Passages 2024: Cheng Pei Pei, Christina Sandera, Bob Newhart, more stars we've lost

Christina Sandera, the longtime partner of Clint Eastwood, has reportedly died at 61, according to The Hollywood Reporter and TheWrap. “Christina was a lovely, caring woman, and I will miss her very much,” Eastwood, 94, said in a July 18 statement, per the outlets.

Bob Newhart, the deadpan comedy legend who starred on "The Bob Newhart Show" and "Newhart," has died at 94. Longtime publicist Jerry Digney shared the news July 18. Newhart had experienced "a series of short illnesses" prior to his death.

Lou Dobbs, the political commentator who anchored "Lou Dobbs Tonight" on CNN before the show moved to Fox Business, has died. He was 78.

Shannen Doherty, the actress best known for her roles on "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "Charmed," died on July 13 after a long battle with cancer, her publicist, Leslie Sloane, confirmed to USA TODAY. "The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie," Sloane said. Doherty, who also had roles on shows like "Little House on the Prairie" and in movies like "Heathers," was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. She was candid with fans about her health over the years, sharing updates about the cancer battle in interviews and on her "Let's Be Clear" podcast. In November 2023, Doherty told People magazine the stage 4 breast cancer had spread to her bones.

Richard Simmons, the perpetually upbeat fitness guru who rose to fame during the VHS era in his “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” home exercise videos, died July 13, 2024, a day after his 76th birthday. Longtime publicist Tom Estey confirmed his death to USA TODAY, but the cause was unknown; Simmons announced previously that he had been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. The bubbly New Orleans native starred in his own nationally syndicated series, “The Richard Simmons Show," from 1984 to 1989, and played himself in 72 episodes of the soap “General Hospital.”

“Dr. Ruth” Westheimer, the diminutive celebrity “sexpert” who helped Americans talk more openly about physical pleasures, died July 12 at 96. Her co-author and spokesman Pierre Lehu told USA TODAY she died at home in New York City. Active until the end, Westheimer, who escaped the Nazis as a child in her native Germany, was posting on social media as recently as a month before her death. She gained fame in her 50s for her radio and TV appearances, and was the subject of a celebrated documentary in 2019. "Make sure that you have time for sex," she implored in an interview with USA TODAY at the time. "Here is an activity that is so enjoyable and it's free."

Two-time Emmy nominee Shelley Duvall, the scream queen who starred as Jack Nicholson’s terrorized wife in "The Shining," died July 11 at home in Blanco, Texas. She was 75 and suffered from complications of diabetes, her partner, Dan Gilroy, confirmed to multiple media outlets. The big-eyed actress, who appeared in a string of ‘70s Robert Altman movies after the filmmaker cast her in “Brewster McCloud,” played Olive Oyl to Robin Williams’ Popeye (pictured) in a maligned 1980 movie musical and was widely praised for her work in Altman’s “3 Women.”

Jon Landau, the Oscar-winning producer best known for his collaborations with director James Cameron, died in Los Angeles on July 5, his family confirmed. He was 63. Landau produced "Titanic," "Avatar" and "Avatar: The Way of Water," three of the four highest-grossing films in history, and received an Oscar when "Titanic" won best picture. On social media, Cameron remembered Landau for his "zany humor, personal magnetism, great generosity of spirit and fierce will," and added, "A part of myself has been torn away."

Judy Belushi Pisano, the widow of "Saturday Night Live" star John Belushi, died July 5 at age 73. "There was no one like her," a post on the verified John Belushi Instagram account read. "Judy made everyone feel loved. She was nonjudgmental, light, funny and pure. You could be truly yourself around her, that alone was a gift." Pisano was married to Belushi from 1976 until his death in 1982. Her son, Luke Pisano, told The Martha's Vineyard Times that she died surrounded by family following a battle with endometrial cancer.

Robert Towne, the Oscar-winning screenwriter of the 1974 noir mystery film "Chinatown," died at age 89, publicist Carri McClure told The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline on July 2. His other notable works include installments in the "Mission: Impossible" franchise, 1973's "The Last Detail" and 1975's "Shampoo."

On July 2, the Oak Ridge Boys' William Lee Golden announced his son, William "Rusty" Golden (second from right), died July 1 at age 65 in his Hendersonville, Tennessee home. Rusty, along with brother Chris and their dad, formed William Lee Golden and The Goldens in 2020. Their brother, Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah and nephew Elijah later joined the group.

Martin Mull, the actor who starred on shows including "Arrested Development," "Roseanne" and "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" over the course of his nearly 50-year career, died on June 27. His daughter, Maggie Mull, shared the news on Instagram on June 28.

Bill Cobbs, the prolific actor and Daytime Emmy winner who starred in 1992's "The Bodyguard" and the "Night at the Museum" franchise, died June 25, his manager told USA TODAY. He was 90.

