All of the Celebrities We Lost in 2022: A Tribute to the Hollywood Stars Who Died

Barbara Walters

Iconic journalist Barbara Walters died at age 93 “peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones,” her representative, Cindi Berger, told People on December 30.

Pelé

The Brazilian ​soccer legend died at age 83 after getting diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021, his agent, Joe Fraga, confirmed via Facebook on December 29.

Georgia Holt

Singer-songwriter Georgia Holt died on December 10 at the age of 96, daughter Cher announced via Twitter.

“Mom is gone,” the “Strong Enough” artist tweeted alongside a sad face emoji. 

Kirstie Alley

The Look Who’s Talking star died at the age of 71 after a rough battle with cancer, her family announced on December 5, 2022.

“She was surrounded by her closest family and fought with great strength, leaving us with a certainty of her never-ending joy of living and whatever adventures lie ahead,” Kirstie’s children True and Lillie Parker wrote in a statement via Instagram. “As iconic as she was on screen, she was an even more amazing mother and grandmother.”

Christine McVie

The Fleetwood Mac member died on November 30 at age 79, her family confirmed in a statement.

“On behalf of Christine McVie’s family, it is with a heavy heart we are informing you of Christine’s death. She passed away peacefully at hospital this morning, Wednesday, November 30th 2022, following a short illness,” a Facebook post read. “She was in the company of her family. We kindly ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this extremely painful time, and we would like everyone to keep Christine in their hearts and remember the life of an incredible human being, and revered musician who was loved universally. RIP Christine McVie.”

John Aniston

Days of Our Lives actor John Aniston died at age 89 on November 11. His daughter, Jennifer Aniston, announced his passing in a touching Instagram tribute on November 14.

“Sweet papa …⁣ John Anthony Aniston, You were one of the most beautiful humans I ever knew,” the statement read. “I am so grateful that you went soaring into the heavens in peace — and without pain. And on 11/11 no less! You always had perfect timing. That number will forever hold an even greater meaning for me now. I’ll love you till the end of time. Don’t forget to visit.”

Gallagher

Comedian Gallagher, who was best known for his smashing watermelons act, died on November 11 from organ failure, his former manager Craig Marquardo confirmed to Variety. The performer, born Leo Anthony Gallagher Jr., was 76.

Jerry Lee Lewis

The rock and roll pioneer died at his home in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 28 at the age of 87.

“Lewis, perhaps the last true, great icon of the birth of rock and roll, whose marriage of blues, gospel, country, honky-tonk and raw, pounding stage performances so threatened a young Elvis Presley that it made him cry, has died,” a statement from his team read.

Known for such hits as “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On,” as well as his incredibly talented piano skills, Lewis was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.

Leslie Jordan

Actor and comedian Leslie Jordan has died at the age of 67 on October 24, his rep confirmed to Closer. 

“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan.  Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of it’s most difficult times,” David Shaul wrote. “What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being. Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”

Robbie Coltrane

The Scottish actor, who is best known for his role as Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter film series, died at age 72, his agency, WME, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on October 14.

Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury, the London-born actress best-known for her role as Jessica Fletcher on the long-running series Murder, She Wrote, died in her sleep at her home on October 11, 2022, her family confirmed in a statement to Closer.

“In addition to her three children, Anthony, Deirdre and David, she is survived by three grandchildren, Peter, Katherine and Ian, plus five great grandchildren and her brother, producer Edgar Lansbury,” the statement read in part. “She was proceeded in death by her husband of 53 years, Peter Shaw. A private family ceremony will be held at a date to be determined.”

Eileen Ryan

Actress and Hollywood matriarch Eileen Ryan died at her home on October 9 at age 94. Ryan’s death was confirmed to CNN by her son Sean Penn‘s publicist.

Loretta Lynn

The country music trailblazer died at her Tennessee home on October 4 at age 90. 

“Our precious mom, Loretta Lynn, passed away peacefully this morning, October 4th, in her sleep at home in her beloved ranch in Hurricane Mills,” the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” artist’s family said in a statement to Closer. 

Queen Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022. “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” the Royal Family Twitter account wrote. “The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”

Richard Roat

The longtime actor, who appeared on Seinfeld, Friends, Dallas, Happy Days and more, died on August 5, his wife, Kathy, confirmed to Variety on August 29. He was 89 years old.

Luke Bell

The critically-acclaimed country singer died on August 29 after going missing in Tucson, Arizona, Closer Weekly confirmed.

