30 Beloved Celebrities We Lost in January 2025

January 2025 marked a particularly difficult month as we said goodbye to numerous beloved entertainers, athletes, and cultural icons who shaped our world in profound ways. From legendary filmmakers to iconic musicians, groundbreaking actors to beloved comedians, these remarkable individuals left indelible marks on their respective fields and touched countless lives through their work.

Here we honour the memory and celebrate the lasting contributions of 30 notable figures who passed away in January 2025, each leaving behind a unique legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.

Film & Television Icons

1. David Lynch

The visionary filmmaker behind "Twin Peaks," "Mulholland Drive," and "Blue Velvet" redefined surreal cinema with his dreamlike narratives and haunting imagery. His distinctive style influenced countless directors and created a new vocabulary for psychological storytelling on screen.

Birthday: 20 January 1946
Date of Death: 15 January 2025
Cause of Death: Cardiac arrest
Nationality: American
Famous As: Filmmaker/director (known for Twin Peaks, Mulholland Drive,
Blue Velvet)
Age at the Time of Death: 78 years

2. Joan Plowright
Dame Joan Plowright, widow of Laurence Olivier, was a distinguished stage and screen actress whose seven-decade career included Tony Award-winning performances and memorable film roles. She brought grace and depth to every character she portrayed, earning acclaim across theatre, film, and television.

Birthday: 28 October 1929
Date of Death:  16 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not disclosed
Nationality: American
Famous As: British
Age at the Time of Death: 95 years

3. Tony Slattery

The quick-witted comedian and actor became a household name through "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" His improvisational genius and infectious energy made him one of Britain's most beloved comedy performers, bringing laughter to millions throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Birthday: 9 November 1959
Date of Death: 14 January 2025
Cause of Death: Heart attack
Nationality: British (English)
Famous As: Comedian, actor, known for Whose Line Is It Anyway?
Age at the Time of Death: 65

4. Claire van Kampen
The accomplished theatre director and composer was known for her innovative Shakespeare productions and musical contributions to numerous theatrical works. Her artistic vision helped bring classical theatre to new audiences with fresh, contemporary interpretations.

Birthday: 3 November 1953
Date of Death: 18 January 2025
Cause of Death: Cancer
Nationality: English
Famous As: Director, composer, playwright; founding director of music at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre
Age at the Time of Death: 71

5. Leslie Charleson
The soap opera legend spent over four decades playing Monica Quartermaine on "General Hospital," becoming one of the longest-running characters in daytime television history. Her dedication to the craft made her an icon in the soap opera world.

Birthday: 22 February 1945
Date of Death: 12 January 2025
Cause of Death: Sequelae of blunt head trauma (long-term effects from a
head injury)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Actress, known for playing Monica Quartermaine on General
Hospital
Age at the Time of Death: 79
 

6. Francisco San Martin
The talented actor brought compelling performances to both television and film, most notably in "Days of Our Lives." His charismatic screen presence and dramatic range made him a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Birthday: ~1985 (39 at death)
Date of Death: 16 January 2025
Cause of Death: Suicide (ligature hanging)
Nationality: Spanish
Famous As: Actor, played Dario Hernandez on Days of Our Lives
Age at the Time of Death: 39

7. Diane Langton
The British actress graced both stage and screen with memorable performances spanning several decades. Her versatility and commitment to her craft earned her respect among peers and audiences alike.

Birthday: 31 May 1944
Date of Death: 15 January 2025
Cause of Death: Kidney disease
Nationality: British (English)
Famous As: Actress, singer, dancer (roles in Hollyoaks, Only Fools and Horses)
Age at the Time of Death: 80

8. Jan Shepard
The veteran actress appeared in numerous television shows and films, building a steady career that showcased her reliability and professionalism in an ever-changing industry.

Birthday: 19 March 1928
Date of Death: 17 January 2025
Cause of Death: Pneumonia (respiratory failure)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Actress, appeared in TV westerns and Elvis films
Age at the Time of Death: 96

9. Jeff Baena
The independent filmmaker and screenwriter was known for his distinctive comedic voice in films such as "Life After Beth" and "The Little Hours." His quirky, offbeat approach to filmmaking brought fresh perspectives to modern cinema.

Birthday: 14 March 1977
Date of Death: 3 January 2025
Cause of Death: Suicide
Nationality: American
Famous As: Film director and screenwriter
Age at the Time of Death: 47 years

Music Legends

10. Marianne Faithfull
The iconic British singer and actress defined 1960s pop culture with hits like "As Tears Go By" and became a symbol of the swinging sixties. Her resilient career spanned over five decades, including a remarkable comeback with the critically acclaimed album "Broken English."

