Celebrities often live a life distant from the realities we are used to. From expensive clothes to extravagant parties and evergreen fame, the life of a celebrity shares very few common denominators with that of regular folk. Yet, there is a common equalizer for everyone — death. It’s a difficult reality to process, but it’s probably the only reality we can be sure of, especially when it is someone we love or a public figure who inspired us.
The public nature of celebrity lives extends even to their passing, with their deaths often grieved collectively, bringing people closer. This article looks back at the heartbreaking final messages these beloved stars shared, offering a poignant glimpse into their last thoughts, their hopes, their struggles, and the profound love they held for those closest to them. These are not just messages; they are echoes of lives lived, powerful in their brevity and lasting impact.
The ability to deliver a few thoughts, or even a photo or video, to anyone at any time, and instantaneously at that, is a marvelous feat of modern science. It’s become so ordinary that it’s easy to overlook the power of a text, which can be used to deliver something tragic, poetic, or headline-grabbing, if it’s, say, the last one a big-time artist writes. That text can stay with the recipient forever as a precious, permanent memento of a lost loved one while also being shared with the world as the final statement of a popular figure.
1. **Anthony Bourdain: A Lonely Farewell**Celebrity chef and host of the award-winning series “Parts Unknown,” Anthony Bourdain died on June 8, 2018, leaving fans all over the world with many questions. His death, confirmed as a suicide, was a shock, particularly as no traces of any kind of drugs were found in his system, according to The New York Times. Bourdain was a figure celebrated for his adventurous spirit, his ability to connect with cultures, and his candid, often gruff, charm.
In an unauthorized biography, “Down and Out in Paradise: The Life of Anthony Bourdain,” journalist Charles Leerhsen revealed chilling details about the star’s last days. It seems that beneath the veneer of an exciting life, Bourdain grappled with profound internal turmoil. The book brought to light the raw, unfiltered emotions he expressed in his final communications, painting a picture of a man wrestling with the very fame he had achieved.
Just days before he was found dead, Bourdain reportedly sent a text to his ex-wife and friend, Ottavia Busia, that laid bare his deep unhappiness. “I hate my fans, too. I hate being famous. I hate my job. I am lonely and living in constant uncertainty,” the book reveals. These words are a stark and painful contrast to the public persona of a man who seemed to have it all, reminding us that success can often hide profound personal struggles.
Further shedding light on his mental state during his final days was a text he sent to his girlfriend, Italian actor Asia Argento. He wrote, “I am okay, I am not spiteful. I am not jealous that you have been with another man. I do not own you. You are free. As I said. As I promised. As I truly meant. But you were careless. You were reckless with my heart. My life” (via The New York Times). This message reveals a complex tapestry of emotional pain, betrayal, and a desperate plea for understanding, making his loss all the more tragic as it underscores the depths of his private suffering.
2. **Nipsey Hussle: A Future Cut Short**Rapper Nipsey Hussle rose to fame with a unique blend of musical talent and profound community dedication, famously catching Jay-Z’s attention when he bought a hundred physical copies of his mixtape, “Crenshaw” (per Vox). More than just a musician, Hussle was a powerful inspiration, a man deeply committed to giving back to his community and empowering Black people to build their own foundations. As fan Chavonne Taylor eloquently put it, “A huge part of the reason people felt attached to Nipsey was [his message of], ‘Hey, as Black people we need to be building our stuff. We shouldn’t be so dependent on white entities to survive’.”
His artistic prowess was undeniable, demonstrated by his impressive 1.8 billion streams of music in a single year, solidifying his status as a major force in the industry. However, what could have been one of the most inspiring music careers in history was tragically cut short on March 31, 2019. Hussle was shot and killed by a man following a confrontation (per Billboard), leaving countless fans and admirers in disbelief and grief.
The public outpouring of sorrow was immense, with celebrities like Snoop Dogg and Stevie Wonder attending his funeral, a testament to his impact. During this somber occasion, Hussle’s mother shared a deeply poignant final text exchange with her son, a message that now stands as a bittersweet reflection of his bright spirit and aspirations. His words were filled with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose: “I’m A-1. I’m grateful I have a studio again. I’m just happy and ready to work” (via Page Six).
These last words reveal a man brimming with enthusiasm, ready to embark on new creative endeavors and continue his work. They serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the vibrant future he envisioned and the immense potential that was lost too soon. His legacy, however, continues to inspire, fueled by the very spirit of hope and dedication evident in his final message.