Joe E. Tata

The actor beloved for his role as Peach Pit owner Nat on Beverly Hills 90210 from 1990 through 2000 died from Alzheimer’s disease on August 25. He was 85 years old.

Actor Ian Ziering, who player Steve Sanders on the show, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. “Though the Peach Pit was a 90210 set, It often felt like the backdrop to the Joe E. Tata show. The stories of days gone by that he would share, incredible experiences in the entertainment industry that he was a part of would keep us all captivated. He may have been in the back of many scenes, but he was a leading force, especially to us guys, on how to appreciate the gift that 90210 was,” the actor wrote.

Denise Dowse

Beverly Hills, 90210 alum Denise Dowse died at the age of 64 after falling into a coma while fighting meningitis, her sister confirmed on August 13.

“I want to take this moment to thank our friends and family for all of the love and prayers. It is with a very heavy heart that I inform everyone that my sister, Denise Dowse, has gone forward to meet our family in eternal life,” Tracey Dowse shared via the late actress’ Instagram. “Denise Yvonne Dowse was the most amazing sister, a consummate, illustrious actress, mentor and director. She was my very best friend and final family member.”

Anne Heche

Actress Anne Heche died on August 12, one week after a fiery car crash in Los Angeles left her in a coma. She was 53 years old. 

“Today we lost a bright light, a kind and most joyful soul, a loving mother, and a loyal friend,” Anne’s rep told People. “Anne will be deeply missed but she lives on through her beautiful sons, her iconic body of work, and her passionate advocacy. Her bravery for always standing in her truth, spreading her message of love and acceptance, will continue to have a lasting impact.”

Olivia Newton-John

The Grease actress died on August 8 after battling breast cancer for 30 years.

Nichelle Nichols

Nichelle Nichols, known for her role as the original Nyota Uhura in Star Trek, died at age 89, her son, Kyle Johnson, confirmed on her official website on July 31.

“Last night, my mother, Nichelle Nichols, succumbed to natural causes and passed away,” he wrote. “Her light, however, like the ancient galaxies now being seen for the first time, will remain for us and future generations to enjoy, learn from and draw inspiration. Hers was a life well lived and as such a model for us all.”

Bill Russell

11-time NBA champion and Boston Celtic legend William “Bill” Russell has sadly died at the age of 88. 

“It is with a very heavy heart we would like to pass along to all of Bill’s friends, fans and followers,” the statement from the athlete’s verified Twitter account read, announcing the news on July 31. “Bill Russell, the most prolific winner in American sports history, passed away peacefully today at age 88, with his wife, Jeannine, by his side.”

Tony Dow

The Leave It to Beaver actor passed away on July 27, 2022, after his family broke the news on his Facebook page. “We know that the world is collectively saddened by the loss of this incredible man. He gave so much to us all and was loved by so many. One fan said it best — ‘It is rare when there is a person who is so universally loved like Tony,'” the statement read after his son, Christopher Dow, confirmed his father’s death.

However, Tony Dow’s management team reported his death on July 26 and Chris confirmed his father was under hospice care in his “last hours,” in a statement to Fox News. The actor is best known for his roles in Never Too Young, The New Leave It To Beaver and Mr. Novak in addition to earning several credits as a producer and director.

He is loved by his wife, Lauren Shulkind, and their son, Christopher Dow.

Paul Sorvino

The legendary actor died at the age of 83 of natural cause  on July 25, with his wife Dee Dee by his side, his rep told Closer. “Our hearts are broken, there will never be another Paul Sorvino, he was the love of my life, and one of the greatest performers to ever grace the screen and stage,” Dee Dee revealed in a statement. Paul died at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.

He was best known for his role as mobster Paulie Cicero in 1990’s GoodFellas and was the father of Oscar-winning actress Mira Sorvino. He also starred on TV’s Law & Order.

David Warner

Titanic actor David Warner died at the age of 80 from a cancer-related illness. He was best known for his roles in The Omen, Tron and Masada, the latter of which won him an Emmy Award. The Doctor Who alum’s family confirmed his death in a statement to BBC on July 25. 

“He will be missed hugely by us, his family and friends and remembered as a kind-hearted, generous and compassionate man, partner and father, whose legacy of extraordinary work has touched the lives of so many over the years. We are heartbroken,” the statement read. 

Ivana Trump

Former president Donald Trump’s ex-wife Ivana Trump passed away on July 14, 2022.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Ivana Trump. Our mother was an incredible woman — a force in business, a world-class athlete, a radiant beauty, and caring mother and friend,” her family confirmed in a statement to Closer.

