These Beloved Stars Passed Away And You Had No Idea
Michael Clarke Duncan – Heart Attack
If you love action movies, you’re more than likely to be familiar with his body of work. Michael Duncan brought all his characters to life on the silver screen through his undisputed charm and charisma. He was mostly known for the physically imposing and intimidating characters he played. His filmography extends from The Green Mile, The Scorpion King, KungFu Panda, and Daredevil as Wilson Fisk.
Duncan died on September 3, 2012, at the age of 54 from a heart attack. Hollywood lost a great man when passed; such charm and professionalism are rare to find. His character was well known within the Hollywood circles as a good man who was free from all scandal and was fun to work with.
Charles Quinton Murphy – Leukemia
If you know Charles Murphy, it might not be a surprise to learn that he is the older brother to comedy icon Eddie Murphy. Charles was an actor, comedian, and writer. Murphy was involved in the critically acclaimed sketch-comedy show, The Dave Chapelle Show on comedy central, as a writer and cast member. He went on to host his own sketch-comedy show titled Charlie Murphy’s Crash Comedy on Crackle.
Sadly, this talented comedian passed away at a relatively young age. Charles was only 57 when he died from Leukemia on April 12, 2019. Murphy had near-perfect comedic timing and a sense of humor that resonate with a lot of people. His death was a significant loss for the comedic world.
Charlotte Rae – Bone Cancer
Charlotte Rae’s talent was a point of envy and aspiration for a lot of people in the craft. She shone on both stage and the small screen as reflected by her Tony and Emmy nominations, respectively. Charlotte was known for the 1980’s sitcom The Facts of Life, where she appeared for almost a decade. The actress apparently shared her own struggles with the writers of the show to give it an air of realism. She went on to star in The Facts of Life spinoff Stokes, where she played the unforgettable role of Edna Garrett.
Charlotte died on August 5th, 2018, from bone cancer. Although the timeless star was 92 years old, her death was a blow to many. The television industry lost one of it’s most precious diamonds that day.
Gene Wilder – Alzheimer’s
Before Johnny Depp to over the role of Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory film, Gene Wilder had already blown people all over the world with his acting performances in it. For a lot of kids, he is known from a frame from the movie as an internet meme. His acting debut was with Bonnie and Clyde, and then he went on to become a prolific actor appearing in films such as Stir Crazy, Another You, and The Producers. He was also a screenwriter, singer-songwriter, and author.
Gene passed away on August 29,2016, at 83, in Stamford, Connecticut, from complications resulting from Alzheimer’s disease. He had tried to keep the condition a secret for a long time. His memory remains immortalized as a staple of internet culture.
David Bowie – Liver Cancer
Ask most people to make a top ten list best musicians, and David Bowie will, without a doubt, be among the top five. He was one of the greatest pop icons of the 20th and 21st centuries. Bowie shaped the musical world as one of the most talented musicians of his time. He constantly adapted his music, rediscovering himself through music over the decades in which he was active. Bowie came onto his legendary status through the studio albums Low, Lodger, and Heroes. He also had an appearance in films such as The Last Temptation of Christ and The Prestige. Despite his rock star status, he did not have a history of substance abuse.
David had a long fight with liver cancer, which finally killed him on January 10, 2016. He battled with cancer for eighteen months and kept it secret for the most part. His legendary status is still an inspiration for many would-be musicians.
Eunice Gayson – Natural causes
It’s hard to think of James Bond and not immediately picture the iconic Bond girl. She was an English actress best known for her works in the first two bond films where she played Sylvia Trench, who was James Bond’s girlfriend. She capitalized on the fame resulting from the James Bond films to land other movies to have a prolific career in film. She appeared in other films such as To Have and to Hold and The Last Man to Hang?
Eunice passed away on June 8, 2018, in London, United Kingdom. She died of natural causes. She had a good and long life as she died at 90, which is way longer than the average life expectancy. Her legacy will forever be intact as long as they keep making Bond movies.
John Lennon – Murder
For any rock fan, the Beatles were the iconic stars of the 20th century. The most famous of the Beatles was arguably John Lennon. The Beatles set the blueprint and inspiration to future musicians as they were the first group that acquired super fans like we see today. Lennon bragged of having 25 singles in the Billboard 100. He was a man of talent like the world had not experienced, especially at that level before.
To the shock of the entire world, John was murdered at 40 in the year 1980. He was killed by Mark Chapman, who claimed that he did so because of his immense fame. The murder took place outside his apartment, where he lived with Yoko Ono. Lennon’s death was beyond shocking for most. He will always be remembered through his music and his enormous influence on pop culture.
