The year 2024, and the tail end of 2023, have seen us bid farewell to a constellation of talent, individuals who left indelible marks on the worlds of film, television, music, literature, and beyond. These acclaimed figures, ranging from beloved actors and iconic musicians to influential authors and broadcasters, touched countless lives through their work, their voices, and their unique spirits. As we reflect on their contributions, we celebrate the rich tapestry of performances, stories, and moments they shared with us, ensuring their legacies will continue to inspire future generations. It feels important to take a moment to honor these individuals, remembering the impact they had on our culture and our hearts.
Among those we lost was Matthew Perry, an American Canadian actor whose comedic timing and relatable vulnerability made him a beloved presence for decades. Born Matthew Langford Perry on August 19, 1969, in Williamstown, Massachusetts, he grew up in Ottawa, Ontario, after his parents, Suzanne (née Langford) Perry, a journalist, and John Bennett Perry, an actor known for Old Spice commercials, divorced when he was an infant. His mother later married television journalist Keith Morrison, and his father married writer Debbie Doyle. He gained five half-siblings through these marriages, and though he was a high-ranking junior tennis player with dreams of becoming a professional athlete, his move to Los Angeles at age 15 sparked an interest in acting.
His early career saw him take improv classes and land minor roles on television shows like Charles in Charge and Silver Spoons in the mid-1980s. He made his TV debut in 1979 alongside his father in 240-Robert. Perry’s first starring role came in 1987 with the sitcom Second Chance, later renamed Boys Will Be Boys, which ran for one season. His big-screen debut was in the 1988 coming-of-age film A Night in the Life of Jimmy Reardon. Fans of Growing Pains will remember his memorable role in 1989 as a boyfriend of Carol Seaver who tragically dies in a drunk-driving accident. He later starred in the short-lived Sydney in 1990 and Home Free in 1993, with guest appearances on Who’s the Boss and Beverly Hills, 90210 in between.
Mainstream success arrived dramatically in 1994 when he was cast as Chandler Bing on Friends. Set in New York City, the sitcom chronicled the lives of six young adults navigating jobs, relationships, and the search for fulfillment. Perry’s Chandler was a character who famously used sarcasm and self-deprecation as a shield for his insecurities, resonating deeply with viewers. He shared an apartment with Joey Tribbiani, portrayed by Matt LeBlanc, and was close friends with Ross Geller, played by David Schwimmer, alongside the other main characters: Monica Geller (Courteney Cox), Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston), and Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow).
Friends became an immediate sensation upon its debut, and Chandler Bing quickly became a fan favorite. The largely unknown cast transformed into international stars, earning a remarkable $1 million per episode by the show’s final two seasons. The series finale in 2004 drew an enormous audience of over 52 million viewers, a testament to its cultural impact. Over its ten-season run, Friends received numerous accolades, and Matthew Perry himself earned an Emmy Award nomination in 2002 for his performance. The show’s enduring popularity continued long after its initial run, becoming a staple in syndication and on streaming services, introducing new generations to the gang from Central Perk. In 2021, the cast reunited for a television special, offering fans a nostalgic look back at the show and their time together.
Parallel to his television success, Perry attempted to build a movie career, experiencing both hits and misses. Romantic comedies like Fools Rush In (1997), Three to Tango (1999), and Serving Sara (2002) didn’t find a large audience. However, he found greater success with The Whole Nine Yards (2000), a popular comedy where he played a dentist whose new neighbor, portrayed by Bruce Willis, turns out to be a gangster. He reprised this role in the 2004 sequel, The Whole Ten Yards.
During his time on Friends, Perry also made notable appearances on other critically acclaimed television shows. He appeared in several episodes of Ally McBeal. On Aaron Sorkin’s political drama The West Wing, he was cast as a Republican lawyer working within a Democratic administration, a performance that earned him two Emmy nominations in both 2003 and 2004. In 2004, he stepped behind the camera for the first time, making his directorial debut with an episode of the medical comedy Scrubs, in which he also appeared alongside his father.
Following the conclusion of Friends, Perry’s career largely centered on television, though with occasional film roles. His notable post-Friends credits include the TV movie The Ron Clark Story (2006), a biopic where he portrayed the inspiring title character, a teacher at a Harlem school, for which he received another Emmy nomination. He then starred in Aaron Sorkin’s comedy-drama Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (2006–07), playing the head writer for a live comedy show. Despite high expectations, the series was canceled after just one season.
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Perry continued to pursue lead roles in sitcoms, though sustained success proved elusive. He cocreated and starred in Mr. Sunshine (2011–12), a comedy about the manager of a sports arena. The project generated a bidding war won by ABC but aired only 13 episodes before being pulled due to low ratings. From 2012 to 2013, he starred in Go On as a sportscaster dealing with the death of his wife, another comedy series canceled after one season. He later reunited with Courteney Cox for an episode of her series Cougar Town in 2014. From 2015 to 2017, Perry cocreated and costarred in The Odd Couple, a remake of the classic sitcom based on Neil Simon’s play. He played the untidy divorced sportswriter Oscar Madison opposite Thomas Lennon as the fussy Felix Unger. In 2017, he also had a recurring role on The Good Fight and appeared as Ted Kennedy in the miniseries The Kennedys After Camelot.