3. **Kim Jong-hyun: The Unseen Anguish of a K-pop Idol**
Kim Jong-hyun, universally known by his mononym Jonghyun, was a beloved K-pop idol and a cherished member of the highly popular band SHINee. To many, the life of a K-pop star appears to be a dazzling dream, but behind the scenes, it can be incredibly stressful, marked by grueling long working hours and the immense pressure to meet impossible standards. Fans idolize them, and they are expected to maintain an almost flawless public image.
John Lie, a sociology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, highlighted this struggle to The Guardian, noting, “K-pop tries to present a cleansed image of male stars as being kind, generous, that they are unlike patriarchal, sexist, and unstylish Korean men.” This immense pressure often comes at a steep personal cost, as artists strive to embody an idealized version of themselves, masking their vulnerabilities and anxieties from the public eye.
Tragically, some of Jonghyun’s final texts reveal the profound agony he was enduring, hinting that the 27-year-old might not have found joy in his fame. In a heart-wrenching message to a friend, he wrote, “Becoming famous was probably not my life. They tell me that’s why I’m having a hard time … Why did I choose that? It’s funny that I’m able to endure this much” (per The New York Times). These words offer a stark and painful glimpse into the internal conflict and deep unhappiness he experienced, struggling under the weight of his public life.
Jonghyun died by suicide on December 18, 2017, sending shockwaves through the K-pop community and beyond. Fans poured out their grief on the band’s Twitter, mourning the loss of an artist who touched so many lives while silently battling his own demons. His tragic passing remains a powerful, somber reminder of the unseen pressures faced by public figures and the critical importance of mental health support in industries that demand so much from their stars.
4. **Nick Cordero: A Father’s Enduring Love**
The early days of COVID-19 were a period of immense stress and uncertainty for everyone, with news of illness and death affecting people we know and love becoming an everyday affair. Nick Cordero, most known for his magnetic roles on the stage, was a shining star in the theater world, earning a Tony nomination as the “tap-dancing tough guy” in “Bullets Over Broadway” (per The New York Times).
Cordero became one of the earliest celebrities to fall severely ill during the nascent stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. After contracting the virus in April 2020, he endured months in the hospital, fighting valiantly against its devastating effects. His battle was a public one, watched by many who hoped for his recovery, but tragically, he succumbed to the illness on July 5, 2020, leaving a profound void in the hearts of his family and the Broadway community.
The last texts Cordero sent to his co-star, Zach Braff, are as heartbreaking as his premature death, revealing a man whose final thoughts were entirely dedicated to his family. “The last thing he ever texted me was to look out for his wife and 1-year-old son, Elvis. I promise the world they will never want for anything,” Braff posted on Instagram, sharing the immense weight of that promise. These words encapsulate a father’s selfless love, his deepest concern for his loved ones overshadowing his own suffering.
Braff’s post continued, expressing his gratitude: “I feel so incredibly grateful I got to have Nick Cordero enter my life.” This sentiment resonates widely, as Cordero’s story became a symbol of the immense losses of the pandemic. In a beautiful tribute, New York City declared September 17 “Nick Cordero Day” in 2021, honoring the life and works of a Broadway star whose final words were a testament to enduring love and commitment, a legacy that continues to touch many.
5. **Cheslie Kryst: A Hidden Battle, A Mother’s Love**Cheslie Kryst, the radiant Miss USA 2019, sent shockwaves across the globe on January 30, 2022, with the devastating news of her death by suicide. Her passing left pageantry fans and the wider public heartbroken, grappling to understand how someone who exuded such grace and success could be suffering so profoundly in private. Her public life was one of achievement and advocacy, making her private struggles all the more poignant.
Cheslie Kryst, the radiant Miss USA 2019, sent shockwaves across the globe on January 30, 2022, with the devastating news of her death by suicide. Her passing left pageantry fans and the wider public heartbroken, grappling to understand how someone who exuded such grace and success could be suffering so profoundly in private. Her public life was one of achievement and advocacy, making her private struggles all the more poignant.
In a deeply moving statement released by her mother, April Simpkins, it was revealed that Kryst had been silently battling high-functioning depression. Simpkins shared the painful truth: “While it may be hard to believe, it’s true. Cheslie led both a public and a private life. In her private life, she was dealing with high-functioning depression which she hid from everyone — including me, her closest confidant — until very shortly before her death” (via The Los Angeles Times).
During an appearance on “Red Table Talk,” Simpkins bravely shared more about Kryst’s heartbreaking last days, including the final text message she received from her beauty queen daughter. It was a message that powerfully conveyed the depth of her appreciation and love for her mother, even in her darkest hour. Kryst wrote, “You have kept me alive and ready to face another day, because you answer every phone call and you are there for me at the drop of a hat.”
