In memoriam: Celebs we lost in 2017

December 23, 2017

Jordan Feldstein

Jordan Feldstein, the brother of actors Jonah Hill and Beanie Feldstein, died at the age of 40 on Dec 22. According to his family, the music talent manager passed away after suffering from a heart attack. With a successful career in the industry, Jordan had most notably worked with Maroon 5 since their inception over 15 years ago.

Jordan was the CEO and founder of Career Artist Management (CAM), one of the leading management firms in Beverly Hills known for being a force in the entertainment world. In addition to working with Maroon 5, CAM has also shepherded the careers of superstars like Sara Bareilles and worked with a roster of diverse clients, including: Iggy Azalea, Elle King, Rick Springfield, The B-52’s and Robin Thicke.

Jordan is survived by his two children. He was married twice, once to Clint Eastwood’s daughter Francesca (a which was annulled after one week).

The official statement from the Feldstein family read:

"Unfortunately, last night Jordan called 911 for shortness of breath, when paramedics arrived it was determined he went into full cardiac arrest and passed away shortly thereafter.

His family asks for privacy during this difficult and unexpected time.

In lieu of food and flowers, the family will announce a charity in the coming weeks where memorial donations can be made in Jordan’s name."

Photo: Noel Vasquez/GC Images

David Cassidy

Singer, actor and pop culture icon David Cassidy died at the age of 67 in Florida on Nov 21. In a statement confirming the sad news, his family said: "David died surrounded by those he loved, with joy in his heart and free from the pain that had gripped him for so long." The star had recently been admitted to the intensive care unit of a Fort Lauderdale hospital in critical condition and suffering from organ failure. Earlier this year, David revealed that he had dementia and would stop touring in order to "enjoy life".

David had been born into a family within the entertainment industry; his mother was an actress and his father was a singer-actor. He became a star playing Keith Partridge in 1970s musical sitcom The Partridge Family, which produced a number of music hits including I Think I Love You. David went on to enjoy huge solo musical success, receiving multiple Grammy nominations and selling more than 30 million records worldwide. At the peak of his fame, his fan club had a bigger membership than The Beatles and Elvis Presley.

Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Della Reese</h4>
The legendary singer and <i>Touched By an Angel</i> star passed away on Sunday (Nov 19) at the age of 86.

Her beloved co-star Roma Downey confirmed the news to <i>People</i>, saying: "On behalf of her husband, Franklin Lett, and all her friends and family, I share with you the news that our beloved Della Reese has passed away peacefully at her California home last evening surrounded by love. She was an incredible wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and pastor, as well as an award-winning actress and singer. Through her life and work she touched and inspired the lives of millions of people."

<p>Photo: © Getty Images

Mel Tillis

The country music singer-songwriter passed away at the age of 85 on the morning of Sunday, Nov 19 at Munroe Regional Medical Center in Ocala, Florida. A representative for the Country Music Hall of Fame member stated that the cause was respiratory failure, following his lengthy battle with intestinal issues.

Mel, who was named CMA's Entertainer of the Year in 1976, was best known for writing hits like: Bobby Bare's "Detroit City," Webb Pierce's "I'm Tired" and the 1969 track for Kenny Rogers & the First Edition, "Ruby, Don't Take Your Love to Town." In February of 2012, he was awarded the highest honor given to artists by the US government and President Barack Obama: the National Medal of Arts.

Many country music stars mourned the sad news. Blake Shelton took to Twitter to express how much the talent influenced him. "Some of my most cherished memories are the times I spent with Mel Tillis. Many many great memories. From fishing, to just having a beer, to him crashing my concert!" he said. "He did his best to try and keep my head on straight. I looked up to Mel more than he could've possibly known. A talented songwriter. An incredible entertainer. And a funny funny guy. It has been a couple years since I saw him last. I deeply regret that now."

Also on Twitter, Tim McGraw described Mel as "one of the coolest guys in country music ever and an extraordinary songwriter."