Andy Whitefield – Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
With his movie-star looks and charm, it must have been relatively easy for him to get into the film industry. The British actor is best known for the hit TV show The Spartacus: Blood and Sand on Starz. His talent was not limited to geographical location as he made appearances in Australian TV shows such as Packed to the Rafters, The Strip, All Saints, and McLead’s Daughters. He landed the Australian roles after immigrating to Australia to work in construction.
He died on September 11, 2011, in Sydney, Australia, from Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. For over a year, the 39-year-old actor fought bravely, but his medical condition progressed aggressively. In his last days, he was public about his illness, with his final moments being caught on camera. Issues concerning his life insurance were settled. His charm and charisma will never be forgotten.
Anthony Bourdain – Suicide
Anthony Bourdain was light to the culinary community. He rose to fame from his culinary shows, such as No Reservation and The Layover. Bourdain rubbed shoulders with famous artists and captains of industry as a result of being an executive chef at the French restaurant, Brasserie Les Halles, near Manhattan. He held this position after graduating from the Culinary Institute of America. He is also an author of a bestselling book Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly.
His death came as a shock to many as it was reported he ended his own life. On June 8, 2018, his body was found dead in his Le Chambard room in Kayserberg from an apparent hanging. The public prosecutor reported that there were no signs of violence evident on his body, nor were there any narcotics in his system according to his toxicology report. He did not have any history of substance abuse. He remains an inspiration to many through his book and shows.
Mark Salling – Suicide
Many fans of the hit CW show Glee are familiar with Mark Salling in his portrayal of Noah “Puck” Puckerman. He had also made appearances in Children of the Corn IV: The Gathering in 1996 and The Graveyard in 2006. He was an alumnus of the famous Los Angeles College of Music. His life was mired in controversy, as was his sentence of seven-year imprisonment for owning numerous photos and videos featuring sensitive material involving children.
His death was unsettling to all his fans and the public at large since it was a suicide. He was found in his Los Angeles home in the Sunland area, having hung himself. Salling was 35 years of age at his death. He did not have a history of rehab or treatment centers. His legacy in music will be cemented in the re-runs of Glee.
Tom Petty – Cardiac Arrest from Illegal Substances Overdose
Tom petty was the embodiment of superstardom. The American was known for his singing and songwriting for his band Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. He claims that his foray into music was born out of watching the Beatles from The Ed Sullivan Show. He is one of the highest-selling musicians of all time, having sold over 80 million records worldwide.
He died in the early hours of October 2, 2017, from cardiac arrest. He was found unconscious in his home and was immediately admitted to the UCLA Medical Centers in California. The postmortem report showed that the cause of death was an accidental overdose of fentanyl, alprazolam, citalopram, and other chemicals in his system. One can only hope his insurance was enough to cover everyone else’s needs. His death shone more of a light on the opiate crisis while his music will inspire musicians for time immemorial.
Chester Bennington – Suicide
Linkin Park was one of the most famous rock bands of the past few decades. Chester Bennington was the lead singer of the band. He also wore multiple hats as a singer, musician, and songwriter. He burst onto the scene from his studio albums, One More Light and Meteora. He also had appearances in some films such as Saw 3D and Crank: High Voltage. He was one of the highest-selling musicians of all time.
Chester Bennington died on July 20, 2017, in California, United States. He was found in his residence in the Palos Verdes Estates, having hung himself. His toxicology report indicates alcohol in his system at the time of death. He had a history of depression, which could have ultimately be his undoing. Through excellent financial planning, there was limited news over his estate. He will be remembered for years to come from his music that touched people all over the world.
Chris Cornell – Suicide
Chris Cornell had a voice that was immediately recognizable to many of his fans due to its distinct nature. He took on the role of singer, musician, and songwriter. He found success when he founded the rock band, Temple of the Dog, where he became the frontman. The studio albums, Euphoria Morning and Higher Truth, also propelled his fame, Scream, and Carry on. Chris also performed the theme song to the first Daniel Craig’s Bond movie Casino Royale.
He was found dead by his bodyguard in a hotel room in Detroit at the age of 52. His toxicology reports indicated no traces of illegal substances in his body at the time of death. The music scene has changed dramatically since his death. He remains an iconic figure that future musicians look up to.
Christopher “Big Boy” Boykin – Acute Myocardial Infraction
In the golden age of MTV, Christopher Boykin was a household name for most teenagers and young adults. He was a famous musician and television personality. His rise to popularity is the result of his work in Rob & Big, a reality show on MTV. He has his name on the Guinness World of Records, for peeling and eating three bananas in the single minute and the other for gulping five doughnuts in just two minutes. Through his contacts, he also made appearances in Ridiculousness.