Shifty Shellshock, the Crazy Town lead singer known for the 1999 No. 1 single "Butterfly," has died. He was 49.

The singer, born Seth Binzer, was found dead at a residence in Los Angeles on June 24, 2024, according to Los Angeles Medical Examiner records. Binzer appeared on the VH1 reality television series "Celebrity Rehab" Seasons 1 and 2 for cocaine addiction, as well as the series' spin-off "Sober House," in the late 2000s.

"Pirates of the Caribbean" actor and lifeguard Tamayo Perry died June 23 at age 49 from a supposed shark attack, CNN and The Associated Press reported. First responders arrived on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, to find Perry, a Honolulu Ocean Safety lifeguard, fatally injured from apparent shark bites. His other film and TV appearances include "Hawaii Five-0" and the 2002 film "Blue Crush."

Taylor Wily, a former sumo wrestler and MMA fighter who went on to portray informant Kamekona for 10 seasons on the CBS revival of "Hawaii Five-0," has died. He was 56.

His manager, Michael Henderson, confirmed to USA TODAY that Wily died June 20, citing "natural causes."

Opera singer Jodie Devos died at the age of 35 following a battle with cancer, Outhere Music — a production company Devos recorded with — confirmed in a press release June 16. The type of cancer Devos had was not disclosed.

The Belgian soprano appeared in numerous productions throughout her career, including "Les Contes d’Hoffmann," "Lakmé," "Die Entführung aus dem Serail," "Le Comte Ory" and "La Fille du Régiment." She also sang under the direction of conductors Paolo Arrivabeni, Laurent Campellone, Mikko Franck, Leonardo García Alarcón and Philippe Jordan, among others.

"This news, so unreal and so unfair, is deeply shocking for us all. Jodie was only 35 and at the height of her talent," Outhere Music said. "We know how much she was loved by her colleagues, the entire music community and, of course, the public."

Nick Mavar Jr. (left), a longtime crew member of the F/V Northwestern who appeared on the series "Deadliest Catch" for 15 years, died following a "medical emergency" on June 13, Alaska police told USA TODAY on June 14. He was 59 years old.

Tejano legend Johnny Canales has died after a battle with illness. He was 77. He was best known as the host of "The Johnny Canales Show." The late, legendary Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Pérez famously debuted on the show in 1986 and her band Selena y Los Dinos were repeat guests for years.

Political correspondent Howard Fineman, who reported for Newsweek for three decades, died June 11. He was 75. His wife, Amy Nathan (pictured), announced his passing on his X account (formerly Twitter) June 12, writing, " He valiantly battled pancreatic cancer for 2 years. He couldn’t have been adored more. The world was a better place because he lived in it and wrote about it."

Rapper Enchanting, a protégé of hip-hop star Gucci Mane, has died, Mane revealed in an Instagram post on June 11. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Known for her "ethereal vocals," Enchanting made her foray into hip-hop with the release of her debut mixtape "Love & Drugs." The Texas-based emcee also collaborated with Mane through appearances on his compilation mixtapes "So Icy Summer," "So Icy Gang" and others.

"So sad to have to say R.I.P to such a great young lady," Mane wrote on Instagram. "A true star. We('re) (going to) all miss you Chant."

Actor Tom Bower, best known for his roles in "The Waltons" and "Die Hard 2," died May 30 at the age of 86, his representative Marsha McManus confirmed to USA TODAY in an emailed statement June 6. Bower reportedly died in his sleep at his Los Angeles home, Bower’s sister-in-law Mary Miller told The Hollywood Reporter.

In the 1970s, Bower starred on “The Waltons,” playing Rex Barker and later Dr. Curtis Willard on the family drama. He also co-starred with Bruce Willis in the 1990 action thriller "Die Hard 2."

Actor Erich Anderson, who starred in "Felicity," "Friday the 13th" and more, has died on June 1 after a battle with cancer at 67.

His wife, actress Saxon Trainor, confirmed his death in an Instagram post.

The rapper Brother Marquis, who joined the Miami hip-hop group 2 Live Crew in the '80s and was featured on Ice-T's song "99 Problems," has died. He was 58, according to TMZ, who first reported the news.

In an Instagram post on June 3, 2 Live Crew announced his death, sharing that he "went to the upper room."

Janis Paige, the film and TV actress who worked during Hollywood's Golden Age and also starred in Broadway shows such as “Remains to be Seen” and "The Pajama Game," died June 2, according to The Associated Press. She was 101.

Al Ruddy, who produced Oscar-winning films such as "The Godfather," "Million Dollar Baby" and co-created the CBS sitcom "Hogan’s Heroes," "died peacefully following a brief illness" on May 25, according to his representative. He was 94.

Johnny Wactor, best known for his role as Brando Corbin in "General Hospital," was shot and killed in downtown Los Angeles on May 25, according to reports. He was 37.