Birthday: 29 December 1946
Date of Death:  30 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly specified
Nationality: British
Famous As: Singer, songwriter, actress
Age at the Time of Death: 78 years

11. Garth Hudson
The multi-instrumentalist and keyboardist for The Band was considered one of rock music's most innovative musicians. His distinctive organ and keyboard work helped define the sound of Americana and influenced countless musicians across genres.

Birthday: 2 August 1937
Date of Death:  21 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly specified
Nationality: Canadian-American
Famous As: SMusician, keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist (member of
The Band)
Age at the Time of Death: 87 years

12. Wayne Osmond
A member of the legendary Osmond family, Wayne contributed to the group's massive success in the 1970s. The family's wholesome image and catchy pop songs made them international superstars and teen heartthrobs.

Birthday: 28 August 1951
Date of Death:  1 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly specified
Nationality: American
Famous As: Singer, member of The Osmonds
Age at the Time of Death: 73 years

13. Sam Moore
One half of the iconic soul duo Sam & Dave, his powerful vocals on hits like "Soul Man" and "Hold On, I'm Comin'" helped define the sound of 1960s soul music. His influence on R&B and rock music cannot be overstated.

Birthday: 12 October 1935
Date of Death:  10 January 2025
Cause of Death: Complications from Surgery
Nationality: American
Famous As: Singer, half of the soul duo Sam & Dave
Age at the Time of Death: 89 years

14. Peter Yarrow
As one-third of the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, he helped bring folk music to mainstream audiences with songs like "Puff, the Magic Dragon" and "Blowin' in the Wind." The group's music became synonymous with the civil rights movement and social activism.

Birthday: 31 May 1938
Date of Death: 7 January 2025
Cause of Death: Bladder cancer
Nationality: American

Famous As: Folk singer and songwriter (member of Peter, Paul and Mary)
Age at the Time of Death: 86 years

15. Paul Danan
The British actor and musician was known for his role in "Hollyoaks" and later ventures into music. His journey through entertainment showcased the challenges and triumphs of life in the spotlight.

Birthday: 2 July 1978
Date of Death: 15 January 2025
Cause of Death:  Drug Overdose
Nationality: British
Famous As: Actor (known for roles in Hollyoaks)
Age at the Time of Death: 46 years

16. Dj Unk
The Atlanta-based rapper and DJ was best known for his hit "Walk It Out," which became a cultural phenomenon and dance craze. His contributions to Southern hip-hop helped shape the sound of early 2000s rap music.

Birthday: 28 November 1981
Date of Death: 24 January 2025
Cause of Death: Heart attack (cardiac arrest in his sleep)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Rapper, DJ, hype man (known for hits like “Walk It Out” and
“2 Step”)
Age at the Time of Death: 43

Comedy & Entertainment

17. The Vivienne
The drag performer and winner of the first season of "RuPaul's Drag Race UK" brought wit, glamour, and authenticity to the drag scene. Their performances celebrated both British humour and drag artistry, inspiring a new generation of performers.

Birthday: 12 April 1992
Date of Death: 5 January 2025
Cause of Death: Cardio-respiratory arrest from ketamine use
(misadventure)
Nationality: British
Famous As: Drag performer, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK
Age at the Time of Death: 32 years

18. Bill Byrge
The character actor appeared in numerous films and television shows, often bringing warmth and humour to supporting roles. His authentic portrayals of everyday people resonated with audiences across various productions.

Birthday: 8 September 1938
Date of Death: 9 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly confirmed
Nationality: American
Famous As: Actor, known for playing Bobby in the Ernest films
Age at the Time of Death: 86

Sports Icons

19. Bob Uecker
"Mr Baseball" was beloved not just for his Major League career, but for his decades as the voice of the Milwaukee Brewers and his comedic appearances in films like "Major League." His self-deprecating humour and genuine love for baseball made him a cherished figure in sports broadcasting.

Birthday: 26 January 1934
Date of Death: 16 January 2025
Cause of Death: Small-cell lung cancer
Nationality: American
Famous As: Baseball player, long-time broadcaster, comedian (“Mr
Baseball”)
Age at the Time of Death: 90

20. Tony Book
The English footballer and manager had a distinguished career, particularly with Manchester City. His leadership both on the pitch and from the sidelines helped shape the club's identity during crucial periods in its history.

Birthday: 4 September 1934
Date of Death: 13 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly specified (likely natural causes)
Nationality: English
Famous As: Footballer, captain and manager of Manchester City
Age at the Time of Death: 90 years

21. Dick Button
The Olympic figure skating champion and pioneering television commentator revolutionised both the sport and its broadcast coverage. His athletic achievements and insightful commentary helped bring figure skating to mainstream television audiences.

