The passing of a public figure can leave a profound impact on fans worldwide.
Whether they were Hollywood legends, music icons, political leaders, or sports stars, their legacies live on through their contributions to the world.
As 2025 unfolds, we reflect on the notable personalities who have passed away this year.
The world was already in mourning toward the end of 2024 with the loss of several well-known figures, including former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who died at the age of 100 just two days before the new year.
Other notable losses at the close of 2024 included actress Linda Lavin, socialite Jocelyn Wildenstein, filmmaker Jeff Baena, drag performer The Vivienne, and folk musician Peter Yarrow.
Here’s a look at some of the influential figures we’ve lost so far in 2025:
January 2025
- Jocelyn Wildenstein (Dec. 31, 2024) – The famous socialite passed away from a pulmonary embolism, as confirmed by The Times.
- Wayne Osmond (Jan. 1) – The musician and member of The Osmonds passed away, as announced by his brother Merrill Osmond.
- Brenton Wood (Jan. 3) – The soul singer, known for hits like “Gimme Little Sign,” passed at 83.
- Jeff Baena (Jan. 4) – The acclaimed filmmaker and husband of actress Aubrey Plaza died at 47.
- The Vivienne (Jan. 2025) – The beloved drag queen and television personality’s cause of death remains unknown.
- Peter Yarrow (Jan. 7) – The folk singer and member of Peter, Paul & Mary passed away after battling bladder cancer.
- Rory Sykes (Jan. 12) – The former Australian child star tragically died in the Southern California wildfires at 32.
- Leslie Charleson (Jan. 12) – Best known for her role on General Hospital, she passed away at 79.
- Paul Danan (Jan. 2025) – The actor, known for Hollyoaks, passed away at 46.
February 2025
- David Lynch (Feb. 16) – The legendary filmmaker behind Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive passed away at 78 after battling emphysema.
- Marianne Faithfull (Feb. 30) – The British singer-songwriter died in London at 78.
- Roberta Flack (Feb. 24) – The iconic voice behind Killing Me Softly passed away at 88.
- Michelle Trachtenberg (Feb. 26) – The actress, known for Gossip Girl and Buffy the Vampire Slayer, was found dead at 39.
March 2025
- Gene Hackman (March 1) – The legendary French Connection and Unforgiven actor was found deceased alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their New Mexico home.
- Angie Stone (March 1) – The R&B singer passed away in a car accident at 63.
- Hazel Dukes (March 1) – The civil rights leader and former NAACP president died peacefully at 92.
- Prince Frederik of Luxembourg (March 1) – The young royal passed away at 22 due to a rare genetic disorder.
- Carl Thomas Dean (March 3) – Husband to country legend Dolly Parton, he passed away at 82.
- Roy Ayers (March 6) – The renowned jazz and funk musician died at 84 after a long illness.
- P2istheName (March 14) – YouTube star Philip Enewally was found dead at 26.
As the year continues, we remember and honor these individuals for their lasting impact. Their contributions to entertainment, music, politics, and beyond will be cherished forever.
