The year 2025 has been marked by profound loss across the worlds of music, film, and television, as we bid farewell to a string of iconic figures. From rock and roll royalty to silver screen legends and beloved television personalities, the passing of these stars has left a significant void.
A Devastating Start to the Year
The year began with a series of shocking losses. On January 3, the entertainment world was stunned by the death of The Vivienne (James Lee Williams), the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, at just 32 years old. The cause was a cardiac arrest linked to the effects of ketamine.
Just days later, on January 14, comedian Tony Slattery, famed for his work on Whose Line Is It Anyway?, died at 65 following a heart attack. His partner of nearly four decades confirmed the sad news.
The following day, January 15, saw the passing of two more beloved figures. Linda Nolan, the cherished pop star, Daily Mirror columnist, and member of The Nolans, died at 65 after a long journey with secondary breast cancer, surrounded by her sisters. On the same day, former Hollyoaks actor Paul Danan, 46, also passed away.
The week's tragic run continued with the death of visionary filmmaker David Lynch, 78, on January 16. The director behind Twin Peaks and Blue Velvet had previously revealed he was living with emphysema.
Shocking Losses in Film, Music, and Sport
In February, Hollywood mourned the discovery of two-time Oscar-winner Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, at their New Mexico home. Investigations suggested they had died days apart, with Hackman potentially unaware of his wife's passing due to his Alzheimer's disease.
The summer brought devastating news for music fans. On July 22, the family of Ozzy Osbourne announced the rock legend's death at 76, less than three weeks after his farewell concert with Black Sabbath. He was "surrounded by love." Two days later, on July 24, WWE icon Hulk Hogan died at 71 after suffering a reported cardiac arrest following health struggles.
September was marred by the death of British boxing hero Ricky Hatton, found dead at his home at just 46 on September 12. His death was not treated as suspicious. Veteran broadcaster John Stapleton, 79, known for Watchdog and GMTV, also died that month after a battle with Parkinson's disease.
A Sombre End to 2025
As the year drew to a close, more iconic names were lost. Television personality Kim Woodburn, 83, the unforgettable star of How Clean Is Your House?, died in June, remembered for her fiery wit.
In October, Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton, 79, famed for Annie Hall and The Godfather, passed away in California.
December delivered two profound shocks. On December 14, director Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife Michele were found dead at their Los Angeles home. Their son was later charged in connection with their deaths. Then, just before the New Year, on December 28, French film icon and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot died at the age of 91.
The legacies of these stars—from Ozzy Osbourne's seismic impact on rock music to Brigitte Bardot's timeless style and activism—will endure. Their passing reminds us of the indelible marks they left on culture and the hearts of their fans worldwide.
