Celebrities Who Died in 2024: Shannen Doherty, Richard Simmons and More Star Deaths

Bob Newhart

Bob Newhart – who was best known for starring in iconic roles on The Bob Newhart Show, Newhart and Elf – died at the age of 94 on July 18. He passed away in his Los Angeles home following “a series of short illnesses,” his publicist confirmed in a statement to Rolling Stone.

Joe Bryant

Joe Bryant, the father of basketball legend Kobe Bryant, died at the age of 69 after he suffered a stroke.

“We are saddened to announce the passing of La Salle basketball great Joe Bryant,” the La Salle Men’s Basketball team’s account wrote in an X post on July 16. “Joe played for the Explorers from 1973-75 and was a member of our coaching staff from 1993-96. He was a beloved member of the Explorer family and will be dearly missed.”

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty was 53 years old when she died on July 13. Her publicist confirmed the news in a statement the following day. Shannen had been battling cancer for years before her death.

Richard Simmons

Fitness guru Richard Simmons died at age 76 on July 13. News of his death came one day after his 76th birthday.

Shelley Duvall

Shelley Duvall died at the age of 75 at her home in Blanco, Texas, following complications from diabetes.

“My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” Shelley’s longtime partner, Dan Gilroy, told The Hollywood Reporter on July 11. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”

Mike Heslin

Mike Heslin died at the age of 30 on July 2. His husband, Scotty Dynamo, confirmed his death via Instagram.

“On July 2nd, my husband, best friend, and soulmate @mikeheslin passed away from an unexpected cardiac event after a week long battle in the hospital. Michael was young, in perfect health, and the doctors have no explanation for what happened,” Scotty wrote on July 5.

Along with Lioness, Mike had roles in The Holiday Proposal Plan, Influencers and more.

Andrew Jury

Married at First Sight New Zealand season 1 star Andrew Jury was found dead at the Mt. Eden Corrections Facility in Auckland, New Zealand, on June 27, just hours before he was scheduled to appear in court. He was facing charges of assault with intent to injure, willful damage and possession of an offensive weapon.

His death is not being treated as suspicious, according to The New Zealand Herald. “While investigations are underway, there is no indication that his death is suspicious,” Dion Paki, the prison general manager, told the outlet.

Martin Mull

Roseanne star Martin Mull died at the age of 80 on June 28, and his daughter, Maggie Mull, confirmed the news via Instagram.

“He was known for excelling at every creative discipline imaginable and also for doing Red Roof Inn commercials,” Maggie wrote. “He would find that joke funny. He was never not funny. My dad will be deeply missed by his wife and daughter, by his friends and coworkers, by fellow artists and comedians and musicians, and—the sign of a truly exceptional person—by many, many dogs.”

Martin, who was a longtime comedic actor, starred in several films, including Mr. Mom and Clue. He also roles in Arrested Development, Veep, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and more.

Bill Cobbs

The Bodyguard actor Bill Cobbs died at the age of 90 on June 25, his brother confirmed.

“We are saddened to share the passing of Bill Cobbs. On Tuesday, June 25, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in California. A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones,” Thomas G. Cobbs wrote in a Facebook post. “As a family we are comforted knowing Bill has found peace and eternal rest with his Heavenly Father. We ask for your prayers and encouragement during this time.”

Shifty Shellshock

Shifty Shellshock – whose real name was Seth Brooks Binzer – died at the age of 49 on June 24. His cause of death has not yet been revealed, though the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the former Crazy Town frontman passed away at his home.

Sarah Becker

A family member of MTV’s The Real World: Miami star Sarah confirmed her death at 52 years old on June 23. They revealed to TMZ that the reality star had committed suicide the week before in Illinois. Sarah reportedly “struggled with mental health in recent months” and a recent skateboarding accident worsened her condition.

Donald Sutherland

Kiefer Sutherland confirmed his dad’s death via Instagram on June 20.

“With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived,” he wrote.

Tom Bower

Tom Bower died at the age of 86 on May 30. “Tom was an insanely great actor and human being,” his team said in a statement to Life & Style on June 6. “What a loss.”

The longtime character actor died in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles.

Bill Walton

Bill ​Walton died in May at 71 years old after putting up a fight with cancer.

“Bill Walton was truly one of a kind,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement at the time. “As a cherished member of the NBA family for 50 years, Bill will be deeply missed by all those who came to know and love him.”

Johnny Wactor

General Hospital star Johnny Wactor died at the age of 37 after he was shot during an attempted robbery in Los Angeles on May 25. His mother, Scarlett, confirmed his death in a statement to TMZ.