She continued, expressing an immeasurable bond: “You listen to me and care when I tell you what goes on in my life and you have always made me feel like you love me. I love you more than any person I’ve ever known.” These final words are a poignant testament to the profound love between a mother and daughter, and a stark reminder that even those who appear to have it all can be fighting unseen battles within. Her story underscores the vital importance of open conversations about mental health and the need for compassion and understanding.
6. **Chadwick Boseman: A Legacy of Selfless Joy**
Chadwick Boseman, the iconic Black Panther of the Marvel movies, left the world in profound shock and grief when he died on August 28, 2020, due to colon cancer. His passing at the age of 43 was met with an outpouring of disbelief from millions of fans and famous names alike, as he had bravely kept his illness a private battle, continuing his work with incredible dedication and resilience. Boseman was a prominent figure, celebrated for bringing historically accurate portrayals of pioneering Black leaders to the Hollywood silver screen, embodying strength and dignity.
Known for his private nature according to Hollywood standards, Boseman’s illness was a secret he held close, making his continued commitment to his craft and to others even more remarkable. Nate Moore, the executive producer of “Black Panther,” shared a deeply touching final text exchange with People, revealing a moment that encapsulated Boseman’s incredible spirit. Moore had been unaware of the actor’s illness, making the exchange all the more poignant in hindsight.
The conversation revolved around fulfilling the requests of a Make-A-Wish child during the stringent COVID-19 lockdown. Despite his declining health and the logistical challenges, Boseman was unwavering in his desire to bring joy. His text read, “It broke me, man. But we need to do that for them. People deserve abundant life, special moments. They’ve been through hell battling disease. If we were able to ease their suffering and bring joy for a moment … then we made a difference in his life.”
Moore further revealed that he worked with the actor to send the “young boy a voice note from T’Challa, as well as a package of toys,” an undertaking not easily achieved under lockdown. He observed, “But Chad figured out how to make it work because he cared so intently, and in hindsight, so personally.” These final words and actions beautifully illustrate Boseman’s profound empathy and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others, even in his own final moments, leaving behind a legacy of heroism both on and off screen.
7. **Kobe Bryant: A Coach’s Pride and a Friend’s Bond**
On January 26, 2020, the sports world, and indeed the entire globe, was plunged into shock and sorrow when news broke of Kobe Bryant’s sudden death in a helicopter crash. The tragic accident claimed the lives of eight other people, including his beloved 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, known affectionately as “Gigi.” Bryant, a legendary basketball icon, left an indelible mark on the sport and countless lives, making his sudden departure a moment of profound collective grief.
Michael Jordan, a close friend and mentor to Bryant, revealed to ESPN that he still keeps their final text exchange saved in his phone, a poignant memento of their enduring bond. The conversation, dated December 8, 2019, offers a glimpse into the everyday warmth and camaraderie shared between these two basketball giants. Bryant initiated the exchange with a lighthearted comment about Jordan’s Cincoro Tequila, writing, “This tequila is awesome,” before inquiring about his friend’s family, asking if they were doing all right.
Jordan told ESPN that Bryant was “really into” coaching his daughter, Gigi, who was developing into a talented player herself. This shared passion for basketball, passed down through generations, was a central part of their final interaction. Jordan texted him, “Happy holidays and hope to catch up soon. Coach Kobe??!” This playful yet respectful acknowledgment of Bryant’s new role as a devoted coach spoke volumes about their friendship and mutual admiration.
Bryant’s response was characteristically enthusiastic, full of pride for his daughter’s team: “Ah, back at you, man. Hey, coach, I’m sitting on the bench right now, and we’re blowing this team out. 45-8.” These words, shared just forty-nine days before his passing, capture the essence of Kobe—a competitive spirit, a loving father, and a dedicated coach. They serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the ordinary, joyful moments that precede unimaginable tragedy, solidifying his legacy not just as a sports hero, but as a family man with an infectious passion for life.
Continuing our journey through these deeply personal and often heartbreaking final messages, we delve into the lives of six more iconic figures. Their last words, shared through the intimate medium of text, offer powerful insights into their enduring spirits, their humor, their passions, and the profound impact they left behind on those who loved them and on the world at large. These aren’t just communications; they are echoes of lives lived with intensity, talent, and an undeniable human touch.
