From Liam Payne to Hollywood legends – all the celebrity deaths in 2024

Liam Payne was one of many celebrities we lost this year (Picture: PA/Getty)

It’s been a very historic year for the entertainment industry, having said goodbye to some of our brightest stars including the likes of Donald Sutherland and Shannen Doherty.

The music world was rocked in October when One Direction star Liam Payne died suddenly at the age of 31.

Cosying up to watch a Harry Potter film or two this Christmas will have renewed meaning after we lost one of our acting greats in Dame Maggie Smith.

All in all, there’s a particularly big hole in the heart of the entertainment industry as this eventful year draws to a close.

Here we remember the celebrities lost in 2024 and the legacies they left behind.

Derek Draper

Kate Garraway’s husband Derek Draper died at the beginning of the year (Picture: James Gourley/ITV/Shutterstock)

Kate Garraway‘s husband Derek Draper died aged 56 on January 5, following an almost four-year battle with long Covid.

She announced the devastating news not long after Draper was admitted back to hospital following a heart attack before Christmas.

Draper suffered with long Covid since contracting the virus in March 2020 and becoming the worst-affected living person that we knew of.

Just weeks before his death, Garraway shared the ‘heartbreak’ she felt over his health in one of her final updates: ‘He is living in the world of the unknown.’

Derek was best known as an English political lobbyist and advisor and psychotherapist.

Dave Myers

Dave Myers died in February (Picture: BBC / The Hairy Bikers)

Dave Myers died aged 66 in February 2024, after being diagnosed with cancer in 2022. 

Myers was best known as one-half of the Hairy Bikers, and his co-star Si King posted an emotional tribute on social media announcing the news.

‘Hi everyone, I’m afraid I bear some sad news,’ Si began in the statement on Instagram.

He continued: ‘Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.

‘Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave’s wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home.

‘All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing. His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own.

‘Personally, I am not sure I can put into words on how I feel at the moment.

‘My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow. I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime.

‘I wish you god’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya.’

The Barrow-in-Furness-born TV chef revealed he had been diagnosed with cancer in May 2022. He never confirmed what type of cancer he had.

Jonnie Irwin

Jonnie died from lung cancer in February (Picture: Ian Gavan/Getty Images)

Jonnie Irwin died in February 2024 after a battle with lung cancer. He was best known as an English television presenter and property expert, best who hostedA Place in the Sun, and also appeared on I Escaped To The Country and Dispatches.

His death was announced on social media: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing. A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.

‘At this time, we kindly ask for the privacy of Jonnie’s family as they navigate through this profound loss. Their grief is immeasurable, and your thoughts, prayers, and support are deeply appreciated.

‘As we remember the beautiful moments shared with Jonnie, let us celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever be etched in our hearts. Jonnie may be gone from our sight, but his love, laughter, and memories will live on.

‘Rest in peace, dear Jonnie. You will be dearly missed, but never forgotten. 🕊️💔’

The beloved TV star is survived by his wife Jessica Holmes, and their three young sons: Rex, four, and two-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac.

Robin Windsor

Robin Windsor died in February 2024 (Picture: ITV)

Robin Windsor competed on the Strictly Come Dancing between 2010 and 2013, and was partnered with celebrities Lisa Riley, Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, and Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden.

He also danced with This Morning’s Alison Hammond on the 2015 Christmas special and with Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid on 2011’s Children In Need special.

The professional dancer’s death was announced in a statement from his management firm Sisco Entertainment on February 20.

It was reported that the dancer went missing a few days before his death and was found dead in a London hotel. No cause of death was revealed.

In November, some Strictly dancers paid tribute to Windsor in a show titled Robin Windsor: The Final Act.

Steve Wright

He worked closely with the late DJ Steve Wright (Picture: Ian West/PA Wire)

Steve Wright was a veteran broadcaster and one of the most familiar voices on British airwaves for over four decades.

In 2022, his long-running Radio 2 show, Steve Wright in the Afternoon, was axed after 23 years on air – and he was replaced by Scott Mills.

The popular DJ continued to present Sunday Love Songs on BBC Radio 2 as well as a series of specials and podcasts.

Wright died suddenly aged 69 in February 2024. He died at home in his Marylebone flat on February 12. Emergency services sped to Wright’s home in central London around 10am, but he was found dead at the scene.

Police said at the time that his death ‘was unexpected, but was not being treated as suspicious’.

His longtime employer, the BBC, confirmed the news revealing that the stated causes of death were acute peritonitis and a perforated peptic gastric ulcer.

George Gilbey

George Gilbey, pictured in the centre, died in March 2024 (Picture: Jude Edington)

Gogglebox star and electrician George Gilbey died in March at the age of 40.

Gilbey was working in Shoeburyness, Essex, on March 27 when he fell while working. He died at the scene. EGL Homecare in Shoebury, Southend-on-Sea, was cordoned off by police at the time.

It was later reported that he died from traumatic head and torso injuries after falling 80ft from a skylight.