Birthday: 18 July 1929
Date of Death: 30 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not specifically stated (reported declining health)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Figure skater (two-time Olympic champion, five-time world
champion); later a commentator
Age at the Time of Death: 95 years

Literature & Arts

22. Jules Feiffer
The Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and playwright created the long-running comic strip "Feiffer" and wrote numerous books and plays. His satirical wit and social commentary influenced generations of cartoonists and writers.

Birthday: 26 January 1929
Date of Death: 17 January 2025
Cause of Death: Congestive heart failure
Nationality: American
Famous As: Cartoonist, playwright, screenwriter, author
Age at the Time of Death: 95 years

23. Barry Goldberg
The accomplished musician and producer worked with legendary artists across multiple decades. His contributions behind the scenes helped shape the sound of American popular music.

Birthday: 25 December 1941
Date of Death: 22 January 2025
Cause of Death: Complications from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Nationality: American
Famous As: Keyboardist, songwriter, record producer
Age at the Time of Death: 83

Activism & Public Service

24. Cecile Richards
The former president of Planned Parenthood and prominent activist dedicated her life to women's rights and reproductive health advocacy. Her leadership during crucial political moments made her one of the most influential voices in modern feminism.

Birthday: 15 July 1957
Date of Death: 20 January 2025
Cause of Death: Glioblastoma (brain cancer)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Women’s rights activist, former President of Planned
Parenthood
Age at the Time of Death: 67 years

Fashion & Style

25. Lynn Ban
The jewellery designer gained fame through "Bling Empire" and created stunning pieces that adorned celebrities and fashion enthusiasts. Her unique aesthetic and business acumen made her a notable figure in luxury fashion.

Birthday: 27 May 1972
Date of Death: 20 January 2025
Cause of Death: Complications from a skiing accident (brain surgery
after injury)
Nationality: Singaporean
Famous As: Jewellery designer, cast member on Bling Empire: New York
Age at the Time of Death: 52

Theater & Stage

26. Merle Louise
The Broadway performer appeared in numerous productions throughout her career, contributing to the rich tapestry of American musical theatre. Her dedication to live performance helped preserve theatrical traditions.

Birthday: 15 April 1934
Date of Death: 11 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly stated
Nationality: American
Famous As: Broadway actress (notably in Sondheim musicals)
Age at the Time of Death: 90 

Music & Entertainment (International)

27. Emilio Echevarría
The Mexican actor brought gravitas and authenticity to his film roles, becoming a respected figure in Latin American cinema. His performances bridged cultural gaps and brought Mexican stories to international audiences.

Birthday: 3 July 1944
Date of Death: 4 January 2025
Cause of Death: Not publicly detailed in sources I found
Nationality: Mexican
Famous As: Actor (notably in Amores Perros and Y tu mamá
también)
Age at the Time of Death: 80 years

28. Paddy Cole
The Irish musician and bandleader was a beloved figure in Irish entertainment, leading his band for decades and becoming a fixture in the country's musical landscape.

Birthday: 17 December 1939
Date of Death: 22 January 2025
Cause of Death: Lung cancer
Nationality: Irish
Famous As: Singer, showband musician, saxophonist, bandleader (“King of
the Swingers”)
Age at the Time of Death: 85

29. Jack De Mave
The entertainer contributed to various aspects of show business throughout his career, representing the dedication of countless performers who work behind the scenes to create memorable experiences.

Birthday: 8 December 1933
Date of Death: 16 January 2025
Cause of Death: Heart attack (died in hospice)
Nationality: American
Famous As: Stage & television actor (role as Forest Ranger Bob
Erickson in Lassie)
Age at the Time of Death: 91

30. Robert Machray
The individual contributed to their field with distinction, representing the many people who work tirelessly in their chosen professions to make a positive impact.

Birthday: 17 May 1831
Date of Death: 9 March 1904
Cause of Death: Pneumonia following pleurisy
Nationality: Scottish-Canadian
Famous As: Anglican bishop, first Primate of the Anglican Church of
Canada
Age at the Time of Death: 72

A Lasting Impact

These thirty individuals, each unique in their contributions, collectively represent the diverse tapestry of human achievement and creativity. From the surreal visions of David Lynch to the soulful vocals of Sam Moore, from the comedic genius of Tony Slattery to the athletic excellence of Dick Button, each person on this list touched lives and influenced their respective fields in meaningful ways.

Their legacies serve as reminders that true impact comes not just from fame or fortune, but from the authenticity, creativity, and passion one brings to their work. As we remember these remarkable individuals, we celebrate not just their achievements but the inspiration they provide for future generations to pursue their own dreams with similar dedication and artistic integrity.

While January 2025 brought the sadness of these losses, it also provided an opportunity to reflect on the rich contributions these individuals made to our shared cultural heritage. Their work continues to live on, influencing new artists, entertaining audiences, and reminding us of the power of human creativity and expression.