He is survived by his longtime partner, Kathy DeMonaco; his first wife and the mother of five of his children, Doris Tillis; a sister, Linda Crosby; a brother, Richard Tillis; six children: Pam Tillis, Connie Tillis, Cindy Shorey, Mel Tillis Jr., Carrie April Tillis and Hannah Puryear; six grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

Photo: Jason Davis/Getty Images

<h4>Azzedine Alaïa</h4>
One of the most remarkable designers of the 20th and 21st century, died in Paris at the age of 82 on Nov 18. His company confirmed the news, stating the cause was a heart attack.
<p>The iconic designer was often thought of as a sculptor for the way his dresses molded to the female form. In particular, his body-loving collections defined the fashion of the 1980s, being seen on stars like Tina Turner, Madonna and Naomi Campbell.
<p>Azzedine is survived by: his nieces and nephews; his partner Christoph von Weyhe and all those who worked with him.
<p>Photo: FRANCOIS GUILLOT/AFP/Getty Images

Malcolm Young

The Scottish rocker, who famously co-founded the hit group AC/DC, passed away at the age of 64 on Nov 18. Malcolm's family revealed on Facebook that the musician died peacefully in his sleep. "Renowned for his musical prowess, Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many," the announcement read. "From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans." The legendary guitarist had been suffering from dementia.

Malcolm is best known for being the driving force behind the band he formed with his younger brother Angus. His death came just weeks after the death of his older brother, Easybeats guitarist and AC/DC producer George Young.

The statement from his family also said: "While thanking all for their overwhelming support and heartfelt condolences, the family ask that you respect their privacy during this time of heartbreak and grief." Malcolm is survived by his wife Linda and their two children, Cara and Ross.

Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Gord Downie</h4>
<p>A nation mourns the loss of Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie, who lost his battle to glioblastoma, an incurable form of brain cancer, at the age of 53. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Oct. 17.</p>
<p>The Downie family announced the devastating news in <a href="http://www.thehip.com/news/statement/">a statement</a> on the band's website: "Gord knew this day was coming – his response was to spend this precious time as he always had – making music, making memories and expressing deep gratitude to his family and friends for a life well lived, often sealing it with a kiss… on the lips."</p>
<p>The Canadian music icon is survived by his family and bandmates Paul Langlois, Rob Baker, Gord Sinclair and Johnny Fay.</p>
<p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

Tom Petty

Our hearts are breaking over the death of the legendary rocker. The frontman of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers passed away peacefully aged 66, surrounded by his loved ones, bandmates and friends.

The rock icon's devastated family confirmed his death after conflicting reports of his well-being emerged following the news he had suffered a heart attack.

Tom was found unconscious in his Malibu home on Oct. 2 and was brought to UCLA Santa Monica where he was put on life support, reported TMZ.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee got his start in the '70s with his band and went on to deliver a string of hits including Listen to Her Heart, American Girl and Breakdown.

Tom is survived by his wife Dana York and his two daughters from his first marriage, Adria and Kimberly.

Photo: Getty Images

Liz Dawn

Coronation Street actress Liz Dawn has passed away, at the age of 77. The soap star's family confirmed the news on Sept. 26 in a heartbreaking statement, which read: "We are devastated and heartbroken at the passing of our much-loved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great grandmother, the incredible Liz Dawn. Liz died peacefully last night at home with her loving family around her. She has been the love, light and inspiration in our lives and we are bereft at her passing."

The legendary actress played Corrie's Vera Duckworth for 34 years and retired from the role in 2008 due to poor health. A statement from ITV's Coronation Street read: "It is with the greatest sadness that we have learned our beloved Liz Dawn has passed away last night. Her family at Coronation Street are heartbroken. We extend our heartfelt condolences and sympathy at this very sad time to Liz's devoted husband Don, her loving children Graham, Dawn, Ann and Julie, their families and her six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Photo: © Rex

<h4>Jerry Lewis</h2>
Comedy legend Jerry Lewis passed away on Aug 20 at the age of 91. HIs manager stated that "he passed peacefully at home of natural causes with his loving family at his side.”
<p>Jerry shot to stardom in the 1940s when he and Dean Martin formed the inimitable comedy act Martin and Lewis. He was also a charitable giant, raising more than $2 billion for the Muscular Dystrophy Association through his infamous Labor Day telethon. </p>
He is survived by his seven children.
<p>Photo: Getty Images

Glen Campbell

Legendary country singer and guitarist Glen Campbell died at the age of 81 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

His family confirmed the saw news with a statement on the talent's official website. Glen passed away in a Nashville facility on Tuesday, August 8. His diagnosis was documented in the 2014 documentary I’ll Be Me, which also highlighted his farewell tour.

