Celebrity deaths in 2020 – the famous faces we have lost this year

Supreme Court Justice of America Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away on September 18, aged 87.

The judge had a distinguished career spanning decades, before being elevated to the highest court in the USA.

Often celebrated for her vocal support of gender equality, her later life saw her acquire a cult-icon status.

She died of complications from metastatic pancreas cancer, less than 45 days from US 2020 presidential election that will see Donald Trump fight for a second term.

Alien Huang

Actor Alien Huang died on September 16 aged 36.

Nicknamed ‘Little Ghost’ by his fans, the Taiwanese star was also a singer, TV presenter and fashion designer. Huang was a former member of Taiwanese band Cosmo and Japanese boy band HC3.

He also had various TV roles as well as his own clothing line.

Pat Smullen

Jockey Pat Smullen died on September 15 aged 43 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Smullen was a nine-time Irish champion and won the European Classic 12 times. In 2016 he rode Harzand to victory in the Epsom Investec Derby.

Sei Ashina

Actress Sei Ashina died on September 14 aged 36.

Real name Igarashi Aya, the Japanese star is best known for her role in the 2007 movie Silk, starring alongside Michael Pitt and Keira Knightley.

She also played the lead in Nanase: The Psychic Wanderers and appeared in TV series Aibo: Tokyo Detective Duo.

Sir Terence Conran

Sir Terence Conran, the founder of household furnishing company Habitat, died on September 12 aged 88.

Conran was a retailer, designer and restaurateur who became the head of a successful business empire. He was given a knighthood in 1983, and later went on the help found the Design Museum.

Toots Hibbert

Musician Toots Hibbert died on September 11 aged 77.

Hibbert was the frontman of beloved reggae band Toots and the Maytals, who helped bring the genre to a wide audience across the world.

He received a Grammy nomination in 1988, and in 2004 won the award for Best Reggae Album for True Love.

Dame Diana Rigg

Actress Diana Rigg died on September 10 aged 82 following a short battle with cancer.

The British star had a number of iconic roles during her long career. Many will remember her as Emma Peel in action series The Avengers and for her appearance in Bond movie On Her Majesty’s Secret Service as Tracy, 007’s wife.

More recently, her turn as sassy scheming matriarch Olenna Tyrell in hit HBO show Game of Thrones won her a new generation of fans.

Ronald Bell

Singer Ronald Bell died on September 9 aged 68.

Bell co-founded legendary funk band Kool & The Gang in 1964, and they went on to become one of the most successful music acts of the 1970s. Their most famous tracks include Celebration, Jungle Boogie and Cherish. Ronald and his bandmates won the 1978 Grammy for Album of the Year as a result of their work on the soundtrack to iconic disco movie Saturday Night Fever.

Stevie Lee

Stevie Lee died on September 9 aged 54.

As well as appearing in the movie Jackass 3D, Lee was also a figure in the world of wrestling, competing in the ring under the name Puppet The Psycho Dwarf as well as running his own wrestling company and starring in a reality TV show.

Alan Minter

Boxer Alan Minter died on September 9 aged 69 following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Minter was a former undisputed middleweight champion, winning the title in 1980. He also earned a bronze medal at the 1972 Olympics in Munich.

Simeon Coxe

Musician Simeon Coxe died on September 8 aged 82 after battling pulmonary fibrosis.

Coxe co-founded electronic music outfit Silver Apples with Danny Taylor in the late 60s. The pair were best known for the songs Lovefingers, Anthem and You And I. During his career, Simeon a became pioneer of the genre, inspiring other bands and artists.

Aaron Grissom

Reality TV star Aaron Grissom died on September 8 aged 34 after a motorcycle accident.

Following an appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Grissom found fame on the 2014 series of US cooking show Top Chef before going on to cook for musicians on tour, including Billie Eilish.

Kevin Dobson

Actor Kevin Dobson died on September 6 aged 77 following a heart attack

His most famous role was that of Patrick ‘Mack’ MacKenzie on US drama series Knots Landing from 1982 until 1993. Between 1973 and 1978 he appeared in over 100 episodes of police procedural Kojak as Bobby Crocker

Bruce Williamson

Singer Bruce Williamson died on September 6 aged 50 after reportedly contracting coronavirus.

Bruce was a former lead singer with The Temptations, joining the soul group in 2006 and performing with them until 2015.

Rodney Litchfield

Actor Rodney Litchfield died on September 5 aged 81 after a long illness.

Litchfield starred on Coronation Street as Wilfred Morton in 2007, and had a role in comedy series Early Doors as Tommy, as well as an appearance in Peter Kay show Phoenix Nights.

Annie Cordy

Actress Annie Cordy died on September 4 aged 92 after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest.

The Belgian star began acting in 1954 and made over 50 movie and TV appearances, including the voice over for Grandmother Willow in the French dub of Disney’s Pocahontas.

Cordy also found success in the music world, peaking with hit single La Ballade de Davy Crockett which topped the French charts for five weeks in 1956.

Ian Mitchell

Bay City Rollers star Ian Mitchell died on September 2, aged 62.

The death of the musician, who played bass with the Scottish pop sensations, was announced via the band’s official Facebook page.

Ian was just 17 when he was drafted into the group to replace bassist Alan Longmuir, spending just seven months with the band before being replaced by

Ian Royce

Britain’s Got Talent and X Factor star Ian Royce died on September 1, aged 51.

His family released a message via his Twitter account, saying the star had died from “severe pneumonia and multiple organ failure.”