She explained that Johnny was with a coworker when they saw three men trying to get into his car. While she claimed that he didn’t try to become involved, Johnny was ultimately killed during the altercation.

Morgan Spurlock

Morgan Spurlock – who rose to fame for starring in and directing the 2004 documentary Super Size Me – died at the age of 53 on May 23.

“It was a sad day, as we said goodbye to my brother Morgan,” his brother, Craig Spurlock, said in a statement on May 24. “Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas, and generosity. The world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him.”

Sam Rubin

Longtime KTLA anchor Sam Rubin died at the age of 64 following a heart attack.

‘Morning news will never be the same. I think we all feel that losing Sam is like losing a close family friend,” his team said in a statement on May 10. “Someone who could always lift your spirits, someone who was welcome in your home, and always showed up with a smile on his face. Sam will be forever missed.”

Mandisa

American Idol alum Mandisa died on April 18, her rep confirmed in a statement.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time,” the Media Collective stated.

Kyle Marisa Smith

Kyle Marisa Roth died at the age of 36 in April. The social media star was best known for posting TikTok videos with blind items about celebrities. 

“As a family we are still processing and deciding how to properly celebrate and honor her life,” Kyle’s sister Lindsay wrote on Instagram. “We don’t know what happened yet. I know she touched so many people with her humor, intelligence, beauty, gossip activism, athleticism and more – she had so many gifts. If anyone wants to connect about Kyle, I’m here to talk and share memories.”

O.J. Simpson

Former star running back O.J. Simpson died after a battle with cancer on April 10.

“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” his family announced via X the following day. “He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”

O.J. was famously acquitted of the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman after a highly publicized trial in the 1990s. He later served nine years in prison after being found guilty of 12 counts of armed robbery and kidnapping in Las Vegas.

Chance Perdomo

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Gen V star Chance Perdomo died at the age of 27. His rep confirmed the news on March 30, 2024.

“On behalf of the family and his representatives, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident,” the rep’s statement said.

Louis Gossett Jr.

An Officer and a Gentleman star Louis Gossett Jr. died at the age of 87 on March 29, his family confirmed.

“It is with our heartfelt regret to confirm our beloved father passed away this morning. We would like to thank everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time,” the Oscar winner’s family said in a statement obtained by CNN.

Krystal Anderson

The former Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader died on March 20 after her body experienced trauma from her stillborn birth. Krystal is survived by husband Clayton Anderson and infant son James Charles.

Kris Jenner’s Sister Karen Houghton

Kris announced that her sister died unexpectedly, penning a touching tribute to her on Instagram.

“Karen was beautiful inside and out. She was the sweetest, kindest, the most sensitive and vulnerable and so so funny. She always felt grateful and thankful for her life and treasured her family and friends and especially her beautiful daughter.”

Robyn Bernard

The Riverside County Sheriff confirmed that General Hospital alum Robyn Bernard’s body was found in an “open field behind [a] business” in San Jacinto, California, on March 12. Her death is currently under investigation, while TMZ reported her autopsy had been scheduled for March 13.

Robert Garrison Brown

In a statement to Life & Style on March 5, Flagstaff Police confirmed that Garrison Brown, who starred on Sister Wives since its debut in 2010, had died at 25 years old as a result of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities were called to the scene after Garrison’s brother Gabriel Brown arrived home and found Garrison deceased. Police are currently investigating, but there is no foul play suspected at this time.

Kody and Janelle announced their son’s passing in a statement on their separate Instagram accounts.

“Kody and I are deeply saddened to announce the loss of our beautiful boy Robert Garrison Brown,” Janelle’s statement read. “He was a bright spot in the lives of all who knew him. His loss will leave such a big hole in our lives that it takes our breath away. We ask that you please respect our privacy and join us in honoring his memory.”

Richard Lewis

The stand-up comedian, best known for his starring role alongside Larry David on Curb Your Enthusiasm, died of a heart attack at the age of 76, Life & Style confirmed on February 28.

His death came following a battle with Parkinson’s Disease, ​which he had been diagnosed with in April 2023.

“His wife, Joyce Lapinsky, thanks everyone for all the love, friendship and support and asks for privacy at this time,” a statement from his representative to Life & Style concluded.

Thomas Kingston

Royal family member and Pippa Middleton‘s ex, Thomas Kingston, tragically died at the young age of 45, his family confirmed on February 27.

