Celebs Who Died In 2021

The world saw an unprecedented amount of loss in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with celebrities including music legends Charley Pride and John Prine and stage and screen star Nick Cordero falling victim to the deadly illness, in addition to tragic losses of the likes of Kobe Bryant and Naya Rivera in horrific accidents. While we all wished 2021 would be different, the coronavirus rages on, adding to what would already have been an inevitably tragic death toll on names we know and love.

From broadcast news icons to sports legends to groundbreaking creators in music, magic moguls, and beloved character actors and actresses, here are the stars we said goodbye to for the last time in 2021. Even for stars who are up there in age, it's always too soon. We'll miss all of these bold-faced names, but their respective legacies are sure to live on forever.

Updated on November 9, 2021: It's been a tragic year for some of our favorite stars, and we want to pay our respects and remember these amazing celebrities and the projects they worked on. As such, we've updated this list to honor the industry greats who have died in 2021.

Tanya Roberts died on Jan. 4, 2021, TMZ reported. She was 65 years old.

Born Victoria Leigh Blum in the Bronx, Roberts began her career as a successful model after running away from home at 15. She transitioned into acting, with roles in the final season of Charlie's Angels and Bond Girl Stacey Sutton in A View to Kill alongside Roger Moore. Roberts went on to star in a series of B-movies, including Sheena and The Beastmaster but is likely most known for her role as Midge Pinciotti, Donna Pinciotti's mother, on That '70s Show starting in 1998.

Roberts exited That '70s Show in its third season in 2001 to care for her husband, Barry Roberts, who was terminally ill, returning to the series as a recurring character beginning in Season 6; her husband died in 2006.

Roberts' death was initially reported incorrectly, as her representative released a statement announcing her death prematurely. Roberts collapsed on Christmas Eve and never fully recovered, reportedly succumbing to sepsis following a urinary tract infection. She is survived by longtime partner Lance O'Brien and sister Barbara Chase.

Actress and singer Marion Ramsey, best known for her role of Officer Laverne Hooks in the Police Academy film franchise, died on Jan. 7, 2021, at age 73. At the time of this writing, no cause of death has been reported, but her management team told Variety that she had "fallen ill" before her death.

The Philadelphia native's career began in the 1960s on stage with Hello, Dolly! and expanded into television and film in the following decade with productions of Little Shop of Horrors and Miss Moffatt, as well as guest roles in The Jeffersons, Cos, and ABC's Keep On Truckin' variety show. Her stage work and music were so iconic at the time, Entertainment Weekly reported, that she actually inspired the role of Lorell in the Broadway production of Dreamgirls.

In 1984, Ramsey appeared as Hooks in the first Police Academy franchise installment and was famous for her catchphrase: "Don't move, dirtbag!" She reprised her role in every sequel except 1994's Police Academy: Mission to Moscow. Following Police Academy 6: City Under Siege in 1989, Ramsey appeared in guest-starring roles and bit parts in shows including MacGyver, Beverly Hills, 90210, and Johnny Bago, as well as voicing D.I. Holler in the animated Addams Family series from 1992 through 1993. Ramsey continued acting through 2018, including two films with her Police Academy co-star Steve Guttenberg, Lavalantula and 2 Lava 2 Lantula.

Tommy Lasorda, the iconic former pitcher and manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, died on Jan. 7, 2021, at age 93 from cardiac arrest.

Lasorda, born in Norristown, Pa., was a Major League Baseball pitcher in the 1940s and 1950s, starting on the Philadelphia Phillies in 1945. Per the National Baseball Hall of Fame, after missing the 1946 and 1947 seasons for a stint in the United States Army, Lasorda made a major comeback in 1948 that garnered attention from the then-Brooklyn Dodgers, who drafted him from the Phillies in 1954. He then played for the Kansas City Athletics, New York Yankees, and Denver Bears.

He worked as a scout for the Dodgers, then a third base coach, working his way up to manager in 1977, followed by a brief stint as general manager in 1998 when Fred Claire was let go in the middle of the season, then senior vice president, followed by special adviser in 2004. While Lasorda was beloved by his teams, his penchant for colorful language rendered him a bit of a frenemy of the press, who often couldn't use his quotes because of his frequent and prolific cursing.

One of Lasorda's most famous quotes was, "If you don't love the Dodgers, there's a good chance you may not get into heaven." If he's right, it's a safe bet the pearly gates were wide open and welcoming of his arrival.

Actor John Reilly died on Jan. 9, 2021, at 86 years old, his daughter, influencer Caitlin Reilly, confirmed to CNN. Reilly, a Chicago native, began his acting career in the 1960s with guest-starring roles in series including Gunsmoke, as well as a six-episode stint as Roy Ralston on Dallas, marking his first official foray into the soap opera genre that would come to define his long career.

Following Dallas, Reilly had guest roles in series including Newhart and Three's Company before a brief recurring role in Dynasty followed by a decade long stint on General Hospital as Sean Donely, the role that made him a household name. He remained in the role of Donely until 1995, reprising the part briefly in 2008 and for the show's 50th anniversary in 2013.

Though General Hospital was Donely's bread and butter, he took other roles as well, including Alistair Crane on Passions, Del Douglas in Sunset Beach, Mike Armstrong in Arli$$, and voicing Hawkeye in the animated Iron Man series.

"John Henry Matthew Reilly AKA Jack. The brightest light in the world has gone out," Caitlin wrote of her father on Instagram. "Imagine the best person in the world. Now imagine that person being your dad. I'm so grateful he was mine. I'm so grateful I got to love him. I'm so grateful I made it in time to hold him and say goodbye."

Siegfried Fischbacher, the last living half of Siegfried & Roy, died on Jan. 13, 2021, following complications with pancreatic cancer, AP reported. He was 81 years old.

Born in Rosenheim, Bavaria, Germany, Fischbacher developed a fascination with magic tricks as a child. He and Roy Horn began working together in 1957 after meeting on a cruise ship, where Horn first served as Siegfried's assistant, then upgraded their performances with animals. Fischbacher and Horn polished their act for several years in their native Germany, as well as in Switzerland, before taking their talents to the United States.

They began their Las Vegas performances a decade later. The duo became sensations, not just for their illusions but also for their work with big cats, including tigers and lions. In 1990, Siegfried & Roy began their residency at The Mirage and extended their contract to a lifetime deal in 2001, with their performances reportedly raking in more than $1 billion.

After a tiger injured Horn during a performance, Fischbacher was asked if he'd ever perform alone. His answer to Larry King could not have been more clear: "It's not in my makeup because this is Siegfried and Roy. Roy gave me always the strength, you know. Like I always say, Siegfried would be not enough and Roy is too much. He pulls me up. He is bigger than life. And that [is] what it means."

Music producer and murderer Phil Spector died on Jan. 16, 2021, from COVID-19 complications, TMZ reported. He was 81 years old and contracted the disease in prison, where he was serving a sentence of 19 years to life for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson. Clarkson was found dead in his home with a bullet in her head. Spector was convicted of murder and began serving his sentence in 2009.

Aside from his criminal record and questionable hair choices, Spector is best known for creating some of the greatest pop songs in history using his signature "Wall of Sound" production style. His first hit, "To Know Him Is To Love Him" by the Teddy Bears, put him on the map to create aural masterpieces from the likes of the Ronettes (whose frontwoman, Veronica "Ronnie Spector" Bennett, would become his wife), the Righteous Brothers, the Beatles, and the Ramones, to name merely a few. According to the New York Times, John Lennon called Spector "the greatest record producer ever," and the Beach Boys' Brian Wilson said Spector was "everything." Outside of his career, however, Spector was largely described by those closest to him as a monster.

Perhaps Bennett, who accused Spector of spousal abuse, said it best: "As I said many times while he was alive, he was a brilliant producer, but a lousy husband. Unfortunately Phil was not able to live and function outside of the recording studio. Darkness set in, many lives were damaged."

Harry Brant, the influencer son of supermodel Stephanie Seymour and mogul Peter Brant, died on Jan. 17, 2021, from a drug overdose. He was 24 years old.

Harry became a fashion scene fixture since he and his older brother, Peter Brant II, were teens, and often pushed the envelope with his styling. The duo had their own cosmetics line for MAC, and both worked modeled for the likes of Balmain and Vogue Italia. A living portrait of nepotism, Harry also worked as a journalist for his father's Interview magazine.

At the time of Harry's death, the Brant family said in a statement to People that he was merely days away from going to rehab, adding, "Harry was not just our son. He was also a wonderful brother, loving grandson, favorite uncle and a caring friend. He was a creative, loving and powerful soul that brought light into so many people's hearts. He was truly a beautiful person inside and out. He achieved a lot in his 24 years, but we will never get the chance to see how much more Harry could have done."

Actress Mira Furlan died at home, surrounded by family, on Jan. 20, 2021, at age 65. According to BBC News, Furlan suffered from complications connected to the West Nile virus and had been ill for some time.

Furlan was born and raised in Yugoslavia (now Croatia), where she was an acclaimed stage and screen actress before moving to the United States with her husband, Serbian actor Goran Gajic, in 1991. Within three years, Furlan starred as Satai Delenn in Babylon 5, though she is likely best known for her role as scientist Danielle Rousseau on Lost from 2004 to 2010.

Babylon 5 creator J. Michael Straczynski recalled that Furlan spoke defiantly of death threats she received for leaving former Yugoslavia, claiming she told him, "What's the worst that could have happened? Yes, they could have killed me. So what? Art should have no borders."

Furlan's Twitter account posted a line from her autobiography when she died: "I look at the stars. It's a clear night and the Milky Way seems so near. That's where I'll be going soon."

Legendary broadcaster Larry King died from COVID-19 complications on Jan. 23, 2021. He was 87 years old.

Born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger in Brooklyn, New York, King's career spanned six decades, and the suspender-clad star was famous for not necessarily asking the hard questions, but for his easygoing nature that allowed his subjects to reveal their true personalities in other ways — as his infamous interview with Jerry Seinfeld showed.

King's career began in Miami, and he became the marquee name for CNN in 1985 with Larry King Live. Throughout the years, King interviewed everyone from the Dalai Lama to Frank Sinatra, Vladimir Putin, Lady Gaga and LeBron James. In 2012, he co-founded the Ora Network and hosted his own online interview series. King's colorful personal life made him as much of a celebrity as his subjects, as the Peabody Award winner was married a whopping eight times (twice to Alene Akins), most recently to Shawn Southwick King, from whom he was reportedly separated but never officially divorced. He had five children, two of whom died within a month of one another in summer 2020.

Since the 1980s, King faced several health struggles, including a heart attack and stroke, but nothing slowed him down. In 2020, King told People, "I have less of a fear of dying now. I'm 86 and it is what it is. I just want to keep working until the end. I'd like to die at work — I'll retire right there!"

Actress Cloris Leachman died on Jan. 27, 2021, at age 94, her manager Juliet Green confirmed to Variety.

Leachman began her seven-decade career as a Miss America contestant in 1946 followed by roles on shows including The Twilight Zone; Lassie; Charlie Wild; Private Detective and Suspense. However, it wasn't until her 40s that she achieved widespread recognition as an actress with her breakout role of Phyllis Lindstrom on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, winning two Emmys for the part and a Golden Globe for her work in her spinoff, Phyllis. She had a total of 19 Emmy nominations, the most ever for any actress, and is tied with Julia Louis-Dreyfus with eight wins. She also won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for The Last Picture Show in 1972.

Leachman appeared in numerous movies, including Mel Brooks classics History of the World: Part 1 and Young Frankenstein, and kept working well into her 70s, 80s, and 90s with roles in The Office, The Longest Yard, Spanglish, Scary Movie 4 and New York, I Love You, and voiced characters in Bob's Burgers, Beavis and Butthead Do America and The Croods.

"There was no one like Cloris," Green said. "With a single look she had the ability to break your heart or make you laugh 'till the tears ran down your face. You never knew what Cloris was going to say or do and that unpredictable quality was part of her unparalleled magic."

Cicely Tyson died on Jan. 28, 2021, at 96 years old, Variety reported. Tyson started as a model before getting her big movie break in 1959 with Odds Against Tomorrow alongside Harry Belafonte. Following a string of TV gigs, she was later nominated for an Oscar for her work in 1972's Sounder.

Tyson wasn't just an acclaimed movie star, as her small screen work was both prolific and critically lauded. Her titular role in The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman won her two Emmys, her performance as Binta in Roots was iconic, and her part in East Side/West Side in 1963 was the first-ever recurring part for a Black actress. Tyson was also a stage staple, starring in multiple productions and winning a Tony Award for The Bountiful in 2013 (via Broadway.com). She continued working through 2020 on Cherish The Day and How To Get Away With Murder. Multiple celebrities have mourned Tyson's death on social media.

Throughout her six-decade career, Tyson vehemently refused to play anyone she deemed detrimental to the image of Black women. While promoting her memoir, Just as I Am, in her final interview just one day before her death, she told Live! With Kelly and Ryan (via the Daily Mail), "I never thought that I would be nominated for an Oscar. Never. But I used to view the event every year and one night I watched it and I said, 'I'm going to sit in that front row one day.' And ... I ended up doing that for the role of Rebecca in Sounder."