According to local TV station KTLA, Wactor was shot dead during an attempted catalytic converter theft in the downtown area. His death was confirmed to KTLA by Johnny's younger brother, Grant.

Wactor appeared in the ABC daytime soap as Brando Corbin between 2020 and 2022. But he made his acting debut on television in the Lifetime drama series "Army Wives" (2007). His other television roles include "Hollywood Girl" (2010), Siberia" (2013), "Agent X" (2015), "Vantastic" (2016), "Animal Kingdom" (2016), "Criminal Minds" (2017), "NCIS" (2019), "The OA" (2019), "Westworld" (2020), "The Passenger" (2020) and "Station 19" (2023).

Oscar-nominated filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, who rose to fame as the brainchild of diet documentary "Super Size Me," died May 23 at 53 years old of complications from cancer, according to reports from Variety and ABC News.

"Super Size Me" became a sensation among viewers for its social commentary about health, wellness and obesity as Spurlock strictly consumed McDonald's, including its Super Size option, to prove the harms of fast food in America and around the world.

Charlie Colin, one of the founding members of the San Francisco-born pop rock band Train, has died, the musician's family confirmed to TMZ and Variety in May. He was 58.

The band shared a statement on social media May 22 that read, in part: "His unique bass playing (and) beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond. I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart. I always tried to pull him closer, but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels."

Communications consultant Alice Stewart, who became known for her political commentary on CNN, died May 18 at the age of 58. Stewart's body was found outside of her Virginia home, police told CNN. Authorities said they believe Stewart had a medical emergency and that there was no foul play involved.

Stewart joined Maria Cardona and Wolf Blitzer, the anchor of CNN's "The Situation Room," to offer political analysis.

Stewart was “a political veteran and an Emmy Award-winning journalist who brought an incomparable spark to CNN’s coverage, known across our bureaus not only for her political savvy, but for her unwavering kindness,” wrote CNN's CEO Mark Thompson in an email sent to staff, reports the network. “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn such an extraordinary loss.”

Dabney Coleman, the Emmy-winning TV and film actor who starred in "9 to 5," "Tootsie" and "On Golden Pond," died May 16 at 92 years old.

The actor earned six Emmy nominations for his roles in the short-lived '80s NBC sitcom "Buffalo Bill," the TV movie "Sworn to Silence," the one-season sitcom "The Slap Maxwell Story," ABC's miniseries "Baby M" and the crime drama "Columbo."

Jazz musician David Sanborn, a Grammy-winning saxophonist known for his genre-blending work, died May 12 due to complications from an "extended battle" with prostate cancer, a post on the musician’s official Facebook page read. He was 78.

Aside from his solo jazz career, the saxophonist also crossed over into pop music through collaborations with top acts including Stevie Wonder, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Luther Vandross and Eric Clapton. Sanborn recorded a saxophone solo for Bowie’s 1975 hit “Young Americans,” which peaked at No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“David Sanborn was a seminal figure in contemporary pop and jazz music,” the Facebook post continued. “It has been said that he ‘put the saxophone back into Rock ’n Roll.’ ”

Actress Susan Backlinie, best known as the first shark victim in the “Jaws” franchise, died May 11 at the age of 77, Backlinie's agent Sean Clark confirmed to the New York Times and Variety. She reportedly died of a heart attack at her California home.

Backlinie's unnerving performance as Chrissie Watkins, a young woman who goes for a free-spirited swim in the ocean, set the suspenseful tone for the Steven Spielberg-directed thriller. Watkins' aquatic fun comes to a shuddering halt when she’s attacked by a monstrous shark and subsequently killed.

Roger Corman, the prolific director and producers of B-movies who gave many prominent filmmakers their start, died May 9 at age 98, his family shared on his official Instagram account. Best known for “The Little Shop of Horrors,” Corman worked with a who’s who of Hollywood in making his low-budget films – including Robert De Niro, Jack Nicholson, Quentin Tarantino, Francis Ford Coppola and James Cameron – and was awarded an honorary Oscar in 2009.

Sam Rubin, a longtime anchor for Los Angeles news station KTLA who was a Hollywood red carpet staple for his interviews with A-list stars, has died at 64, his colleagues announced during a broadcast on May 10.

Bernard Hill, the actor who played Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 blockbuster "Titanic" and King Théoden in "The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers" and "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," died on May 5, his agent confirmed to the BBC and The Associated Press. He was 79.

Duane Eddy, the most commercially successful instrumental artist in the history of rock 'n' roll, died on April 30. He was 86 years old.

Richard Tandy, who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 as Electric Light Orchestra's longtime pianist has died at 76. The band's founder, Jeff Lynne, shared the news of his passing on May 1.

Musician Nick Daniels III (left), best known as bassist and co-vocalist of the New Orleans funk band Dumpstaphunk, has died, Daniels’ bandmates confirmed in a statement to USA TODAY April 28. A cause of death was not shared.