Ewen MacIntosh

The actor and comedian, best known for his role as “Big Keith” on The Office U.K., died of unknown causes after reportedly struggling with his health for years.

Ricky Gervais paid tribute to his former costar via X days after his sudden death.

“Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen Macintosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away,” the actor wrote. “An absolute original. RIP.”

Kelvin Kiptum

The record-holding long distance runner died in a car accident on February 11, months before he was expected to compete in the summer 2024 Olympics in Paris.

In a statement following his sudden death, International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach spoke about his “extreme sadness” in the wake of the young athlete’s “tragic passing.”

“We had been looking forward to welcoming him into the Olympic community at the Olympic Games Paris 2024 and seeing what the fastest marathon runner in the world could achieve,” Thomas said in his statement. “Our thoughts are with his family and friends as well as with those of his coach, Gervais Hazimana, who also died in the accident.”

Toby Keith

Country music star Toby Keith died at age 62 after losing his battle with stomach cancer, his family revealed in a statement on February 6.

“Toby Keith passed peacefully last night on February 5, surrounded by his family. He fought his fight with grace and courage. Please respect the privacy of his family at this time,” the statement read, which was shared via X.

Carl Weathers

Carl, who famously played Apollo Creed in the first four Rocky movies, died on February 1, his family revealed in a statement.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” they said. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

In addition to Rocky, Carl was known for his roles in The Mandalorian, Action Jackson, Happy Gilmore and many others.

Chita Rivera

The legendary Broadway actress died at the age of 91 after “a brief illness,” according to a statement from her daughter, Lisa Mordente.

“It is with immense personal sorrow that I announce the death of the beloved Broadway icon Chita Rivera,” her representative and “friend of nearly 40 years,” Merle Frimark, wrote in ​a statement.

Chita was a ten-time Tony Award Nominee, two-time winner and the 2002 recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor.

Hinton Battle

The three-time Tony Award winner died at the age of 67, his friend and fellow actor Debbie Allen confirmed on January 30. His cause of death was not revealed.

“Today I honor Hinton Battle, my dear friend who left us to dance and sing in God’s Ensemble last night,” Debbie wrote in an Instagram tribute to Hinton. “He fought this battle to live and be creative impacting audiences and young people across the globe. Let us always hold him high in our hearts and in our mind’s eye and forever speak his name.”

Harry Connick Sr.

Harry Connick Sr. died at the age of 97 on January 25. Connick Sr. was the father of singer Harry Connick Jr., and served as the district attorney for the city of New Orleans for three decades before he retired in 2003.

Connick Jr.’s publicist reported that Connick Sr. passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his son, daughter Suzanna and his wife, Londa. No cause of death had been released.

Gary Graham

Star Trek: Enterprise alum Gary Graham died at the age of 73 on January 22.

“It is with deep profound sadness to say that Gary Graham, my ex husband, amazing actor and father of our beautiful only child together, Haylee Graham, has passed away today,” his ex-wife, Susan Lavelle, confirmed on Facebook. “We are completely devastated especially our daughter Haley. His wife, Becky was by his side.”

Shawn Barber

Shawn Barber’s manager confirmed that the athlete died at his home in Texas on January 17 after dealing with medical issues. His cause of death was not confirmed.

Shawn was best known as a record-holding pole vaulter. He competed in the 2016 Olympics for Canada and made the finals.

Mila De Jesus

Mila De Jesus, an influencer who underwent bariatric surgery in 2017 and shared her weight loss journey with fans, died at the age of 35 on January 12.

One of Mila’s four children confirmed the news on January 15. “I, Anna Clara, am posting this condolence note,” she shared. “We are very sad to hear of the passing of our beautiful mother. We appreciate all the prayers and condolences. Continue to pray for us. Thank you.”

Lynne Marta

Footloose actress Lynne Marta was 78 when she died on January 11 after battling cancer.

“We lost a beautiful light today,” Lynne’s friend wrote on Facebook. “My friend, Lynne Marta, lost her good fight. A wonderfully talented actress and a beautiful singer whose voice was of the angels. A dear heart who adored her friends both human and furry. I will miss her terribly.”

Adan Canto

Adan Canto lost his secret battle with appendiceal cancer at the age of 42 years old. The Cleaning Lady star’s representatives confirmed the news on January 9.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew,” the statement said. “Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Alec Musser

Alec Musser died by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in California on January 12, the San Diego Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed. 

Days before Alec’s cause of death was revealed, his fiancée, Paige Press, shared that he had passed away. “RIP to the love of my life,” she wrote. “I will never stop loving you. My heart is so broken.”