In a statement shared with Metro, a spokesperson for Gogglebox said: ‘George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete.

‘Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George’s family and friends at this very sad time.’

OJ Simpson

OJ Simpson died in April (Picture: Jason Bean-Pool/Getty Images)

In April, OJ Simpson died at the age of 76 after a battle with cancer.

His official X account posted: ‘On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

‘During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.’

The 76-year-old was previously said to be undergoing chemotherapy amid a battle with prostate cancer.

Despite commanding an impressive football career, Simpson is most known for being accused of murdering his former partner Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend, Ronald Goldman.

Morgan Spurlock

Morgan Spurlock (Photo by Roy Rochlin/FilmMagic)

In May, Morgan Spurlock, best known for his McDonald’s Super Size Me documentary.

Documentary filmmaker Spurlock died aged 53 on Thursday due to complications of cancer, his family announced.

‘Morgan gave so much through his art, ideas and generosity. Today the world has lost a true creative genius and a special man. I am so proud to have worked together with him,’ his brother Craig told Variety.

The late creative rose to fame after he released his 2004 documentary Super Size Me in which he ate McDonalds for all three meals over 30 consecutive days as a commentary on the obesity epidemic across the US.

He was also known for directing the One Direction documentary This Is Us, in addition to Where in the World Is Osama Bin Laden?, Mansome and The Greatest Movie Ever Sold.

Dr Michael Mosley

Dr Michael Mosley died in June (Picture: Brook Mitchell/Getty Images)

In June, Dr Michael Mosley went missing while on holiday in Greece while on holiday with his family and was later found dead.

The television doctor went for what should have been an easy coastal walk but his body was found after a four-day search. He was discovered in a rocky area, and it was later determined by Greek authorities that he died of natural causes.

He was best known for popularising the 5:2 diet and for his appearances on The One Show and This Morning. He also appeared on popular shows such as Who Made Britain Fat? and Trust Me, I’m a Doctor. 

Dr Mosley’s wife Dr Claire Mosley paid tribute to her ‘kind and brilliant husband’.

‘I don’t know quite where to begin with this. It’s devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband. We had an incredibly lucky life together. We loved each other very much and were so happy together,’ Claire said in a heartbreaking statement.

Donald Sutherland

Donald Sutherland died in June (Picture: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)

In June, Donald Sutherland died at the age of 88. The MASH and Hunger Games star died in Miami, Florida, after a ‘long illness’, his representative confirmed.

His son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, who is best known for his role in TV series 24 and films Phone Booth and The Three Musketeers, said his father had ‘a life well lived’.

Sharing a black and white photo of himself as a child with his father on X, he wrote: ‘With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away.

‘I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly.

‘He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived.’

Bob Newhart

Bob Newhart died in July of 2024 (Picture: Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)

Comedy legend Bob Newhart died on July 18 2024 at the age of 94 after a series of short illnesses.

Newhart was one of all the all-time greats in comedy,and was eventually remembered by a whole new generation thanks to his heartwarming turn in the 2003 Christmas film Elf, as Papa Elf alongside Will Ferrell’s Buddy.

Shockingly, it wasn’t until 2013 that Newhart would win an Emmy Award — which he landed for his role in The Big Bang Theory as Professor Proton.

He also won three Grammy Awards and a Golden Globe throughout his lengthy career.

In 1960, Newhart burst onto the comedy scene with his stand-up album The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, which landed him Album of the Year at the Grammys. Just over a decade later he began the Bob Newhart Show, which ran for 142 episodes and concluded in 1978 and is remembered among the best American television shows of all time.

Many celebrities paid tribute to Newhart, including Director Judd Apatow who wrote: ‘Bob Newhart was the kindest most hilarious man. He asked me to make a documentary about his friendship with Don Rickles. I was so lucky to get to spend that time with my hero. His brilliant comedy and gentle spirit made everyone he encountered so happy.’

Shelley Duvall

Shelley Duvall died in July 2024 (Picture: Reg Innell/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

The Shining star and legendary actress Shelley Duvall died at the age of 75 in her sleep due to complications from diabetes at her home in Texas on July 11 of this year.

‘My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley,’ Dan Gilroy, her partner since 1989, told The Hollywood Reporter at the time.

Duvall was a character actor who tended to be the bright spot of any film she was in, playing roles that often had eerie undertones.

Duvall was known for her roles in McCabe & Mrs. Miller, Nashville, Popeye – alongside Robin Williams – and 3 Women. She was likely best known for her role in The Shining starring opposite Jack Nicholson.

Dame Maggie Smith

Dame Maggie Smith was much beloved and played many iconic parts (Picture: Stuart Wilson/Getty Images)

Dame Maggie Smith, the award-winning British acting legend whose work ranged from Downton Abbey to Harry Potter, died at the age of 89, causing a national outpouring of grief.

The Oscar-winning actress died in hospital on Friday 27 September, her sons Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens said in a statement.

‘It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith,’ they began.

‘She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September.

‘An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.

‘We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days.

‘We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time.’