AUGUST

Cloyd Robinson

Film director Cloyd Robinson died on August 31 aged 71 after suffering a heart attack.

Starting his film career in the 70s and 80s as an actor, he later moved behind the scenes and began scriptwriting as well as directing his own movies. His most famous project was the 1980 film Darna at Ding.

Steve Lee

Sports reporter Steve Lee died on August 30 aged 68.

Lee’s career as a broadcaster spanned more than 30 years, and saw him cover football and cricket for Sky and BBC Midlands.

BBC Midlands said: “A superb broadcaster who will be sadly missed. The thoughts of everyone here at BBC Midlands Today are with his family and friends at this time.”

Chadwick Boseman

Actor Chadwick Boseman died on August 28 aged 43 following a battle with colon cancer.

Boseman started his acting career on American soap opera All My Children in 2003, before appearing in a number of biopics which saw him portray the likes of Jackie Robinson, Thurgood Marshall and soul legend James Brown.

One of Chadwick’s most famous roles was that of Marvel superhero Black Panther, first bringing the character to life in Captain America: Civil War and then an incredibly successful solo movie, followed by appearances in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame.

On Twitter, his Marvel co-star Don Cheadle posted: “I will miss you, birthday brother. you were always light and love to me. my god … forever and ever.”

Riley Gale

Musician Riley Gale died on August 24 aged 34. The cause of death has not been revealed.

Gale was the front man of metal band Power Trip, providing lead vocals.

Writing on the band’s Twitter page, his family said: “He touched so many lives through his lyrics and through his huge heart. He treated everyone he met as a friend and he always took care of his friends. We will celebrate Riley’s life and never forget the great works of music, charity, and love that he left behind.”

Allan Rich

Actor Allan Rich died on August 22 aged 94 following a battle with dementia.

Rich was blacklisted by Hollywood as a communist sympathiser in the 1950s, but made his way back into showbusiness in the 1960s.

His most famous role came when director Sidney Lumet picked him to appear in Serpico, the 1973 police thriller starring Al Pacino.

Allan went on to star in the film Quiz Show alongside Robert Redford, and made a number of TV appearances on shows including CSI, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Judging Amy.

Landon Clifford

YouTube star Landon Clifford died on August 19 aged 19 after suffering a brain injury.

The popular vlogger set up YouTube channel Cam&Fam in 2017 alongside wife Camryn, and amassed over 1 million subscribers. The couple had two daughters together, Collette Briar Clifford and Delilah Rose Clifford.

Following his passing, Camryn wrote on Instagram: “He was an amazing husband and the best father those girls could of ever asked for.”

Jack Sherman

The talented guitarist Jack Sherman is believed to have died on August 18, at the age of 64 of unknown causes.

Jack became famous as part of the band Red Hot Chili Peppers. The musician had joined the group in time for their debut album in 1983, replacing on/off guitarist Hillel Slovak.

The band posted on their twitter account

“He was a unique dude and we thank him for all times good, bad and in between. Peace on the boogie platform,”

As well as his work with Chili Peppers, Jack took the lead guitar role on Tonio K’s Notes From The Lost Civilization album and Bob Dylan’s Knocked Out Loaded.

Jack Sherman dead: Red Hot Chili Peppers’ guitarist dies aged 64

Chi Chi DeVayne

RuPaul’s Drag Race star Chi Chi DeVayne died at the age of 34 on August 20.

It came after they were hospitalised with pneumonia a week earlier and asked fans to pray for them.

They were also admitted to hospital with high blood pressure and suspected kidney failure in July.

They lived with scleroderma, a rare, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the immune system attacking the tissue under the skin, and around internal organs and blood vessels, which can also cause scarring and thickening of tissue.

Chi Chi, born Zavion Davenport, competed in the eight season of RuPaul’s Drag Race before returning for the third season of the All Stars spin-off.

Trini Lopez

Singer and actor Trini Lopez, has died due to complications with COVID-19 on August 11, aged 83.

Known for starring in the film The Dirty Dozen and for hit songs like “This Land Is Your Land,” and “If I Had a Hammer”.

The musician died in Palm Springs, California.

Trini Lopez dead at 83: Dirty Dozen star loses battle with coronavirus

Wayne Fontana

Wayne Fontana, singer, died on August 6, aged 74

The Mindbenders musician passed away in hospital.

Wayne is most recognised for the song ‘Game of love’

Game of love singer dies aged 74

FGB Duck

FGB Duck, American rapper, died on August 5, aged 26

The Chicago rapper was very popular in the underground rap scene.

FGB was tragically shot dead.

FGB Duck shot dead

Brian Black

Brian Black, former UTV presenter, died on August 4 , in his 70’s ,in his homeland of Northern Ireland.

Brian was involved in a car incident, which saw his car plunge into a river, he died in Hospital.

Brian was a superb journalist, programme maker and environmental champion

Former UTV presenter Brian Black, has died.

Brent Carver

Brent Carver, Tony Award winner, died on August 4, aged 68.

The star of Broadway’s Kiss of the Spider Woman died at is home in British Columbia.

He last appeared on the Broadway stage as Friar Laurence in Romeo and Juliet in 2013.

Brent Carver has died

John Hume

John Hume, politician, has died on August 3, aged 83.

John won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1998 for his role in the Northern Ireland peace process.

His final years were sadly marked with dementia and he had no memory of the success bought to Northern Ireland.

John Hume has died.

Wilford Brimley

Wilfred Brimley, Cocoon and The Thing star,died August 2, aged 85

The actor passed away at his Utah home, after spending time in intensive care.