Beyond his acting career, Matthew Perry openly shared his long-standing struggle with substance abuse, which began with drinking at age 14 and later included addiction to opioid pain medications. These struggles led to significant health issues, including a two-week coma in 2018. In his 2022 memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing,” Perry candidly discussed his addictions, estimating he spent $9 million trying to achieve sobriety and stating he had been clean and sober since early 2021. The book was well-received and became a New York Times bestseller. Tragically, Matthew Perry died on October 28, 2023, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 54 years old. The medical examiner’s report cited “acute effects of ketamine” as the cause of death. As of August 2024, five people were arrested in connection with his death, accused of providing the ketamine. Officials reported that three defendants had already agreed to plead guilty.
In 2024, the entertainment world and beyond continued to mourn the passing of numerous talents. Australian author John Marsden, critically acclaimed and best known for his best-selling ‘Tomorrow’ series, died aged 74. His family confirmed his passing. The ‘Tomorrow’ series sold millions globally and was adapted for film and television. John was married to Kristin and had six stepsons, though he had no biological children. Later in life, he founded and served as principal at two schools in Victoria, Australia: Candlebark School (opened 2006) and Alice Miller School (opened 2016), an arts-focused secondary school. A joint statement from the schools noted John had “transformed countless young loves through both his writing and his groundbreaking approach to education.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute, saying John’s work would “live long in our national memory,” describing his writing as “Vivid, funny, quintessentially Australian, he wrote with a real love for our land and a true sense of our people’s character.”
The legendary American music industry figure Quincy Jones passed away peacefully at his home in Bel Air, Los Angeles, on Sunday, November 3, aged 91. His publicist, Arnold Robinson, confirmed the news, stating Jones was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments. In a family statement, his loved ones shared, “Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones’ passing.” They added, “And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him. He is truly one of a kind and we will miss him dearly; we take comfort and immense pride in knowing that the love and joy, that were the essence of his being, was shared with the world through all that he created. Through his music and his boundless love, Quincy Jones’ heart will beat for eternity.” Jones was renowned for producing several Michael Jackson albums and collaborating with an incredible array of artists, including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin.
Iconic American actor John Amos, widely recognized as father figure James Evans Sr. on the groundbreaking sitcom Good Times (1974–1979), died at age 84. His son, Kelly Christopher Amos, confirmed his father’s passing in Los Angeles on August 21 from natural causes. Kelly shared in a statement, “It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned. He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold…and he was love the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”
American singer-songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson, known for country hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” passed away on September 28, 2024, at the age of 88. His family confirmed he “passed away peacefully.” Their statement read, “We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.” Kristofferson was also celebrated for his acting, particularly in the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born, where he starred with Barbra Streisand. They sang the love theme “Evergreen” together, which won an Oscar, and Kristofferson earned a Golden Globe for his acting.
Actor Drake Hogestyn, best known for his long-running role as John Black on Days Of Our Lives, died aged 70 on September 28, 2024, after battling pancreatic cancer. His family announced his passing on Instagram with a heartbreaking statement detailing his struggle. “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” the statement read. “After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”
Beloved British actress Maggie Smith, celebrated for her roles in Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter films, passed away on September 27, 2024, aged 89. Her death was confirmed by her two sons, Toby and Chris, in a statement to the BBC. “It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith,” their statement read. “She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.” They added, “We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.” Tributes poured in, including one from King Charles, who shared his sadness, noting that “As the curtain comes down on a national treasure, we join all those around the world in remembering with the fondest admiration and affection her many great performances and her warmth and wit that shone through both on and off the stage.” Whoopi Goldberg also commented, “Maggie Smith was a great woman and a brilliant actress. I still can’t believe I was lucky enough to work with the ‘one-of-a-kind’ [star]. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family … RIP.”
American actor John David Ashton, known for his role in Beverly Hills Cop, passed away on September 26, 2024, at the age of 76 in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a fight with cancer. His rep, Alan Somer, stated, “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Tito Jackson, the older brother of Michael Jackson and a central figure in the iconic Jackson music family, passed away unexpectedly on September 15, 2024, confirmed by his longtime friend and former manager Steve Manning. Tito was most known for his role as a guitarist and vocalist in the world-famous group, The Jackson 5. While an official cause of death was not confirmed, it is believed he suffered a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. Just four days before his sudden passing, Tito and his brothers visited a memorial for their late brother, Michael, who also passed away from cardiac arrest in 2009 at age 50.
