The world of entertainment and beyond said goodbye to a constellation of beloved figures throughout 2025, leaving behind legacies that touched countless lives. From iconic actors who graced our screens for decades to groundbreaking musicians, athletes, and reality stars, each departure marked a significant loss. Page Six looks back at some of the notable individuals whose lights dimmed this year, celebrating the contributions they made to culture and memory.
July brought news of several significant passings. Julian McMahon, the Australian actor widely recognized for his compelling roles in hits like “Nip/Tuck” and “Charmed,” died peacefully on July 2. He was 56 years old and had also starred in “Fantastic Four,” showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Julian’s wife, Kelly McMahon, shared the deeply personal news in a statement, revealing he had faced a private battle with cancer. She beautifully articulated the essence of the man, saying in part to Deadline, “Julian loved life. He loved his family. 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.” This sentiment truly resonates with the joy his work brought to viewers.
Just a day later, on July 3, the film world mourned the loss of Michael Madsen, a formidable talent known for his unforgettable presence in Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill.” He was 67 years old when authorities found him unresponsive at his home in Malibu, California. While law enforcement initially suggested natural causes, his manager later clarified that he died from cardiac arrest.
Madsen’s team released a statement remembering him as “one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, who will be missed by many.” They highlighted his dedication to independent film in his final years, including upcoming projects like “Resurrection Road” and “Concessions,” alongside his anticipation for releasing a new book, “Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems.” His passion for his craft endured.
June also brought the sad news that Ananda Lewis, the vibrant former host of MTV’s “Total Request Live,” had died at 52. Ananda was a video journalist whose light was dimmed after a nearly 5-year battle with breast cancer. Her sister Lakshmi shared the news in a poignant Facebook post, writing, “She’s free, and in His heavenly arms.”
Ananda had bravely shared her diagnosis with the public in October 2020, using her platform to encourage others. In her Instagram post, she urged followers to “practice early detection,” sharing, “This is tough for me, but if just ONE woman decides to get her mammogram after watching this, what I’m going through will be worth it.” Her courage in advocating for health awareness was truly impactful.
June was a difficult month for music fans as The Beach Boys lost a founding member. Brian Wilson, a true architect of sound and a pivotal figure in music history, died at age 82. His family shared their heartbreak via Instagram on June 11, acknowledging the profound loss felt by many.
In their touching tribute, Wilson’s loved ones shared, “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved father Brian Wilson has passed away.” They continued, expressing their grief, “We are at a loss for words right now.” The statement concluded with the simple yet powerful message, “Love & Mercy,” capturing the spirit of the musical icon.
The music world lost another voice with the death of Wayne Lewis, a singer from the popular group Atlantic Starr, on June 5. He was 68 years old. Atlantic Starr shared the sad news in an announcement on their Facebook page, asking for prayers for their family and respect for their privacy.
The band’s post simply shared, “It’s with great sadness we have to post the passing of Wayne Lewis on June 5, 2025, please keep the family in your prayers and respect their privacy #waynelewis #restinpeace #flyhigh.” While the cause of death was not revealed, his voice lives on in the band’s beloved songs.
May began with the news of several cherished actors and musicians passing away. Valerie Mahaffey, known for her roles in beloved TV series like “Young Sheldon,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Seinfeld,” died in Los Angeles on May 30. She was 71 and had fought a battle with cancer.
Her publicist and husband, Joseph Kell, confirmed her passing to Page Six, expressing the depth of his loss. Joseph Kell shared in a statement, “I have lost the love of my life, and America has lost one of its most endearing actresses. She will be missed.” Valerie Mahaffey’s career began on the daytime soap opera “The Doctors,” leading to a wide range of memorable performances.
Also on May 30, Loretta Swit, the actress who brought the iconic character Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan to life on the classic TV sitcom “MASH,” passed away in New York. She was 87 years old. Her representative, Harlan Boll, informed Variety that New York police reported her death occurred midday at her home, citing “suspected natural causes.”