Wilfred was the face of Quaker Oats, starring in the company’s ad campaigns throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

He also stared in shows such as Our House and starred in films, such as The Firm.

Wilfred Brimley has died aged 85

Reni Santoni

Reni Santoni, Dirty Harry star, died on August 1, aged 81.

The actor passed away due to natural courses, in the Los Angeles hospice.

Reni appeared in some great movies, such as Dirty Harry, Dr Dolittle and Cobra.

Dirty Harry star, Reni Santoni is dead.

Tony Morris

ITV Granada reporter, Tony Morris, died on August 1, aged 57.

The much loved presenter passed away from losing a battle with kidney cancer.

Tony helped break records and win the first ever Bafta received by a news show.

Prior to his ITV career, Tony was at the BBC, starting with local radio and then went on to local televised news.

The Portsmouth born journalist, found this career after serving for the RAF.

ITV reporter Tony Morris has lost his battle with cancer

JULY

Denise Johnson

Primal Scream singer, Denise Johnson, died on July 27, aged 53.

The course of death is yet to be determined, but the sad news broke after a friend posted a touching tribute to the singer on twitter.

The Manchester born artist was best known for her performance in the 1991 album, Screammadelica.

Denise Johnson dies, aged 53

Peter Green

Co-founder of chart-topping group Fleetwood Mac, Peter Green, died on July 25. The Albatross writer was involved with the band until 1970, when he left due to struggles with his mental health. Green was 73 years old.

Jack Charlton

Jack Charlton has died, aged 85, on July 11.

The Leeds United legend, was diagnosed lymphoma in the last year and was also battling dementia.

To give him, his official name, of John Charlton OBE DL, spent his entire youth career and senior career at Leeds United.

He went on to manage Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday and Newcastle United & also managed the Republic of Ireland on

the international stage.

However Jack will be most known to even the youngest football fans, for being part of the 1966 England World Cup winning squad,

the first and currently, the only time, that football has come home.

1966 World Cup Champion, Jack Charlton dies, aged 85.

JUNE

Louis Mahoney

Actor Louis Mahoney died at the age of 81 on June 30.

He was best known was portraying a number of roles in both classic and modern Doctor Who, as well as for appearing in British sitcom Fawlty Towers.

His death was announced in a statement from his agents Waring and McKenna, who praised his activism for anti-racism.

It said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful client, Louis Mahoney.

“Louis paved the way for many actors who followed: a lifelong activist and champion of anti-racism. His warmth and good humour will be sorely missed.

“A celebration of his life will follow.”

Carl Reiner

Carl Reiner has died aged 98 on June 30.

Carl starred in many films & TV series including Oceans eleven & Dick van Dyke.

The American also played a voice part of Carl Reineroceros in Toy Story 4.

The 98 year old is believed to have passed away of natural causes whilst at home.

Carl Reiner has died aged 98

Joel Schumacher

Hollywood director Joel Schumacher passed away on June 22 after a year-long fight against cancer.

The veteran film maker brought some cult classics to the big screen including The Lost Boys, The Phantom Of The Opera and two entries in to the Batman mvie franchise.

Ian Holm

Actor Ian Holm died on June 19 aged 88.

Holm was a star of stage and screen, starting with the Royal Shakespeare Company before moving on to TV and films. His role in 1981 movie Chariots of Fire earned him an Oscar nomination and a BAFTA award.

He also starred in Terry Gilliam film Brazil, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, The Fifth Element and sci-fi hit Aliens.

In 2001 he began playing Bilbo Baggins in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings movie franchise, returning to a character he had originally portrayed 20 years earlier in a BBC radio adaptation.

Dame Vera Lynn

Forces’ sweetheart Dame Vera Lynn died on June 18, aged 103.

In a statement, the family said she passed away in the early hours of the morning , surrounded by her close family.

Dame Vera, who is most remembered for her songs We’ll Meet Again, The White Cliffs of Dover, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square and There’ll Always Be an England, began performing at the age of seven in local working men’s clubs, taking her maternal grandmother Margaret Lynn’s maiden name as her stage name at 11..

Willie Thorne

Snooker legend Willie Thorne died on June 17, aged 66, after a short battle with leukaemia.

Nicknamed Mr Maximum – for holding the record for most maximum 147 breaks – he won 14 worldwide titles, and reached the final of the UK Championship in 1985, losing to Steve Davis having led the tie 13-8 at one stage.

Arguably his finest hour came in the final of The Classic in 1985, where he beat Cliff Thorburn to win his only ranked tournament.

The former world No.7 had been in an induced coma in the intensive care ward at Torrevieja Hospital, Spain, after suffering respiratory failure.

MAY

Michael Angelis

Actor Michael Angelis died on May 30 aged 68.

Angelis featured on a number of TV programmes during his career, including The Liver Birds, Luv, Auf Wiedersehen Pet and Boys from the Blackstuff.

The Liverpool-born star also appeared in films, making his big screen debut in 1978 movie The Black Stuff.

He famously took over from Ringo Star as the narrator of Thomas the Tank Engine, lending his voice to the show from 1991 until 2012.

Tony Scannell

Actor Tony Scannell died on May 27 aged 74.

Scannell’s most famous role was that of DS Ted Roach on police drama series The Bill. He appeared on the show between 1984 and 1993.

Tony also featured in Waking the Dead, and starred in the 1980 Flash Gordon movie.

Mory Kante

Singer Mory Kante died on May 22 aged 70 after suffering from chronic illnesses.