During his decades-long career, Glen released over 70 albums, sold over 45 million records, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and won 10 Grammy Awards, among various achievements. He also notably won the CMA’s "Entertainer of the Year award" in 1968. Some of his greatest hits include: “Gentle on My Mind,” “Wichita Lineman,” “Galveston,” “Country Boy,” and "Rhinestone Cowboy."

He is survived by: his wife, Kim Campbell and their three children (Cal, Shannon and Ashley), his children from previous marriages (Debby, Kelli, Travis, Kane, and Dillon), ten grandchildren, great and great-great-grandchildren, sisters (Barbara, Sandra, and Jane) and brothers (John Wallace “Shorty” and Gerald).

Photo: Lisa Lake/Getty Images

<h4>Robert Hardy</h4>
The <em>Harry Potter</em> star passed away on Aug. 3 at the age of 91. JK Rowling took to Twitter to pay tribute to her friend, writing, "So very sad to hear about Robert Hardy. He was such a talented actor and everybody who worked with him on Potter loved him."
<p>The British actor will also be remembered for his role in the TV series <em>All Creatures Great and Small</em>.</p>
Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Sam Shepard</h4>
The actor and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright passed away on July 27 at the age of 73. A representative for the family cited complications of Lou Gehrig’s disease as cause of death.
<p>Some of his most notable theatre works included Buried Child, <em>Curse of the Starving Class</em> and <em>A Lie of the Mind</em>. He was also an acclaimed actor, most recently starring in the hit Netflix series <em>Bloodline</em>.
<p>Photo: Getty Images

<h4>George A. Romero</h4>
<p>
The American film director who created horror film classics like <em> Night Of The Living Dead</em> passed away at the age of 77 on July 16 in Toronto after a long battle with lung cancer.
<p>
According to a statement from his manager Chris Roe, the Hollywood filmmaker died while listening to the score of one of his favourite films, <em>The Quiet Man</em> with his wife, Suzanne Desrocher, and daughter, Tina Romer by his side.
<p>Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Martin Landau</h4>
<p>
Oscar-winning actor Martin Landau, whose roles in <em>Ed Wood</em>, Hitchcock classic <em>North by Northwest</em> and TV's <em>Mission: Impossible</em> made him one of Hollywood's most familiar faces for decades, died at 89 in Los Angeles on July 15.
<p>
The Actors Studio legend got his career start in the 1950s, and went on to be nominated for two Academy Awards outside of his win for Ed Wood in 1995. He also received six Emmy nominations, most recently for a guest role in <em>Entourage.</em>
<p>
Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Nelsan Ellis</h4>
<p>
Actor Nelsan Ellis, who starred in hit HBO drama series True Blood, has died aged 39. His manager, Emily Gerson Saines, confirmed the sad news to the Hollywood Reporter, saying: "He was a great talent, and his words and presence will be forever missed.” The star died from complications of heart failure. He was known for his popular character, gay short order cook Lafayette, and will be missed greatly by cast members and fans. Nelsan appeared in the show between 2008 until 2014 and was also a stage director and playwright.
<p>Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Stevie Ryan</h4>
YouTube star Stevie Ryan, seen here with ex-boyfriend Drake Bell, tragically took her own life on July 1.
<p>The 33-year-old was best known for her viral videos parodying celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber and Amy Winehouse, as well as creating comedic characters such as Little Loca and Sceney Sceneable. </p>
Photo: Getty Images

Michael Nyqvist

The Swedish actor, who was most recognized with American audiences for Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,John Wick and Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol died at the age of 56 on June 27 after a yearlong battle with lung cancer.

A statement released by his spokesperson read: “On behalf of Michael Nyqvist’s representatives and family, it is with deep sadness that I can confirm that our beloved Michael, one of Sweden’s most respected and accomplished actors, has passed away quietly surrounded by family after a year long battle with lung cancer. Michael’s joy and passion were infectious to those who knew and loved him. His charm and charisma were undeniable, and his love for the arts was felt by all who had the pleasure of working with him. He is survived by his wife Catharina, and their children Ellen and Arthur.“

Gerard Butler, who starred with the actor in the upcoming movie Hunter Killer, also shared his condolences after hearing of Michael's death. In the video on Twitter, he spoke about his "incredible humility, warmth and this cheeky glint in his eyes."

Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Adam West</h4>

Known to classic TV fans as the star of the campy 1966 series Batman, and to newer followers as the voice of the mayor of Quahog on Family Guy, actor Adam West passed away at the age of 88 on June 10.

The man who will forever be known as TV's Caped Crusader lost his battle with leukemia in Los Angeles surrounded by his loved ones. “Our dad always saw himself as The Bright Knight and aspired to make a positive impact on his fans' lives. He was and always will be our hero,” his family said of the great-grandfather of two in a statement.

Photos: Getty Images

<h4>Molly Peters</h4>
The <em>James Bond</em> star, known for her role in <em>Thunderball</em>, died on May 30 at the age of 75. The actress' death was announced on the official James Bond Twitter account on Tuesday, with the post reading: "We are sad to hear that Molly Peters has passed away at the age of 75. Our thoughts are with her family."
<p>The British star, who starred as Nurse Patricia Fearing opposite Sean Connery, was famously the first Bond girl to take her clothes off on screen in the 1965 film, which sparked much controversy at the time. The hit movie was almost given an 'X' rating for nudity.</p>
Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Roger Moore</h4>

The 89-year-old actor passed away on May 23 after a brave battle with cancer.
<p>Roger is best known for playing James Bond in seven films, including <em>Live and Let Die</em> and <em>The Spy Who Loved Me</em>.</p>
The Hollywood legend leaves behind his three children, and his wife of 15 years Kristina 'Kiki' Tholstrup.
<p>Photo: Getty Images

<h4>Powers Boothe</h4>
The actor passed away from natural causes on May 14 at the age of 68.
<p>Powers racked up quite a resume during his four decade career in Hollywood. Some of his most famous projects included <em>Sin City</em>, <em>24</em>, <em>Deadwood</em> and most recently <em>Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D</em></p>
Photo: Getty Images

<h4><strong>Michael Mantenuto - April 24</strong></h4><p>The <em>Miracle</em> star, best known for his role as Jack O'Callahan, was found dead after a self-inflicted gun wound, <em>People</em> reports via the King County medical examiner’s office in Seattle, Washington.</p><p>After his movie career, which included role in the 2006 TV movie <em>Dirtbags</em> and <em>Surfer, Dude</em> in 2008, the 35-year-old enlisted in the army.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Vinod Khanna - April 27</strong></h4><p>The legendary Bollywood star died of cancer at age 70. The Indian actor and politician, who appeared in more than 100 Bollywood films, was admitted to the hospital earlier this month as his illness became more serious.</p><p>India's President Pranab Mukherjee led tributes, tweeting: "Heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Shri Vinod Khanna, a highly talented and acclaimed actor & MP."</p><p>Vinod started his career in 1968 and quickly became a household name in India, later entering the world of politics. His last big-screen appearance was in the 2015 movie <em>Dilwale</em>.</p><p>The late actor is survived by his wife, Kavita, and his four children.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Jonathan Demme - April 26</strong></h4><p>Best known for directing films including <em>The Silence of the Lambs</em>, <em>The Manchurian Candidate</em> and <em>Philadelphia</em>, Jonathan passed away from esophageal cancer and heart-disease complications. He was 73.</p><p>Tributes flooded in for the Oscar winner, who died in New York City. "I am heartbroken to lose a friend, a mentor, a guy so singular and dynamic you’d have to design a hurricane to contain him," said Jodie Foster, who starred in <em>The Silence of the Lambs</em> alongside Anthony Hopkins. "Love that guy. Love him so much."</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Erin Moran - April 22</strong></h4><p>Best known for her role as Joanie Cunningham on <em>Happy Days</em> and the spinoff <em>Joanie Loves Chachi</em> co-starring Scott Baio, Erin Moran died at the age of 56 after being found "unresponsive" at her Indiana home.</p><p>Director Ron Howard, who played big brother Richie, tweeted a message remembering the actress, writing: "Such sad sad news. RIP Erin. I'll always choose to remember you on our show making scenes better, getting laughs and lighting up tv screens."</p><p>Henry Winkler, the actor behind Fonzie on <em>Happy Days</em>, also sent his condolences, tweeting: "OH Erin... now you will finally have the peace you wanted so badly here on earth ...Rest In It serenely now.. too soon."</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

Cuba Gooding, Sr - April 20

Cuba Gooding Sr, the musician father of Oscar winning actor Cuba Gooding Jr, was found dead in a car in Woodland Hills, Calif. He was 72.