“Ivana Trump was a survivor. She fled from communism and embraced this country,” the statement continued. “She taught her children about grit and toughness, compassion and determination. She will be dearly missed by her mother, her three children and ten grandchildren.”

L.Q. Jones

Legendary actor L.Q. Jones died of natural causes on July 9 at the age of 94, his grandson Erté deGarces confirmed to People. The Texas native was a veteran of western films and later directed, wrote and produced the 1975 film A Boy and His Dog. He is survived by his children, Randy, Steve and Mindy.

Tony Sirico

Sopranos star Tony Sirico, best known for playing Peter Paul “Paulie Walnuts” Gualtieri on the hit HBO drama, died at 79 on July 8. “Tony was a loyal client for 25 years, ex-army vet, always gave to charities and a member of the Wounded Warriors,” his manager, Bob McGowan, told Closer Weekly.

The television star is survived by his children, Joanne Sirico Bello and Richard Sirico, and several grandchildren. 

Gregory Itzin

NCIS alum Gregory Itzin died at the age of 74 on July 8, his manager, Lisa Gallant, told People. “His love for the arts was only surpassed by his love for his family,” she shared. “Greg was married to the love of his life, Judie for 43 years and has two children, who were his pride and joy: Wilke (also an actor) and Julia (an artist) and a grandson, Wylder Gregory, the apple of his eye.” 

Lenny Von Dohlen

Twin Peaks actor Lenny Von Dohlen died on July 5 at the age of 63 after battling a long illness. His sister Catherine shared the devastating news on Facebook after her brother’s death.

“The world lost a magnificent man on July 5. Brother Len was passionate about everything and everyone,” she wrote. “He was always leading, whether it be riveting conversation, an artistic creation or a trip to new places. He loved a good laugh. He continues on his spiritual journey. Living life full in his memory.”

James Caan

The Godfather star James Caan died on July 6 at the age of 82, his official Twitter page announced. 

“It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6,” the tweet read. “The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”

Mary Mara

Known for her work on ER and Ray Donovan, Mary died after drowning in the St. Lawrence River on Sunday, June 26. “Mary was one of the finest actresses I ever met,” her rep, Craig Dorfman, told Closer in a statement. “I still remember seeing her on stage in 1992 in Mad Forest off-Broadway. She was electric, funny and a true individual. Everyone loved her. She will be missed.”

Ann Turner Cook

The original Gerber baby, Ann Turner Cook, the woman whose face was been seen on baby food jars for nearly a century, died at the age of 95. 

“Gerber is deeply saddened by the passing of Ann Turner Cook,” the iconic brand for infant products said in a statement via Instagram on Saturday, June 4. 

“Many years before becoming an extraordinary mother, teacher and writer, her smile and expressive curiosity captured hearts everywhere and will continue to live on as a symbol for all babies,” the company added. “We extend our deepest sympathies to Ann’s family and to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.”

Ray Liotta

Ray Liotta tragically at the age of 67, according to Deadline. The Goodfellas actor died in his sleep while in the Dominican Republic, where he was shooting the film Dangerous Waters. His cause of death is currently unknown.

The Field of Dreams actor is survived by his daughter, Karsen, and fiancée Jacy Nittolo.

“We were deeply saddened to learn of Ray’s passing, it’s a tremendous loss and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, fiancé Jacy and daughter Karsen” the producers of Dangerous Waters told In Touch. Additionally, Ray’s publicist confirmed his tragic passing to NBC News.

Lee Lawson

Soap opera actress Lee Lawson – known for her role in Guiding Lights – died on May 22 at the age of 80, her daughter Leslie Bova confirmed via Facebook. 

“You fought Cancer & COVID-19 like a champ. Rest, you brilliant woman,” Leslie wrote. “Thank you, mom. R.I.P.”

Marnie Schulenburg

Soap actress Marnie Schulenburg – known for her roles in One Life to Live and As the World Turn – died on Tuesday, May 17, a representative confirmed to Variety. Marnie was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer in May 2020. The actress was just days shy of her 38th birthday. 

“Please don’t say Marnie lost her battle to cancer. It’s simply not true,” her husband, Zack Robidas wrote via Facebook. “I watched her kick cancer’s ass everyday since diagnosis. She is incredible. We chose to attack her diagnosis with blind optimism. We only talked about the future and continued moving forward. I don’t know if this was right but it’s all we knew how to do.”

Maggie Peterson

Maggie Peterson, best known for her role of Charlene Darling on The Andy Griffith Show died at the age of 81 on May 15. She gained notoriety for her work on The Bill Dana Show and a successful music career outside of television. Her niece, Amy Royer, confirmed the passing of the singer and actress in a Facebook post.