The Guinean star helped to bring African music to a wider world audience with his best selling album Akwaba Beach, which featured the 1988 international hit Yeke Yeke.

Fred Willard

Comic actor Fred Willard passed away aged 87 on May 15.

The Hollywood star appeared in a number of movies, across seven decades, most famously in the Anchor Man films. He was also an award winning talk show host.

Little Richard

Rock and Roll legend Little Richard passed away on May 9, aged 87.

Real name Richard Penniman, the singer was famed for a number of songs throughout his career starting with chart topping hit Tutti Frutti.

Ben Chijioke

Ben Chijioke, better known under his rapping name of ‘Ty’ died aged 47 on May 7.

The British rapper passed away after contracting Covid-19.

Chijioke was a 2004 Mercury Prize runner up who rose to fame through his debut album ‘Awkward’ in 2001.

Ty dies aged 47 after losing battle with corona virus

Brian Howe

Musician Brian Howe died aged 66 following a heart attack.

British born Howe’s early career saw stints in band Shy and White Spirit. But he was most famous as the singer in rock outfit Bad Company, joining the group in 1985 when he replaced lead vocalist Paul Rodgers.

Prior to this, he collaborated with rocker Ted Nugent on the latter’s 1984 album Penetrator.

Florian Schneider

Musician Florian Schneider died on May 6 aged 73.

Schneider was a founding member of pioneering electro group Kraftwerk. He helped create the German band alongisde Ralf Hutter in 1970, and they later went on to define the genre, inspiring swathes of other music makers including David Bowie.

June Bernicoff

Gogglebox star June Bernicoff died on May 5 aged 82 following a short illness.

June and her husband Leon were the first couple to join the show when it started back in 2013. She left Gogglebox when Leon passed away in December 2017.

In a statement, Channel 4 said the pair were “a huge part of the programme’s success. Their warmth, wit and contrasting personalities endeared them to the nation during the course of the first 10 series.”

APRIL

Sam Lloyd

Actor Sam Lloyd died on April 30 aged 56 following a battle with brain and lung cancer.

Lloyd appeared in many TV shows, including 3rd Rock From the Sun, The West Wing, Spin City and most famously as Ted Buckland in hit medical sitcom Scrubs.

He also had some big screen roles, notably in Galaxy Quest and Flubber.

Tony Allen

Afrobeat musician Tony Allen died on April 30, aged 79. The cause of his death is unknown at the time of writing.

Allen was an influential drummer and songwriter credited with helping to define the Afrobeat genre of music as part of the band Africa 70.

He frequently collaborated with Blur’s Damon Albarn and Red Hot Chili Pepper bassist Flea, forming various supergroups alongside musicians from other bands.

Irrfan Khan

Actor Irrfan Khan on April 29 aged 53 after battling a colon infection.

After starting his career on TV in the 1980s, Khan made a name for himself in Bollywood movies, and eventually crossed over to Hollywood with his role in 2008 film Slumdog Millionaire. He went on to appear in other big screen blockbusters including Jurassic World, Life of Pi and The Amazing Spider-Man.

BJ Hogg

Actor BJ Hogg died aged 65.

Hogg’s most famous role was that of Ser Addam Marbrand on hit HBO series Game of Thrones. The Irish star also featured on BBC Northern Ireland comedy show Give My Head Peace, as well as drama The Fall.

Jill Gascoine

Actress Jill Gascoine died on April 28 aged 83 following a decade-long fight with Alzheimer’s disease.

Her most famous role was in 1980s TV show A Gentle Touch as Maggie Forbes. She continued portraying the character in the spin off C.A.T.S. Eyes, before going on to star alongside John Thaw in sitcom Home to Roost.

Jill later moved to Los Angeles with second husband and fellow actor Alfred Molina. There, she turned her talents to writing, penning three books.

Lynn Faulds Wood

Lynn Faulds Wood, former Watchdog host, has died on April 24, aged 72.

The Broadcast journalist sadly suffered from a stroke and passed away with her husband John Stapleton, and son by herside.

Lynn was the face of Watchdog, during the mid 80’s to early 90’s.

Lynn Faulds Wood has died following a stroke.

Neil Black

Neil Black, former Chief of U.K Athletics has died on April 19, aged 60.

At the time of writing the cause of death has not been released.

The former performance director of U.K Athletics was an integral part to many athletes’ careers, however none more so than Sir Mo Farah who was coached by Black between 2011-2017.

Former UK Athletic chief has died aged 60

Ebow Graham

Ebow Graham, Foreign Beggars star, died on April 18, aged 41.

The founding member of the hip-hop electronic cross over group, known as Metropolis, died after an accident at home.

Ebow leaves behind a 10 year old child.

Foreign Beggars singer dead aged 41

Norman Hunter

Norman Hunter, a member of England’s 1966 World Cup winning squad, died on April 17, aged 76.

The Leeds United legend, who made 726 appearances during his 17-year stay at Elland Road, was taken to hospital after testing positive for coronavirus, but sadly passed away.

Hunter was a renowned as a fearsome tackler, creating a formidable central defensive partnership with fellow England hero Jack Charlton.

Howard Finkel

Howard Finkel, an American wrestling ring announcer, died on April 16, aged 69.

At the time of writing there has not been a confirmed reason of death.

Finkel is mostly famous for his 40 year career within the WWE as a ring announcer.

He was added into the Hall of Fame in 2009.

Former WWE ring announcer dead aged 69

Ranjit Chowdhry

Ranjit Chowdry, Bolllywood actor, died on April 15, aged 64.