The elder Cuba was the lead singer of The Main Ingredient, who were best known for their hit single 1972 song, "Everybody Plays the Fool."

Cuba Jr spoke fondly of his father during an episode of Inside the Actors Studio earlier this year. He said: "I remember, one of my earliest memories… He would perform at Disneyland, and after his performances, they would close it off to the general public and all the performers' kids would go on the rides as many times as they’d want. He would pull me up on stage with him and make me finish the song because I'd seen him perform all the time. It was a lot of feeling like, 'I come from royalty.'"

He is survived by his wife Shirley and four children – Cuba Jr., Omar, Tommy and April.

Photo: Getty Images

Charlie Murphy – April 12

Eddie Murphy’s older brother and fellow comedian Charlie has passed away at the age of 57. According to his rep, Charlie died in a New York City hospital after losing his battle with leukemia. Eddie’s older brother got his start in films such as Mo’Better Blues, Harlem Nights and Jungle Fever.

Charlie landed his breakout role on Dave Chappelle’s hit series Chappelle Show. During the “Charlie Murphy True Hollywood Story” portion, the funnyman garnered laughs as he recalled true encounters in the '80s with Prince and Rick James.

The star also has writing credits alongside his brother in the films Vampire in Brooklyn and 2007’s Norbit. In 2016, Charlie was part of the Comedy Get Down tour with Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley and George Lopez. Tributes quickly poured in, with Chris Rock writing, "We just lost one of the funniest most real brothers of all time. Charlie Murphy RIP."

Charlie has three children and was married to Tisha Taylor for 12 years before she passed away in 2009 after a battle with cancer.

Photo: Getty Images

<h4><strong>Don Rickles – April 6</strong></h4><p>The world lost one funny guy. Don, known as the comedian with the "gift of the insult" passed away aged 90 due to kidney failure. The honorary member of the Rat Pack, who died in his home in Los Angeles, made his mark in the world of comedy and earned a living by making fun of a host of celebrities, public figures, dignitaries and average Joes.</p><p>Aside from his onstage work, Don was a regular on the talk-show circuit. For younger audiences, he made his mark in the Disney franchise <em>Toy Story</em> as Mr. Potato Head.</p><p>Don leaves behind his wife of 52 years Barbara, their daughter Mindy and two grandchildren.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Clem Curtis – March 27</strong></h4><p>Clem, one of the founding members of '60s band The Foundations (most famously known for their hit <em>Build Me Up Buttercup</em>) died at 76 after a battle with cancer.</p><p>Two days before he passed away, the musician spoke on BBC Radio Three about his illness. "I got lots of messages from people wishing me well. I tried to keep it under wraps but I couldn't,” he shared.</p><p>When the host called him a legend, the humble star stated, "We came along at a time when music was going downhill. We made music that made people happy and they enjoyed it… You give a little and take a lot. I've enjoyed every moment. It's a great dream."</p><p>Clem was responsible for the group’s first hit <em>Baby Now That I’ve Found You</em> and <em>Back on My Feet Again</em>.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Darlene Cates – March 26</strong></h4><p>Darlene, who starred alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp in the 1993 film <em>What’s Eating Gilbert Grape</em> has died at the age of 69.</p><p>Darlene’s sister, Sheri Cates Morgan confirmed the news via Facebook. “It is with a bitter-sweet heart that we share that our precious wife, mother, and Gaga, Darlene Guthrie Cates, was called Home, somewhat unexpectedly, peacefully in her sleep Sunday morning, March 26th,” the post next to two images of Darlene read.</p><p>“We take comfort in knowing that she is no longer in pain and is in the arms of our Heavenly Father, breaking away only to dance with our Savior, Jesus. (Dancing was something she talked about loving to do "back in the day"!).”</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Chuck Barris - March 21</strong></h4><p>Creator of <em>The Gong Show</em> and such 1970s hits as <em>The Newlywed Game</em> and <em>The Dating Game</em>, died peacefully at age 87.</p><p>In 2002, the iconic game show host's autobiography, <em>Confessions of a Dangerous Mind</em>, in which he claimed to be a spy, was made into a film directed by George Clooney and starring Sam Rockwell.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>David Rockefeller - March 20</strong></h4><p>The banker and philanthropist David Rockefeller, died at age 101. From a family with an iconic name, the youngest and last surviving of John D. Rockefeller Jr.'s children controlled all of Chase bank in Manhattan, and his worth was estimated by 'Forbes' to be around $3.3billion.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

Chuck Berry - March 18

The rock legend passed away at the age of 90 at his home in Missouri. The St. Charles County Police Department confirmed the death on their Facebook page, writing: "The family requests privacy during this time of bereavement." Often dubbed "the father of rock 'n' roll," Chuck (or more officially, Charles Edward Anderson Berry Sr.) was beloved in the music industry, influencing famed groups like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles.

