Oscar award in 1988. Obviously, Connery achieved many accomplishments throughout his career. However, the actor sadly lost his life at the age of 90. Hugh Jackman responded, "I grew up idolizing Sean Connery. A legend on screen, and off. Rest In Peace." His 007 legacy will persist.
Peter Green
Peter Green was perhaps best known for being a guitarist for the British-American rock band, Fleetwood Mac. His talents lead him to fame, his song 'Albatross' became a number 1 hit in the UK. But, not only did he play in the band, he was also the creator. Green was even placed on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
Sad to say, the rockstar passed away at the age of 73. Mick Fleetwood paid his respect, "Peter, I will miss you, but rest easy your music lives on. I thank you for asking me to be your drummer all those years ago. We did good, and trail blazed one hell of a musical road for so many to enjoy. God speed to you, my dearest friend."
Kelly Preston
Kelly Preston started her acting career playing in teen films, such as Mischief and Secret Admirer. But, the star gained popularity when she appeared in Twins, alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger. Since, Preston was seen in over 60 movies and TV series! But, her last role was in Gotti, as Victoria Gotti.
Preston sorrowly passed away in 2020. Her husband John Travolta shared on Instagram, "It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer. She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many."
Gregory Tyree Boyce
Fans of the Twilight Saga will recognize Gregory Tyree Boyce for his role as Tyler Crowley, one of Bella Swan's friends. The film debuted his career and led him to fame. But, the Los Angeles native's only other acting appearance was in a short film, Apocalypse.
In May 2020, Boyce and his girlfriend, Natalie Adepoju, both tragically lost their lives. The actor was only 30 years old. Just a few months prior, he had shared to his Instagram that he, "didn't think he would make it to see 30 years old." His memory will not be forgotten.
Jerry Stiller
Accomplished comedian and actor, Jerry Stiller, graced us with his talents since the 1960s. He gained popularity when his wife, Anne Meara, joined him to form a comedy duo. However, Meara wasn't the only family member Stiller worked with. He appeared in multiple productions with his son, Ben Stiller, such as Zoolander.
The actor may also be remembered for his roles on Hairspray, The Heartbreak Kid, or for his reoccurring role on Seinfield. His passing was sadly revealed to the public when his son posted, "I’m sad to say that my father, Jerry Stiller, passed away. He was a great dad and grandfather... He will be greatly missed."
Ian Holm
Fans of the Lord of the Rings trilogy can recognize Ian Holm for his character, Bilbo Baggins. But what many don't know is that Holm's didn't always act on the big screen. Instead, his career started by performing on stages. He even joined The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stamford.
It's without a doubt Holm's was accomplished. Unfortunately, the actor was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. He lost his life in 2020 when he was 88 years old. Fellow Lord of the Rings star, Elijah Woods reacted to the loss, "So sad to hear that the singular, brilliant and vibrant, Sir Ian Holm has passed. Farewell, uncle."
Max von Sydow
Before gracing us with his many iconic roles, Sweden-born Max von Sydow rejected any acting jobs that weren't in Sweden. He even said no to playing the first-ever James Bond! Thankfully, he began accepting the job offers and blessed us with his work on The Exorcist, Star Wars, Game of Thrones, and many more.
"It’s with a broken heart and with infinite sadness that we have the extreme pain of announcing the departure of Max Von Sydow," shared his wife, Catherine von Sydow. After nearly 70 decades in the spotlight, Hollywood tragically lost a legend in 2020.
Phyllis George
Phyllis George won the title of Miss Texas in 1970, and just a year later she became Miss America. After her success in the pageant world, George decided to pursue a career in television. So, in 1975, she landed a spot as an anchor for The NFL Today. She made history, becoming the first-ever woman to be a sports broadcaster.
George lost her life when she was 70 years old, after a battle with blood cancer. Her achievements will not be forgotten, she was an inspiration to many. "Banish the words 'I cant' from your vocabulary. Remember: if 'can't' equals 'won't', 'can' equals 'will,'" she preached.
Charlie Watts
Charlie Watts acquired fame as the drummer for one of rock and roll's most famous bands, The Rolling Stones. But, before he joined Mick Jagger and the rest of the bandmates, Watts spent his days playing jazz in blues clubs. His love for music started at a young, but the musician wasn't a fan of the spotlight.