8. **Bob Saget: Love That Endures Beyond the Laughs**
Bob Saget, the beloved comedian and actor, carved a special place in the hearts of millions, first as America’s favorite TV dad, Danny Tanner, in “Full House,” and later with his more adult-oriented stand-up comedy. His unexpected death on January 9, 2022, while on tour, sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. Authorities later concluded that he accidentally hit his head, thought nothing of it, and simply went to sleep, a tragic and sudden end to a life filled with laughter and love.
Saget’s final communications vividly reflect the warmth and affection he shared with those closest to him. His “Full House” co-star, Candace Cameron Bure, openly shared her fear of ever losing the last text he sent her. Just weeks before his passing, after a brief argument, Saget sent her what she described as “pages long of a text,” apologizing for being cranky and reiterating his boundless love. He affectionately wrote, “I love you more for the trouble you’re giving me, if that’s even possible,” a testament to their deep and enduring friendship.
Even closer to his final moments, just hours before his last performance, Saget shared a poignant message with his daughter, Aubrey. She posted a screencap of his final text on her Instagram Story feed: “Thank u. Love u,” he wrote, followed by “Showtime!” These simple yet profound words perfectly encapsulate his essence — a loving father, grateful for his family, and ever-ready to take the stage and bring joy to others. It’s a bittersweet farewell, a final loving thought before the curtain closed for good.
9. **Taylor Hawkins: A Rocker’s Unfulfilled Promise**
Taylor Hawkins, the powerhouse drummer for the Foo Fighters, was a vibrant force in the rock world, known for his infectious energy and unparalleled drumming prowess. His tragic death on March 25, 2022, discovered in his hotel room just before a scheduled show in Colombia, devastated fans worldwide. An autopsy revealed a “cardiovascular collapse” caused by a combination of drugs, including heroin, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines, highlighting a lifelong struggle with addiction that was largely hidden from the public eye.
The Foo Fighters family released a heartfelt statement, mourning the “tragic and untimely loss of our beloved Taylor Hawkins,” ensuring that his “musical spirit and infectious laughter will live on with all of us forever.” His passing left a profound void, not just in the band, but in the hearts of countless musicians and fans who admired his talent and spirit.
Among the many grieving friends was actor John Stamos, who shared the poignant last message he received from Hawkins on Twitter. “We’ve yet to fully have a hang — gotta put that sh** together before we die,” Hawkins reportedly texted Stamos. This message, filled with the casual camaraderie and future plans that define friendships, now reads as an eerie, heartbreaking premonition, underscoring the fragility of life and the suddenness of his departure. Stamos’s simple tweet, “Another one gone too soon,” echoed the sentiments of millions.
10. **Seamus Heaney: The Poet’s Timeless Consolation**
Seamus Heaney was not merely a poet; he was a literary titan, widely regarded as the leading Irish poet of his generation and one of the rare few with a guaranteed place on bestseller lists. His obituary in The Irish Times celebrated his early rise to prominence and his profound impact on the literary world. When the world lost this luminary on August 30, 2013, it marked the end of an era for poetry, leaving behind a legacy of deeply resonant words that continue to inspire and challenge readers.
American poet Robert Lowell famously described Heaney as “the most important Irish poet since Yeats,” a testament to the monumental influence of his work. It is fitting, then, that Heaney’s final communication was a poetic utterance, a concise and profound message sent to his wife from his hospital bed that transcended the immediacy of its delivery.
His last text simply read: “Noli timere.” This Latin phrase, translating to “do not be afraid,” resonated deeply, not only with his family but also with the wider literary community. It became a subject of widespread discussion, much like the intricate meanings embedded in his lifetime of verses. His son, Mick Heaney, eloquently reflected on the message two years later in The Irish Times, noting, “As I know from his case, when writers are confronted with the probability of death they can come up with a memorable valediction.” Heaney’s final words were, indeed, a memorable and timeless valediction, a last gift of courage and comfort.
11. **Leslie Jordan: A Final Burst of Wit and Charm**
Leslie Jordan, the diminutive yet larger-than-life star of “Will & Grace” and “American Horror Story,” had an unparalleled gift for bringing smiles and laughter to audiences. Even in his final days, his characteristic positive personality shone through, often providing much-needed comic relief, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic. His sudden death on October 24, 2022, from a “sudden cardiac dysfunction” while driving, left a void in the hearts of many, as his car crashed into a building in Hollywood.
Just days before this tragic event, Jordan had a rather amusing, albeit unwelcome, experience when he attempted to attend a book signing for his former co-star, Max Greenfield. Sadly, Jordan didn’t manage to see Greenfield, but his account of the incident, conveyed through text, perfectly captured his inimitable wit and charm.