Critically acclaimed actor and instantly recognizable voice of Star Wars’ Darth Vader and Mufasa from Disney’s The Lion King (1994), James Earl Jones, passed away aged 93. According to a statement from his representative, the Hollywood star died at his home in Dutchess County, New York. No cause of death was revealed. Jones was celebrated for his deep, sonorous voice and continued to perform on stage and screen in his later years, earning numerous awards for his work. He was survived by his son Flynn, also an actor; his wife Celia passed away in 2016. Mark Hamill, who played Luke Skywalker, offered a poignant tribute on X (formerly Twitter), simply writing “RIP dad.”
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Legendary comedian and actor Bob Newhart passed away aged 94 after a “series of short illnesses.” His publicist, Jerry Digney, announced the news on July 18, stating the star had died earlier that day. Newhart rose to fame as a stand-up comic in the late 1950s, leading to multiple hit television series bearing his name and bestselling comedy albums. More recently, he had roles in Horrible Bosses, The Big Bang Theory, and Young Sheldon, and memorably played Buddy the Elf’s father, portrayed by Will Ferrell, in the 2003 Christmas movie Elf.
American actress Shannen Doherty, perhaps best known for her role in Beverly Hills 90210, died at age 53 following a battle with breast cancer. A statement from her publicist, Leslie Sloane, confirmed her passing on Saturday, July 13. The statement, shared with PEOPLE, read, “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease.” Shannen was first diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2015.
Iconic fitness guru Richard Simmons died aged 76, just two days after celebrating his birthday. Reports indicated he was found by police at his Los Angeles home, and no foul play was expected. TMZ first reported the news, and Simmons’ publicist, Tom Estey, confirmed the death to PEOPLE, stating, “The world has truly lost an angel.”
Texas-born movie star Shelley Duvall, known for her roles in Robert Altman’s films and her iconic performance in The Shining, passed away on July 11, 2024, at age 75. Her long-time partner, Dan Gilroy, announced that Duvall died in her sleep at her home in Blanco, Texas. Mr. Gilroy shared in a statement, “My dear, sweet, wonderful life, partner, and friend left us last night. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away beautiful Shelley.”
Beloved US actor Martin Mull passed away on June 27 after “a valiant fight against a long illness.” His career in film and television spanned almost 50 years, with fans remembering his roles in shows like Roseanne, Arrested Development, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and more recently Veep and Not Dead Yet. Martin’s daughter, Maggie, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, writing, “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.”
Star of M.A.S.H. and The Hunger Games trilogy, Donald Sutherland, aged 88, passed away from a long illness on Thursday, June 20, 2024, confirmed by his son, Kiefer Sutherland. Kiefer wrote on X, “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.” Donald was married three times and was survived by five children.
Children’s presenter Dawn Kenyon died in June at age 92. Born in 1932, she appeared on screens in 1956, the year television began in Australia. As the nation’s first female host of a children’s show, she was later dubbed “the first lady of Australian television.” She was perhaps most well known for her time on Seven’s Romper Room in the late 1950s.
Television and radio presenter, documentary maker, journalist, and author Dr Michael Mosley passed away on June 5 after embarking on a hike while on holiday in Greece. He was 67. His body was found four days later, and it is believed he died from a suspected heart attack. His wife, Dr Bailey Mosley, remembered their marriage as “incredible” and “lucky,” sharing in a statement, “We loved each other very much and were so happy together. He did an incredible climb, took the wrong route, and collapsed where he couldn’t be easily seen by the extensive search team.”
Hey Hey, It’s Saturday star John Blackman died June 4, 2024, aged 76. The television comedian passed away after surgery to remove part of his jaw, needed after a skin cancer diagnosis in 2019. Co-star Daryl Somers was “devastated” at the loss of his “beloved friend.” Channel Nine described him as a “cherished voice in the Australian media,” stating, “John, renowned as the iconic voiceover artist for ‘Hey Hey It’s Saturday,’ brought joy and laughter into countless homes every weekend. His distinctive voice and quick wit became a hallmark of the show, endearing him to generations of viewers.”
Australia’s longest-serving radio presenter Bob Rogers passed away at his home in Sydney on May 29, 2024, aged 97. Rogers began his radio career at Melbourne’s 3XY at age 15 and worked for almost 80 years, continuing at Sydney’s 2CH into his 90s. Former Senator Derry Hinch paid tribute, calling Rogers his “brother” and noting, “The words ‘legend’ and ‘icon’ are thrown around too easily these days, but Bob Rogers was both. One of his career highlights was in the 1960s when he accompanied The Beatles on their trip to Australia.”
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Each departure leaves a void, a silence where their unique talents once shone brightly. From the quick wit of a comedic actor to the deep resonance of a voice that captivated galaxies, the insightful words of an author who shaped young minds, the pioneering sounds of a music legend, the comforting presence of a TV father figure, or the familiar voice on the radio – these individuals wove themselves into the fabric of our lives. While the curtain has fallen on their time on this earthly stage, the performances, the stories, and the moments they created will continue to echo through time, a lasting encore for the incredible legacies they leave behind. Their work remains, ready to be discovered and cherished by audiences now and in the future, a vibrant testament to lives exceptionally well-lived.
