The entertainment industry has bid farewell to many beloved icons this year, including Carl Weathers, Shannen Doherty, Bob Newhart, Donald Sutherland, Liam Payne, Maggie Smith, James Earl Jones, Gena Rowlands, and Jon Landau. These figures, along with other actors, singers, comedians, and industry creatives, have left behind legacies that continue to inspire.
Here’s a reflection on some of the most notable losses in Hollywood during 2024:
Carl Weathers (1948–2024)
Best known for portraying Apollo Creed in the Rocky films, as well as roles in Predator, Happy Gilmore, and The Mandalorian, Weathers passed away peacefully in his sleep in February at the age of 76. His manager, Matt Luber, described him as “an extraordinary individual who lived an extraordinary life.”
Jon Landau (1961–2024)
The Oscar-winning producer behind Titanic and Avatar, Jon Landau died in July after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 63. James Cameron praised him as a visionary and generous collaborator who saw film as “the ultimate human art form.”
Shannen Doherty (1971–2024)
The Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed star succumbed to cancer in July after a long and public battle. She was 53.
Donald Sutherland (1935–2024)
An actor celebrated for his versatility in films like MASH*, Ordinary People, and The Hunger Games, Sutherland passed away in June at the age of 88.
Maggie Smith (1934–2024)
The iconic British actress, known for roles in Downton Abbey, The Harry Potter series, and The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, died in September at 89. Her incredible career spanned decades, earning her two Oscars and four Emmys.
James Earl Jones (1931–2024)
Famed for his commanding presence and unforgettable voice as Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King, Jones passed away in September at the age of 93.
Bob Newhart (1929–2024)
The comedic legend, known for his deadpan humor and success with The Bob Newhart Show, died in July at 94 after a series of illnesses.
Toby Keith (1961–2024)
Country music star Toby Keith, whose hits include Should’ve Been a Cowboy and Made in America, lost his battle with stomach cancer in February at 62.
Richard Lewis (1947–2024)
The comedian, famous for his self-deprecating humor and roles in Anything but Love and Curb Your Enthusiasm, died in February at 76. Larry David called him “the funniest and sweetest person” while mourning the loss of his lifelong friend.
Gena Rowlands (1930–2024)
An acting icon known for her roles in A Woman Under the Influence, Gloria, and collaborations with her husband, John Cassavetes, Rowlands passed away in August at 94.
Liam Payne (1993–2024)
The former One Direction member tragically died in October after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires. He was 31.
Chita Rivera (1933–2024)
A Broadway legend for over five decades, Rivera died in January at 91. Her contributions to musical theater remain timeless.
Chance Perdomo (1997–2024)
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Gen V actor passed away at 27 due to a motorcycle accident. His representatives remembered him as a vibrant and passionate artist.
Other Losses in 2024
- Harry Johnson (Battlestar Galactica, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) died at 81 in January.
- Adan Canto (The Cleaning Lady) passed away from appendiceal cancer at 42.
- Bill Hayes, beloved Days of Our Lives star, died at 98.
- Margaret Riley, an influential agent and producer, passed at 58 in January.
These individuals, and many others, have left an indelible mark on the industry. For more on Hollywood’s losses this year, visit The Hollywood Reporter’s obituaries page.