In an interview with E! News, Greenfield shared the text he received from Jordan after the event. Jordan reportedly wrote, “I tried to get in. I saw that you was so famous they wouldn’t let me in. And they turned my little ass away. But congratulations. I couldn’t stay, I had to go anyway because I have important things to do.” This message, steeped in self-deprecating humor and genuine congratulations, is a heartwarming reminder of his ability to find the bright side and make light of any situation, even when faced with a minor personal setback.
It is truly heartwarming to know that even in his final communications, Leslie Jordan maintained his unique blend of humor, grace, and endearing self-awareness. His last text stands as a testament to a spirit that consistently sought joy and spread it to others, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love that continues to resonate.
12. **David Bowie: The Unending Song of a Starman**
David Bowie, the enigmatic and endlessly innovative rock star, created a musical landscape unlike any other, consistently churning out hits from the 1960s well into the 2010s. Known for his unique sound, chameleon-like style, and unparalleled artistry, Bowie released his final album, “Blackstar,” on January 8, 2016, a mere two days before the shocking news of his death reached his millions of fans. The 69-year-old musical powerhouse had courageously battled cancer in secret for 18 months, crafting his final masterpiece even while undergoing treatment.
Bowie’s profound dedication to his craft extended to his final moments. According to his ex-girlfriend from the ’70s, Claudia Lennear, the two had reconnected in 2014 as friends and collaborators and had been working on what was intended to be her comeback album. Lennear, who had left the music industry after their breakup, revealed their unique creative partnership to The Daily Mail: “We had this very strange writing relationship. He was writing music and I was writing lyrics.” This glimpse into his continued creative output, even as his health declined, highlights his unwavering passion.
Just a few days before his death, Bowie sent his final text to Lennear, a concise yet powerful testament to his enduring artistic drive. “Send me some lyrics. Don’t forget,” he reportedly wrote. These words, stripped of any melodrama, simply convey his tireless commitment to creating and his expectation of continued collaboration. It’s a poignant reminder that for Bowie, music was not just a career but an intrinsic part of his very being, a flame that burned brightly until the very end, leaving us with a final echo of his boundless creativity.
13. **Matthew Perry: A Morning of Hope, A Sudden Goodbye**
Matthew Perry, the quick-witted and beloved Chandler Bing from “Friends,” transcended his early minor teen star roles to become a global superstar. His 10-year, Emmy-nominated run on the iconic ’90s sitcom cemented his place in television history, launching him into the upper echelon of actors and creating a character whose sarcastic charm resonated with millions. His long and public battle with substance abuse added a layer of profound vulnerability to his persona, making his journey both inspiring and heartbreaking.
On the afternoon of October 28, 2023, the world was stunned by the news of Perry’s sudden passing at his Los Angeles home, where he was found in his hot tub. An autopsy later determined that the 54-year-old actor had succumbed to the acute effects of ketamine, a drug he was reportedly taking in controlled, therapeutic doses. His death, one of many tragic events linked to the “Friends” cast, left fans and colleagues grappling with immense sorrow and disbelief.
In a particularly poignant revelation, Jennifer Aniston, his close friend and “Friends” co-star, shared details of their last conversation. “I was literally texting with him that morning, funny Matty,” Aniston recalled to Variety. She emphasized the hope and positivity Perry was exuding in his final hours: “He was happy. He was healthy. He had quit smoking. He was getting in shape. He was not in pain. He wasn’t struggling. He was happy.” These words paint a picture of a man finally finding peace and striving for a healthier future, making his sudden departure all the more devastating.
Perry’s final texts to Aniston, exchanged on the very morning of his death, serve as a stark reminder of life’s unpredictable nature and the unseen battles many face. They underscore the profound tragedy of a life cut short just as he seemed to be turning a corner, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, vulnerability, and the enduring love of friends who believed in his capacity for joy and renewal.
As we close this poignant look at the final communications of these beloved stars, it becomes clear that whether filled with humor, hope, artistic passion, or profound love, these messages offer a powerful, human glimpse into lives that touched millions. They remind us that even amidst the dazzling lights of fame, the human heart grapples with universal emotions, and that our last words often reflect our truest selves and our deepest connections. These texts are more than just words on a screen; they are timeless echoes, permanent mementos that continue to resonate, reminding us to cherish every moment and every message, for we never truly know when it might be the last. Their stories, immortalized through these fleeting digital exchanges, continue to inspire empathy, reflection, and a profound appreciation for the legacies they left behind.
