2024 proved a somber year for the entertainment world, witnessing the passing of numerous iconic figures from stage, screen, music, and sports. The year began with the loss of Camila Batmanghelidjh, the controversial yet impactful founder of Kids Company, known for her vibrant attire and dedication to underprivileged children. January also saw the passing of Derek Draper, husband of TV presenter Kate Garraway, whose prolonged battle with COVID-19 captured national attention. The entertainment world mourned the loss of Glynis Johns, a centenarian and one of the last surviving stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age, remembered for her role in Mary Poppins. The month concluded with the passing of football legend Franz Beckenbauer, whose innovative playing style revolutionized the game, and the groundbreaking DJ Annie Nightingale, the first female voice on BBC Radio 1.
February brought further heartbreak with the passing of beloved television personalities. Jonnie Irwin, known for his work on property shows, succumbed to lung cancer at the young age of 50. Ian Lavender, the last surviving cast member of the iconic British sitcom Dad’s Army, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of laughter. The music world mourned the loss of Steve Wright, a pioneering and eccentric DJ whose distinctive style graced the airwaves for decades. The month ended with the death of celebrated chef David Myers, one half of the popular culinary duo the Hairy Bikers.
March marked the passing of influential figures in music and social activism. Steve Harley, the charismatic frontman of Cockney Rebel, lost his battle with cancer. Richard Taylor, the father of murdered schoolboy Damilola, whose tireless campaigning against gang violence following his son’s tragic death, also passed away. The month concluded with the passing of Oscar-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr., best known for his powerful portrayal of a drill sergeant in An Officer and a Gentleman.
The losses continued into April with the passing of sporting figures and controversial personalities. Joe Kinnear, the former Tottenham Hotspur footballer and manager, succumbed to dementia. OJ Simpson, the former American football star acquitted of murder but later found liable in a civil case, also passed away. The fashion world mourned the loss of Roberto Cavalli, the iconic Italian designer renowned for his bold animal prints and glamorous aesthetic. April also saw the passing of legendary cricketer Derek Underwood, whose spin bowling prowess made him a formidable force on the pitch.
May brought the heartbreaking loss of Kris Hallenga, the inspirational founder of the breast cancer charity CoppaFeel!, who tirelessly campaigned for early detection despite her own diagnosis. Veteran actor Bernard Hill, known for his diverse roles ranging from Boys from the Blackstuff to The Lord of the Rings, also passed away. The month concluded with the loss of documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, whose film Super Size Me sparked a national conversation about fast food consumption.
June witnessed the passing of figures who touched different generations. Colin Gibb, whose song Agadoo achieved both commercial success and notoriety, passed away. Rob Burrow, the rugby league star whose courageous battle with Motor Neurone Disease inspired millions, sadly succumbed to the illness. The acting world mourned the loss of Donald Sutherland, the acclaimed Canadian actor known for his compelling performances in films such as MASH and The Hunger Games*.
July brought the passing of entertainment icons. Shelley Duvall, the actress best known for her role in The Shining, passed away. Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the pioneering sex therapist who revolutionized conversations about sexuality, died peacefully in her sleep. Shannen Doherty, the actress who rose to fame in Beverly Hills, 90210, lost her battle with cancer. The music world mourned the passing of John Mayall, a pivotal figure in the British blues scene, and Duke Fakir, the last surviving original member of the Four Tops.
August witnessed further significant losses, including that of French film icon Alain Delon and businessman Mike Lynch, whose legal battles and subsequent yacht tragedy made headlines. The sports world mourned the passing of Sven-Göran Eriksson, the former England football manager, and Fatman Scoop, the influential hip-hop artist.
September brought the passing of legendary actor James Earl Jones, the voice of Darth Vader, and Dame Maggie Smith, the celebrated actress whose career spanned stage and screen, from Shakespeare to Downton Abbey. The music world mourned the passing of Kris Kristofferson, the acclaimed country singer-songwriter.
October witnessed the passing of significant political and musical figures. Alex Salmond, the former First Minister of Scotland, died of a heart attack. The tragic death of One Direction star Liam Payne shocked the music world. Veteran strongman Geoff Capes and acclaimed singer Jack Jones also passed away.
November brought further losses. Quincy Jones, the legendary music producer who shaped the careers of Michael Jackson and countless others, passed away. June Spencer, the world’s longest-serving soap star, known for her role in The Archers, also passed away at the age of 105. The month concluded with the passing of Lord Prescott, the former Deputy Prime Minister.
The year ended with the passing of prolific author Barbara Taylor Bradford, Welsh snooker champion Terry Griffiths, comedian Duncan Norvelle, and former football player George Eastham. 2024 served as a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of life, leaving behind a legacy of talent and contributions that shaped entertainment, sports, and politics.