No formal cause of death has been announced.

The actor was a big name within Bolllywood.

Ranjit was mostly known in the UK and the US for his roles within The Office and Prison Break.

Bolllywood actor Ranjit Chowdhry died aged 64

Brian Dennehy

Brian Dennehy, American actor died on April 15, aged 81.

Dennehy’s death was announced to have been via natural causes.

The actor was most famous for his roles in Romeo and Juliet and Dynasty.

Brian Dennehy has died aged 81

Sean Arnold

Sean Arnold died on April 15, aged 79.

The former Grange Hill and Bergerac star sadly lost his battle with a long term illness in his care home.

Sean was born in Gloucestershire in January 1941. The English actor was most recognisable for his roles as Mr Llewelyn in Grange Hill and as Barney Crozier in Bergerac.

Former Grange Hill actor dies aged 79

Tim Brooke-Taylor

Tim Brooke-Taylor died on April 12, aged 79.

A statement from his agent confirmed the sad news the much revered comedian and actor died after contracting Covid-19.

Brooke-Taylor is most well-known for starring in classic British comedy series The Goodies.

The show ran from 1970 to 1982 and was admired for its surreal style and uproarious slapstick.

Sir Stirling Moss

Sir Stirling Moss died on April 12 at the age of 90.

A motor-racing legend, Moss won 212 of his 529 races – but famously never won a Formula One title.

The closest he came to winning the drivers’ championship was in 1958, when he lost out on becoming Britain’s first world champion to Mike Hawthorn by one point, despite winning four races to the Ferrari driver’s one.

Black The Ripper

Black The Ripper died at the age of 32 on April 6.

The rapper, whose real name was Dean West, found fame in the early noughties with mix tapes Holla Black and Afro Sumurai.

In recent years, he had been a strong advocate for the legalisation of marijuana in the UK.

His cause of death is currently unknown.

House DJ and producer DJ Pioneer paid tribute by sharing a picture of the artist, writing on Twitter: “R.I.P Black The Ripper”

James Drury

James Drury died at the age of 85 on April 6.

The Hollywood actor starred in The Virginian, one of the longest-running Westerns in television history.

His assistant, Karen Lindsey, confirmed the sad news on Facebook, saying the actor had died of natural causes.

The star also appeared in several Westerns on the big screen, including Ten Who Dares in 1960 and Ride the High Country in 1962.

He was best known for his role as the no-nonsense foreman of the Shiloh Ranch in TV series The Virginian.

Honor Blackman

Bond Girl Honor Blackman died at the age of 94 on April 6.

The actress was best known for her role as Pussy Galore, as well as starring in The Avengers and A Night to Remember.

She died peacefully of natural causes at her home in Sussex.

Her family said in a statement to The Guardian: “She died peacefully of natural causes at her home in Lewes, Sussex, surrounded by her family.

“She was much loved and will be greatly missed by her two children Barnaby and Lottie, and grandchildren Daisy, Oscar, Olive and Toby.”

Vinolia Mashego

South African television presenter Vinolia Mashego died at the age of 56.

The Generations star, commonly known as V-Mash, is reported to have died in her sleep at her home in Mamelodi, Pretoria.

According to Sowetan Live, Vinolia’s sister Prelley Seale found out about her sister’s death on the morning of April 6.

Prelley said: “It’s true. We got the news this morning.

“We are still shocked and we don’t know what happened to her.”

James King

My 600-lb Life star James king passed away at the tender age of 49 on April 3.

The reality TV favourite died after ‘several different health battles’.

James’ family confirmed the news to TMZ with a heartwarming tribute to the young father-of-six.

He died in Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital while his obituary celebrated James as a ‘loving’ husband, son, brother, dad and grandfather.

Bill Withers

Singer Bill Withers died on April, 3, aged 81.

The American music icon had lost a battle with an ongoing heart condition.

Born on July 4, 1938 in Slab Fork, West Virgina, the soul singer was given the name of William Harrison Withers. Most famous for his smash hit Ain’t No Sunshine, Withers’ other well known tracks include Lean On Me, Lovely Day and Use Me Up.

Bill Withers dead aged 81.

Eddie Large

Comedian Eddie Large died on April 2 after contracting coronavirus.

Eddie, alongside funnyman Syd Little, made up one of Britain’s most beloved comedy duos, who were known as Little And Large.

He died alone in hospital without his family or friends allowed to visit him due to the strict rules around slowing the spread of the virus.

His son Ryan McGinnis broke the sad news on Facebook, telling family and friends that his Scottish comedian dad had passed away at the age of 78.

Logan Williams

Actor Logan Williams died on April 2, aged 16. The cause of his death as not been made public.

The young star’s most famous role was on CW superhero series The Flash. He portrayed a younger version of main character Barry Allen. Williams also appeared on Hallmark show When Calls the Heart as Miles Montgomery.

MARCH

Joe Diffie

Country music singer Joe Diffie died on March 29, aged 61. According to his publicist, his death was due to coronavirus complications.

Diffie was a Grammy award winner, earning the Best Country Collaboration with Vocals gong in 1998. He was also a member of the Grand Ole Opry, a renowned weekly country music show.

John Callahan

Actor John Callahan died on March 28 aged 66 following a sudden stroke.

Callahan appeared on hit US soap opera All My Children as Edmund Grey from 1992 to 2005.

During the mid 80s and early 90s he also had roles on drama shows Santa Barbara and Falcon Crest.