Saved By The Bell alum Dustin Diamond, who rose to fame for his portrayal of Samuel "Screech" Powers, died on Feb. 1, 2021, from stage IV lung cancer, TMZ reports. He was 44 years old. The former child star's condition was only diagnosed in mid-January, but quickly worsened as he underwent chemotherapy treatments. "In that time, it managed to spread rapidly throughout his system," his rep stated to The Hollywood Reporter. "... Dustin did not suffer. He did not have to lie submerged in pain. For that, we are grateful." Per TMZ, Diamond's girlfriend was with him at the time of his death.

Diamond had a complicated relationship with his former co-stars after penning the 2009 tell-all book, Behind The Bell, in which he alleged that his castmates — including Mario Lopez, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Elizabeth Berkley, Lark Voorhies, and Tiffani Thiessen — hooked up on set and used drugs. He later apologized and pinned the claims on a ghostwriter. Diamond was missing from several Saved By The Bell reunions, including one on The Tonight Show in 2015, as well as from the 2020 Peacock reboot. While Diamond spoke frequently with Lopez and Dennis Haskins (Principal Belding), Gosselaar revealed in 2019 that he hadn't spoken to Diamond in 25 years.

Diamond's Saved By The Bell co-stars were among the celebs who honored him following his death, including Lopez, who noted on Instagram, "Dustin, you will be missed my man. The fragility of this life is something never to be taken for granted. Prayers for your family will continue on."

Actor, director, and writer Hal Holbrook died on Jan. 23, 2021, at age 95, The New York Times reported. Holbrook was most famous for portraying Mark Twain in a series of one-man shows spanning a whopping six decades, winning a Tony Award for his role in Mark Twain Tonight! in 1966.

Holbrook turned to drama in boarding and military schools in his youth and majored in the subject at Denison University. He performed in productions while serving in World War II, and upon returning home was cast in the soap opera The Brighter Day. By the mid-1950s, Holbrook performed as Twain on The Ed Sullivan Show and made his Broadway debut in 1961 with Do You Know The Milky Way?. He was a stage and screen fixture, especially in television, winning an Emmy for miniseries Lincoln and playing Deep Throat in All The President's Men in 1976. In 2008, Holbrook, then 82, became the oldest actor ever to be nominated for an Academy Award for his role in Into The Wild. His final roles came in guest appearances on Grey's Anatomy and Hawaii Five-O in 2017.

Holbrook, who was married three times (his last to Dixie Carter from 1984 until her death in 2010), said playing Twain was therapeutic, telling SFGate, "Mark Twain's opinions let me express my reactions to the way we behave, the ways we think and don't think and the crazy mistakes we keep making."

British music producer Sophie died on Jan. 30, 2021, their rep confirmed to Pitchfork. Their labels, Transgressive and Future Classic, said in a statement, "True to her spirituality she had climbed up to watch the full moon and accidentally slipped and fell. She will always be here with us."

Sophie rose to fame in the 2010s in the EDM, house, dance, and electronic genres. In 2015, Sophie released the compilation Product, which featured their vocals as well as collaborations with other artists. Three years later, Sophie released their first full album, Oil of Every Pearl's Un-Insides, which was nominated for a Best Dance/Electronic Album Grammy in 2019. It was around this time that Sophie came out as trans. Sophie frequently collaborated with Charli XCX and also worked with artists including Vince Staples and Madonna.

Charli XCX paid tribute to Sophie in an Instagram post, writing in part, "She taught me so much about myself without even realizing. I wish I had told her more how special she was, not just her music, but her as a person. I love you and I will never forget you Sophie.

Christopher Plummer died on Feb. 5, 2021 at age 91, Deadline confirmed. Though perhaps best known for his role of Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music, his career extended far beyond the immortal musical.

On Broadway, Plummer appeared alongside fellow greats, including James Earl Jones, and earned two Tony Awards for his stage work (including one for playing the titular John Barrymore). Plummer won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 2012 for The Beginners, making him the oldest star to ever take home an Academy Award. He won two Emmys throughout his illustrious career, once for The Moneychangers and a second for narrating a kids' Madeline special.

Plummer was born Arthur Christopher Orme Plummer in Toronto and grew up in Montreal, moving to New York City in the 1950s to pursue acting. He got his start on stage and became a critical darling for his Shakespeare roles, then in live television specials. Plummer has over 200 movie and television credits, including The Man Who Would Be King, Waterloo, Fall of The Roman Empire, Star Trek VI, Twelve Monkeys, The Insider, A Beautiful Mind, Must Love Dogs, National Treasure, Syriana, Inside Man, and Knives Out.

Plummer's third wife, Elaine Taylor, was by his side when he died. His longtime manager said of Plummer, in part, "Through his art and humanity, he touched all of our hearts and his legendary life will endure for all generations to come. He will forever be with us."

Alaskan Bush People patriarch Billy Brown died on Feb. 7, 2021 following a seizure, TMZ reported. He was 68 years old. Billy's son, Bear Brown, confirmed the news on his private Instagram account, writing, "He was our best friend — a wonderful and loving dad, granddad and husband and he will be dearly missed. He lived his life on his terms, off the grid and off the land and taught us to live like that as well."

Billy, a Texas native, was a commercial fisherman and hunter. After losing his parents and sister in a plane crash when he was 16 years old, he eventually met wife Ami and moved with her from Texas to Alaska, where they raised their seven children and became reality TV staples on Discovery. In 2017, Ami was diagnosed with advanced stage lung cancer, but she was declared cancer-free following chemotherapy and radiation treatments the following year. Billy's own health struggles were chronicled on the family's reality show. He was shown having a seizure and being rushed to the hospital, and revealing a heart issue after another hospitalization. In 2018, Billy was hospitalized again for an upper respiratory infection. 

Discovery said in a statement to People, "We are devastated to hear of Billy Brown's sudden passing. He has been part of the Discovery family for years — a trailblazer, a lovely man and most definitely one of a kind. Our heart is with his family and those that knew him and loved him as they deal with this devastating loss." 

Mary Wilson, co-founding member of The Supremes, died on Feb. 8, 2021. She was 76 years old. No cause of death was revealed; Variety reported that Wilson died "suddenly."

Wilson was featured on all of The Supremes' No. 1 songs from 1964 through 1969. She remained in the group after Diana Ross' exit in 1970, and was the only charter member when the group split for good in 1977, per The New York Times. Wilson documented the fraught relationship between Ross and the rest of the Supremes in her memoir, Dreamgirl: My Life As A Supreme and said the Broadway production Dreamgirls was an apt retelling of the group's history. "My main thing is that when I was in the group I maintained my position and I didn't step into Diane's position," she told Jet (via Variety), adding, "I'm no longer in the group now. I have my own position to uphold and it's not in the background."

Ross tweeted her "condolences" to Wilson's family, adding that the news of her death "reminded [her] that each day is a gift." Berry Gordy, founder of Motown Records, said in a statement, "I was always proud of Mary. She was quite a star in her own right and over the years continued to work hard to boost the legacy of the Supremes. Mary Wilson was extremely special to me. She was a trailblazer, a diva and will be deeply missed."  Wilson is survived by her daughter, two sons, a sister, brother, 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. 

Hustler founder and free speech advocate Larry Flynt died from heart failure on Feb. 10, 2021 at 78 years old, The New York Times reported.

Flynt amassed a $400 million fortune and, for better or worse, personified the American dream for many: Born in 1942, Flynt dropped out of school at 15 and enlisted in the Army, then sold bootleg booze before joining the Navy. Upon discharge, he bought some bars and founded his signature Hustler Club strip joints in the 1960s, and in 1974, created what would become Hustler magazine to advertise the establishments. Hustler launched to infamy a year after its inception when the magazine published nude photos of a sunbathing Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. He drew the ire of many, getting shot in 1978 and being relegated to a wheelchair for the rest of his life.

Rev. Jerry Falwell sued Flynt for "for $45 million for libel and emotional distress in 1983" after Hustler published a parody story about the Moral Majority televangelist. After a dramatic trial and appeals, the Supreme Court eventually dismissed all charges against Flynt, noting that the article was satire protected by the Constitution. Flynt, who also infamously wore a diaper made from the American flag to court, said of his self-professed "smut peddler" legacy, "If the First Amendment will protect a scumbag like me, then it will protect all of you. Because I'm the worst."

Conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh died on Feb. 17, 2021 following a lung cancer diagnosis. He was 70 years old.

Born in 1951 to a family of Republicans, Limbaugh took advantage of Ronald Reagan's shelving of the Fairness Doctrine to launch his right-wing radio empire in the '80s in California before moving to the New York market. According to The New York Times, Limbaugh peddled what was often misinformation, including lies about "death panels" being a component of the Affordable Care Act, alleging that Barack Obama wasn't an American citizen, and "likening the coronavirus to the common cold," among others. He coined the term "FemiNazis" and was particularly truculent towards women, minorities, the LGBTQ community and victims of HIV and AIDS.

In 2001, Limbaugh revealed he was nearly deaf and underwent cochlear implants and learned to read lips. Five years later, he was arrested for prescription fraud for allegedly doctor shopping for painkillers.

Then-President Donald Trump awarded Limbaugh, a supporter of charities for fallen military and police families, with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2020.

Limbaugh was married four times, most recently to party planner Kathryn Rogers in 2010. He is survived by Rogers and his brother, David.

Actor Yaphet Kotto died on March 15, 2021, at 81 years old, Variety reported. Born and raised in NYC, seeing Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront inspired Kotto, who's survived by wife Tessie Sinahon and six children, to pursue acting, per The New York Times. He worked on stage with Judy Holliday as a mentor, then moved to television, earning an Emmy nomination for his portrayal of Idi Amin in 1977's Raid On Entebbe.

Kotto's physical size impacted his career. "I'm always called 'powerful,' 'bulky' or 'imposing,' or they say I 'fill up a room,'" he told The Baltimore Sun. "I'm a 200-pound, 6-foot 3-inch Black guy, and I think I have this image of a monster. It's very difficult." His film work placed him alongside heavyweights Robert Redford in Brubaker, Robert De Niro in Midnight Run, Roger Moore in Live and Let Die, Arnold Schwarzenegger in The Running Man, and Sigourney Weaver in Alien. His star turn was Homicide: Life on the Street, premiering in 1993.

However, Kotto rejected major roles because of their portrayal of Black characters. "I was offered a part in Glory, which I refused, because for me it purported to be about a Black experience and was really about the white guy. Do you see me taking orders like that?" he told The Globe and Mail (via the NYT). "I couldn't see myself in Driving Miss Daisy either, playing the chauffeur, taking it from some old lady. Some other actor may be able to put that on and make it look real, but I couldn't do it."

On March 23, 2021, actor George Segal died at 87 years old from complications during bypass surgery, per The New York Times. Segal grew up in New York and attended the Actor's Studio, working on Broadway before transitioning to the small and silver screens, refusing to change his name or undergo cosmetic surgery to get ahead and celebrating his Jewish heritage. He explained, "[Segal is] a Jewish name, but not unwieldy. Nor do I think my nose is unwieldy. I think a nose job is unwieldy. I can always spot 'em. Having a nose job says more about a person than not having one."

Segal's most recent role was as Albert "Pops" Solomon in The Goldbergs, but his career spans six decades. In addition to starring in TV adaptations of Of Mice and Men and Death of a Salesman, his film career was stellar, starring in Where's Poppa?, Bye Bye Braverman, Fun With Dick and Jane (alongside Jane Fonda), and The Owl and the Pussycat (with Barbra Streisand). He was nominated for an Oscar for Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, in which he commanded the screen with Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

He also had small but memorable roles in projects like The Cable Guy, Look Who's Talking, and Entourage. "I'm like a cork in the water, aren't I?" he once told The New York Times of his ubiquity. "I keep bobbing up in all sorts of places, although I never know in advance where or when." Segal is survived by his wife, two daughters, two stepsons, one stepdaughter, and three grandchildren.

Comedy icon Jessica Walter died on March 24, 2021, per The New York Times. She was 80 years old. While her career was nearly six decades long, she was most famous for her roles as Lucille Bluth on Arrested Development and Malory Archer in Archer. 

Her first role was in soap opera Love of Life, which led to parts in the film Bye Bye Braverman, as well as TV series The Fugitive, Mission: Impossible, Mannix, Dinosaurs, Columbo, Wonder Woman, 90210, The Love Boat, and a starring role in Three's a Crowd. She earned Emmy nominations for Trapper John, MD and The Streets of San Francisco, as well as Golden Globe nods for her work in Grand Prix and Play Misty for Me. In 2012, she told the AV Club that playing twisted, troubled characters was her favorite forte: "Lucky me, because those are the fun roles. They're juicy, much better than playing the vanilla ingénues, you know — Miss Vanilla Ice Cream."

Walter was married to Tony Award-winning actor Ron Leibman for 36 years until he died in December 2019. She is survived by her daughter, brother, and grandson. Archer creator Adam Reed said in a statement to Deadline, "The Archer family is heartbroken to lose Jessica Walter, our beloved colleague and friend. Jessica was a consummate professional, an actor's actor, and the exact opposite of Malory Archer — warm, caring, and kind, with an absolutely cracking sense of humor — and it was both a privilege and a true honor to work with her over these many years. She will be greatly missed, but never forgotten."