Loretta Swit was a staple of “MASH” for its entire 11-season run from 1972 to 1983, delivering a performance that earned her widespread acclaim. She received two coveted Emmy Awards for best supporting actress in 1980 and 1982, a testament to her incredible talent and enduring impact on television comedy.
Phil Robertson, the patriarch of the popular reality series “Duck Dynasty,” died on May 25 at the age of 79. His family announced his passing via social media, sharing a joint Instagram post from Willie Robertson and his wife, Korie Robertson.
The post expressed both sorrow and faith, stating, “We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord…” The family also shared gratitude, adding, “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.” They had revealed in December 2024 that his health had been declining due to a blood disorder and a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
George Wendt, beloved for his role as Norm Peterson on the iconic 80s sitcom “Cheers,” died on May 20 at the age of 76. His longtime publicist, Melissa Nathan, confirmed his death to Variety, sharing a statement that captured the warmth with which he was remembered.
The statement from Melissa Nathan read, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him.” It added, “He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.” George Wendt appeared in all 11 seasons of “Cheers,” earning six Emmy nominations for his portrayal of the bar’s most famous regular. He starred alongside a celebrated cast, including Ted Danson and Rhea Perlman.
Director James Foley, known for helming acclaimed projects like “House of Cards,” “Fifty Shades Freed,” and “Glengarry Glen Ross,” died at the age of 71. The Hollywood Reporter announced his passing on May 8, noting that a representative for the director stated he passed away “peacefully in his sleep earlier this week” at his home in Los Angeles. His death came after a “years-long” battle with brain cancer.
James Foley’s directorial journey began with the film “Reckless” in 1984, starring Daryl Hannah and Aidan Quinn. He enjoyed a high-profile career spanning over thirty years, concluding with “Fifty Shades Freed,” released in 2018. His vision shaped a variety of cinematic narratives.
Singer-songwriter Jill Sobule, known for her insightful lyrics and unique voice, died on May 1 at the age of 66. Her representative confirmed that she tragically passed away in a Minneapolis house fire early that morning, according to Variety. Her manager, John Porter, paid tribute to her impact and legacy.
John Porter shared in a statement, “Jill Sobule was a force of nature and human rights advocate whose music is woven into our culture.” He added, “I was having so much fun working with her. I lost a client and a friend today.” Jill Sobule is widely celebrated for her 1995 song “I Kissed a Girl,” which holds the distinction of being widely recognized as the first openly gay-themed song to reach the Billboard Top 20 chart.
April saw the passing of a wide range of figures, including royalty, religious leaders, actors, and musicians. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Jiggly Caliente died on April 27 at the age of 44. Her family shared the incredibly sad news in a statement on her Instagram page the same day, revealing that Bianca Castro-Arabejo, known and cherished as Jiggly Caliente, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends.
Her passing followed a challenging health struggle; on April 23, her family had announced via Instagram that she was hospitalized with a “severe infection” that necessitated the amputation of “most of her right leg.” Jiggly Caliente, who also appeared in the series “Pose,” was a beloved figure in the drag community, bringing joy and fierce performances to her fans.
March saw the departure of a boxing legend, musicians, and actors who left their mark on various fields. Val Kilmer, the Hollywood actor known for iconic roles in films like “Top Gun” and “Batman Forever,” died at age 65. His daughter, Mercedes, confirmed his passing to the New York Times, sharing that he died in his Los Angeles home on April 1.
The cause of Val Kilmer’s death was pneumonia. This followed a previous health challenge; he had battled throat cancer after a 2015 diagnosis and was declared cancer-free six years later in 2021. His performances in a wide range of films cemented his status as a versatile and memorable actor.
Richard Chamberlain, an actor whose long career included starring roles in popular television series such as “Dr. Kildare” and “Shōgun,” has died at the age of 90. His publicist, Harlan Boll, told the BBC that Richard passed away late on March 29 in Waimanalo, Hawaii, after suffering complications from a stroke. His passing came just hours before he would have celebrated his 91st birthday, a life filled with notable performances.