His death was a shock to many when, on the 9th of May 2017, his heart stopped functioning, and he was later declared dead. His medical reports showed his death was the result of acute myocardial infarction. His light touched so many souls with his charisma and talent.
Avicii – Suicide
Anyone listening to music or went to a club at the start of the last decade will more than likely be familiar with Avicii. He was a Swedish DJ and music producer. He popped up into the public limelight with his number in 2011 called Levels. His fame exploded with his singles Addicted to You, You Make Me, Hey Brother, and Waiting for Love. His music was a mainstay in the club life. This made his tour calendar ever packed.
Avicii was found dead at the age of 28 on April 20, 2018. This was after his retirement from the musical world in 2016 due to health complications. His death took his fans by surprise all over the world, particularly in Europe, where he was most popular. His music shaped the musical and festival world that his influence can be felt up to this day.
Mary Tyler Moore – Cardiopulmonary arrest
Mary Moore was a household name, particularly in the 1960s. Her claim to fame is her portrayal in The Mary Tyler Moore Show as well the hit show The Sick Van Dyke Show. Her talent also graces the silver screen in 1967’s Through Modern Millie and 1980’s Ordinary People. She received an academy award nomination. Moore was a well-known philanthropist as well as an activist. She was involved in several animal rights charities.
At the age of 80, she was reported to have died. She had previously been diagnosed with diabetes in 1969. By 2014 she was suffering from heart and kidney complications and was almost blind. She will be a star to generations of actors and activists for generations to come.
Heath Ledger – Accidental intoxication
For many Batman fans, Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker is the definitive version of the character. A role for which earned him an academy award for best support actor. The Australian actor’s filmography is one that is bolstered by classics. He also made appearances in other films such as The Patriot and Brokeback Mountain, for which he received critical acclaim for both.
Heath Ledger died on January 22, 2008. He was discovered unconscious by his housekeeper and masseuse in his apartment in Manhattan. According to his toxicology report, his cause of death was an overdose of diazepam, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and other substances. These were mainly prescription medication. He will be forever remembered for the expertise he held in his craft.
Joe Jackson – Pancreatic Cancer
Despite being a great musician himself, his success at least historically is overshadowed by his son, Michael Jackson. His musical legacy also spread to his children, who formed the Jackson 5. He was mired in controversy, particularly in the way he treated his children. It was reported that he constantly abused them. Despite that, he was remembered fondly by his children.
Joe Jackson died on 2nd July 2018, in Las Vegas, USA. He died from pancreatic cancer. He has a long and gruesome battle with cancer, which eventually killed him. His bank accounts were well managed. His legacy will live on as the music manager who gave the world Michael Jackson, the king of pop.
Farrah Fawcett – Cancer
Farrah Fawcett is a model turned actress. Despite her beginnings being away from the acting craft, she went on to get four Emmy Awards and six Golden Globes awards. Among her work includes the TV show Charlie Angels in her portrayal of Jill Munroe. Sher also starred in several movies, The Apostles, The Cannonball Run, Extremities, and Logan’s Run. She always looked exquisite in her dresses, when modeling.
She died on June 25, 2009, at the age of 62 in Santa Monica. She was diagnosed with cancer in 2006. She had undergone multiple surgeries and chemotherapy in her treatment. With the increase of Hollywood remakes, her legacy will forever be cemented in film for all eternity.
River Phoenix – Illegal Substance Overdose
For many fans of the mega-blockbuster franchise, Indiana Jones, River Phoenix was the man of the hour as he played young Indiana Jones in the third film, The Last Crusade. He was a mainstay in both the musician and film circles. Phoenix was a great actor having being nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Supporting Actor category for his portrayal in the film Running on Empty. His acting was also critically acclaimed, as demonstrated by his awards, such as the Volpi Cup for Best Actors at the Venice Film Festival.
He died on the morning of October 31, 1993, from an illegal substance overdose. After multiple attempts to resuscitate failed, it was reported that his heart had already collapsed and stopped functioning. He should have had addiction treatment when he was alive. His acting success, particularly at the young age of 23, made him an icon for many prospective actors.
Bernie Mac – Pneumonia
Bernie Mac was the voice of a generation. To most, he is known for his work in the show The Bernie Mac Show. His work in that show was critically acclaimed, winning him two Emmys. His works in The Original Kings of comedy is also held in high regard as he worked alongside other comedians such as Steve Harvey and Cedric, the entertainer. His portrayal of Frank Catton in the Ocean’s Eleven is also a standout in his filmography where he fakes being a contractor.