Actor Craig "muMs" Grant died from "complications of diabetes" on March 24, 2021, The New York Times reported. He was 52 years old. 

Grant was born in New York City and worked in the LAByrinth Theater Company with Philip Seymour Hoffman. There, he produced and starred in a hip-hop infused one-man show based on his life called A Sucker Emcee. In his 20s, Grant took on the moniker "muMs," which was shortened from "Mumbles," as was suggested at the time by his fellow rap group members. When his hip-hop career didn't take off, muMs turned to "spoken word poetry," per The Times, which caught the attention of Oz creator Tom Fontana. From there, Grant had a prolific career in television, starring in six seasons of Oz as Poet, as well as appearing on shows including Chappelle's Show, The Sopranos, Luke Cage, and Spike Lee's She's Gotta Have It. His film career was also stellar, with credits in Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance) and Good Time. Prior to his death, Grant was filming the Starz series Hightown and was slated to shoot BET's All the Queen's Men.

"We are heartbroken over the loss of one of the most genuine, caring, loving souls we have ever had the pleasure of representing," Grant's representative said in a statement to People, adding, "muMs was more than our client, he was our dear friend. We all just lost a phenomenal man."

Beloved children's author Beverly Cleary died on March 25, 2021. She was 104 years old.

Cleary was born Beverly Atlee Bunn in McMinnville, Ore. and raised in Yamhill, Ore. She struggled with reading and failed out of first grade, and as a result didn't learn to love books until her family moved to Portland. She was in her grade's lowest-ability reading group, her website notes, which led her to sympathize with struggling readers and eventually to write books that readers of multiple age levels would be able to embrace. Her third grade teacher suggested she become an author, and the idea clearly stuck.

Cleary attended Chaffey Junior College (now Ontario High School) in Ontario, Calif., where she met Clarence Cleary. They married in 1940 and had two children, Marianne and Malcolm, on whom she eventually based her book Mitch and Amy. Cleary penned a total of 39 books, including two memoirs, throughout her long, illustrious life, winning the 1984 John Newbery Medal for Dear Mr. Henshaw and Newbery Honors for Ramona and Her Father and Ramona Quimby, Age 8. She maintained that her inspiration for her books, which sold a whopping 91 million copies and counting, came from children she grew up with in Oregon.

Cleary told People in 2010 that out of all of her characters, she identified most with titular Ellen Tebbits, adding, "But inside, I had Ramona-like thoughts."

Actor Paul Ritter died at home surrounded by his wife, Polly, and sons Noah and Frank on April 6, 2021. Ritter was 54 years old and had been diagnosed with a brain tumor, his representatives confirmed to People.

"Paul was an exceptionally talented actor playing an enormous variety of roles on stage and screen with extraordinary skill," Ritter's rep said in a statement to the outlet. "He was fiercely intelligent, kind and very funny. We will miss him greatly."

Ritter was a fixture in blockbusters, appearing in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and Quantum of Solace, as well as Friday Night Dinner, The Game, Hannibal Rising, The Libertine and TV series Chernobyl. An accomplished stage actor, Ritter won an Olivier Award for Coram Boy in 2006 and a Tony Award in 2009 for The Norman Conquests. According to The Guardian, Ritter will appear posthumously in a 10-year anniversary special for Friday Night Dinner.

Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, died on April 9, 2021 at 99 years old in Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace announced, with the queen expressing her "deep sorrow" over the news. The Duke had previously been hospitalized for nearly a month for a heart condition and went home in March, the BBC reported.

Philip was born in Corfu, Greece in June 2021 to Denmark Greece's Prince Andrew and Princess Alice of Battenberg, a great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria and a daughter of Lord Louis Mountbatten. Philip married Queen Elizabeth II, his third cousin, on Nov. 20, 1947. He was the longest-serving British consort in royal history, retiring at 96 with 22,191 official solo events under his belt.

Before becoming a fixture of the British royals, Philip served in the Navy in World War II and was an accomplished carriage driver, helping to actually create and popularize the sport. Philip and Elizabeth shared four children, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

His youngest son, Prince Edward, previously said of Philip, "My father plain and simply is very modest about himself and doesn't believe in talking about himself. One of his best pieces of advice he gives to everybody is talk about everything else, don't talk about yourself — nobody's interested in you." Ever cheeky and outspoken, Philip himself echoed that in an interview with BBC. When asked if he felt he was successful in his royal role, he scoffed, "I couldn't care less. Who cares what I think about it? I mean, it's ridiculous." 

DMX died on April 9, 2021 following a heart attack and an alleged drug overdose that reportedly left him in a vegetative state. He was 50 years old.

Born Earl Simmons in Mount Vernon, N.Y., DMX rose to fame in 1998 with his debut album It's Dark and Hell Is Hot. His hits included "Get At Me Dog," "Ruff Ryders Anthem," "X Gon' Give It To Ya," "Party Up (Up In Here)," "We Right Here," "Where the Hood At," and "Who We Be." He also appeared in films including Top Five, Belly, Never Die Alone, Romeo Must Die, and Cradle 2 the Grave.

DMX had a troubled personal life, suffering abandonment and abuse as a child. He turned to a life of crime, which resulted, according to GQ, in approximately 30 instances of incarceration. DMX also went to rehab several times for his drug addiction. The rapper tearfully told People's Party With Talib Kweli in November 2020 that his mentor laced a marijuana blunt with crack when DMX was 14. "Why would you do that to a child? He was like 30, and he knew I looked up to him."

DMX is survived by fiancee Desiree Lindstrom and 15 children from various relationships. He previously said of his illustrious career, "I want to say what's on my people's minds, soak up all their pain. I've learned that when I take it all in, I can make one brotha's pain be understood by the world."

Actor Helen McCrory died on April 16, 2021. She was 52 years old.

"I'm heartbroken to announce that after a heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and mighty woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of love from friends and family," her husband, actor Damian Lewis, tweeted. "She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now, Little One, into the air, and thank you."

McCrory told Idler in 2019 that her East African upbringing caused her to "enjoy the minutiae of life." And on the subject of her own personal happiness, she once told Stylist, "I don't know that I've always been confident and self-assured, but I've never been all that self-conscious. I find what's going on around me far more interesting than my own navel."

Best known for playing Polly Gray in Peaky Blinders, the versatile star also portrayed Draco Malfoy's mother in the Harry Potter franchise. Her other big screen credits include Skyfall, The Queen, and Hugo. She voiced a demon in HBO's His Dark Materials and also appeared in Doctor Who. A prolific stage actress as well, McCrory starred in many productions throughout her illustrious career, including Shakespearean works Macbeth and As You Like It, the classic Medea, and Pride and Prejudice.

McCrory is survived by Homeland star Lewis, who she married in 2007, and their two children.

Olympia Dukakis died at 89 on May 1, 2021, her brother Apollo announced on Facebook following "many months of failing health."

Dukakis was born in Massachusetts to Greek born parents and was the cousin of the state's former governor, Michael Dukakis. Olympia worked in theater for years and had bit parts in film and on television before her breakout role as Rose Castorini in Moonstruck in 1987, winning a best supporting actress Oscar. Olympia followed with blockbusters Working Girl, Look Who's Talking (and its sequels Look Who's Talking Too and Look Who's Talking Now) and Steel Magnolias. In 1993, she starred in Tales of the City, a role she reprised in Further Tales of the City in 2001 and the miniseries' 2019 reboot. She also appeared in Bored to Death, Sex & Violence, Forgive Me, and TripTank. She frequently played characters much older than her actual age, starring as then-32-year-old Dustin Hoffman's mother in John and Mary in 1969 when she was just 38. Olympia told The New York Times of her career, "I always played older. I think it was the voice."

Cher tweeted in tribute to her longtime friend, "Olympia played my mom in Moonstruck, & even though her part was that of a suffering wife, we [laughed] all the time. She would tell me how MUCH she loved Louis, her 'handsome, talented, husband.' I talked to her three weeks ago. RIP dear one."

Model-actor Tawny Kitaen died at age 59 on May 7, 2021, TMZ reports. The San Diego-born star began modeling as a teen and quickly rose of the ranks of rock n' roll video vixen in the 1980s. Her first dance with hair metal was as cover model for RATT's early records, and starring in their "Back for More" music video. At the time, Kitaen was dating RATT's guitarist, Robbin Crosby. 

Later starring in Whitesnake's music videos for "Here I Go Again," "Is This Love," "The Deeper the Love," and "Still of the Night," alongside then-real-life beau Dave Coverdale, the couple wed in 1989, but divorced in 1991. Kitaen was later married to baseball player Chuck Finley from 1997 to 2002, when she was arrested for spousal battery (the charges were eventually dismissed). Kitaen also struggled with substance use for years: Arrested for cocaine possession in 2006 and a DUI in 2009, she appeared on "Celebrity Rehab With Dr. Drew" in 2008. She is also known for starring in "Bachelor Party" as Tom Hanks' fiancée, appearing in other movies, like "Witchboard," "White Hot," and "Dead Tides," and guest-starring in the classic "Seinfeld" episode, "The Nose Job."

Kitaen's cause of death wasn't immediately known. She is survived by her and Finley's daughters, Wynter and Raine, who released in a statement to TMZ: "We just want to say thank you for all of you, her fans and her friends, for always showing her such support and love. You gave her life everyday ... We know her legacy will live on forever."

If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Charles Grodin died on May 18, 2021, at his Wilton, Conn., home from bone marrow cancer, The New York Times reported. He was 86.

Born in Pittsburgh, Grodin dropped out of the University of Miami to pursue acting, getting a big break in 1962 with the play Tchin-Tchin on Broadway. More stage work followed, and by 1970, Grodin was an in-demand actor on the small and silver screens as well. Grodin appeared in horror classic Rosemary's Baby in 1968, but his breakout role was in 1970's Catch-22, with his most famous movie roles being The Heartbreak Kid in 1972, King Kong, Heaven Can Wait, and Midnight Run in 1988. He was a late-night comedy show favorite, with Johnny Carson jokingly banning him from The Tonight Show for his faux-angry outbursts.

Later in his career, Grodin became famous for being the patriarch in several movies about very big pooches: Beethoven, Beethoven's 2nd, and Clifford, all featured the comedic icon. In the 2010s, Grodin saw a resurgence in television work with roles in Louie and Law & Order: SVU.

Grodin was a writer as well as an actor, winning an Emmy for contributing to The Paul Simon Special in 1978. He was also an outspoken activist, hosting The Charles Grodin Show on CNBC in the 1990s, and served as a political commentator for 60 Minutes beginning in 2000, as well as on various CBS Radio programs. He is survived by his wife, Elissa Durwood, and two adult children.

Paul Mooney died on May 19, 2021 after suffering a heart attack, TMZ reported. He was 79.

Mooney's first foray into show business was as a ringmaster in a circus. He moved on to comedy, famously penning material for Richard Pryor's iconic live acts and albums, as well as for "The Richard Pryor Show," "Pryor's Place," and Pryor's "Saturday Night Live" appearances. He later wrote for "Sanford and Son," "In Living Color" and, perhaps most famously, "Chappelle's Show," on which he also appeared in recurring sketches "Negrodamus" and "Ask a Black Dude." Mooney had several acting credits to his name as well, including Junebug in "Bamboozled" and singer Sam Cooke in "The Buddy Holly Story."

Mooney was particularly proud of reclaiming the N-word in his and Pryor's work, explaining in his memoir "Black Is The New White," "When Richard and I use it on stage in front of an audience with both white and black folks in it, we are saying something that white people can't. It's forbidden to them, but allowed to us. Ain't too many things like that. It's liberating."

Dave Chappelle paid tribute to Mooney in a brief interview with TMZ. "I want to shout out every comedian on Earth, one of the best that ever did it ... his legacy will live forever," he said, adding that Mooney was one of the first Black writers to join the Writers Guild. "Paul Mooney will be sorely missed, and wildly remembered. I'll see to that."

Perhaps most famous for portraying the recurring character of Billy Merchant on NBC's "The Office," actor Mark York died on May 19, 2021, at Ohio's Miami Valley Hospital, Variety reported. York's cause of death is reportedly an unspecified but sudden illness. He was 55 years old.

York attended Anderson University in Ohio. After doing some print modeling, the aspiring actor moved to California, where he pursued the craft. A "paraplegic since 1988," per Variety, his onscreen credits included appearances on "8 Simple Rules," "Fighting Words," and "CSI: NY," as well as uncredited roles in "A.I.: Artificial Intelligence" and "Going All the Way." However, York was best known for his gig as the Scranton office park property manager in the early seasons of "The Office," especially the Season 2 episode called "The Injury," in which he speaks at a disability awareness meeting for Dunder Mifflin. Following his success on popular comedy series, York became an inventor and received at least two patents before his death (via TMZ). 

According to his obituary, per Variety, York "always tried to look at what he could accomplish and do, not what he couldn't do. He had experienced many travel opportunities and many dreams for the future." He was also known for his "outgoing, uplifting, positive attitude and personality." York is survived by his parents, Becky and Glenn York, and three brothers.

