All the Stars We've Lost in 2023

Matthew Perry, best known for playing Chandler Bing on TV sitcom "Friends", died on 28 Oct. at the age of 54. According to the LA Times, the actor passed away in an apparent drowning accident at his home. No foul play was suspected and no drugs were found at the scene.

Perry, who was much-loved for his sarcastic character, had battled drug and alcohol addiction with many stints in rehab over the years. He wrote of his troubles in his memoir, "Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing", released in 2022.

Warner Bros. Television Group, which produced "Friends", released a statement reading: "We are devastated by the passing of our dear friend Matthew Perry. Matthew was an incredibly gifted actor and an indelible part of the Warner Bros. Television Group family. The impact of his comedic genius was felt around the world, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of so many. This is a heartbreaking day, and we send our love to his family, his loved ones, and all of his devoted fans."

Steve Harwell, the lead singer of the band Smash Mouth, died at age 56 on 4 Sept., his manager Robert Hayes confirmed in a statement to Rolling Stone. "Steve Harwell was a true American Original," his statement read. "A larger-than-life character who shot up into the sky like a Roman candle. Steve should be remembered for his unwavering focus and impassioned determination to reach the heights of pop stardom. And the fact that he achieved this near-impossible goal with very limited musical experience makes his accomplishments all the more remarkable." Hayes also confirmed that Harwell's cause of death was liver failure.

Harwell began his career as a rapper with the group F.O.S. before founding Smash Mouth in 1994, and the group went on to become a fixture in '90s rock and roll. The band rose to prominence with their song "Walkin' on the Sun" and achieved notoriety for their iconic hit "All Star," which was memorably featured in "Shrek."

The iconic British broadcaster died at age 88, his family confirmed to the BBC on 17 Aug. A statement they provided to the outlet reads, "After a brief illness Sir Michael Parkinson passed away peacefully at home last night in the company of his family. The family request that they are given privacy and time to grieve."

Parkinson's broadcasting career spanned seven decades, as he interviewed some of the biggest stars in the world on his long-running chat show, "Parkinson" — including Tom Hanks, David Bowie, Victoria and David Beckham, Will Smith, George Clooney, and more. According to the BBC, he served in the British army for two years before his journalism pursuits. It's unclear what illness led to Parkinson's death, but in 2013, he revealed he was receiving radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer. Doctors deemed him rid of the cancer two years later.

The "Cha Cha Slide" hitmaker died at age 58. The star – born Willie Perry Jr – sadly lost his battle with renal and neuroendocrine cancer on 7 August. His death was confirmed to Chicago TV station ABC7 on 8 August by his wife Kim, who announced that he passed with his loved ones around him.

Previously, the musician – who was the man behind the iconic party hit – spoke to the station about his diagnosis, saying: "If you know me, you know I'm not going to stop," he said. "I'm going to continue to go. I'm going to continue to go until I can't go."

The "Euphoria" actor died at age 25, TMZ reported on 31 July. Cloud's family broke the news in a statement with the outlet that reads, "It is with the heaviest heart that we had to say goodbye to an incredible human today. As an artist, a friend, a brother and a son, Angus was special to all of us in so many ways."

Their statement continued, "Last week he buried his father and intensely struggled with this loss. The only comfort we have is knowing Angus is now reunited with his dad, who was his best friend. Angus was open about his battle with mental health and we hope that his passing can be a reminder to others that they are not alone and should not fight this on their own in silence. We hope the world remembers him for his humour, laughter and love for everyone. We ask for privacy at this time as we are still processing this devastating loss."

Following news of Cloud's death, fans all over and fellow stars mourned him, including his "Euphoria" family. Creator Sam Levinson said of the late actor to Deadline, "There was no one quite like Angus. He was too special, too talented, and way too young to leave us so soon. He also struggled, like many of us, with addiction and depression. I hope he knew how many hearts he touched. I loved him. I always will. Rest in peace and God Bless his family."

Reubens, an actor best known for portraying Pee-wee Herman, died on 30 July at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer, as announced via an Instagram post shared the day after his death. "Last night we said farewell to Paul Reubens, an iconic American actor, comedian, writer and producer whose beloved character Pee-wee Herman delighted generations of children and adults with his positivity, whimsy and belief in the importance of kindness," the post read. "Paul bravely and privately fought cancer for years with his trademark tenacity and wit."

The post also included a posthumous statement from Reubens himself. "Please accept my apology for not going public with what I've been facing the last six years," he wrote. "I have always felt a huge amount of love and respect from my friends, fans and supporters. I have loved you all so much and enjoyed making art for you."