“Maggie’s health took a turn for the worse after the death of her husband, Gus, and we are relieved that we were able to move her home to be close to family for her last days,” the post read. “We will be planning a private service for Maggie in the next few weeks.”

Fred Ward

Fred Ward, best known for his roles in The Right Stuff and Escape from Alcatraz, died on May 8 at the age of 79, his publicist, Ron Hofmann, confirmed to Closer. After a tremendous career as an actor and producer for more than 40 years, the Golden Globe winner found a passion for painting later in life. He is survived by his wife, Marie-France Ward, and his son, Django Ward.

Kenneth Welsh

Kenneth Welsh, known for his role as Windom Earle on Twin Peaks, died at 80 years old as ACTRA confirmed on Friday, May 6. 

“Ken was one of Canada’s all-time great performers, with hundreds of memorable roles spanning decades,” ACTRA wrote in a statement. “He will be greatly missed. Our condolences to his loved ones.”

Mike Hagerty

Mike Hagerty, famous for his roles on Friends and Somebody, Somewhere, died at 67 years old, as costar Bridget Everett wrote via Instagram on May 6.

“With great sadness, the family of Michael G. Hagerty announced his death yesterday in Los Angeles,” Bridget captioned her post. “A beloved character actor, his love of his hometown of Chicago and his family were the cornerstones of his life. Mike, a devoted husband, is survived by his wife Mary Kathryn, his sister Mary Ann Hagerty, her wife Kathleen O’Rourke, and their daughter Meg. He will be sorely missed.”

Joanna Barnes

Joanna Barnes, known for her roles in both adaptations of The Parent Trap, has died at the age of 87, her friend Sally Jackson told The Hollywood Reporter.

The actress and author passed away in her home in The Sea Ranch, California, after dealing with “multiple health problems.” The Boston native is survived by her sisters Lally and Judith, and her stepchildren, John, Laura, and Louise. 

Naomi Judd

Naomi Judd, singer of country music duo the Judds, died at the age of 76, her daughters Wynonna and Ashley Judd said in a statement to the Associated Press on April 30.

“Today we sisters experienced a tragedy,” the statement read. “We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness. We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.”

Jossara Jinaro 

ER alum Jossara Jinaro died on April 27 after a battle with cancer, her husband, Matt Bogado, revealed via Facebook.

“With great sorrow, I announce the passing of my wife, Jossara Jinaro on this date, April 27, 2022,” he wrote. “Jossara bravely fought cancer and came home to be surrounded by family.”

Matt added that his late wife “had the most beautiful, kind soul and wouldn’t take ‘no’ for an answer.”

“Even in her last moments, she was still fighting,” he continued in his post. “She is now resting in peace and will be remembered forever. Myself, Liam, and Emrys will miss her so deeply, although we know she is in our hearts and guiding us every step of the way.”

Robert Morse

“My good pal Bobby Morse has passed away at age 90. A huge talent and a beautiful spirit. Sending love to his son Charlie & daughter Allyn. Had so much fun hanging with Bobby over the years — filming People v OJ & hosting so many screenings (How To Succeed, Loved One, That’s Life),” fellow actor Larry Karaszewski tweeted on April 21 of Robert’s passing.

Liz Sheridan

Legendary Seinfeld actress Liz Sheridan died at the age of 93 on April 15 of natural causes, her longtime friend and rep, Amanda Hendon, confirmed to Deadline. The Broadway performer and veteran TV star was best known for playing Jerry Seinfeld’s mother and appeared on the long-running series until its 1998 finale.

“Liz was always the sweetest, nice TV mom a son could wish for,” Jerry Seinfeld wrote via Twitter of his maternal figure on the sitcom. “Every time she came on our show it was the coziest feeling for me. So lucky to have known her.”

Gilbert Gottfried

On April 12, comedian Gilbert Gottfried‘s family announced in a statement shared via social media that he had died at age 67 after “a long illness.” His longtime friend and publicist, Glenn Schwartz, confirmed that he suffered from Recurrent Ventricular Tachycardia due to Myotonic Dystrophy type II.

“In addition to being the most iconic voice in comedy, Gilbert was a wonderful husband, brother, friend and father to his two young children,” his family’s statement read. “Although today is a sad day for all of us, please keep laughing as loud as possible in Gilbert’s honor. Love, the Gottfried family.”