When Watts was 80 years old, he, unfortunately, lost his life. Upon his passing, his former bandmates and many dedicated fans paid their respects to the gifted drummer. Keith Richards shared a picture of Watts, with a 'closed' sign hung up. His presence in the Rock and Roll industry is missed to this day.
Juice WRLD
Like many rappers of today, Juice WRLD kicked off his path into the music world through SoundCloud. His popularity only grew when he released his debut studio album Goodbye and Good Riddance. It included his hit song 'All Girls Are the Same' which was charted on Billboards Hot 100.
Fans were saddened to hear the news of the rapper's passing. He was only 21 and had just started his rise to fame. To this day fans admire the artist and his music. 'Lucid Dreams' even became one of Spotify's most-streamed tracks, with almost 1.7 billion listens.
Don Larson
Don Larson was a pitcher for the Major League Baseball organization for 14 seasons. He played for the New York Yankees between 1955-1959. But, the athlete only made headlines when he threw a perfect pitch at the World Series Baseball game in 1956. The achievement earned him the World Series Most Valuable Player award.
The former baseball star tragically passed away from esophageal cancer at the age of 90. Commissioner of the MLB reacted to the loss, "On a team of many stars, Don illustrated that anyone can make history -- even perfection -- on our sport's biggest stage."
Dana Plato
Dana Plato may be best known for her role as Kimberly Drummond on NBC's Diff'rent Strokes. The sitcom was an ultimate hit back in 1978 and helped Plato gain fame. But, after the show came to a close, the actress had a difficult time landing successful jobs.
She battled substance-abuse issues and unfortunately, it lead to her passing. The actress was only 34 years old. Following her death, Fox released a documentary about Plato's life, called After Diff'rent Strokes: When the Laughter Stopped. She is missed in Hollywood to this day.
Michael Clarke Duncan
Michael Clarke Duncan started off as a bodyguard for celebrities like Will Smith and The Notorious B.I.G. But, that didn't last very long, as he became a star himself. Duncan made his mark in the industry when he starred in The Green Mile. He even voice acted in films such as Kung Fu Panda and Brother Bear.
The actor earned a Grammy nomination, as well as a Golden Globe nomination. Sad to say, he, unfortunately, lost his life due to a heart attack. His co-star, Tom Hanks, reacted, "I am terribly saddened at the loss of Big Mike. He was the treasure we all discovered on the set of `The Green Mile.’ His passing leaves us stunned."
Jonathan Brandis
Connecticut-born Johnathan Brandis got his start to fame at the young age of 6! Eventually, he and his family moved to Hollywood where he continued landing roles. His big break happened when he played Kevin Buchanan on One Life to Live. He then became a teen star when he got the gig on NBC's seaQuest DSV.
Unfortunately, the childhood actor's life and career ended early. Brandis took his own life after struggling with mental health issues. He sadly passed away at the age of 27. He once said, "However, I hope I am also judged on my accomplishments as an actor and not just on my pretty face!"
John Spencer
John Spencer tried to gain fame for many years. In 1990, he got a supporting part on L.A. Law and also on Presumed Innocent. But, arguably his most recognized role was as Leo McGarry on the political drama The West Wing in 2002. His acting on the NBC show got him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor.
Days before celebrating his 59th birthday, Spencer tragically suffered a heart attack and unfortunately passed away. His co-star Martin Sheen said, "He was my brother, that is the most I can say, I just adored him." His family and fans were devastated by the news.
Cory Monteith
Cory Monteith quickly gained many devoted fans after starring on Fox's show Glee, as the male lead, Finn Hudson. Along with acting in the hit TV series, Monteith also took on a few movie roles. He was in Monte Carlo, alongside Selena Gomez and Leighton Meester. But, his life wasn't all glitz and glam.
The actor had been battling substance-related issues for many years. He tragically passed away, leaving his family and many fans downhearted. His then-fiancé and co-star, Lea Michele shared to Twitter, "Thank you all for helping me through this time with your enormous love & support. Cory will forever be in my heart."
Virgil Abloh
It's safe to say that fashion changed forever on November 28th, 2021. After a long and troubling battle with a rare form of cancer, design legend Virgil Abloh sadly lost his life at the young age of 41. From his work with Louis Vuitton to his Off-White brand, Abloh was a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world.
And his loss was felt most by those who had the pleasure of working with him. Countless celebrities shared tributes of the late creator, including Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Idris Alba, and many more. "A once in a generation creative mind that is so rare and I’ll never forget his impact," Hailey Bieber shared on Instagram.