Samuel E. Wright, most famous for voicing Sebastian the Crab in Disney's animated "The Little Mermaid," died on May 24, 2021, following a three-year battle with prostate cancer, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed. He was 74 years old.

Wright got his start on Broadway in "Jesus Christ Superstar" in 1971, followed by "Pippin." He starred in the sitcom "Ball Four" in 1976, then was a cop in the 1980 "Dukes of Hazzard" spinoff series "Enos." In 1984, he got his first Tony Award nomination for "The Tap Dance Kid." His second came in 1998 for his portrayal of Mufasa in Disney's Broadway production of "The Lion King." He also starred in the film "Bird," directed by Clint Eastwood, as jazz icon Dizzy Gillespie.

Wright's turn as the cantankerous composer crab was his most illustrious, and his vocals contributed to the Best Original Song Oscar win for "Under the Sea;" his lead on "Kiss the Girl" was nominated in the same category. He reprised the role of Sebastian and recorded voiceovers and songs for prequels, sequels, and other appearances under the Disney umbrella.

He told the Los Angeles Times in 1991 that he approached all of his roles "with the same fervor" to build his legacy. "Maybe not every actor would say this, but if I didn't want to be immortal, I wouldn't be acting. I do want to make my little mark on the world."

Musician Kevin Clark, who starred in "School of Rock" as a child, died on May 26, 2021, at age 32, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. Clark was riding his bicycle when he was struck by a vehicle and died at a nearby hospital.

Clark, who played drums in the film, had no plans on being an actor, his mother told the outlet, but loved music and also played violins, piano, and guitar. After "School of Rock," Clark taught music at a local School of Rock location and was in several bands, including Dreadwolf and Funk It Let's Jam.

Upon Clark's death, Black posted photos with the drummer from their 2003 film together as well as hanging out in 2018 on Instagram. "Devastating news," Black wrote. "Kevin is gone. Way too soon. Beautiful soul. So many great memories. Heartbroken. Sending love to his family and the whole 'School of Rock' community."

Clark's mother, Allison, told the Times, "He loved music. He's just [a] raw talent. He's got a heart of gold."

Actor Gavin MacLeod died on May 29, 2021, at age 90, The New York Times reported. No cause of death has been reported as of this writing, though he had suffered unspecified health issues. MacLeod was born Allan George See. He was raised in upstate New York and got a degree in drama from Ithaca College before joining the Air Force, then moved to New York City, where he met his first wife, Rockette Joan Rootvik.

MacLeod worked onstage and with bit parts for years, including guest roles on "Perry Mason," and "The Untouchables." He was a series regular as Seaman Joseph "Happy" Haines on "McHale's Navy," but lamented that he was underused. He became depressed and began drinking; he tried to drive off the road and take his own life, but stopped himself and turned to actor Robert Blake for help getting psychiatric treatment. He quit "McHale's Navy" after two seasons and finally achieved notoriety in his 40s with his breakthrough role of Murray Slaughter on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Mere weeks after the show wrapped its final season, MacLeod was cast as Captain Stubing on "The Love Boat" from 1977 to 1986.

He married his second wife, dancer Patti Kendig, in 1974. They divorced in 1982 but remarried in 1985 after becoming born-again Christians.

Singer B.J. Thomas died on May 26, 2021, from stage 4 lung cancer, People reported. He was 78 years old.

"I just wanted to take this unique opportunity to share my gratitude to Gloria, my wonderful wife and my rock for over 53 years, my family, friends, and fans," Thomas said in a statement at the time of his diagnosis. "I'm so blessed to have had the opportunity to record and perform beautiful songs in pop, country, and gospel music, and to share those wonderful songs and memories around the world with millions of you. I ask all of you for your prayers during this time and that my music can live on with you."

Thomas is best known for songs "Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head," featured in "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," and the smash "Hooked On a Feeling." Following struggles with addiction, Thomas embraced gospel music, winning five Grammys, and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

He said of himself before his death, "All I am is just another guy. I've been very lucky. I've had a wonderful life, I've been a husband and a father who cherishes his children and now I'm a grandfather, and I'm motivated like all these teachers and preachers and mothers and fathers to help my kids grow up with character and self-respect. I hope that doesn't sound too grandiose, but that's what it comes down to. It's what I've tried to do with my music and with the majority of my life."

Actor Joe Lara died on May 29, 2021 alongside his wife, Gwen Shamblin, and several friends. The group was traveling in a small plane that in crashed into Percy Priest Lake near Nashville, Tenn., TMZ reported. Lara was 58 and Shamblin 66. All seven passengers were found dead after a search and rescue operation. According to USA Today, Lara and another passenger were licensed pilots, but Lara's medical certification had expired in 2017 and neither he nor the other pilot on board were actually qualified to fly the Cessna 500. USA Today reported that an alarm went off in the cockpit shortly before the crash, indicating the 1982 aircraft may have had a mechanical issue shortly after takeoff.

Born William J. Lara (per the AP), Lara is best known for playing Tarzan in the TV movie "Tarzan in Manhattan" in 1989, followed by "Tarzan: The Epic Adventures," another TV movie, in 1996. His turn as Tarzan and his alter ego, John Clayton, led to a "Tarzan: The Epic Adventures" TV series from 1996 to 2000. He also appeared in episodes of "Baywatch," "Tropical Heat," "The Magnificent Seven," and "Conan," as well as numerous TV and straight-to-video movies, including "American Cyborg: Steel Warrior." He released a country music album in 1999.

In 2018, Lara married Shamblin, founder of the Remnant Fellowship Church and the controversial faith-based weight loss program Weigh Down Workshop. They shared and are survived by three children.

Actor Clarence Williams III died on June 4, 2021. TMZ reported Williams was 81 years old and died from colon cancer.

After serving two years in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper, Williams found fame as an actor in the 1960s, first on Broadway, winning a Tony for his role in "Slow Dance on the Killing Ground." In 1979, he returned to the stage with "Night and Day."

Williams gained notoriety for his role of Detective Linc Hayes in "The Mod Squad." He also appeared in series including "Miami Vice," "Twin Peaks," "Star Trek," and "Tales from the Crypt." Williams was also a fixture in movies, with roles in "The General's Daughter," "The Butler," and "Tales From the Hood," among others. His biggest silver screen breakout roles were largely considered to be his turn as Prince's domineering father in "Purple Rain," a drug lord in commercial flop-turned-cult classic "Half-Baked" alongside Dave Chappelle, and as jazz icon Jelly Roll Morton in "The Legend of 1900." He also appeared in the 2007 hit "American Gangster."

In 1995, Williams told the Los Angeles Times of his legacy, "I like acting. My ego is not tied into walking on the set and having director on my chair. It's about the work. ... After the final analysis, after all the toys you've purchased and all the money you have made, I would like to have some record of some quality portraits I tried to do."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Williams is survived by sister Sondra Pugh, daughter Jamey Phillips, a niece, a grandniece and two grandnephews.

Veteran actor Ned Beatty died on June 13, 2021, at age 83.

Beatty was born in Louisville and attended Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, where he studied music. He began his career in regional theater, doing "13 to 15 shows a year," according to The New York Times.

Beatty's first onscreen role was a darkly iconic one: He starred as Bobby in "Deliverance," and his character suffers a brutal rape in the woods after being commanded to "squeal like a pig." He garnered over a whopping 150 screen credits following "Deliverance," including movies "All the President's Men," "Superman," "Superman II," "Exorcist II: The Heretic," "Back to School," "The Incredible Shrinking Woman" and 1990's "Captain America." He was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 1976's "Network."

Beatty also had recurring roles in "Szysznyk," "The Rockford Files," "The Boys," and as Ed Conner, father to John Goodman's Dan, in "Roseanne." He also voiced the instantly iconic Lots-o'-Huggin' Bear ("Lotso" for short) in "Toy Story 3."

Beatty relished being a consummate character actor, telling The New York Times in 1977, "Stars never want to throw the audience a curve ball, but my great joy is throwing curve balls. Being a star cuts down your effectiveness as an actor, because you become an identifiable part of a product and somewhat predictable. You have to mind your p's and q's and nurture your fans. But I like to surprise the audience, to do the unexpected."

Lisa Banes died on June 14, 2021, 10 days after she was struck by a scooter in a hit-and-run accident in Manhattan, TMZ reported. She was 65 years old.

Banes had 86 screen credits to her name, as well as numerous stage roles. Born in Cleveland and raised in Colorado Springs, she studied at Juilliard and quickly became a fixture on East Coast stages. In 1988 alone, she made her Broadway debut in "Rumors" and also starred as Bonnie alongside Tom Cruise in "Cocktail," widely regarded as her Hollywood breakout performance. She went on to star in several TV series and miniseries, including "Royal Pains" and "Hemingway," and also made guest appearances in shows like "Roseanne," "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," "Frasier," "NYPD Blue," "Six Feet Under," "The King of Queens," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," "Desperate Housewives," "Madam Secretary," and "Masters of Sex," to name just a few. One of her most recent TV credits was on "The Orville," while her most recent film roles were Hollis in "A Cure for Wellness" and as Amazing Amy's mother, Marybeth Elliott, in "Gone Girl."

She is survived by her journalist wife, Kathryn Kranhold. Banes' manager, David Williams, said in a statement (via CNN), "We are heartsick over Lisa's tragic and senseless passing. She was a woman of great spirit, kindness and generosity and dedicated to her work, whether on stage or in front of a camera and even more so to her wife, family and friends. We were blessed to have had her in our lives."

Frank Bonner died on June 16, 2021. He was 79 years old. After a battle with Lewy body dementia, the actor died in his California home, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Bonner was born in Arkansas as Frank Woodrow Boers Jr., and served in the Navy for six years before appearing in his first film, "The Equinox...A Journey Into the Supernatural." He made guest appearances in shows including "Mannix" before hitting it big as sales manager Herb Talek in "WKRP in Cincinnati" from 1978 to 1982, reprising the role in "The New WKRP in Cincinnati" from 1991 through 1993. He also starred in "Growing Pains" spinoff "Just the Ten of Us" and appeared in shows including "Newhart," "Night Court," and "Murder, She Wrote." In addition to his onscreen work, Bonner directed several episodes of each "WKRP" series, as well as episodes of other TV shows, including "Saved By the Bell: The New Class," "Who's The Boss?," "Head of the Class," "Family Ties," and "City Guys."

Bonner is survived by his wife, Gayle, daughters Desiree and DeAndra, and sons Justin and Matthew.

John Paragon, most famous for playing Jambi the Genie in "Pee-wee's Playhouse," died sometime in April 2021, but his death went unreported until June 2021. TMZ reported that the coroner claimed Paragon's cause of death was "atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease [heart disease] with other significant conditions of chronic alcohol abuse." The multi-talent was 66 years old.

Paragon got his start in show business performing with The Groundlings improv troupe, where he met Paul Reubens. They developed "The Pee-wee Herman Show" as a stage show and adapted it to "Pee-Wee's Playhouse" for television, with the show running from 1986 to 1991. In addition to playing Jambi, Paragon voiced Pterri the Pterodactyl and served as a writer on the kids' series. For his work on "Pee-wee's Playhouse," he was nominated for five Emmys, including three for outstanding writing in a children's series and two for directing.

Though most famous for playing the expressive, blue magic man, Paragon had an acclaimed and colorful career elsewhere in television, with roles on hit shows including "Cheers," "Seinfeld," and "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine," as well as movies like "Airplane II: The Sequel" and "Honey I Blew Up the Kid." His most recent work was with Walt Disney Imagineering, TMZ reported, working to bring improvisational performances to Disney park attractions.

Blackalicious rapper Gift of Gab died on June 18, 2021, at 50 years old, Rolling Stone reported. 

Born Timothy Jerome Parker in Sacramento, California, he met his future bandmate, Xavier "DJ Chief XCel" Mosley, at John F. Kennedy High School in the city. They reunited when Mosley attended University of California Davis — and Blackalicious was born. Parker adopted the moniker "Gift of Gab," and the group released several EPs before dropping their first full-length album, "Nia," in 1999. Their debut featured their hit, "Alphabet Aerobics," which showcased Parker's gift not just of gab in general, but of genius-level wordplay.

In addition to his work with Blackalicious, Parker also released three solo albums and was part of the Quannum Projects rap collective. He reportedly has up to 100 other completed tracks that are yet to be released, and counts "Harry Potter" star Daniel Radcliffe among his biggest fans, with the actor paying tribute to Parker in a 2015 episode of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon."

Parker had type 1 diabetes and suffered kidney failure in 2014. He underwent dialysis frequently and got a kidney transplant in 2020. Quannum Projects said in a statement to TMZ that Parker "is survived by two brothers, one sister, many nieces and nephews, countless friends, and fans across the globe." The statement added, "We ask that the family's privacy is respected as we mourn the tremendous loss of our dear brother."

Johnny Solinger died on June 26, 2021, at just 55 years old. The singer reportedly suffered liver failure and announced his diagnosis on Facebook a month before his death. A GoFundMe was established to help pay Solinger's medical bills, with his wife, Paula, noting in an update post that she was "holding his hand" when he died and that "he went in peace."