Daniels comprised Dumpstaphunk along with bassist Tony Hall, keyboardist Ivan Neville, guitarist Ian Neville, drummer Deven Trusclair, trombonist Alex Wasily and trumpeter Ashlin Parker.

“We are still at a loss for words while processing the passing of our brother in life and music, Nick Daniels III,” the band said. “His musical contributions to the city of New Orleans and beyond are immeasurable."

Marla Adams, best known for her role as Dina Abbott Mergeron on the soap opera “The Young and The Restless,” died April 25 in Los Angeles at the age of 85, according to an obituary shared by a representative for “The Young and the Restless.” A cause of death was not given.

In 1983, Adams landed the role of Mergeron on CBS’ “The Young and the Restless,” playing the mother of siblings Ashley Abbott (Eileen Davidson), Traci Abbott (Beth Maitland) and Jack Abbott (Peter Bergman). The actress went on to have a 37-year stint on the romantic drama and won outstanding supporting actress in a drama series at the 2021 Daytime Emmy Awards.

“On behalf of the entire company of ‘The Young and the Restless,’ we send our deepest sympathies to Marla’s family,” said Josh Griffith, executive producer and head writer on “The Young and the Restless,” in a statement. “We’re so grateful and in awe of Marla’s incredible performance as Dina Mergeron as both Marla and Dina made an unforgettable mark on ‘Y&R.’ ”

Grammy winner and "American Idol" Season 5 contestant Mandisa has died at 47. The singer was found deceased in her home on April 18, a rep for Mandisa confirmed to USA TODAY.

Musician Dickey Betts, a driving force behind The Allman Brothers Band that launched Southern rock and influenced the jam band scene, died April 18 at his Florida home at the age of 80, his longtime manager David Spero confirmed to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, part of the USA TODAY Network. A cause of death was not disclosed.

"Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt worldwide," Betts' family said in a statement. "At this difficult time, the family asks for prayers and respect for their privacy in the coming days. More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time."

The Allman Brothers performed a singular amalgam of rock, blues, jazz and country marked by the pioneering, twin lead guitar playing of Betts and Duane Allman. After the tragic deaths of Allman and then-bassist Berry Oakley, Betts became the de facto leader of the band, writing and singing the chart-topping single "Ramblin' Man" from its platinum-selling 1973 album "Brothers and Sisters."

K-Pop singer Park Boram is dead at the age of 30, according to reports.

Roberto Cavalli, founder of the eponymous Italian fashion house and whose bold and intricate designs were worn by Taylor Swift, Madonna, Zendaya and other A-listers, has died. He was 83.

His company, which he founded in 1970, announced the news on Instagram on April 12. "It is with great sadness that today we say our final goodbyes to our founder Robert Cavalli. From humble beginnings in Florence Roberto succeeded in becoming a globally recognised name loved and respected by all," the statement reads.

Filmmaker Eleanor Coppola (right), the matriarch of a family of Hollywood heavyweights who directed an Emmy-winning documentary about the creation of husband Francis Ford Coppola's 1979 film "Apocalypse Now,"has died. She was 87.

A representative for Coppola told USA TODAY that she died April 12 inside her Rutherford, California, home while "surrounded by her loving family."

Robert MacNeil (right), the founding anchor of the evening program now known as "PBS NewsHour," has died at 93. He and co-anchor Jim Lehrer (left, pictured here in 2016) delivered the day's news together on "The MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour" for nearly two decades.

Longtime New York radio personality DJ Mister Cee, whose work with rap greats like Big Daddy Kane and The Notorious B.I.G made him a staple in hip-hop, has reportedly died at 57, according to his former employer, the hip-hop radio station HOT 97.

Barbara Rush, a Golden Globe-winning actress known for roles in "It Came from Outer Space" and "Peyton Place," died March 31 at 97, her daughter, Claudia Cowan, confirmed to USA TODAY. The actress' acting credits also included the Rat Pack film "Robin and the 7 Hoods" and "All My Children" in the early 1990s.

Cowan said her mother, who had a long battle with dementia, was "among the last of Old Hollywood royalty. Luckily we have our memories and of course her movies to keep her alive in our hearts."

Rising star Chance Perdomo, known for his work on "Gen V" and "Chilling Adventures of Sabrina," has died at 27 in a motorcycle accident, his family and representatives confirmed to USA TODAY on March 30. The young actor played Andre Anderson in “Gen V,” a college spinoff of superhero satire "The Boys," and cousin Ambrose Spellman on “Sabrina.” Perdomo also starred as Landon Gibson in the romance films "After We Fell," "After Ever Happy" and "After Everything." He was BAFTA-nominated as best leading actor in 2019 for the BBC’s “Killed By My Debt.”

Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win a best supporting actor Oscar for his role in "An Officer and a Gentleman," has died at 87. Gossett's nephew told The Associated Press that the Emmy Award-winning actor died March 28 in Santa Monica, California.

M. Emmet Walsh, one of Hollywood's most recognizable character actors from films including 1982's "Blade Runner," and the Coen Brothers' "Blood Simple," died at 88 on March 19.

His manager, Sandy Joseph, shared the news on March 20 in a statement via Walsh's publicist. Walsh died of cardiac arrest in St. Albans, Vermont, Joseph said.

Classical pianist Byron Janis died on March 14 at age 95, his wife, Maria Cooper Janis, confirmed in a statement to The Associated Press. She remembered her husband as "an exceptional human being who took his talents to their highest pinnacle" and noted that he overcame "adverse physical challenges throughout his career" by continuing to perform after being diagnosed with arthritis.

"Music is Byron's soul, not a ticket to stardom and his passion for and love of creating music, informed every day of his life of 95 years," she added.

Singer-songwriter Eric Carmen, frontman of the power-pop band the Raspberries who went on to achieve success with songs such as "All By Myself" and "Hungry Eyes," has died at 74.

The news was announced March 11 on his website with a message from his wife, Amy Carmen. "It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen. Our sweet, loving and talented Eric passed away in his sleep, over the weekend," the statement read.

Welsh musician Karl Wallinger, who performed with the U.K. folk band the Waterboys in the 1980s before founding his solo musical venture, World Party, died at 66, according to Variety and Billboard.

His death was also announced March 11, 2024, on World Party's Facebook page.

Steve Lawrence, a singer and top stage act who — with wife Eydie Gorme — comprised the popular duo Steve & Eydie, has died.

He was 88. Lawrence, whose hits included "Go Away Little Girl," died March 7 from complications due to Alzheimer's disease, family spokesperson Susan DuBow told The Associated Press.

Jim Beard, the longtime keyboardist for Steely Dan, died at 63 on March 2 following a sudden illness. He was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his death at a New York City hospital, according to a representative. The renowned musician had been touring with Steely Dan as the openers for the Eagles’ farewell tour. Along with his 16-year tenure in Steely Dan, Beard worked with numerous top jazz artists including Wayne Shorter, John McLaughlin, Pat Metheny and John Scofield.

Janice Burgess, creator of the beloved children's TV series "The Backyardigans," died at 72 of breast cancer. Nickelodeon confirmed her death to USA TODAY in a statement on March 5.

She won one of her two Daytime Emmy Awards for the animated preschool series, which ran for four seasons between 2004 and 2013. The show followed animal neighbors Austin, Tasha, Tyrone, Pablo and Uniqua and their fun-filled backyard adventures.

Voiceover actor Mark Dodson, best known for his roles in the ‘80s films “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” and “Gremlins,” died March 2, Dodson’s representative Peter DeLorme confirmed to USA TODAY in an email. He was 64. A cause of death was not given.

Dodson made his “Star Wars” debut in 1983, playing the character Salacious Crumb in “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi.” Following “Return of the Jedi,” Dodson joined the cast of Joe Dante’s 1984 horror comedy “Gremlins,” in which he voiced Mogwai.

Iris Apfel, a textile expert, interior designer and fashion celebrity known for her eccentric style has died at 102. A representative confirmed the news March 1 to The Associated Press, with no cause of death given.

Richard Lewis, a Brooklyn-born comedian who also starred alongside Larry David in HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm," has died. He was 76.

Lewis "passed away peacefully at his home in Los Angeles last night after suffering a heart attack," the actor's publicist, Jeff Abraham, confirmed to USA TODAY in an emailed statement on Feb. 28.

In April 2023, the actor took to social media to reveal he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

"I've had sort of a rocky time," he said, revealing he'd undergone back surgery, shoulder surgery, shoulder replacement surgery and hip replacement surgery. "I had four surgeries, back to back to back. It was incredible... It was bad luck, but it's life," Lewis said.

Thomas Kingston (left), a financier who was married to Lady Gabriella Kingston (right), the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II's cousin Prince Michael of Kent, has died at 45.

Buckingham Palace shared the news on Feb. 27 on behalf of Lady Gabriella and her family. "Their Majesties send their most heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Gabriella and to all the Kingston family," reads a statement from the palace on behalf of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

Actor Gary Sinise shared on Feb. 27 that his 33-year-old son, McCanna "Mac" Sinise (pictured here in 2018), died Jan. 5 after a five-year battle with chordoma, a rare type of cancer found in the spine.

"While our hearts ache at missing him, we are comforted in knowing that Mac is no longer struggling, and inspired and moved by how he managed it," Gary Sinise wrote in a tribute to his son posted on his foundation's website. "He fought an uphill battle against a cancer that has no cure, but he never quit trying."