He died on August 9, 2008, from acute pneumonia. During the final days, he was afflicted with sarcoidosis, which as an inflammatory disease that leads to abnormal masses in various organs. Over the years, he has become an icon for comedians everywhere.
Anna Nicole Smith – Combined Substances Intoxication
Few people had a rollercoaster of life like Anna Smith. Her ascension to fame came unconventionally when she became Playmate of the Year after she rose through the ladder at a well-known men’s entertainment magazine. She modeled for other famous outlets in the world of fashion, such as H&M, Guess, Lane Bryant, and Heatherette. Photography had a significant impact on her life. She then got married to an 89-year-old billionaire called J. Howard Marshall. Nicole had a prolonged battle for her husband’s estate after his death.
She was discovered in a Florida hotel room unconscious on February 8, 2007. After attempts at the hospital at resuscitation, she was declared dead. The toxicology report revealed an acute substance intoxication despite the fact that no illegal substances were present in her system. Her scandalous life will be a cautionary tale for others in the future.
Lisa Robin Kelly – Multiple Substances Abuse
To most fans of the 70’s Show, Lisa Kelly will be immediately recognized as Laurie Forman. She made her debut with the show Married…with Children. Her work on the screen was great as she also made appearances on the show Silk Stalkings and the hit show Charmed. Her life was mired in legal issues and scandals as she was arrested multiple times.
She died of multiple substances intoxication on August 15, 2013, at the age of 43. She had checked in a rehab center where the coroner concluded that the cause of death was multiple substance abuse. Her death was a shock to many, as lots of people enjoyed her work through numerous re-runs of the show.
Michelle Thomas – Rare form of cancer
Mitchell Thomas was a household delight for many during her acting days. Her career blossomed at a very young age. She was particularly known for her works in television, specifically in her portrayals of Justine Phillips and Myra Monkhouse in The Cosby Show and Family Matters, respectively. She went on to capitalize on her fame from her television performances to land other roles such as the film Dream Date.
Michelle died on Dec 22, 1998, at 29 years. She went through a long battle with a rare form of cancer called an intra-abdominal desmoplastic small-round-cell tumor. Unfortunately, her well-padded bank account could not save the young actress. She will forever be immortalized in the minds of all who enjoyed her works.
Gary Coleman – Hemorrhagic stroke
Any fans of the hit show Diff’rent Strokes will immediately recognize Gary Coleman. He was born in 1968 and died on May 28, 2010, from subdural hematoma. Coleman stood out, especially because of his height. He was short for an adult coming in at 4 ft 8. Gary started his career with a commercial appearance for Harris Bank and then went on to do Diff’rent Strokes. VH1 rated him a number in their top 100 greatest child Stars.
The child actor’s height growth was limited by congenital kidney disease and had to undergo frequent dialysis. Despite his great success, he had financial problems throughout his life. He ended up declaring bankruptcy and claimed that a lot of people, including his parents, were responsible. His rising medicals costs certainly contributed to his financial downfall. On May 28, 2010, Gary Coleman died from a subdural hematoma, when he was only 42.
The 41-year-old player Kobe Bryant took retirement from active sports in 2016. He was spending his retirement years as a coach to his daughter Gianna. Kobe was traveling along with his daughter Gianna along with nine other people when their helicopter crashed near the Calabasas, Calif.
JULIE GIBSON – OLD AGE
Julie Gibson, the damsel from the golden years of Hollywood, has people swooning at the very sight of her. Making her debut in the entertainment industry in 1935 as a soloist in Bob Young’s orchestra. She was soon a winning talent that everyone was talking about! She made her debut with Nice Girl? and The Feminine Touch in 1941. She married thrice and her last husband died in the year 1981.
Her last spouse was Charles Barton, with whom she walked down the aisle in 1973 and stayed by his side until 1981. Charles breathed his last in 1981. Julie retired from acting in 1984. However, it’s hard for her fans and industry members to forget such a talented actress, singer, and voice artist. She left the world for the heavenly abode at the age of 106 from old age-related issues.
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Chris Tucker had audiences all over the world in stitches with his portrayal of Detective James Carter in the Rush Hour movies. The American comedian and actor first came onto the scene in the 1995 full movie Friday co-starring next to Ice Cube. Since then, Tucker has led a successful career and is also using his fame as a platform to raise awareness for human rights issues.
Chris Tucker, 2005
In 2005, Chris was arrested for driving too fast. Chris, who had recently purchased a Bentley, was speeding at 109 miles per hour when police attempted to pull him over. Tucker tried to speed away from the police, and after a 10-mile pursuit he gave up. He pleaded guilty to eluding police and speeding, and he paid a $6,000 fine.