Solinger joined the band Skid Row in 1999 after frontman Sebastian Bach exited the group, and sung on albums like "Thickskin," "Revolutions per Minute," "United World Rebellion," and "Rise of the Damnation Army." Per Deadline, he remained in Skid Row until 2015, when he stepped down and Tony Harnell took over the group's lead vocals duties.

Skid Row paid tribute to Solinger on Instagram, writing, "We are saddened to hear the news of our brother Johnny Solinger. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans. Godspeed Singo. Say hello to Scrappy for us." "Scrappy" was the affectionate nickname of Solinger's grandfather, Willard Jesse "Scrappy" Smith, who inspired the title of one of Solinger's solo efforts.

"General Hospital" star Stuart Damon died on June 29, 2021, after suffering from renal failure for many years, Variety reported. He was 84 years old.

Damon was born in Brooklyn, New York and began acting on Broadway a year after graduating from Brandeis University. He got his big break in television playing Prince Charming in a 1965 CBS production of "Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella," then spent time in London doing TV and stage work. In 1977, Damon was cast in "General Hospital" as Dr. Alan Quartermaine. He would stay in the role for more than three decades, reprising the part in its spinoff, "Port Charles." He won his first Daytime Emmy for best supporting actor in a drama series in 1999 after being nominated six other times throughout his tenure on the ABC soap operas.

After "General Hospital" and "Port Charles," Damon went on to star in "Days of Our Lives" and "As the World Turns," and also appeared in other shows, including "Yanks Go Home" and "Fantasy Island." According to Variety, he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Deirdre Ottewill, as well as their adult son and daughter.

Director Richard Donner died on July 5, 2021, at age 91.

Donner was born Richard Donald Schwartzberg in the Bronx in April 1930. He developed his love of film at a young age when he and his sister would visit their grandfather's Brooklyn movie theater and when he worked as a valet at a summer theater, The New York Times reported. After joining the Navy as a teenager, Donner studied business at night at New York University but left the program after two years. He got work as an actor in commercials and television, where he encountered director Martin Hitt, who encouraged Donner to pursue directing.

Donner went on to direct some high-profile TV projects, including the classic "Twilight Zone" episode "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet." His first feature film was "The Omen" in 1976, which was the year's fifth highest-grossing movie. He helmed 1978's "Superman," starring Christopher Reeve, as well as hits including kids classic "The Goonies," "Scrooged" starring Bill Murray, and the "Lethal Weapon" series, featuring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover. Later, Donner and his wife, Lauren Shuler Donner, would produce hits like "X-Men," "Deadpool" and "Free Willy."

"Goonies" star Sean Astin tweeted, "Richard Donner had the biggest, boomiest voice you could imagine. He commanded attention and he laughed like no man has ever laughed before. Dick was so much fun. What I perceived in him, as a 12 year old kid, is that he cared. I love how much he cared. – Goonies Never Say Die."

Suzzanne Douglas died on July 6, 2021, according to a Facebook post from her cousin, Angie Tee. Douglas was 64 years old; no cause of death has been reported as of this writing.

Douglas was most famous for playing matriarch Jerri Peterson on "The Parent 'Hood," but her career extended far beyond the Robert Townsend sitcom. She earned an NAACP Image Award for her supporting role in "Tap" and also appeared in "The Parkers," "Bull," "The Good Wife," "Law & Order: SVU" and "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," as well as movies including "How Stella Got Her Groove Back," "School of Rock," "Jason's Lyric" and "When They See Us." Her most recent role was as Ann Solomon in 2020's "Really Love."

In addition to her screen work, Douglas was a Broadway star as well as an accomplished "singer and composer," according to her official bio. She held a Master in Music degree from the Manhattan School of Music and toured with everyone from Jon Faddis to T.S. Monk to Kenney Burrell.

Director Ava DuVernay, who worked with Douglas for "When They See Us," honored the star on Twitter. "Suzzanne Douglas was a quiet, elegant force as we made 'WHEN THEY SEE US,'" DuVernay wrote. "A gentlewoman. A gem of a lady. A confident, caring actor who breathed life into the words and made them shimmer. I'm grateful that our paths in this life crossed. May she journey on in peace and love."

Charles Robinson died on July 11, 2021 at 75 years old. Robinson reportedly suffered from cardiac arrest, septic shock, and cancer.

Robinson had an illustrious acting career for over 50 years. Best known for his role of court clerk Mac in "Night Court," Robinson's work went far beyond the sitcom. Per Variety, he began his show business career as a musician, singing in various R&B groups including The Drells, Southern Clouds of Joy, and Archie Bell.

Robinson enrolled in theater school in the 1960s, and by the 1970s starred in "Drive, He Said," "Sugar Hill," "The Black Gestapo," "Gray Lady Down" and appeared in "Apocalypse Now." On the small screen, he had guest roles and bit parts in several series, including "Firehouse," "Cannon," "Hill Street Blues," and "St. Elsewhere" before landing his starring role in "Night Court" in 1982.

After nine seasons, "Night Court" adjourned for good in 1992, freeing Robinson up for more projects. He appeared in "Love and War" (including directing an episode), "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "The John Larroquette Show," "Home Improvement," "Malcolm & Eddie," "House," "30 Rock," "This Is Us," "Mom," "Cold Case" and "Key and Peele." On the big screen, he appeared in "Set It Off" and "The House Bunny," among others. His most recent project was "Love in the Time of Corona," in which his wife, Dolorita, co-starred as his nurse.

Robinson is survived by Dolorita; sons Luca, Charlie, Christian and Byron; and his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and daughters-in-law

Robert Downey Sr., filmmaker, actor and father of Oscar-nominated actor and Avenger Robert Downey Jr., died on July 9, 2021 at 85 years old.

Downey Jr. announced his father's death on Instagram, writing, "Last night, dad passed peacefully in his sleep after years of enduring the ravages of Parkinson's..he was a true maverick filmmaker, and remained remarkably optimistic throughout. According to my stepmom's calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years. Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint, and our thoughts and prayers are with you."

Born Robert John Elias Jr., Downey took his stepfather's last name when he enlisted in the Army. He went on to write and direct numerous cult films, including his breakout, "Putney Swope," which was a devastating satire on racism in corporate America, as well as "Pound," which featured human actors (including his future-Iron Man son) playing dogs waiting to be euthanized. Downey was arrested while making "No More Excuses," in which he starred as a Confederate soldier who traveled in time: He marched, in full Civil War regalia, onto the field during a live baseball game asking where the "yankees" were.

Downey, who was married three times (first to Elsie Ford, mother to his two children), also did more serious work, per Variety, as in "Hugo Pool," which raised awareness of ALS after his second wife Laura died from the disease.

Downey is survived by son Downey Jr., daughter Allyson Downey, and third wife Rosemary Rogers.

Biz Markie died on July 16, 2021 at age 57. No cause of death was given, but The New York Times reported that a previous Type 2 diabetes diagnosis spurred the rapper to drop 140 pounds in an effort to regain his health.

Born Marcel Theo Hall in New York City and raised in Long Island, Markie began his career as a DJ, featuring on other artists' efforts. He dropped his debut album, "Goin' Off," in 1988. Markie's breakout was the indelible "Just a Friend" from his sophomore album, 1989's "The Biz Never Sleeps." Markie was viral before "viral" was a term, thanks to his Mozart wig and vocals on the hook, which sampled "You Got What I Need" by Freddie Scott. Markie was simultaneously praised and knocked by critics for his singing, which he revealed in 2019 was never intended to be on the song at all.

"A lot of people didn't like the record at the beginning," he told Entertainment Weekly for the tune's 30th anniversary. "They would say, 'Biz is trying to sing? Aw, the record is wack.' But I wasn't supposed to sing the [chorus]. I asked people to sing the part, and nobody showed up at the studio, so I did it myself."

In 1991, he was at the center of a lawsuit that changed sampling in the music industry forever. Later, he began acting, often as himself, and continued to make music, collaborating with the Flaming Lips and Kesha, among others. Markie is survived by his wife.

Comedian Jackie Mason died on July 24, 2021 at 93 years old.

Mason was born Yacov Moshe Maza in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and raised in New York City. He came from a family of rabbis and was ordained himself. He left the profession after his father's death in 1959, when he finally pursued comedy in earnest. He began his comedy career in the Catskills, but initially struggled to get booked in clubs in New York City, which he said he believed was because his accent rubbed Jewish audiences the wrong way. In 1960, Jan Murray connected him with Steve Allen, who gave him his first TV gigs.

Mason became a TV regular, recorded two albums and frequently appeared on "The Ed Sullivan" show until 1964, when Sullivan believed Mason flipped him the bird on air. Afterward, Mason was largely blacklisted from the industry. Mason sued over the incident and won in court, but his reputation was damaged for nearly two decades. His work was poorly reviewed during this time, and his finances took a hit as well.

He made a comeback in the 1980s, winning a Tony for one-man show "The World According to Me!" and an Emmy for the TV adaptation; his second Emmy came for a guest stint as Krusty the Clown's father on "The Simpsons." However, his career later hit another slump when he allegedly used a Yiddish racial slur regarding New York City mayoral candidate David N. Dinkins, then again later about Barack Obama.

Joey Jordison died on July 26, 2021 at 46 years old. As of this writing, the cause of death is unknown, though TMZ reports "no foul play is suspected."

Born Nathan Jonas Jordison in Des Moines, Iowa, Jordison began playing drums when he was just eight years old. He co-founded metal band Slipknot in 1995 and played with the group for 18 years, playing an integral role in the formation and molding of the band's signature sound: He was so revered that he was chosen as an emergency fill-in for Metallica's Lars Ulrich in 2004.

He left the band in 2013, though it's unclear whether he quit (as the remaining Slipknot members alleged) or if he was fired, as he claimed himself. In 2016, Jordison revealed he was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis, a neurological disorder that impaired the function of hs left leg, and thus, his ability to play drums. Jordison later told Metal Hammer that he suspects his former bandmates thought he was on drugs at the time, but that he held no ill will toward them.

Jordison went on to play drums for several other acts and form his own band, Vimic. Speaking with Metal Hammer, which described him as "an unstoppable force of nature," Jordison said, "I have this weird-a** condition, but it doesn't limit me and I'm getting better all the time. ... You live your life the way you want to, and get the work done! This is the best f***ing job in the world. I'm never gonna stop."

ZZ Top bassist Joseph "Dusty" Hill died on July 27, 2021, at 72 years old. "We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX," ZZ Top's rep confirmed in a statement (via Variety). "We, along with legions of ZZ Top fans around the world, will miss your steadfast presence, your good nature and enduring commitment to providing that monumental bottom to the 'Top.' We will forever be connected to that 'Blues Shuffle in C.' You will be missed greatly, amigo."

Hill played cello during his school days, but switched to the electric bass as an adult, performing around the Houston area with fellow ZZ Top founding member, drummer Frank Beard — they met bandmate and guitarist Billy Gibbons in their performing circuit. In 1970, they all played a show together and, effectively, ZZ Top was born. Releasing their first album the following year, the group first went platinum with 1979's "Degüello," but soared to superstardom in the 1980s thanks to their album, "Eliminator," and hits like "Legs," "Sharp Dressed Man," and "Gimme All Your Lovin'." Having been immortalized in 1990's "Back to the Future III," ZZ Top continued making and releasing music over the span of 50 years, with their most recent album being 2012's "Futura." The band was also inducted into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.

ZZ Top is still together, per Hill's wishes, with their longtime guitar tech, Elwood Francis, playing bass. Hill is survived by wife Charleen McCrory and their daughter.

Comedian, writer, actor and producer Trevor Moore died on Aug. 6, 2021 from an unspecified accident, Deadline reported. He was 41 years old.

Moore was born in Montclair, N.J., and grew up in Virginia. He "became the world's youngest published cartoonist" when he was just 12 years old. At 16, he got a production deal for comedy shows on local affiliate stations, followed by an internship under "Saturday Night Live" executive producer Lorne Michaels in 1999. While in New York City, he also co-founded the Whitest Kids You Know sketch troupe, which went on to have a five-season TV series on IFC and two films, "Miss March" and "The Civil War on Drugs." He also had a self-titled show on Comedy Central and was a writer and director of DisneyXD's "Walk the Prank."

Moore's wife, Aimee Carlson, said in a statement, "We are devastated by the loss of my husband, best friend and the father of our son. He was known as a writer and comedian to millions, and yet to us he was simply the center of our whole world. We don't know how we'll go on without him, but we're thankful for the memories we do have that will stay with us forever. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received from everyone. This is a tragic and sudden loss and we ask that you please respect our privacy during this time of grieving." He is survived by Carlson and their son, August.

Kool & the Gang founding member Dennis "Dee Tee" Thomas died on Aug. 7, 2021 at 70 years old. The band announced in a statement on Facebook that Thomas died in his sleep at home; no cause of death has yet been reported.

The statement said in part, "An original member of Kool & the Gang, Dennis was known as the quintessential cool cat in the group, loved for his hip clothes and hats, and his laid-back demeanor. A huge personality while also an extremely private person, Dennis was the alto saxophone player, flutist, percussionist as well as master of ceremonies at the band's shows." Thomas was also credited with being the band's "wardrobe stylist" as well as their "budget hawk," his nickname for carrying their cash around in a paper bag.