Martin Rabbett, Richard Chamberlain’s longtime partner, shared a loving tribute, calling him an “amazing and loving soul.” Richard Chamberlain also starred in “The Thorn Birds,” captivating audiences in one of his most famous roles and solidifying his status as a television icon.
Jack Lilley, an alum of the beloved series “Little House on the Prairie,” has died at the age of 91. His co-star, Melissa Gilbert, shared the news of his passing via Instagram on March 21, expressing her deep affection for him. Melissa Gilbert described Jack as “one of [her] favorite people on the planet,” sharing a cherished memory from their time working together.
Melissa Gilbert fondly recalled, “He taught me how to ride a horse when I was just a wee little thing.” She remembered his patience and willingness, adding, “He never said no when I would bound up to him squealing, ‘Can we go ride? Please, please, please?’” She concluded her tribute by saying, “Jack always felt like home to me,” and that she was “so lucky that he was my friend.” His kindness and role in the show’s history are remembered.
D’Wayne Wiggins, a musician and founding member of the acclaimed group Tony! Toni! Tone! died on March 7. He was 64 years old and passed away after a year-long battle with bladder cancer. His family confirmed his passing with an Instagram post that celebrated his impactful life and career, describing his life as “incomparable.”
The family’s post highlighted his many talents and dedication, stating, “He was a guitarist, producer, composer, philanthropist, mentor, and founding member of Tony! Toni! Tone!” They also noted his deep commitment to nurturing new talent, adding, “He was deeply passionate about providing artist development and mentorship to emerging young musicians, helping to shape the early careers of many.” His influence on R&B and soul music was significant.
Jazz legend Roy Ayers, a composer whose work includes the beloved tune “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” died on March 4 at the age of 84. He passed away in New York City after battling a lengthy illness. His family announced his passing via Facebook, sharing their sorrow and asking for privacy during their time of grief.
The family’s statement shared, “He lived a beautiful 84 years and will be sorely missed.” They also mentioned plans for a future gathering, noting, “His family asks that you respect their privacy at this time, a celebration of Roy’s life will be forthcoming.” Roy Ayers’s contributions to jazz and funk music were immense, creating sounds that continue to be cherished by listeners worldwide.
February also saw the passing of significant figures, including Dolly Parton’s devoted husband. Carl Dean, who was married to the legendary country singer Dolly Parton for over 60 years, died in Nashville on March 3. He was 82 years old. Dolly Parton shared the sad news herself in an announcement posted on her Instagram page, reflecting on their long and loving partnership.
Dolly Parton penned a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, sharing, “Carl and I spent many wonderful years together.” She emphasized the depth of their bond, writing, “Words can’t do justice to the love we shared for over 60 years. Thank you for your prayers and sympathy.” The family planned for Carl Dean to be buried in a private ceremony with his immediate family, honoring their cherished life together.
Gene Hackman, an Oscar-winning actor whose career spanned decades and included countless memorable roles, is survived by three children. He married Betsy Arakawa in 1991, and the couple was last publicly seen together on a dinner date in March 2024. Their shared lives concluded together, leaving behind a void in the film and music communities.
News broke on February 26 regarding the death of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, best known for her roles in popular series such as “Gossip Girl” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Police sources told The Post that she had died at the age of 39. Michelle Trachtenberg had previously addressed concerns about her appearance in Instagram photos the previous year, assuring her “haters” at the time that she was “happy and healthy.” Her work on screen captivated many fans over the years.
As we look back at the individuals the world lost throughout 2025, we remember the joy they brought, the stories they told, the music they made, and the lives they impacted. Each person, whether a global icon or a cherished family member, left a unique imprint on the world. Their absence is felt, but the rich tapestry of their work, their words, and their spirit remains, a testament to lives fully lived and shared. We celebrate their time with us and the lasting legacies they leave behind.