Reubens launched "The Pee-wee Herman Show" in the 1980s. He collaborated with Tim Burton on "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" in 1985, and also played the character onn"Pee-wee's Playhouse." In 1991, however, his career stalled after he was arrested for indecent exposure at a cinema in Florida, as per Variety. He returnead to his infamous Pee-wee character with "The Pee-wee Herman Show" on Broadway in 2010.

The Dublin-born singer, known for her 1990 hit "Nothing Compares 2 U," died at age 56. Her death was first reported by the Irish Times on 26 July and the cause of death is still unknown. In a statement, O'Connor's family said, "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Sinéad. Her family and friends are devastated and have requested privacy at this very difficult time."

O'Connor, who rose to fame in the late 1980s and early '90s, is survived by three children. Her son, Shane, died by suicide in 2022 at age 17.

On 24 July, it was announced that BBC newsreader George Alagiah had passed away at the age of 67. The Sri Lanka-born broadcaster, who had been the face of BBC One's News At Six since 2007, was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in 2014. His agent, Mary Greenham released a statement to PA News Agency, reading: "I am so terribly sorry to inform you that George Alagiah died peacefully today, surrounded by his family and loved ones. George fought until the bitter end but sadly that battle ended earlier today.George was deeply loved by everybody who knew him, whether it was a friend, a colleague or a member of the public. He simply was a wonderful human being. My thoughts are with Fran, the boys and his wider family."

Birkin — the singer, actor, and a fashion icon who was the inspiration for the famed Hermès handbag — died on 16 July at age 76. The French Ministry of Culture confirmed the "Je T'Aime... Moi Non Plus" singer's death in a tweet that read, "The most French of Britons is gone. Jane B was mischief, impertinent elegance, the never-outdated emblem of an entire era, a murmuring voice that remains our idol. A woman of heart, committed, whose disappearance leaves us Alone in Babylon."

Born in London in December 1946, Birkin made her home in France after finding success in the 1968 movie "Slogan." It was on the set of the film that she met singer-songwriter Serge Gainsbourg, with whom she had an off-and-on-again relationship. The two went on to collaborate on "Je T'Aime...," one of France's most famous songs.

Birkin is survived by her daughters, actor Charlotte Gainsbourg, whom she shares with Gainsbourg, and Lou Doillon, whose father is French director Jacques Doillon. She was preceded in death by her middle daughter, Kate Barry, who died in 2013.

Actor Julian Sands was confirmed dead by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department in a press release issued June 27. Sands, known for roles in projects like "Room With a View," "24," and 1998's "Phantom of the Opera," was 65.

The actor had gone missing while on a hike on Mt. Baldy in Southern California five months earlier. His body was discovered by hikers on 24 June, months into the search. His cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed.

Sands is survived by his wife, Evgenia Citkowitz, and their two daughters, as well as a son from his marriage to Sarah Harvey, Entertainment Weekly reported.

Treat Williams died on 13 June after a motorcycle accident in Vermont. He was 71. According to a statement from the Vermont State Police, Williams was riding a 1986 Honda motorcycle when he was fatally hit by someone making a left turn. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Williams's agent Barry McPherson told People, "I'm just devastated. He was the nicest guy. He was so talented."

He continued, "He was an actor's actor. Filmmakers loved him. He's been the heart of the Hollywood since the late 1970s. He was really proud of his performance this year. He's been so happy with the work that I got him. He's had a balanced career."

Williams first broke out as an actor in 1979 when he appeared in "Hair" and Steven Spielberg's "1941." His long film career included roles in movies like "Prince of the City," "Once Upon a Time in America," "Mulholland Falls," and "The Phantom." Williams also appeared as Danny Zuko in the original Broadway production of "Grease" in 1972. On TV, he was best known for his role as Dr. Andy Brown on the WB series "Everwood." More recently, he appeared in episodes of "Chesapeake Shores," "Blue Bloods," "We Own This City," "Chicago Fire," and "White Collar."

Williams is survived by his wife Pam Van Sant and his kids Gill and Ellie.

"Bling Empire" star Anna Shay died at the age of 62 on 5 June. "It saddens our hearts to announce that Anna Shay, a loving mother, grandmother, charismatic star, and our brightest ray of sunshine, has passed away at the early age of 62 from a stroke," her family confirmed to POPSUGAR in a statement. "Anna taught us many life lessons on how not to take life too seriously and to enjoy the finer things. Her impact on our lives will be forever missed but never forgotten."

The daughter of billionaire Edward Shay, Shay was a memorable and beloved fixture on "Bling Empire" from 2021 to 2022. She is survived by her son, Kenny Kemp.