Mark Blum

Actor Mark Blum died on March 25 aged 69 following coronavirus complications.

Among Blum’s most notable big screen appearances were his roles in Crocodile Dundee and Desperately Seeking Susan.

He also featured on a number of TV shows, including Law and Order, NYPD Blue and The West Wing.

Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers died on March 20 aged 81.

The country music legend had a career that spanned more than six decades, and featured chart topping hits like The Gambler and Islands in the Stream, his iconic duet with fellow country star Dolly Parton.

His music earned him numerous awards, including two Grammys for tracks Lucille and The Gambler in 1977 and 1979 respectively.

Rogers also turned his hand to acting, appearing in a number of TV movies inspired by The Gambler, as well as making cameos in various TV shows.

Lorenzo Brino

Actor Lorenzo Brino died on March 9 aged 21 after a car crash.

Brino was a former child star most famous for his portrayal of Sam Camden in 90s TV show 7th Heaven. He joined the show alongside his brother in 1996 when they were just five months old, and were part of the cast until 2001.

Max von Sydow

Actor Max von Sydow passed away on March 8, aged 90.

His career spanned many cult favourites including Star Wars and Game of Thrones.

Dave Rainford

Eggheads star Dave Rainford died aged 49.

Rainford was a general knowledge expert who was a fan favourite on the BBC quiz show. He joined the programme following an appearance on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire in 2015 which saw him win £250,000.

Eggheads host Jeremy Vine led the tributes on Twitter:” Dave “Tremendous Knowledge” Rainford, famous for being banned from pub quiz machines in Manchester, was the best company after a recording: always fun and sociable.

“I never saw him angry or ungenerous, not once.”

Danny Tidwell

Professional dancer Danny Tidwell died on March 6 aged 35 following a car crash.

Tidwell became an American dance star after his appearance on the third season of US talent show So You Think You Can Dance? in 2007.

He went on to appear on other reality shows including Dancing with the Stars and American Idol.

Nicholas Tucci

Actor Nicholas Tucci died on March 3 aged 38 after a battle with cancer.

Tucci was most famous for his appearances on horror show Channel Zero and Netflix thriller You’re Next.

Barbara Crampton, one of Nicholas’ co-stars, paid tribute to him on social media: “Rip dear, sweet friend Nicholas Tucci. I was lucky to work w/ him twice on YOU’RE NEXT & CHANNEL ZERO.

“He is gone way too soon but his mark on the genre and our hearts will never be forgotten. Chilling in UNDOCUMENTED, MOST BEAUTIFUL ISLAND and funny in LONG LOST and more…XX”

FEBRUARY

Michael Medwin

Actor Michael Medwin died on February 26 aged 96.

Medwin’s most famous roles include his appearance in Carry On Nurse and his portrayal of Don Satchley in detective show Shoestring. He also starred in 1970 musical film Scrooge alongside Albert Finney.

Michael’s career included theatre as well, with West End productions such as Man and Superman and What the Butler Saw. He was awarded an OBE for Services to Drama in 2005.

Simon Warr

Simon Warr died on February 22 aged 65 after battling pancreatic and liver cancer.

The broadcaster and former teacher worked on BBC Radio for over 20 years, and appeared on Channel 4 TV show That’ll Teach ‘Em as the headmaster.

Boris Leskin

Actor Boris Leskin died on February 21 aged 97.

Leskin was born in Romania and starred in a number of Soviet-era films, eventually making it to Hollywood and appearing in sci-fi movie Men in Black as the chef.

He also featured on TV show Third Watch and had a role in comedy drama Everything is Illuminated.

Bashar Barakah Jackson (Pop Smoke)

The American rapper known as Pop Smoke died on February 19, aged 20.

Pop Smoke was born in Brooklyn, New York on July 20, 1999.

The artist was only active within the American rap/grime scene for two years.

His first single to become popular was ‘Welcome to the party’ which was on his debut album ‘Meet the Woo’

It’s believed he was killed by a rival gang member.

Ja’net DuBois

Actress Ja’net DuBois died on February 18 aged 74.

DuBois was most famous for her role on the American 70s sitcom Good Times as Willona Woods. She also appeared on Beverly Hills 90210, ER and Everybody Loves Raymond. The star voiced a character on animated show The PJs, which earned her two Emmys.

Andrew Weatherall

Andrew Weatherall died on February 17, at the age of 56.

The DJ and music producer suffered from a pulmonary embolism and passed away in hospital, according to a statement released by his management.

Andrew – also known as The Major – first found fame with the club remix of Hallelujah for the Happy Mondays, for which he collaborated with DJ Paul Oakenfold.

He also helped produce World in Motion for New Order, Loaded, and a remix of Primal Scream’s track I’m Losing More Than I’ll Ever Have.

Harry Gregg

Former Manchester United goalkeeper and Munich air disaster hero Harry Gregg has passed away at the age of 87.

Gregg, a Northern Ireland international, helped rescue some of his teammates and other passengers on board the plane which came down in Munich as United travelled back from a European Cup tie in Belgrade on February 6, 1958.

Twenty-three passengers on board the plane were killed, including eight United first-team players.

United icon Bobby Charlton credits Gregg for saving his life after the crash, while he also helped pull a baby from the wreckage of the aircraft.

Gregg – who was back in the United goal just two weeks after the disaster – received an MBE in 1995 and an OBE in 2018, both for his services to football.

The goalkeeper is widely recognised as one of the greatest stoppers ever to play for United, and maintained that he was determined not to be remembered for his actions at Munich alone.