Thomas was born in Orlando, Florida, and formed Kool & the Gang in 1964 with friends Ronald "Khalis" Bell, Robert "Kool" Bell, Spike Mickens, Ricky Westfield, George Brown, and Charles Smith. The band won two Grammys and seven American Music Awards, had over 30 top 10 hits across multiple charts, and over 30 gold or platinum albums. Their most famous song was "Celebration," which Thomas played with the band on July 4, 2021 at the Hollywood Bowl — at what would become his final performance.

Per the band's FB announcement, Thomas "is survived by his wife Phynjuar Saunders Thomas; daughter, Tuesday Rankin; sons, David Thomas and Devin Thomas; Aunt Mary 'Duggie' Jones; sisters Doris Mai McClary and Elizabeth Thomas Ross; brother, Bill Mcleary; and a host of nieces, nephews and grandchildren."

Jay Pickett died on July 30, 2021. He was 60 years old.

Pickett, an actor best known for his work on "General Hospital" and "Days of Our Lives," died suddenly on the set of the film, "Treasure Valley," in Idaho. The film's director, Travis Mills, recalled to The New York Times, "We were getting ready to film this scene, and he was just sitting there on horseback" when he slumped over. Mills said that CPR was performed on Pickett, but paramedics pronounced him dead on the scene.

Pickett, a fan of westerns, was raised in Idaho, and "Treasure Valley," which he also wrote, served as a homecoming for him: He'd attended Treasure Valley Community College, where he met his wife Elena Bates. He also played football and earned a theater arts degree at Boise State University. He got a masters in theater arts from University of California Los Angeles, then nabbed roles in hit shows, including "Mr. Belvedere," "Dragnet" and "Matlock."

In 1991, Pickett made his debut in a 34-episode run of "Days of Our Lives" as Dr. Chip Lakin. In 1997, Pickett began his long-running role of Frank Scanlon on "Port Charles," a role he'd maintain through 2003. Three years later, he nabbed his final soap opera role as Det. David Harper on "General Hospital," a role he'd keep until 2008.

Pickett is survived by wife Elena, four siblings, son Tyler, and daughters Maegan and Michaela.

Markie Post died on Aug. 7, 2021 following nearly four years of cancer treatments, Deadline confirmed. She was 70 years old.

Post first worked behind the scenes as an associate producer for "Double Dare" and on the editorial staff of "Family Feud." Her first onscreen role came in the 1978 TV movie "Frankie and Annette: The Second Time Around." Roles on hit series "CHiPs," "Cheers," "The Incredible Hulk," "Barnaby Jones," "The Lazarus Syndrome," "Hart to Hart" and "Eight Is Enough," among others, followed. She had multiple appearances on "The Love Boat," "Fantasy Island" and "The A-Team" as well, before starring in "The Fall Guy" from 1982 to 1985. Post's most famous television role was as public defender Christine Sullivan in "Night Court" from 1984 through 1992.

Following "Night Court," Post worked consistently, with roles on "Scrubs," "Chicago P.D." — even playing herself on "30 Rock." On the big screen, she played mom to Cameron Diaz's Mary in "There's Something About Mary." She worked through cancer treatment with roles in "The Kids Are Alright" and the Lifetime holiday movie "Four Christmases and a Wedding."

Post is survived by husband Michael A. Ross, daughters Kate Armstrong Ross and Daisy Schoenborn and a granddaughter. Her family said in a statement, "But for us, our pride is in who she was in addition to acting; a person who made elaborate cakes for friends, sewed curtains for first apartments and showed us how to be kind, loving and forgiving in an often harsh world."

Don Everly, the last surviving member of the Everly Brothers, died on August 21, 2021. He was 84 years old.

The sons of country singers, Don (born Isaac Donald Everly) and his brother Phil Everly were some of the earliest white pioneers of rock n' roll, achieving fame in the early 1950s with hits including "Wake Up Little Susie," "Bye Bye Love," "Bird Dog," "Cathy's Clown" and the slower-tempo "All I Have to Do Is Dream." Per The New York Times, the Everly Brothers landed a Top Ten hit "every four months from 1957 to 1961." Rolling Stone declared them "one of rock's earliest and most influential harmony groups," which provided inspiration for other iconic harmonizing acts, including Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles, and The Beach Boys.

The band's success began to dwindle in the 1960s, as both Don and Phil enlisted in the Marines, and The Beatles took over the pop charts. The brothers also struggled with addiction. In 1973, Phil broke a guitar and abruptly left a show in California, at which point Don announced to the crowd the band's breakup, reportedly saying, "The Everly Brothers died 10 years ago." They reunited in 1983, and in 1986, became inaugural members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The Everly Brothers won a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 1997 and in 2001 were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Don is survived by his mother, Margaret Everly, his wife, Adela Garza, musician son Edan Everly, three daughters, and several grandchildren. Phil died in 2014.

Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts died on August 24, 2021. AP News reported he was 80 years old.

Watts' cause of death was not specified, but his publicist announced that he died in a hospital. Watts had previously announced he couldn't make the Rolling Stones' scheduled 2021 tour due to "an unspecified medical issue," per Yahoo!.

Born Charles Robert Watts in London, Watts was a lifelong fan of jazz and accomplished self-taught drummer in the genre. He didn't actually get into rock and roll until he temporarily roomed with his future Rolling Stones bandmates in the early 1960s, explaining (via AP News), "Keith Richards taught me rock and roll. We'd have nothing to do all day and we'd play these records over and over again. I learned to love Muddy Waters. Keith turned me on to how good Elvis Presley was, and I'd always hated Elvis up 'til then."

Throughout his tenure with the Stones, Watts largely steered clear of their hard partying, though he battled heroin addiction in the 1980s. He remained happily married to wife Shirley, who he credited with getting him clean, and famously hated life on the road.

Much ado has been said about Watts' alleged conflicting love of both rock and roll and jazz, but in a rare 1991 interview with the Los Angeles Times, he said, "This whole thing about classifying music (by category) is only useful when you walk into a record store ... The rest of the time it's the quality of the music that is important. ... The truth is there is so much good music in lots of styles that you are limiting yourself if you only listen to jazz or rock or pop or classical."

Watts is survived by Shirley, his daughter Seraphina, and his granddaughter, Charlotte.

Michael Nader died at home in California on August 23, 2021. He was 76 years old. People reported that Nader was diagnosed with "an untreatable form of cancer."

"With heavy heart, I'm sharing the news of the passing of my beloved, Michael. We had 18 wonderful years together with the many dogs we fostered and adopted," his wife, Jodi Lister Nader, said in a statement. "Recently, Michael was so thrilled to reconnect with his friends from the cast of 'Dynasty' during Emma Samms' virtual event to help raise funds for long-COVID research. Michael was working on a book about his life and addiction at the time of his death. He was a beautiful and fascinating man with many talents and skills. I will miss him forever."

Nader got his start in 1960s beach flicks, including "Bikini Beach" and "Beach Blanket Bingo." He worked in soap operas for nearly 40 years, with his first role in the genre in "As the World Turns" in 1978, followed by a five-episode run in "Bare Essence" in 1983, and a breakout role as Dex Dexter in "Dynasty" the same year. He remained on "Dynasty" until 1989.

In 1991, Nader first appeared on "All My Children" as Dimitri Marick, who was in a tumultuous relationship with (and marriage to) Susan Lucci's Erica Kane. He remained on the series until 2001, then reprised the role in the show's 2013 revival.

Nader is survived by Jodi and daughter Lindsay Nader.

Actor Ed Asner died in Los Angeles on Aug. 29, 2021 at 91 years old, CNN reports. "We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully," his family wrote in a statement on Twitter. "Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head- Goodnight dad. We love you."

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Asner served in the military before embarking on a stage acting career, first in Chicago and then New York City, per Biography. He had numerous television roles throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including on "The Outer Limits," and he made his movie debut in the Elvis Presley film, "Kid Galahad," in 1962. However, Asner was most famous for his role of Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" for seven years, as well as the spinoff, "Lou Grant," which ran for five seasons. He won five Emmys for playing Grant, plus one Emmy each for his work in "Roots" and "Rich Man, Poor Man."

The actor worked consistently through six decades, with many of his most recent roles being in voice acting, including as the lead in the critically-acclaimed 2009 Disney Pixar film, "Up," as well as J. Jonah Jameson in the animated "Spider-Man" series. Asner also had stellar turns in shows like "The Good Wife" and "Grace and Frankie," as well as in the holiday classic, "Elf."

Asner was married to Nancy Sykes from 1959 to 1988 and to Cindy Gilmore from 1998 to 2007, when they separated, divorcing in 2015. He is survived by four children.

Matthew Mindler, who starred alongside Paul Rudd in "Our Idiot Brother" in 2011, was found dead on August 28, 2021. Mindler was just 19 years old. He had been reported missing from his campus at Millersville University in Pennsylvania on Wednesday, TMZ reported, and Mindler's mother, Monica, claimed he suffered from "crippling anxiety." The Lancaster County coroner's office reported that Mindler died by suicide.

In addition to "Our Idiot Brother," in which he starred as Steve Coogan and Emily Mortimer's son, Mindler also had screen credits in "As the World Turns," "Last Week Tonight with John Oliver," the TV movie "Chad: An American Boy," "Bereavement" and two shorts, "Frequency" and "Solo."

Monica said that in the days leading up to Mindler's disappearance, he had been active on campus, applying for a job in the school's IT department, and approaching campus leadership to start a computer programming club. Millersville University President Daniel A. Wubah said in a statement, "This is a time of grief for the family, our campus and the community. I ask that the campus community come together to support each other, and our students, during this difficult time."

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.

Gregg Leakes died on September 1, 2021, from colon cancer. He was 66 years old.

"Today the Leakes family is in deep pain with a broken heart. After a long battle with cancer, Gregg Leakes has passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by all of his children, very close loved ones and wife Nene Leakes," family friend Ernest Dukes said in a statement to People. "We ask that you pray for peace and strength over their family & allow them to mourn in private during this very very difficult time."

Gregg rose to fame on the arm of wife NeNe Leakes on "The Real Housewives of Atlanta." He first was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2018, but was in remission until 2021 following treatment. NeNe announced in June 2021 that Gregg was once more fighting colon cancer and had lost a significant amount of weight.

NeNe and Gregg, a real estate investor and developer, met in 1996 when she was an exotic dancer. They married in 1997 and divorced in 2011. They remarried in 2013 and celebrated with a special "RHOA" spinoff special series, "I Dream of NeNe: The Wedding." Gregg and NeNe appeared in the Bravo reality TV sphere for more than 80 episodes together between 2008 and 2019.

Gregg is survived by his and NeNe's son, Brentt, his stepson, Bryson, and five adult children from previous relationships; Daryl, Damian, Katrina, Dexter and Denton.

Willard Scott died on September 4, 2021, at 87 years old. "Today" show anchor and weatherman Al Roker broke the news, writing on Instagram, "We lost a beloved member of our @todayshow family this morning. Willard Scott passed peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by family, including his daughters Sally and Mary and his lovely wife, Paris. He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit. Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him."

Per Today, Scott worked for NBC for 65 years and his experience was eclectic: He worked in radio, news, and children's programming, including stints as Bozo the Clown and the very first Ronald McDonald. In 1980, he joined the "Today" show as a weatherman and stayed until 1996, when Roker replaced him — though Scott would often fill in as needed. He officially retired in 2015, and some of viewers' most vivid memories of Scott were his popular segments of wishing centenarians a happy birthday. He previously told The New York Times of his gregarious nature, "I just love people. A lot of speakers on the talk circuit leave right afterward. I do a lot of schmoozing. I'm like a dog. You just open the door and I go, 'rrrr, rrrr,' and then I lick everybody's face."

Survived by his second wife, Paris Keena (whom he married in 2014), Scott first tied the knot with Mary Dwyer — with whom he shared two children — in 1959, and they were together until her 2002 death.

Sarah Harding died on September 5, 2021, just over a year after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was 39 years old. Harding's mother Marie wrote in a statement on Instagram, "She slipped away peacefully this morning. I'd like to thank everyone for their kind support over the past year. It meant the world to Sarah and it gave her great strength and comfort to know she was loved. I know she won't want to be remembered for her fight against this terrible disease — she was a bright shining star and I hope that's how she can be remembered instead."

Harding rose to fame as a member of British girl group Girls Aloud from the TV show "Popstars: The Rivals" in 2002. The group was the U.K.'s best-selling girl group of the 21st century until their 2013 split. Harding acted in "Run For Your Wife," BBC Two drama "Freefall," soap operas and reality shows, most notably as a sparkling addition to "Celebrity Big Brother." She chronicled her battle with cancer in her memoir, "Hear Me Out," released in early 2021.

Harding went to rehab for alcohol abuse and sleeping pill addiction, which she said had been triggered by trying to adjust to fame as well as a bad breakup with DJ Tom Crane, to whom she was engaged. Upon getting healthy, she told Fabulous, "I'm definitely happier. I'm just myself, and to some people it's annoying, but I'm not going to be someone I'm not."

Michael K. Williams was found dead in his Brooklyn, New York home on September 6, 2021. He was 54 years old.