With hit songs like 'Maybellene,' 'Roll Over Beethoven,' and 'Johnny B Goode,' Chuck helped to develop the rock 'n' roll sound into a distinctive genre and never stopped creating powerful songs.

The star was making music until the day he passed away, planning to release his first studio album in almost 40 years in June. The album, which is called 'Chuck,' was to be comprised of mostly new material.

Photo: Vladimir Artev/Epsilon/Getty Images

<h4><strong>Auntie Fee - March 17</strong></h4><p>The popular YouTube cooking star died from a heart attack at age 59 after a short hospitalization where she remained on life support.</p><p>Auntie Fee, whose real name was Felicia O'Dell, was best known for cooking on a budget. She became a viral sensation back in 2014 when her expletive-filled instructional video on how to make "sweet treats for kids" – using rolls, butter, sugar, cinnamon and raisins – racked up more than 500,000 page views overnight.</p><p>Photo: Instagram.com/iamauntiefee</p>

<h4><strong>Joni Sledge - March 10</strong></h4><p>Joni Sledge from the '70s girl group Sister Sledge passed away in her home at age 60. The "We Are Family" singer died of natural causes, her sister, Kim Sledge, confirmed.</p><p>During their career as a group, Joni and her sisters Debbie, Kim and Kathy recorded such chart hits as "He's the Greatest Dancer" and "My Guy." </p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>Miriam Colon - March 3</strong></h4><p>The acclaimed Puerto Rican actress, best known for playing Al Pacino’s mother in <em>Scarface</em>, died at age 80. Her husband told the <em>AP</em> that she passed following medical complications from a pulmonary infection.</p><p>Miriam has left a huge mark on the entertainment industry, with roles in various film and television (such as <em>Alfred Hitchcock Presents</em>) projects. Among her many achievements, the actress founded the Puerto Rican Traveling Theater in New York. She also was the first Puerto Rican to enroll in the highly regarded Actors Studio.</p><p>In September of 2015, Miriam was hailed as a "trailblazer," receiving a National Medal of the Arts from then-U.S. President Barack Obama.</p><p>Photo: SGranitz/WireImage</p>

Bill Paxton - February 25

The Emmy award-winning actor died due to a stroke following heart surgery. He was 61. A family representative confirmed the sad news, describing him as "a loving husband and father [who] began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades."

Bill is perhaps best known for his roles in Apollo 13, Twister and Titanic. Hollywood stars took to social media to remember the late actor. Tom Hanks tweeted, “Bill Paxton was simply, a wonderful man, A wonderful man," while Charlize Theron wrote, "You were a great friend to me, Bill. AND one of the finest actors to share a set with." And Jennifer Aniston choked up at the Academy Awards as she remembered Bill as a "beloved actor and friend."

The actor is survived by his wife of 30 years, Louise Newbury, and his two children, James and Lydia Paxton.

Photo: Jason LaVeris/FilmMagic

Al Jarreau

The Jazz legend and seven-time Grammy winning artist died at 76 on Feb. 12. Prior to his death, Al was hospitalized for exhaustion and retired from touring at the request of his doctors. The late singer is the only Grammy-winning vocalist to have won in the jazz, pop and R&B categories. Following his passing, a statement on Al's website read: "His second priority in life was music. There was no third. His first priority, far ahead of the other, was healing or comforting anyone in need. Whether it was emotional pain, or physical discomfort, or any other cause of suffering, he needed to put our minds at ease and our hearts at rest. He needed to see a warm, affirming smile where there had not been one before. Song was just his tool for making that happen."

Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images

<h4><strong>Richard Hatch</strong></h4><p>The actor known for playing Captain Apollo in the original sci-fi series <em>Battlestar Galactica</em> lost his battle to pancreatic cancer. He was 71. The actor reportedly had his son Paul by his side at his Santa Clarita home.</p><p>Richard, whose acting career began in 1971 starring on the soap opera <em>All My Children</em>, earned a Golden Globe nomination for his role in <em>Battlestar Galactica</em>. Following his death, <em>Star Trek</em> actor George Takei tweeted, "Rest with the galactic stars, Richard Hatch."</p><p>Photo: Gabe Ginsberg/FilmMagic</p>

<h4><strong>Frank Pellegrino - January 31</strong></h4><p>Frank, a native New Yorker and star of the HBO drama <em>The Sopranos</em>, passed away at 72 after a battle with lung cancer.</p><p>“New York lost a piece of New York yesterday," the actor's longtime friend, Bo Dietl, said to <em>People</em.. "Frankie was an icon, one of the most unique and remarkable people I’ve ever met in my life, with one of the biggest hearts. If anyone had a problem, they would go to Frankie and he would help them. He was one of the bravest men I ever met in my life.”</p><p>Frank was known as FBI Chief Frank Cubitoso in <em>The Sopranos</em> as well as from his recurring roles on <em>Law and Order</em>. He also starred in <em>Mickey Blue Eyes</em>, <em>Cop Land</em> and <em>Goodfellas</em>. In addition to his acting career, Frank was co-owner of the NYC eatery Rao's.</p><p>Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images for Caesars</p>

<h4><strong>Mike Connors - January 26</strong></h4><p>The actor, who starred as a private eye on the long-running television series <em>Mannix</em>, passed away at 91. His son-in-law, Mike Condon, said Mike died from complications of leukemia, which had been diagnosed a week prior to his death. Mike was surrounded by his family at a Los Angeles hospital when he passed. He left behind his wife, daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter.</p><p>Photo: Jason LaVeris/ Getty Images</p>

<h4><strong>John Hurt - January 25</strong></h4><p>The British actor beloved for his roles in <em>Alien</em>, <em>The Elephant Man</em> and <em>Harry Potter</em> passed away at age 77.</p><p>Although the star was in remission after battling pancreatic cancer in 2015, he continued to struggle with health problems and his wife, Anwen Hurt, confirmed that the Oscar winner sadly passed away at his Norfolk home. In a statement, she wrote: "John was the most sublime of actors and the most gentlemanly of gentlemen with the greatest of hearts and the most generosity of spirit. He touched all our lives with joy and magic and it will be a strange world without him."</p><p>John appeared in more than 120 films and held extensive television and theatre performances during his career. In 2015, he received a knighthood for his services to drama.</p><p>Photo: Getty Images</p>

Mary Tyler Moore - January 25

Iconic TV actress Mary Tyler Moore passed away at 80 after being hospitalized in Connecticut. The Emmy-winning star will be remembered for "turning the world on with her smile."

Mary’s longtime representative, Mara Buxbaum, confirmed the sad news, stating: “Today, beloved icon, Mary Tyler Moore, passed away at the age of 80 in the company of friends and her loving husband of over 33 years, Dr. S. Robert Levine.”

Mary first became known to TV audiences as Laura Petrie, Dick Van Dyke's wife on the The Dick Van Dyke Show. The actress rocketed to stardom in her title role on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, which debuted in 1970. Her former co-star Ed Asner paid tribute, calling Mary “a great lady I loved and owe so much to...I will never be able to repay her for the blessings that she gave me.”

An actress, producer, and advocate for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Mary will surely never be forgotten.

Photo: Andy Kropa/Getty Images

<h4><strong>Miguel Ferrer - January 19</strong></h4><p><em>NCIS: Los Angeles</em> actor Miguel Ferrer passed away at 61 after a battle with cancer. In a touching statement, George Clooney remembered the veteran actor – his cousin on his father's side – who he said had made the world "a brighter place."</p><p>"Miguel made the world brighter and funnier and his passing is felt so deeply in our family that events of the day (monumental events), pale in comparison," George said. "We love you Miguel. We always will."</p><p>Born in Santa Monica in 1955, Miguel was the son of Jose Ferrer and George's aunt, the late actress and singer Rosemary Clooney. He is best known for playing villain Bob Morton in the 1987 movie <em>RoboCop</em>, Dr Garret Macy in <em>Crossing Jordan</em> and FBI Agent Albert Rosenfield on <em>Twin Peaks</em>.</p><p>Photo: David Livingston/Getty Images</p>