Canadian actor Chris Gauthier, left, best known for his roles in "Once Upon a Time" and Zack Snyder's "Watchmen," died Feb. 23 after an undisclosed brief illness. He was 48.

Gauthier played William Smee at various points between Seasons 2 and 7 of the ABC fantasy series and Seymour in Zack Snyder's 2009 action-drama film. His other work includes "Freddy vs. Jason" and "40 Days and 40 Nights" and the "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" series of holiday films.

British actor and comedian Ewen MacIntosh, best known for his role as "Big Keith" Bishop in the original, British version of "The Office" died on Feb. 19 after suffering from "ill health" in the last few years, according to his management company, Just Right Management. He was 50.

Ricky Gervais, creator and star of "The Office," shared a tribute on X, formerly Twitter, calling the actor "an absolute original."

Composer Ben Lanzarone, known for his musical contributions to TV, film and pop music, died Feb. 16 following a battle with lung cancer, according to a press release. He was 85.

A graduate of New York City’s famed High School of Music & Art, Lanzarone began his career as a classical pianist, traveling as a soloist with the Longines Symphonette and making his solo debut at Carnegie Recital Hall.

Lanzarone made a splash in pop music as an arranger, scoring for Bobby Darin, Vikki Carr, The Brothers and the soundtrack of the musical film "Grease." Lanzarone also wrote music for several TV series including "The Tracey Ullman Show," "Dynasty," "Happy Days" and "Laverne & Shirley," which later earned him the ASCAP award for most performed composer.

Lanzarone is survived by his wife, Ilene Graff, and daughter Nikka Graff Lanzarone.

Actress Sasha Montenegro, an icon of Mexican cinema known for her roles in "Llámenme Mike" and "Santo contra los Asesinos de Otros Mundos," died Feb. 14, La Filmoteca de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and la Asociación Nacional de Intérpretes announced, per The Associated Press. She was 78. A cause of death was not given.

Born Aleksandra Aćimović Popović in Italy, Montenegro immigrated to Mexico in the late 1960s, where she worked as a fotonovela actress and model before transitioning into film and television roles. “Un sueño de amor,” “Santo contra la Magia Negra,” “Hijazo de mi vidaza” and “Santo y Blue Demon contra el doctor Frankenstein” are her other notable roles.

USA TODAY has reached out to La Filmoteca de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and la Asociación Nacional de Intérpretes for comment.

Bob Edwards, radio personality and longtime host of NPR's "Morning Edition," has died at 76, the public radio organization announced Feb. 12. Edwards spent 24 years as the morning show's host before going to host his own show on Sirius XM Radio, "The Bob Edwards Show."

J.M. “Jimmy” Van Eaton, a pioneering rock ‘n’ roll drummer who played behind the likes of Jerry Lee Lewis and Billy Lee Riley at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee, died Feb. 9 after dealing with health issues over the last year, Van Eaton's family confirmed to The Commercial Appeal, part of the USA TODAY Network. He was 86.

Van Eaton was known for his bluesy playing style that powered classic early-rock hits at Sun like “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” by Lewis and “Red Hot” by Riley. He also played with Bill Justis and Charlie Rich.

Van Eaton was part of the team that played the music for the film “Great Balls of Fire,” about Lewis, and he also put out a solo album in the late 1990s.

World-renowned conductor Seiji Ozawa has died of heart failure at his home in Tokyo, his management office said Feb. 9, according to The Associated Press. He was 88.

Henry Fambrough (seated), the last surviving original member of the iconic R&B group The Spinners, whose hits included “It’s a Shame,” “Could It Be I’m Falling in Love” and “The Rubberband Man,” died on Feb. 7, spokesperson Tanisha Jackson told The Associated Press. He was 85. Fambrough died peacefully of natural causes. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Norma, and daughter Heather Williams.

The Spinners was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in November 2023. Along with Fambrough, Pervis Jackson (from left), Billy Hendeson, John Edwards, Bobby Smith and Philippé Wynne (not pictured) were listed as inductees.

Toby Keith, an iconic figure in country music and "Beer For My Horses" singer-songwriter, died Feb. 5 after battling stomach cancer. He was 62.

Keith died "peacefully" surrounded by his family, according to a statement posted on the country singer's website. "He fought his fight with grace and courage," the statement said. He was diagnosed in 2021.

Ian Lavender, the actor who starred as Private Frank Pike on the British sitcom "Dad's Army," died surrounded by his wife and sons after battling an illness, his agent, Hilary Gagan, confirmed to The Associated Press on Feb. 5. Lavender, who also had a role on the soap opera "EastEnders," was 77.

Aston "Family Man" Barrett, the bassist for Bob Marley & The Wailers, died on Feb. 3 at 77. His children, along with the official Bob Marley Instagram account, announced the death of Barrett, nicknamed "Family Man" or "Fams."