Estelle Harris

Actress Estelle Harris died at the age of 93 on April 2 from natural causes, her son, Glen Harris, confirmed to Deadline. Estelle was known for her work as the voice of Toy Story’s Mrs. Potato Head, and her characters Estelle Costanza from Seinfeld and Muriel from The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.

Emilio Delgado

Emilio Delgado, best known for portraying Luis on Sesame Street, died on March 10 at his Manhattan home. Sesame Workshop confirmed the news of his death in a statement, remembering the Mexican-American actor, aged 81, for “his warmth and humor” that “invited children to share a friendship that has echoed through generations.” Delgado had been an integral part of the company for more than 50 years.

Tim Considine

Former Disney actor Tim Considine died at his home on March 3. He was 81 years old.

He was best known for his roles on The Mickey Mouse Club (1955-1958), 1956’s The Hardy Boys: The Mystery of the Applegate Treasure, 1957’s The Hardy Boys: The Mystery of the Ghost Farm and the 1960s sitcom My Three Sons.

Tim’s former My Three Sons costar Stanley Livingston shared the news of his death via Facebook.

Johnny Brown

Actor Johnny Brown, who is best known for his role as janitor Nathan Bookman on Good Times, died on March 2. His daughter, Broadway actress Sharon Catherine Brown, announced his death via Instagram.

John Stahl

Actor John Stahl, known for his role as Rickard Karstark on HBO’s Game of Thrones, died on March 2 at age 68. His agent confirmed his death to Deadline on March 5.

Thierry Mugler

French fashion designer Manfred Thierry Mugler died on January 23, his team announced via his personal Instagram.

“We are devastated to announce the passing of Mr. Manfred Thierry Mugler on Sunday, January 23rd 2022,” the caption read, which was written in both English and French. “May his soul Rest In Peace.”

Ian Alexander Jr.

The Harder They Fall actress Regina King released a heartbreaking statement after her only son, Ian Alexander Jr., died by suicide.

“Our family is devastated at the deepest level by the loss of Ian,” King said in a statement to TODAY on January 21. “He is such a bright light who cared so deeply about the happiness of others. Our family asks for respectful consideration during this private time. Thank you.”

Louie Anderson

Comedian and Family Feud host Louie Anderson died at age 68 on January 21 after undergoing treatment to diffuse large B cell lymphoma, his publicist Glenn Schwartz confirmed, per Deadline.

Meat Loaf

Singer Meat Loaf (real name Marvin Lee Aday) died at age 74, a statement on his verified Facebook page confirmed on January 21.

“Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side,” the statement said. “Daughters Pearl and Amanda and close friends have been with him throughout the last 24 hours.”

Ronnie Spector

Ronnie Spector, leader of The Ronettes, died at the age of 78.

“Our beloved earth angel, Ronnie, peacefully left this world today after a brief battle with cancer,” a statement from her family released on January 12 read. “She was with family and in the arms of her husband, Jonathan. Ronnie lived her life with a twinkle in her eye, a spunky attitude, a wicked sense of humor and a smile on her face. She was filled with love and gratitude.”

“Her joyful sound, playful nature and magical presence will live on in all who knew, heard or saw her,” they added of the singer behind such hits as “Be My Baby” and “Baby I Love You.” “In lieu of flowers, Ronnie requested that donations be made to your local women’s shelter or to the American Indian College Fund. A celebration of Ronnie’s life and music will be announced in the future. The family respectfully asks for privacy at this time.”

Bob Saget

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Saget’s death on January 9 after he performed on his I Don’t Do Negative Tour. The actor, who was 65, shared a photo on social media from his two-hour set at Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. He wrote that he was “happily addicted” to comedy again and thanked his opening act, Tim Wilkins. Hours later, news of his death shocked his Full House costars, famous friends and longtime fans. 

“I am broken. I am gutted. I am in complete and utter shock. I will never ever have another friend like him. I love you so much Bobby,” Saget’s Full House costar John Stamos wrote on Twitter. 

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier, the first Black man to win the Best Actor Oscar for his role in 1963’s Lilies of the Field, died at the age of 94 on January 7. The Bahamian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Office confirmed the actor’s death to Fox News. The To Sir, With Love star is survived by his five daughters and grandchildren who released a statement following his death. 

“There are no words to convey the deep sense of loss and sadness we are feeling right now. We are so grateful he was able to spend his last day surrounded by his family and friends,” the statement said. “To us, Sidney Poitier was not only a brilliant actor, activist and a man of incredible grace and moral fortitude, he was also a devoted and loving husband, a supportive and adoring father and a man who always put family first.”