All the Stars We've Lost in 2023

Matthew Perry, best known for playing Chandler Bing in the TV sitcom "Friends," died on Oct. 28 at age 54. According to the Los Angeles Times, the actor's death was the result of 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 TV character, battled drug and alcohol addictions with many stints in rehab over the years. He wrote about 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 following Perry's death that reads: "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."

Richard Roundtree — best known for playing the titular role in the "Shaft" films and TV series — died on Oct. 24 at age 81. The actor also appeared in roles on shows like "Roots," "Generations," "Desperate Housewives," and "Being Mary Jane." Roundtree's manager confirmed to the New York Times that the actor died of pancreatic cancer.

Roundtree became one of the best-known leading Black actors in Hollywood and is often considered to be the first Black action hero. He continued to act through his later years, appearing in recent shows like OWN's "Cherish the Day" and Netflix's "Family Reunion."

Suzanne Somers died on Oct. 15 at the age of 76. Her publicist told People, "Suzanne Somers passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of October 15th. She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years. Suzanne was surrounded by her loving husband Alan, her son Bruce, and her immediate family." The statement continued, "Her family was gathered to celebrate her 77th birthday on October 16th. Instead, they will celebrate her extraordinary life, and want to thank her millions of fans and followers who loved her dearly."

Somers rose to fame in her role as Chrissy Snow in the hit sitcom "Three's Company" from 1977 to 1981. In the '90s, she starred in the series "Step by Step." She was also a big proponent of health and wellness and wrote multiple books about alternative medicine.

Steve Harwell, the lead singer of the band Smash Mouth, died at age 56 on Sept. 4, 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."

Jimmy Buffett, an iconic musician best known for the hit "Margaritaville," died at age 76 on Sept. 1. "Jimmy passed away peacefully . . . surrounded by his family, friends, music and dogs," read a statement posted on his Twitter account on Sept. 1. "He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many." A statement on his website revealed that he had died from a rare form of skin cancer.

Buffett's 50-year career included countless memorable hits, and he was also known for his massive live performances and devoted fanbase as well as his beachy sound. He is survived by his wife, Jane Slagsvol, and their three children.

Bob Barker, who hosted "The Price Is Right" from 1972 to 2007, died on Aug. 26 at the age of 99. His death was confirmed by his spokesperson, per the New York Times.

Barker was born in Washington state in 1923. The host, who was an enrolled member of the Sioux tribe, spent most of his youth on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in Mission, South Dakota. He began his broadcasting career on the radio and even hosted his own show, "The Bob Barker Show." In 1956 he took over the game show "Truth or Consequences," and in 1972 he became the host of the new version of "The Price Is Right." He became beloved for his role of the show, a perennial favorite of daytime TV watchers (and kids home sick from school). He retired from the program in 2007. Over his tenure, he won 14 Daytime Emmy Awards for outstanding talk show host for the show.

Barker married Dorothy Jo Gideon in 1945; she died in 1981. Barker, a vegetarian, was a strong advocate of animal rights and famously finished every episode of "The Price Is Right" by reminding viewers to get their pets "spayed or neutered." Barker also memorably played himself in Adam Sandler's 1996 movie "Happy Gilmore."

The "Cha Cha Slide" hitmaker, born Willie Perry Jr., died on Aug. 7 after his battle with renal and neuroendocrine cancer. The Chicago native was 58 years old. His death was confirmed to ABC7 on Aug. 8 by his wife, Kim, who announced that he died with his loved ones around him. "Casper was a fun-loving, giving person," she said in a statement. "He was a genuine, family oriented man. He loved Chicago with all his heart. He will be greatly missed."

Previously, the musician behind his iconic party hit spoke to ABC7 about his cancer diagnosis, saying, "If you know me, you know I'm not going to stop. 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 July 31. 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 humor, 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 July 30 at the age of 70 after a private battle with cancer, per 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, and soon landed an HBO special. He collaborated with Tim Burton on "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" in 1985, and also played the character on CBS's weekend program, "Pee-wee's Playhouse." In 1991, however, his career stalled after he was arrested for indecent exposure at a movie theater in Florida, per Variety. He returned 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 July 26 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.

The world-renowned singer, born Anthony Benedetto, died in his hometown of New York on July 21, his publicist Sylvia Weiner confirmed to the Associated Press. He was 96 years old, just two weeks shy of his birthday. Bennett's cause of death is unclear, though his family revealed in 2021 that he'd been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease five years prior.

Bennett is known as one of the most beloved vocalists of the mid-20th century. He released over 70 albums during his lifetime, which earned him 41 Grammy nominations and 19 wins. The singer was also an avid civil rights supporter and even took part in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches. During his final years, Bennett released one last album, 2021's "Love For Sale," in collaboration with his dear friend Lady Gaga. He also performed his last round of shows at Radio City Music Hall in August of that year with Gaga by his side.

Birkin — the singer, actor, and a fashion icon who was the inspiration for the famed Hermès handbag — died on July 16 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 prior. His body was discovered by hikers on June 24, 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 June 13 after a motorcycle accident in Vermont. He was 71. Per 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 June 5. "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 May 24 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, 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 April 27. "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 humor 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 April 25 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.

The "Dancing With the Stars" judge died on April 22, 2023, at age 78, per a statement sent to the Daily Mail two days later — which was just a few days before Goodman's birthday. Goodman was a head judge on "Strictly Come Dancing" for 12 years, where he coined trademark phrases like "It's a 10 from Len!" He went on to be head judge on the US version, "Dancing With the Stars," before announcing his retirement in November 2022. Following news of his death, tributes from Goodman's fellow dance show judges and contestants poured in stating how much the star will be missed.

Paul Cattermole, a member of the band S Club 7, died on April 7 at age 46. The English singer's death came not long after the band had announced their reunion tour, which Cattermole was set to be a part of. S Club 7 wrote on Twitter, "We are truly devastated by the passing of our brother Paul. There are no words to describe the deep sadness and loss we all feel. We were so lucky to have had him in our lives and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. He will be so deeply missed by each and every one of us."

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 Feb. 17. 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 Feb. 10 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 Feb. 9. 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 Jan. 25, 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 humor and a glittering spirit that everyone loved."

Tom Verlaine, the founder of the famed punk band Television, died on Jan. 28 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 Jan. 12, 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, 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 Jan. 11 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 Jan. 10, 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 Jan. 2, Block died in a fatal snowmobile accident in Utah.

Hoonigan Industries, Block's apparel company, released a statement on Jan. 2, 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 Jan. 1. 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 Jan. 1, "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!"