"Anytime we listen to the music pay close attention to the genius of Fams on the bass," read the post on the Bob Marley Instagram account, featuring a set of photos of Marley and Barrett. "A pioneer, unique, trendsetter , revolutionary in the musical space and most of all as his name implies a true family man."

The musician performed with the legendary reggae band until 2018.

Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez Smith, a renowned soprano known for her performance in the 1981 French cult-classic film “Diva” and who sang throughout the U.S. and Europe during her operatic career, died Feb. 2 following a battle with cancer, Fernandez Smith's daughter Sheena Maria Fernandez told The Philadelphia Inquirer. She was 75.

Fernandez Smith opened the movie directed by Jean-Jacques Beineix wearing a white gown and singing in an aging theater the aria “Ebben? Ne andrò lontana” from the opera “La Wally.” It became the signature aria of her 25-year career that took her to the great opera houses in Europe and made her the centerpiece of gala occasions.

Carl Weathers, who played Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies and starred on Disney+'s "The Mandalorian," has died. He was 76.

Matt Luber, his manager, told USA TODAY in a Feb. 2 statement that Weathers died on Feb. 1. His family issued a statement saying he died "peacefully in his sleep."

Don Murray, the actor who earned an Oscar nomination for performing opposite Marilyn Monroe in the 1956 rom-com "Bus Stop," has reportedly died at 94.

His son, Christopher Murray, confirmed the news to The New York Times on Feb. 2. In 1957, Murray landed a best supporting actor nomination at the 29th annual Academy Awards. He went on to play leading roles in shows such as "The Outcasts," "Knots Landing" and the 2017 "Twin Peaks" revival.

Chita Rivera, the dynamic dancer, singer and actress who garnered 10 Tony nominations, winning twice, in a long Broadway career that forged a path for Latina artists and shrugged off a near-fatal car accident, died Jan. 30. She was 91. Rivera's death was announced by her daughter, Lisa Mordente, who said she died in New York after a brief illness, according to The Associated Press.

Rivera first gained wide notice in 1957 as Anita in the original production of "West Side Story" and was still dancing on Broadway with her trademark energy a half-century later in 2015's "The Visit." She won Tonys for "The Rink" in 1984 and "Kiss of the Spider Woman" in 1993. When accepting a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018, she said, "I wouldn’t trade my life in the theater for anything, because theater is life."

She was nominated for the award seven other times, for "Bye Bye Birdie," which opened in 1960; "Chicago," 1975; "Bring Back Birdie," 1981; "Merlin," 1983; "Jerry’s Girls," 1985; "Nine," 2003; and "Chita Rivera: The Dancer’s Life," 2005.

Melanie Safka, who saw her singing career launch with her performance at Woodstock, died Jan. 23.The singer, who went by the mononym Melanie, was 76 years old.

Her children shared the news Jan. 24 in a post on the singer/songwriter's official Facebook page.

In 1989, Melanie won an Emmy Award for her songwriting on the CBS series "Beauty and the Beast."

Charles Osgood, the folksy CBS newsman who hosted the network's "Sunday Morning" magazine series, died at 91, CBS reported, quoting from his family members.

The bow-tied Osgood was known for his feature reporting and rhyming delivery, and spent 45 years at the network, on both TV and radio as host of "The Osgood Files."

Norman Jewison, the acclaimed and versatile Canadian-born director whose Hollywood films ranged from Doris Day comedies and "Moonstruck" to social dramas such as the Oscar-winning "In the Heat of the Night," died at age 97.

Jewison, a three-time Oscar nominee who in 1999 received an Academy Award for lifetime achievement, died “peacefully” on Jan. 20, publicist Jeff Sanderson confirmed to The Associated Press.

Throughout his long career, Jewison combined light entertainment with topical films that appealed to him on a deeply personal level. As Jewison was ending his military service in the Canadian navy during World War II, he hitchhiked through the American South and had a close-up view of Jim Crow segregation. In his autobiography “This Terrible Business Has Been Good to Me,” he noted that racism and injustice became his most common themes.

Mary Weiss, lead singer for 1960s girl group the Shangri-Las whose hits included "Leader of the Pack," died on Jan. 19 in Palm Springs, California. She was 75. Miriam Linna, founder of Weiss' label, Norton Records, announced her death on Jan. 21, according to The Associated Press. No cause of death was given.

The group's first hit, "Remember (Walking in the Sand)," reached the Billboard top five in 1964 and was covered by Aerosmith in 1979. "Leader of the Pack" was the top Billboard single of 1965.

Actor David Gail, who played Shannen Doherty's fiancé Stuart Carson on "Beverly Hills 90210," has died. He was 58.

Gail's sister, Katie Colmenares, shared news of his death on Instagram on Jan. 20. "There's barely been even a day in my life when you were not with me by my side always my wingman always my best friend ready to face anything and anyone w me," she wrote, alongside a photo of the two siblings hugging.