Jason Davis

Disney voice actor Jason Davis has died on February 17 aged 35.

He was the voice of character Mikey Blumberg on the Disney animated series Recess for four years and has opened up in recent years about his struggles with addiction.

Jason’s mother, Nancy Davis Rickel, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter, with the cause still unknown.

In a statement, Jason’s heartbroken mum wrote: “I am so heartbroken to share the saddest news of my life that my son Jason Davis passed away this morning in Los Angeles.

Caroline Flack

TV presenter Caroline Flack died on February 15 aged 40 after taking her own life.

A lawyer for the Flack family confirmed that Caroline took her own life and was found in her east London flat on Saturday.

A family spokesperson today said: “We can confirm that our Caroline passed away today on the 15th February.

“We would ask that the press respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.”

Caroline fronted a number of shows during her career, including Gladiators, Love Island, The X Factor, and I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here Now.

She also hosted a radio show on Heart alongside Gethin Jones, and appeared as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

Esther Scott

American actress Esther Denise Scott has died on February 14, aged 66, following a heart attack.

Born in Queens, New York on April 13 1953, Esther made her acting debut as a voice actress on Star Wars, Ewoks.

Throughout her 31 year career she stared in films and TV shows such as, The Geena Davis show, Transformers, Fun with Dick and Jane, Austin Powers in Goldmember.

Arguably her most notable role come in the 1991 film, Boyz N the Hood.

Lindsey Lagestee

Country singer Lindsey Lagestee died on February 14 aged 25 after being hit by a car.

Lagestee performed as part of Dixie Crush, a popular cover band in midwest America. She was one of the group’s founding members.

John Shrapnel

Actor John Shrapnel died on February 14 aged 77.

As well as featuring in a number of stage productions as part of the Royal Shakespeare company, Shrapnel starred in Notting Hill and Gladiator, and also appeared on TV show Waking the Dead.

Lynn Cohen

Actress Lynn Cohen died on February 14 aged 86.

The star’s most famous role was as Magda in hit TV series Sex and the City, and she went on to portray the character in the show’s two big screen outings.

Cohen also appeared in numerous episodes of Law and Order and Damages, as well as featuring in various movies including Munich and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

Raphaël Coleman

Nanny McPhee star Raphaël Coleman died on February 7, aged just 25.

Raphaël’s stepdad Carsten Jensen took to Facebook to say that Raphaël passed away after collapsing during a jog and could not be revived.

As well as appearing as Eric Brown in Nanny McPhee, he also had roles in It’s Alive, Edward’s Turmoil and The Fourth Kind.

In recent years, he had been actively involved with Extinction Rebellion, earning himself the nickname Iggy Fox within the group.

Orson Bean

Actor Orson Bean died on February 7 aged 91 after being struck by a car.

The star’s career started on the radio in the 50s, before becoming a game show host in the 60s and then moving on to a number of TV roles.

Bean’s appearances include The Twilight Zone, Doctor Quinn, Medicine Woman and Desperate Housewives, as well as big screen outings in Being John Malkovich and Alien Autopsy alongside Ant and Dec.

Kirk Douglas

Actor Kirk Douglas died on February 5 aged 103.

The Hollywood legend was born Issur Danielovitch, and worked forty different jobs – including a stint in the United States Navy during World War II – before starting his acting career.

Following his debut big screen appearance in the 1946 film The Strange Love of Martha Ivers, Douglas went on to star in nearly 100 movies, including the role he was most famous for, Spartacus.

In a statement, his actor son Michael said: “To the world, he was a legend, an actor from the golden age of movies who lived well into his golden years, a humanitarian whose commitment to justice and the causes he believed in set a standard for all of us to aspire to.”

Danny Ayres

Speedway star Danny Ayres passed away aged 33.

Ayres was a beloved figure among fans and those involved in the sport, and was part of various teams during his career, starting with Kent in the National League at the age of 27, followed Championship team Glasgow in 2016.

He also had stints for Leicester, Redcar, Cradley and Ipswich.

Andy Gill

Musician Andy Gill died on February 1 aged 64.

Guitarist Gill was one of the founding members of post-punk band Gang of Four. The group’s debut album Entertainment! appeared on the list of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

JANUARY

Nicholas Parsons

Just a Minute host Nicholas Parsons died on January 28, aged 96.

Parsons had hosted the hit BBC Radio 4 radio comedy show Just A Minute since its inception in 1967, a show in which celebrity panelists must speak for 60 seconds “without hesitation, repetition or deviation” while swerving challenges from their rivals.

He also was known for his TV work, presenting shows such as Sale of the Century.

Kobe Bryant

Retired LA Lakers legend, Kobe Bryant passed away on February 26, aged 41.

The five-time NBA Champion and American Basketball sensation was tragically killed following a helicopter crash.

The Shooting guard had a one club career with the Los Angeles side spanning 20 years.

Kobe’s daughter also passed away in the crash, along with several others.

Jack Burns

Writer, actor and comedian Jack Burns died on January 26, at the age of 86.

One of the original writers for The Muppet Show, he was also a comedy partner to George Carlin, the pair penning radio shows and an album together in the 1960s.

The American actor starred in Happy Days, The Partridge Family and Sour Grapes, as well as voicing characters on hit animated series such as The Simpsons, Animaniacs, Mother Goose And Grim, and Darkwing Duck.

Terry Jones

Monty Python founder and star Terry Jones died on January 21, aged 77.

According to a family statement Jones, who had been battling a rare form of dementia, died with with his wife Anna Soderstrom by his side.