Dame Maggie was a hugely versatile actress with a long list of iconic parts including Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, in Downton Abbey, and Professor Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones is remembered best as Darth Vader (Picture: Getty Images)

Hollywood legend James Earl Jones died of complications of diabetes at the age of 93 at home in New York on September 9 of 2024.

The EGOT winner was best known for his roles as Darth Vader in Star Wars and as the voice of Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King.

The actor was best known for his roles as Darth Vader in Star Wars and as the voice of Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King.

Jones received a Special Tony Award in 2017, which sat alongside his honorary Academy Award of 2012.

Additionally, his two Emmy wins came in 1991 – for lead actor in a drama series for Gabriel’s Fire and supporting actor in a miniseries or a special for Heat Wave.

His more recent appearances included roles in 2017’s The Gin Game on Broadway.

Kris Kristofferson

Country musis legend Kris Kristofferson died this year (Picture: Bettmann Archive)

Kris Kristofferson, who starred opposite Barbara Streisand in A Star Is Born died at the age of 88 on September 30.

Kristofferson was one of the most legendary figures in country music history.

Among his many accolades, he won the Grammy for best country song in 1972 for Help Me Make It Through the Night, as well as two Grammy-winning duets with his former wife Rita Coolidge in 1974 and 1976.

Tributes from music stars flooded in after his death, with Dolly Parton saying: ‘I will always love you.’

Fatman Scoop

Fatman Scoop died after collapsing on stage at 56 years old (Picture: Naomi Rahim/WireImage)

US rapper Fatman Scoop died in September at the age of 56 after collapsing on stage during a concert in Connecticut and being rushed to hospital.

The hype man and radio personality – real name Isaac Freeman III – worked with musicians including Missy Elliott, on her song Lose Control and with Mariah Carey on It’s Like That. He also collaborated with Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston.

In the UK, he was well known for appearing in Channel 5’s Celebrity Big Brother: UK vs USA in 2015 where he was the third housemate to be evicted.

Liam Payne

The world was shocked by Liam Payne’s untimely death in October(Picture: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

Singer and former One Direction member Liam Payne tragically died at age 31 on October 16, resulting in a media firestorm and an outpouring of grief from fans.

Payne died while staying at the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with an autopsy confirming that he died from multiple injuries sustained in his fall that led to ‘internal and external haemorrhaging.’

The hitmaker was beloved by millions worldwide after rising to fame alongside his former bandmates Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Harry Styles after the supergroup was created on The X Factor in 2010.

He is survived by his son, Bear Grey, who he had in 2017 following a relationship with Girls Aloud star Cheryl.

Quincy Jones

Quincy Jones was one of the most legendary music producers of all time(Picture: Arnold Turner/Getty Images for Netflix)

Quincy Jones died at the age of 91 in November after a cancer diagnosis, sparking an outpouring of grief from those who knew and worked with the legendary producer, as well as his fans.

The iconic music producer and composer’s family – including daughter Rashida Jones – confirmed the news of his passing in a statement.

Considered one of the greatest minds in music and TV history, Jones was known for many credits over his 70-year career including working with Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Michael Jackson.

He famously produced Jackson’s Thriller album in 1982, and after Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Jones was nominated for the most Grammy awards of all time with 80 to his name and 28 wins.

Timothy West

Timothy West and his wife Prunella Scales are acting royalty (Picture: Roy Jones/Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Acting legend Timothy West, known for his roles in EastEnders among other, died at the age of 90 this year.

The actor, who played Mick Carter’s (Danny Dyer) grandfather Stan in the soap, died peacefully ‘with his friends and family at the end.’

A statement released by his family read: ‘After a long and extraordinary life on and off the stage, our darling father Timothy West died peacefully in his sleep yesterday evening. He was 90 years old. Tim was with friends and family at the end.

‘He leaves his wife Prunella Scales, to whom he was married for 61 years, a sister,  daughter, two sons, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. All of us will miss him terribly.

‘We would like to thank the incredible NHS staff at St George’s Hospital, Tooting and at Avery Wandsworth for their loving care during his last days. Juliet, Samuel and Joseph West.’

In 1984, the actor was appointed CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List. He played Winston Churchill three times during his career, including in The Last Bastion (1984) and in Hiroshima (1995).

Janey Godley

Janey Godley is remembered as an icon by many (Picture: Carlo Paloni/BAFTA via Getty Images)

Janey Godley died at the age of 63 after battling cancer, surrounded by family, according to her agent.

Godley found viral fame with her imitations of Nicola Sturgeon’s Covid-19 news briefings during the pandemic, launching an incredibly successful comedy career.

She first went viral in 2016 after she was pictured holding a sign calling Donald Trump a rude word during his visit to Scotland.

Godley was also a regular co-presenter on BBC Radio 4’s Loose Ends and fronted BBC Radio 4 series The C Bomb as well as a touring comedian. Her funeral saw thousands of fans pouring onto the streets to grieve her.

While this list cannot include every celebrity who died this year, even those not mentioned will live on through their work and legacies well beyond 2024.

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