Williams was born and raised in Brooklyn and got his start in show business as a dancer for acts including Madonna and George Michael. He played Tupac Shakur's brother in "Bullet" in 1996 and a drug dealer in Martin Scorsese's "Bringing Out the Dead" in 1999 and had bit parts in shows including "The Sopranos" before his star turn as Omar Little in "The Wire" kicked off in 2002.

He played a whistling, gay vigilante with a strict moral code and distaste for vulgarity in the series, and it became a role that would both define and almost destroy its star: He revealed he spent most of his earnings from the HBO smash hit on drugs and needed help from his church to get back on his feet (via NJ.com).

Following "The Wire," Williams starred in "Boardwalk Empire" and "When They See Us" and had small but memorable roles in shows like "Community," "Law & Order" and "CSI," as well as movies including "12 Years A Slave," "Robocop," "The Purge: Anarchy," 2016's "Ghostbusters," and "Assassin's Creed," among others. He had a large role as Montrose in "Lovecraft Country" and was reportedly expected to take home a Best Supporting Actor Emmy for "Lovecraft Country" before his death.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

A friend found zookeeper Erik Cowie, of "Tiger King" fame, dead in the bedroom of a New York City home on Friday, September 3, 2021. He was 53 years old. As of this writing, Cowie's cause of death is still unknown, but according to TMZ, no foul play is suspected at this time.

In "Tiger King," Cowie confessed to meeting and starting to work for Joe Exotic after a series of personal struggles. Though he didn't specify many of his issues, he did say he had a drinking problem. In early 2021, Cowie was reportedly in a car crash and subsequently arrested for DUI in Oklahoma, where he lived and worked with Joe Exotic's famous big cats. He didn't show up to court, TMZ reported, so another arrest warrant was issued for him.

Cowie was the head caretaker for the tigers and other big cats at Joe Exotic's Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park. Though he credits the now-incarcerated living meme for getting him out of a rut, Cowie also testified against Exotic in court and accused him of killing and mistreating his animals. Cowie's testimony helped landed Joe Exotic behind bars for 22 years.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Michael Constantine, best known for playing patriarch Gus Portokalos in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," died on August 31, 2021 at his Reading, Pennsylvania, home, The New York Times reported. He was 94 years old.

Constantine was born in Reading to Greek immigrant parents and knew from a young age that he wanted to act. He began on stage as an understudy for Clarence Darrow in "Inherit the Wind" in 1955, and went on to appear in "The Miracle Worker," "Compulsion," and more Broadway shows.

Though most famous for playing a very proud Greek, The New York Times points out that Constantine played men of many cultures throughout his career, including Italians ("The Untouchables" and "Kojak"), a Romani (Stephen King's "Thriller" adaptation) and Russians ("Airwolf"). Constantine won an Emmy for his role of cantankerous Jewish school principal Seymour Kaufman in "Room 222" and also played the title role of Judge Matthew Sirota on the single-season sitcom "Sirota's Court." Constantine's big screen work was just as eclectic. He starred alongside Paul Newman in "The Hustler" and Mickey Rooney in "The Last Mile," among other film greats.

However, it was his role of Nia Vardalos' father in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" and its sequel that made Constantine beloved to an entire new generation. And the love for the character was mutual, with Constantine telling Hellenic News of America that Gus was "far and away [his] favorite film role." In her tribute tweet to her co-star, Vardalos, wrote, "Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael."

Norm Macdonald died of complications from cancer on Sept. 14, 2021. The comedy legend had been dealing privately with the diagnosis for nine years, Variety confirmed. He was 61 years old.

Macdonald began his career as a standup in his native Canada before becoming a writer for "The Dennis Miller Show" in 1992, followed by "Roseanne" in the same year. He joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" a year later, where he was one of the most beloved "Weekend Update" segment anchors until his ouster in 1998. After his "SNL" exit," he starred the eponymous sitcom, "The Norm Show," from 1999 to 2001 as well as a recurring role in "The Middle;" Macdonald was also a late night favorite guest. In 2018, he hosted "Norm Macdonald Has a Show" for Netflix. Throughout his entire career in show business, he continued performing standup around the world.

Macdonald remained staunchly apolitical in his comedy, explaining to The New York Times in 2018, "Making people laugh is a gift. Preaching to them is not a gift. There are people who can do that better: Preachers."

Macdonald's producer partner and close friend Lori Jo Hoekstra said in a statement to Deadline, "He was most proud of his comedy. He never wanted the diagnosis to affect the way the audience or any of his loved ones saw him. Norm was a pure comic. He once wrote that 'a joke should catch someone by surprise, it should never pander.' He certainly never pandered. Norm will be missed terribly."

Comedian and actor Anthony Johnson died on Sept. 6, 2021. He was 55 years old; no cause of death has yet been reported, per The New York Times. A rep for Johnson told TMZ, "Our BH Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony 'AJ' Johnson. We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved wife, children, siblings and manager."

Johnson was born in Compton, California. His father was stuntman Eddie Smith, who worked with Arsenio Hall and Eddie Murphy, and also helped Johnson in the industry with sage advice: "He told me whenever I'm on camera to always stand out, to do something on camera to make people remember me," Johnson recalled in a 2018 interview with VLADTV.

Remember him we did: Johnson had standout roles in films like "House Party," "B.A.P.S.," "Menace II Society," and most famously "Friday," the latter in which he played a clueless drug addict named Ezal. Ice Cube tweeted of his late co-star, "Sad to wake up to the news about AJ Johnson passing away. Naturally funny dude who was straight outta Compton at the same time. Sorry I couldn't bring your character Ezal back to the big screen in 'Last Friday.'"

Johnson also performed stand-up and acted on stage in theater productions. He is survived by his wife, three children, brother, and sister.

"X Factor" star Freddie Combs died from kidney failure on Sept. 10, 2021, at age 49 in a Florida hospital surrounded by loved ones, TMZ reported.

Combs, then a minister, and his wife, Kay, first appeared in "Ton of Love," a 2010 special on TLC that focused on their efforts to lose weight as Freddie clocked in at 920 lbs. Despite his initial reality TV appearance, it wasn't until later that Freddie found fame: He appeared on Season 2 of the singing competition series in 2012 with a moving rendition of Bette Midler's classic ballad, "Wind Beneath My Wings." Combs was 540 lbs. at the time of his taping — 400 lbs. down from his peak weight of over 900 lbs. just three years earlier — and used a wheelchair for mobility due to his weight. His performance, dedicated to a teary-eyed Kay, made judges Demi Lovato and Britney Spears misty, while the equally impressed panelists, L.A. Reid and Simon Cowell, vowed to support Combs in his journey to stardom if he agreed to lose weight and focus on his health. 

Though he was eliminated from the competition shortly afterward, he continued to focus on his wellbeing and was down to 385 lbs., an achievement of which Kay was incredibly "proud," per TMZ. She said in a statement released, "I have so much gratitude to be his wife for 25 years and to be his best friend."

Jane Powell, a fixture of musicals in Hollywood's Golden Age, died of natural causes on Sept. 16, 2021, at her Wilton, Connecticut home, CNN reported. She was 92 years old.

Powell began her career as a touring singer in her home state of Oregon, where she used her pipes and beauty to help sell war bonds during World War II, per Deadline. She then relocated to Hollywood, where she got an MGM contract and starred in "Song of the Open Road" in 1944, followed by "Delightfully Dangerous" in 1945, and "A Date with Judy" in 1948. It was in 1951 that Powell immortalized herself in cinema history alongside Fred Astaire in "Royal Wedding," where her dance moves, charm, and looks enchanted audiences forever. But Powell's star turn almost didn't happen: She replaced June Allyson in the role, who had previously replaced Judy Garland. 

Her next big role was in 1954's "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," and Powell continued acting throughout her life on stage and screen. She appeared in productions on and off Broadway and had roles on TV shows including "The Love Boat," "Fantasy Island," and "Growing Pains;" her last television role came in a 2002 episode of "Law & Order: SVU."

Powell was married to "Little Rascals" star Dick "Dickie" Moore, who died in 2015. She is survived by a son, two daughters, and two granddaughters.

Willie Garson, best known for playing Stanford Blatch in "Sex and the City," died on Sept. 21, 2021, People reported. He was 57 years old and had been dealing with pancreatic cancer. Comedian Mario Cantone, who played Garson's husband on "SATC," paid tribute to his late co-star on Instagram, writing, "I couldn't have had a more brilliant TV partner. I'm devastated and just overwhelmed with sadness. Taken away from all of us way soon. You were a gift from the gods sweet Willie. Rest ...I love you."

Garson appeared in more than 75 movies, including "There's Something About Mary," "Kingpin," "The Rock," and "Groundhog Day," as well as 300 episodes of television, with recurring roles on "NYPD Blue" and "White Collar." Per Deadline, Garson most recently reprised his "SATC" role in the upcoming HBO Max reboot, "And Just Like That."

Garson is survived by his son, Nathen, whom he adopted in 2009 when Nathen was seven years old. "I love you so much papa. Rest In Peace and I'm so glad you got to share all your adventures with me and were able to accomplish so much. I'm so proud of you," Nathen wrote on Instagram. "I will always love you, but I think it's time for you to go on an adventure of your own. You'll always be with me. Love you more than you will ever know and I'm glad you can be at peace now. You always were the toughest and funniest and smartest person I've known. I'm glad you shared [your] love with me. I'll never forget it or lose it."

"Emergency!" star Tim Donnelly died at home on Sept. 17, 2021. He was 77 years old. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Donnelly succumbed to complications from a recent surgery.

Though best known for playing goofball fireman Chet Kelly on "Emergency!", Donnelly's resume wasn't limited to the NBC sitcom. He got his start as a child star in the 1957 film, "Baby Face Nelson," and worked steadily in television throughout the 1960s, with roles on shows including "Dragnet," "Hawaii Five-O," "Adam-12," and "The Virginian." Hollywood was in his pedigree, as his father, Paul, was a Universal Pictures executive; his maternal grandfather, Pat O'Malley, was an actor; and his brother, Dennis, was a director, with credits including "Emergency!".

Through Donnelly's work on "Emergency!", he bonded with the Los Angeles County Fire Museum, who announced his death on their Facebook page. "It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our friend, Tim Donnelly, this weekend. Many of the Museum Board Members have great memories of Tim from our time on Project 51 and personal contact," the organization wrote, adding that Donnelly had been "very excited" to attend a 50th anniversary celebration at the museum in January 2022.

Donnelly is survived by brother Dennis, sister Kathleen, daughter Ashley, and two grandchildren.

Al Harrington, star of "Hawaii Five-O," died on Sept. 17, 2021, following a stroke the previous week. He was 85 years old. 

Harrington's wife, Rosa Navarro Harrington, told The Hollywood Reporter in a statement, "I have had the honor of loving Al, whom I called 'Harrington' for 20 years. We were an inseparable team, best friends, and he was my regal Polynesian King. Al embodied the purest, life-giving values of aloha and began each day with a smile." She added in part, "He was generous, quick to forgive, a hard worker, a provider and always ready to talk-story. He loved his community and even more, his culture. It was his greatest honor to represent his people on-screen, and to serve them off-screen. To know him was to feel seen, loved, safe and welcomed. As an Icon for Hawai'i, our islands and her people are mourning his loss."

Harrington, born Tausau Ta'a in American Samoa, moved to Honolulu at age 3 and taught at the University of Hawaii before he got his big TV break as Detective Ben Kokua on "Hawaii Five-O" in 1969. He went on to appear in numerous television shows, including "The Jeffersons" and "Charlie's Angels." Harrington also acted in movies, with credits in "Forrest Gump," "The Long Road Home," and more. He also appeared in the "Hawaii Five-O" reboot in 2011.

Harrington is survived by wife Rosa and their children, sons Alema and Tau and daughters Cassi and Summer.

Melvin Van Peebles died on Sept. 21, 2021, at age 89, his actor-director son, Mario Van Peebles, confirmed to The New York Times. Melvin grew up in Illinois and graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University before joining the Air Force, during which time he met wife and actor Maria Marx. They lived together in Mexico City, where Melvin worked as a painter, before moving to San Francisco, and eventually relocating to Los Angeles so Melvin could pursue film, and then to the Netherlands, where he studied astronomy. When Melvin and Marx divorced, he hitchhiked his way over to France, where he once said he got by on $600 per year thanks to the generosity of the women he bedded.

He was most famous for his pioneering work in blaxploitation films. His first movie was "Story of a Three-Day Pass," followed by the comedy, "Watermelon Man," for Columbia Pictures, which depicted "a white bigot ... turn[ing] into a Black man," per The Times. Melvin's biggest breakthrough, "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song," was released in 1971 and caused a stir for its depictions not only of graphic violence and sex, but also for giving the Black community a voice through movies that had long been silenced. He funded, wrote, directed, produced, edited, scored, starred in, and even marketed the film himself, according to IndieWire.

In addition to filmmaking, Melvin Van Peebles also was a musician and wrote and produced Broadway productions, including "Ain't Supposed to Die A Natural Death" and Don't Play Us Cheap!". He is survived by Mario, two other adult children, and several grandchildren.