Iconic musician Tina Turner died on 24 May at the age of 83. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Turner," an announcement on her Facebook page read on the day of her death. "With her music and her boundless passion for life, she enchanted millions of fans around the world and inspired the stars of tomorrow. Today we say goodbye to a dear friend who leaves us all her greatest work: her music. All our heartfelt compassion goes out to her family. Tina, we will miss you dearly."

Born in 1939, Turner launched her career in the 1950s and quickly shot to rock and roll superstardom. With hits like "What's Love Got to Do With It?" and more than 100 million records sold during her lifetime, as per The Independent, Turner left an indelible impact on the music industry, and tributes from everyone from Beyoncé to Barack Obama have flooded in after her death.

Turner died at her home near Zurich, Switzerland, after an ongoing illness, her rep told NBC. She is survived by her children Michael, Ronnie, and Ike Turner Jr. and her husband of 10 years, Erwin Bach.

Talk-show host Jerry Springer died at the age of 79 on 27 April. "Jerry's ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word," his family's spokesperson told POPSUGAR in a statement. "He's irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart, and humour will live on."

Springer was a politician and a lawyer before he joined Cincinnati's WLWT as a commentator, and he later launched his own show with the network called "Jerry Springer." The popular, sometimes scandalous show ran from 1991 to 2018. Springer also appeared on "The Masked Singer" in 2022. He is survived by his daughter, Katie.

Legendary singer, actor, and activist Harry Belafonte died on 25 April in his home in Manhattan, his spokesperson confirmed to the New York Times. He was 96.

Belafonte was born in Harlem in 1927. He broke through as a singer in the 1950s, bringing Calypso-style music to a wide audience. He also began acting in films during that decade, appearing with Dorothy Dandridge, Joan Collins, and other golden-age Hollywood stars.

Most importantly, Belafonte was a vocal supporter of the civil rights movement throughout the 1950s and '60s, and was a friend to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Belafonte used his Hollywood money to financially support aspects of the movement, as well as his Hollywood contacts to raise even more money when it was needed. He would provide bail money to get activists out of jail, often hosted King in his Manhattan apartment, and took part in the March on Washington in 1963. He also helped support King's family after the latter's assassination.

Belafonte continued to stand for progressive values throughout his life. He was active in the anti-apartheid movement, a vocal critique of the Iraq War, and was the Grand Marshal of the New York City Pride Parade in 2013. In 2018, Belafonte appeared in Spike Lee's "BlacKkKlansman" as a civil rights leader.

Belafonte's spokesperson told the Times that the star died of congestive heart failure.

It was announced on 24 April that Len Goodman passed away on 22 April, just a few days before his 79th birthday. The former head judge on "Strictly Come Dancing" for 12 years, he coined trademark phrases including "It's a ten from Len!" He went on to be head judge on the US version, "Dancing With the Stars", leaving in 2022. Tributes from his fellow dance show judges and contestants poured in, stating how much the star will be missed.

The comedian, perhaps best known for the outspoken and eccentric character, Dame Edna Everage, passed away on 22 April at the age of 89, surrounded by family. He had been taken to a Sydney hospital with "serious health problems" following complications from a hip replacement surgery, according to the BBC.

"He was completely himself until the very end, never losing his brilliant mind, his unique wit and generosity of spirit. With over 70 years on the stage, he was an entertainer to his core, touring up until the last year of his life and planning more shows that will sadly never be," his family said in a statement.

The lead guitarist of The Script, Mark Sheehan, died at the age of 46, it was announced on 14 April. Sheehan formed the band alongside Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power, and they released hit singles including "The Man Who Can't Be Moved" and "We Cry". The band tweeted: "Much loved husband, father, brother, band mate and friend Mark Sheehan passed away today in hospital after a brief illness. The family and group ask fans to respect their privacy at this tragic time."

Fashion designer Dame Mary Quant, dubbed the "mother of the miniskirt", died on 13 April, at the age of 93. Her family confirmed the sad news, informing the public that she died peacefully at her home in Surrey. Tributes from the fashion world poured in to honour the woman who epitomised style in the 1960s. The fashion pioneer was credited with popularising the miniskirt, hot pants, and the ribbed sweater.

The actor — who was best known for her roles in "Girls! Girls! Girls!," "The Nutty Professor," "The Silencers," and "The Ballad of Cable Hogue" — died at age 84 in her Los Angeles home on 17 Feb. Her son, Andrew Stevens, told Variety that she had been battling Alzheimer's disease.

Multiple outlets confirmed that South African rapper AKA (real name Kiernan Forbes) died on 10 Feb. at the age of 35 after being shot in the city of Durban. His parents confirmed his death in a statement posted on Instagram.