Jones was an original member of the legendary comedy troupe, and was largely responsible for getting them together after meeting Michael Palin at Oxford University.

Together, the Pythons created some of the world’s most famous comedy sketches of all time and released a number of hit movies, including Life Of Brian and The Holy Grail.

Derek Fowlds

Yes Minister and Heartbeat star Derek Fowlds died on January 17, aged 82.

The actor died at Royal United Hospitals Bath after suffering from pneumonia that led to heart failure caused by sepsis.

Fowlds was best known for playing Private Secretary Bernard Woolley in the hit political sitcom and police officer Oscar Blaketon in Heartbeat, but he also entertained kids as Mr Derek on The Basil Brush Show from 1969 until 1973, starring opposite the famed puppet.

Therese Dion

Canadian TV star Therese Dion died on January 16 at the age of 92.

She was in the company of her close family on the day she died, according to reports.

It’s said she had been struggling with illness in recent months including memory loss, loss of vision and hearing impairment, according to TMZ.

Therese was a star in her own right as she was the host of a cooking show for Canadian-French language channel TVA.

Also she was fondly nicknamed and known as Maman Dion.

Maman Dion was the mother of 14 children including singer Celine Dion.

Christopher Tolkien

Christopher Tolkien, the son of Lord Of The Rings author JRR Tolkien, died on January 16, aged 95.

Christopher, an accomplished author in his own right, was key in keeping his father’s legacy alive after his death, editing works such as the The Silmarillion.

He also drew the famous original Lord of the Rings maps which decorated the books released across the 1950s after the success of the prequel, The Hobbit, the highly-detailed maps addong to the sense of a complete mythical world of Middle Earth.

Rocky Johnson

Rocky Johnson, the wrestler dad of The Rock, died on January 15, aged 75.

Rocky became National Wrestling Alliance Georgia Champion and NWA Southern Heavyweight Memphis Champion as well as a host of other titles across his career, before going on to become part of the first black tag team to win the World Tag Team championship in the World Wrestling Federation with partner Tony Atlas.

After retiring, he went on to train son Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to wrestle.

Stan Kirsch

Stan Kirsch died on January 11, age 51.

The actor – who was best known for his role of Richie Ryan in Highlander – is believed to have taken his own life and was found dead at his home by his wife.

As well as playing Richie Ryan for six seasons, Kirsch also Stan also starred as Lieutenant Ferrari in hit series JAG for five seasons, as well as appearing in shows such as Friends.

Edd Byrnes

Actor Edd Byrnes died on January 8 from natural causes, aged 87.

Byrnes appeared in the 1979 musical Grease as dance show host Vince Fontaine, and portrayed Kookie on TV series 77 Sunset Strip.

Neil Peart

Musician Neil Peart died on January 7 aged 67 following a fight with brain cancer.

Peart was the drummer in rock band Rush, joining the ensemble in 1974 and retiring from music in 2015.

Neil is survived by Carrie, his wife of 19 years.

Silvio Horta

Ugly Betty creator Silvio Horta died on January 7, aged 45.

He is believed to have taken his own life after being discovered in a motel room in Miami.

Horta was the show-runner and head writer behind the hit ABC show starring America Ferrera and Vanessa Williams, which ran for four seasons between 2006 and 2010.

He also wrote hit films Urban Legend and Urban Legend: Final Cut.

Stephen Clements

BBC presenter Stephen Clements passed away at the age of 47.

The much-loved TV and radio presenter died just months after landing what he called the “job of a lifetime” at the BBC.

Stephen, formerly a long-time presenter of Q Radio’s breakfast show, started working with BBC Northern Ireland last September.

He is survived by his wife and two children.

Christopher Beeny

Upstairs Downstairs star Christopher Beeny died on January 3, aged 78.

The star’s son, Rick Blackman, broke the sad news in a Twitter tribute to his dad.

As well as playing footman Edward Barnes in Upstairs Downstairs, Beeny also starred in Last Of The Summer Wine and In Loving Memory.

Derek Acorah

Derek Acorah died on January 3 aged 69 after falling into a septic coma.

Born Derek Francis Jason Johnson, Acorah was a self-styled spiritual medium who rose to fame on the the TV show Most Haunted when it launched it 2001, before fronting his own show Derek Acorah’s Ghost Towns.

Derek appeared on the 2017 series of CelebrityBig Brother, finishing in fourth place.

Nathael Julan

French striker Nathael Julan died in a car accident, aged 23.

Julan, who is believed to have been on his way home from training, was involved in the collision near the town of Saint-Brieuc with firefighters called to the scene.

Guingamp confirmed the news via a statement, saying: “The club had the immense pain of learning this afternoon of the accidental death of their player Nathael Julan.

“On this tragic day, all the members of the club join together to send their condolences to Nathael’s family.”

Chris Barker

Former Barnsley and Cardiff City defender Chris Barker passed away, aged just 39.

In a career that spanned almost 20 years, the Sheffield-born left back made more than 500 career appearances since making his Football League debut for Barnsley back in 1999, before going on to play for teams such as Cardiff, QPR, Plymouth, Southend and Aldershot.

Lexii Alijai

Young rising rap star Lexii Alijai died on January 1, aged just 21.

Fans of the up-and-coming star, whose real name is Alexis Alijai Lynch, were left devastated when news of her sudden death broke just hours after she had been active on social media.

She recently appeared on Kehlani Parrish’s single Jealous, and the American singer was one of the first to share the news as it broke.