Director Roger Michell died on Sept. 22, 2021, at age 65, Deadline reported. Michell was born in South Africa to a diplomat and spent much of his youth traveling around the world. While attending Cambridge University in the U.K., he got involved in theater, acting in and directing school productions, before landing an assistant director gig at the Royal Court Theatre, and then resident director at the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company.

Michell's first television credit was director of miniseries "Downtown Lagos," followed by David Bowie music video "The Buddha of Suburbia." It wasn't until 1999, however, that Michell saw mainstream feature film success with "Notting Hill." The Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant-led flick pocketed a cool $124 million at the global box office on a $42 million budget, giving Michell the freedom to exclusively pursue other subsequent projects in his native U.K. His next high-profile movie was "Changing Lanes" with Ben Affleck and Samuel L. Jackson in 2002. He's also known for 2006's "Venus," as well as the 2017 mystery, "My Cousin Rachel," and 2020's "The Duke," starring Helen Mirren.

Michell is survived by children Harry, Rosie, Maggie, and Sparrow, whom he shares with ex-wives Kate Buffery and Anna Maxwell Martin. In a statement to People, Julia Roberts said Michell's children were "the true lights of his life," adding, "He always had a sweet grin on his face and a perfect piece of direction to share. I feel so fortunate to have had such a fantastic opportunity to work with him."

Cynthia Harris died on October 4, 2021, at 87 years old, The New York Times reported. The New York City native got her start in 1963 on Broadway and acted with improv troupe The Premise around this time. Her talents easily transitioned to TV, with roles on shows including classic soaps "Knots Landing" and "All My Children," dramas "L.A. Law" and "Rescue Me," and comedies "Archie Bunker's Place,"  "The Bob Newhart Show," and "Three's Company," to name just a few. She also appeared in several movies, such as "Three Men and a Baby" and "Isadora."

Harris was critically acclaimed and earned a BAFTA nomination for her starring role as Wallis Simpson in the 1978 British miniseries, "Edward and Mrs. Simpson," which documented the would-be king's abdication of the throne to marry the American divorcee. However, she was most famous for playing the meddling mother, Sylvia, to Paul Reiser's Paul Buchman on "Mad About You" from 1992 through 1997, a role that began as recurring and was upped to regular. Harris was featured in 73 episodes, including the revival in 2019.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Harris is survived by partner Nathan Silverstein, brother Matthew, and several nieces and nephews.

Comedian and "Shameless" actor Ricarlo Flanagan died over the weekend of Oct. 9 and 10, 2021, reportedly from complications from COVID-19. He was 41 years old. His agent, Stu Golfman of KMR Talent, confirmed to People, "Ricarlo was truly one of the nicest people on the planet, a wonderful performer and we are heartbroken by the news of his passing." On Oct. 1, 2021, Flanagan tweeted, "This covid is no joke. I don't wish this on anybody."

The Ohio-born comic was was best known for his role of Davey on the hit series "Shameless," as well as being a finalist on "Last Comic Standing." He also lent his talents to series like "Walk the Prank," "The Mick," "Insecure," "The Carmichael Show," and the "Mad About You" revival. In addition to comedy, Flanagan was a rapper under the moniker Father Flanagan. Deadline reported that his fourth rap album, "Both Sides of the Brain," was slated to drop on Oct. 12, 2021 — just days after he died.

Comedian Jay Washington paid tribute to his late friend and shared a GoFundMe link to help pay for Flanagan's memorial services, tweeting, "The world lost an EXTREMELY GOOD DUDE. A comedian, actor, rapper and successful at all. Many of us lost a GREAT FRIEND. If you can please help or even spread the word."

Dorothy Steel, who most famously starred as a tribal leader in "Black Panther," died on Oct. 15, 2021, at her home in Detroit. She was 95 years old.

Steel didn't begin acting until she was 88 years old, and "Black Panther" was Steel's first big feature film role. In the film, she advises Chadwick Boseman's King T'Challa, and she said she acted as a bit of a "grandmother" on the set of the 2018 Marvel blockbuster. "It was just amazing, it truly was. If anyone would have told me I would be an actor, I would've said you got to be out of your mind," she told WSB Atlanta in 2018. "Chadwick the King. Every day, he would make sure if I was on the set, he would come by and make sure he gave me a big old hug and kiss."

In a 2018 interview with Steve Harvey, Steel explained how she landed the role. Urged on by her agent and grandson, Steel heeded her own longtime advice to others, which was to "step out on nothin'" and "let [her] faith take her there" for the "Black Panther" audition. To prepare, Steel said she "practiced Mandela" every day to land the character's cadence.

Steel was in the midst of filming "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" when she reportedly told her publicist that the MCU sequel would be her last film role, and she flew home to Detroit to be with her loved ones in her final moments.

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell died on Oct. 18, 2021, of COVID-19 complications, The New York Times reported. He was 84 years old. Powell's family said in a statement that he was fully vaccinated against the virus.

Following a 35-year career in the U.S. Army, Powell became, respectively, the first African American national security adviser, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and secretary of state. Powell was born and raised in New York City and attended the City College of New York, enlisting in the military through its ROTC program and quickly rising up the ranks.

While serving under then-President George W. Bush, Powell famously helped usher the United States into an ongoing war with Iraq in 2003 on the faulty pretense that the country hid weapons of mass destruction. He later expressed remorse at his role, telling Larry King in 2010, "I regret it now, because the information was wrong. ... I will always be seen as the one who made the case before the international community."

A longtime Republican, Powell made waves again when he endorsed Barack Obama in 2008, citing what he felt was America's need for "significant and transformational change." Powell was also considered a likely presidential candidate, although he never ran. Despite a towering career in both the military and politics, Powell once told Free Enterprise that the key to success was, simply, passion: "I think everybody needs something that turns them on in life ... look for that which you love doing and which you do well. That's what you want to do. Fame and fortune and money will come or not come. But if you're doing what you love doing and if you do it well, success comes every day."

Actor Peter Scolari died on Oct. 22, 2021, at 66 years old. According to TMZ, Scolari had been secretly battling cancer for two years.

Scolari rose to fame on "Newhart" and alongside close friend Tom Hanks in the sitcom "Bosom Buddies" in the 1980s, later reuniting for films "That Thing You Do!" and "The Polar Express." Scolari worked steadily for four decades, with roles in shows including "ER" and "The West Wing," as well as appearances on Broadway. He won his very first Emmy in 2016 for playing Lena Dunham's onscreen father on HBO hit "Girls," and most recently played the recurring role of Bishop Thomas Marx on "Evil."

"Evil" co-creators Robert and Michelle King said in a statement (via Deadline), "Peter was beloved on our set by the cast, the crew, and the writers not only because he was mensch and a giving actor, but because he took what otherwise was the straight man part and turned it into a comic pleasure. He always found different ways to phrase things or find odd pauses in the middle of sentences. You could see him molding the lines looking for the laughs. Watching his dailies was always a thrill because you saw his craft in action. He worked with us right up until April 27th, and he was great in every episode. We are going to miss him dreadfully."

Scolari is survived by his wife and their four children.

Actor Val Bisoglio died on October 18, 2021, at 95 years old, his wife, Bonnie, confirmed to Variety.

Bisoglio was born in New York City, the child of Italian immigrants. The character actor got his start in various New York City stage productions, including the famous and long-enduring Shakespeare in the Park series. His first screen credits came with a bit part as a gangster in the 1963 film, "The Cool World," and an appearance in "The DuPont Show of the Week" the same year. In 1969, he landed a recurring role on "The Doctors" as Louis Grant (not to be confused with Ed Asner's famous character). He appeared in shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Rockford Files," "Hill Street Blues," "Starsky and Hutch," and "Miami Vice" throughout his career.

However, Bisoglio's most famous roles were as cook Sgt. Sal Pernelli on the classic Korean War-era series, "M*A*S*H," and Danny Tovo on "Quincy, M.E.," which followed a medical examiner who assisted in murder investigations, running from 1976 to 1983. His most recent and one of his most celebrated roles was as Murf on "The Sopranos," a character who Junior Soprano relentlessly mocks for everything from his driving to his demeanor. On the big screen, Bisoglio famously played Tony's father, Frank, in "Saturday Night Fever" and appeared as Chief Gray Cloud in "The Frisco Kid."

Bisoglio is survived by Bonnie and their three sons.

Singer Jay Black of Jay and the Americans died on October 22, 2021, in Queens, New York from cardiac arrest caused by pneumonia, The New York Times reported. He was 82 years old and had also been diagnosed with dementia. "Today, we mourn the passing of David Blatt, a.k.a. Jay Black, and we acknowledge the great successes we had with him both as a partner and as a lead singer," the band said in a statement on Facebook. "We shared both wonderful and very contentious times, and much like an ex-wife, we are so proud of the beautiful children we created. We'll always remember The Voice."

Black was the second "Jay" to front the Americans, replacing Jay Traynor in 1963 — at Traynor's own invitation; his last name of "Blatt" was mistaken as "Black" on a talk show and stuck. The band's first hit with Black was "Only In America," and they opened for The Beatles at the height of the British group's mania. His most iconic songs with Jay and the Americans were "Cara Mia" and "This Magic Moment," the latter of which was featured in the enduring lifeguard scene in "The Sandlot."

According to The Times, Black was addicted to gambling, filing for bankruptcy in 2005. He also came under fire for his longtime friendship with John Gotti, performing at the mobster's children's weddings. In a 1994 interview with The New York Times, Black said of his legacy, "I don't want no stamps. Treat me great while I'm alive."

James Michael Tyler, best known and beloved for playing Gunther on "Friends," died on October 24, 2021, NBC News reported. He was 59 years old.

Tyler, a Mississippi native, appeared in 150 episodes of the sitcom as a Central Perk barista with a huge, unrequited crush on Jennifer Aniston's Rachel Green. She was among the many cast and crew members who paid tribute to Tyler on social media. Tyler told The New York Times that he was cast in the series first as an extra after working as a barista in a real-life coffee shop in New York City, with his first credits on "Friends" being listed simply as "Coffee Guy." "Friends" creators Marta Kauffman and David Crane said in a statement to CNN, "When he started as an extra on 'Friends,' his unique spirit caught our eye and we knew we had to make him a character. He made Gunther's unrequited love incredibly relatable."

Tyler revealed in June 2021 that he was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in September 2018. "It's made me, personally, just realize how important every moment is, every day," he told Today at the time. "And fighting. Don't give up. Keep fighting. Keep yourself as light as possible. And have goals. Set goals. My goal this past year was to see my 59th birthday. I did that, May 28th. My goal now is to help save at least one life by coming out with this news."

Tyler is survived by his wife, Jennifer Carno.

Comedian Mort Sahl died on Oct. 26, 2021, at 94 years old.

Born in Montreal and spending most of his childhood in Los Angeles, Sahl enlisted in the Air Force, then graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) in 1950. He started doing standup not long afterward, releasing what Deadline reports may be the first standup comedy album ever with his 1955 recording "Mort Sahl at Sunset." He appeared in movies and was a talk show staple performer, famous for his contrarian and often scathing political comedy.

Sahl didn't discriminate, eviscerating equally everyone on the right and left side of the political spectrum. As The New York Times explained, Sahl often said during his act, "Are there any groups I haven't offended? If you were the only person left on the planet, I would have to attack you. That's my job."

Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963, Sahl saw a bit of a decline in his career due to a self-professed "obsession" with the Warren Commission, but he remained a cult hero in comedy, influencing almost every single comic who rose to fame in his wake, including Lenny Bruce and George Carlin. ”It's the noncourageous among us who become cynical and say nothing is possible, which gives them a convenient out, because if you're a cynic your heart can't be broken,” he told The New York Times in 2004. ”I've had my heart broken many times. I found out it isn't lethal. It hurts like hell, but it isn't lethal.”

Actor and stuntman William Lucking died on October 18, 2021, at his Las Vegas home, TMZ reported. He was 80 years old.

Lucking's career spanned over five decades, with roles on shows including "Lou Grant," "Days of Our Lives," "Dallas," and "M*A*S*H," as well as starring as the original colonel on "The A-Team" and alongside Faye Dunaway in the film "Oklahoma Crude." An on-set accident during Lucking's uncredited role as a motorcycle officer in 1971's rom-com "Harold and Maude" left him in a full-body cast after sustaining severe injuries from an 80-foot fall from a bridge, wife Sigrid told TMZ. He sustained numerous other injuries and broken bones throughout his career, and underwent surgeries on his knees, shoulders, and back. Lucking's most famous role was as elder biker Piney on "Sons of Anarchy," who used an oxygen tank. "He just gave up," Sigrid noted of Lucking's final years. "He was tired and in a lot of pain." 

Sigrid wrote in his obituary (via People), "Although William often played toughs and strongmen, in his actual life he was an elegant man with a brilliant intellect who loved to argue about politics and current affairs, discuss philosophy and physics, and assert fine-pointed opinions about art and poetry. He was a giant of a man with the soul of a poet, one who 'contained ... a tension of sorts within his being ... like a boulder teetering on a hill ... or a balloon expanding towards its extreme,' as one friend put it."

Lucking is survived by Sigrid, a sister, two daughters, and two granddaughters.