"It is with extreme sadness that we acknowledge the passing of our beloved son, and confirm his untimely and tragic passing on the evening of Feb. 10, 2023," his parents wrote. "To us, Kiernan Jarryd Forbes, was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, most importantly father to his beloved daughter Kairo. To many, he was AKA, SUPAMEGA, BHOVA and the many other names of affection his legion of fans called him by. Our son was loved and gave love in return."

Six-time Grammy Award winner and three-time Oscar victor Burt Bacharach died at age 94, his family confirmed to CNN on 9 Feb. The composer was behind classic hits from countless successful artists, including Dionne Warwick, Perry Como, and Tom Jones.

Some of the most iconic tunes penned by Army veteran Bacharach include "I Say a Little Prayer," "I'll Never Fall in Love Again," and "That's What Friends Are For."

The actor — who was best known for her role as Shirley Feeney in "Laverne & Shirley" — died of a brief illness at age 75 on 25 Jan., The Hollywood Reporter reported.

Her children, Zak and Emily Huudson, confirmed her death to the publication with a statement that read: "The passing of our kind, hilarious mother, Cindy Williams, has brought us insurmountable sadness that could never truly be expressed. Knowing and loving her has been our joy and privilege. She was one of a kind, beautiful, generous and possessed a brilliant sense of humour and a glittering spirit that everyone loved."

Tom Verlaine, the founder of the famed punk band Television, died on 28 Jan. at the age of 73, the New York Times confirmed. Jesse Paris Smith, the daughter of Verlaine's fellow musician Patti Smith, said that the guitarist died after a "short illness."

While Television split after releasing two albums, Verlaine continued his musical career throughout his life and was best known for his experimental work on the guitar. Additionally, he was a gifted songwriter whose contributions to the '70s punk scene cannot be overstated.

Presley died on 12 Jan., hours after being rushed to the hospital for possible cardiac arrest, according to People. CBS News reported that her exact cause of death remains unknown, as per the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner. Shortly after news of her death broke, tributes for Presley poured in from fans and celebrities alike, with her mother, Priscilla Presley, sharing a statement to People that read, "It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us. She was the most passionate, strong, and loving woman I have ever known. We ask for privacy as we try to deal with this profound loss. Thank you for the love and prayers."

Veteran stage, film, and television actor Carole Cook died "peacefully" from heart failure on 11 Jan. at 98 years old, according to a statement from her agent, Robert Malcolm, provided to CNN.

Cooke's impressive career spanned over 60 years. On Broadway, she originated the role of Maggie Jones in the 1980 musical "42nd Street," and also starred in "Steel Magnolias" and "Hello, Dolly!" In film, she notably starred in John Hughes's "Sixteen Candles." Throughout her TV career, Cook appeared in classic series like the original "Charlie's Angels" and "Dynasty," and later in life, she had roles in "Major Crimes" and "Grey's Anatomy."

The legendary guitarist died at age 78 on 10 Jan., Variety confirmed. "On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck's passing. After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday," his rep said in a statement to the outlet. "His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss."

Beck had just recently wrapped up a tour in support of his "18" album with Johnny Depp. He was an eight-time Grammy winner and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice (once with The Yardbirds in 1992 and as a solo artist in 2009).

Ken Block, 55, was a celebrated Rally car driver and lover of extreme sports, including skateboarding, snowboarding, and motocross. On 2 Jan., Block died in a fatal snowmobile accident in Utah.

Hoonigan Industries, Block's apparel company, released a statement on 2 Jan., writing, "It's with deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today. Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed."

Block cofounded DC Shoes in 1984, and after selling the company in 2004, he moved into motorsports full time. He won five X-Game medals for his RallyCross driving.

Fred White, the drummer for Earth, Wind & Fire, died at 67 on 1 Jan. Fred was with the band from 1974 to 1984 and was inducted as a member into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000. He performed in the band alongside his brothers Maurice and Verdine White.

Verdine posted on Instagram on 1 Jan., "Our family is saddened today with the loss of an amazing and talented family member, our beloved brother Frederick Eugene 'Freddie' White."

"He joins our brothers Maurice, Monte and Ronald in heaven and is now drumming with the angels!" he continued. "Child protégé, member of the EWF ORIGINAL 9, with gold records at the young age of 16 years old! He was brother number 4 in the family lineup. But more than that at home and beyond he was the wonderful bro that was always entertaining and delightfully mischievous! And we could always count on him to make a seemingly bad situation more light hearted!"

He added, "He will live in our hearts forever, rest in power beloved Freddie!! We thank you all for your love, blessings and support at this time. Soar high baby bro, we love you to the shining ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️and back!"