Gail's credits also include playing Dean Collins in the 1996 Warner Bros. TV drama "Savannah," and appearances on "Growing Pains," "Doogie Howser, M.D." and "Murder, She Wrote" in the early 1990s, according to his IMDb page.

Marlena Shaw, the jazz and R&B vocalist whose "California Soul" was one of the defining soul songs of the late 1960s, died Jan. 19. She was 81.

Shaw's daughter, Marla Bradshaw, announced the singer's death on Jan. 19 in a video posted on Facebook. A cause of death was not given.

"It's with a very heavy heart for myself and my family I announce that our beloved mother, your beloved icon and artist Marlena Shaw has passed away today at 12:03," Bradshaw said in the video. "She went very peacefully, and she went listening to some of her favorite songs."

Alec Musser, 50, the actor and model who played Del Henry on the soap opera “All My Children,” reportedly died Jan. 13. His fiancée, Paige Press, confirmed his death to multiple news outlets. Musser starred on ABC’s “All My Children” from 2005 to 2007, earning the role after he won the second season of the reality-competition series “I Wanna Be a Soap Star.” He also guest-starred on “Desperate Housewives” and had a role in the Adam Sandler-led movie “Grown Ups” (2010).

“Such a wonderful, funny good man,” Sandler wrote on Instagram. “A true great sweetheart of a person.”

Tisa Farrow, an actress who starred in several films in the '70s and made a cameo in Woody Allen's 1979 film "Manhattan," has died at 72. Her sister, Mia Farrow, announced the news in a Jan. 11 Instagram post that her sister "died unexpectedly," "apparently in her sleep," the previous morning.

Reggie Wells, who spent more than 30 years as Oprah Winfrey's personal makeup artist and worked with former first lady Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Halle Berry and numerous other celebrities, died Jan. 8. He was 76. Wells died of natural causes, his niece Kristina Conner told The Associated Press.

Wells received five Daytime Emmy nominations for his work on "The Oprah Winfrey Show," winning a statuette in 1995. "Reggie Wells was an artist who used his palette of talent to create beauty no matter the canvas," Winfrey said in a statement emailed to the AP.

Drummer James Kottak, best known for his stints in the hard rock bands Scorpions and Kingdom Come, has died. He was 61.

Kottak's former band Scorpions mourned the musician's death in a Facebook post on Jan. 9. A cause of death was not given.

"Very sad news … our dear friend and Drummer for 20 years James Kottak has passed at the age of 61," the band wrote alongside a black-and-white image of Kottak. "James was a wonderful human being, a great musician and loving family man … he was our Brother from another Mother and will be truly missed."

Adan Canto, a Mexican actor best known for his roles in "Designated Survivor" and the superhero drama "X-Men: Days of Future Past," died Jan. 8 following a battle with appendiceal cancer, the actor’s publicist Jennifer Allen confirmed to USA TODAY. He was 42.

Canto, who was born in Mexico and raised in Texas, starred as the pyrokinetic mutant Sunspot in 2014’s “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” appearing alongside Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen and Hugh Jackman in the sci-fi-action flick. He also portrayed Aaron Shore on the ABC political drama “Designated Survivor” from 2016-2019.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew,” Allen said. “Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. … He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Christian Oliver (left), known for roles in the 2008 film "Speed Racer" and "Saved by the Bell: The New Class," was killed Jan. 4 in a plane crash in the eastern Caribbean with his two young daughters. He was 51.

David Soul (right), who hit fame as the blond half of crime-fighting duo "Starsky and Hutch" in the popular 1970s television series, has died at 80 on Jan. 4. Wife Helen Snell said Soul died "after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family," according to The Associated Press. Soul portrayed detective Ken "Hutch" Hutchinson alongside Paul Michael Glaser (left) as detective David Starsky in "Starsky & Hutch."

Glynis Johns, a Tony Award-winning stage and screen star who played Mrs. Banks in the classic movie "Mary Poppins," died on Jan 4. She was 100.

Mitch Clem, her manager, told The Associated Press she died at an assisted living home in Los Angeles of natural causes. "Today's a sad day for Hollywood," Clem said. "She is the last of the last of old Hollywood."

Mexican actor Ana Ofelia Murguía, who gave voice to the character of Mama Coco in the popular Pixar film "Coco," has died, Mexican officials announced, per The Associated Press. She was 90.

"Coco," which was released in 2017, brought Murguía to an international audience late in life. But the actor had a long acting career in Mexican film and television, and on the stage. She appeared in some 70 plays and 90 movies, including "Life Sentence" (1979) and "The Queen of the Night" (1994).

Les McCann, a prolific and influential musician and recording artist who helped found the soul-jazz genre and became a favorite source for sampling by Dr. Dre, A Tribe Called Quest and hundreds of other hip-hop performers, died at 88 on Dec. 29, McCann's longtime manager and producer Alan Abrahams told The Associated Press.