Kelly, Amber, and Jason of The Nelons, & More Stars Who Passed Away in 2024

Kelly, Amber, and Jason of The Nelons

The Nelons gospel group was comprised of Kelly Nelon Clark, Amber Nelon Thompson, Autumn Nelon Clark, and Jason Clark.

The group’s management company Gaither Music announced the news that Kelly Nelon Clark, her husband, Jason Nelon Clark, and daughter Amber Nelon Kistler, were killed in a plane crash; along with Amber’s husband, Nathan Kistler, their assistant, Melodi Hodges, the pilot Larry Haynie and his wife, Melissa.

The only surviving member of The Nelons is Kelly and Jason’s daughter, Amber Nelon.

Esta Terblanche

All My Children alum Esta Terblanche has suddenly passed away at the age of 51, per Page Six. Her publicist Lisa Rodrigo confirmed the news, saying,  “I can not believe I am posting this. It’s with a heavy heart that my friend and client Esta TerBlanche passed away Thursday of natural causes. An autopsy report is pending. I am still processing and in shock. Esta was a beautiful soul in and out. I was proud to know her and work with her. More to come in the days ahead.”

Bob Newhart

Comedian and actor Bob Newhart, most known for his work in Newhart, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart and The Big Bang Theory, passed away on July 18 at his home in Los Angeles. He was 94.

His publicist, Jerry Digney, confirmed the death was a result of a series of short illnesses., The New York Times. 

Newhart is survived by their four children, Robert Jr., Timothy, Courtney Albertini and Jennifer Bongiovi, his sister Ginny Brittain and ten grandchildren.

Shannen Doherty

Beloved actress Shannen Doherty has tragically passed away at 53 years old. Her longtime publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed the news to People, saying, “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease. The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace,” Sloane continued.

Doherty was most well-known for starring in Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed.

Richard Simmons

Fitness and personality icon Richard Simmons has tragically passed away at the age of 76, per TMZ. He was best known for his Sweatin’ to the Oldies line of aerobics videos, and promoting health and exercise for everyone of all ages.

Shelley Duvall

Legendary actress Shelley Duvall, known for her roles in The Shining and Annie Hall, passed away in her sleep from complications of diabetes at her home in Texas on July 11. 

Duvall’s longtime partner Dan Gilroy told the news to The Hollywood Reporter. “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us,” Gilroy said. “Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.” 

Jon Landau

Oscar-winning film producer Jon Landau has sadly passed away at the age of 63 from cancer. He produced films such as Titanic, Avatar, and Avatar: The Way of Water, to name a few. He is survived by his wife Julie, and their two sons, Jamie and Jodie.

Mike Heslin

Actor Mike Heslin has tragically passed away at the young age of 30. 

His husband Scotty Dynamo shared the news via social media, confirming Heslin died on July 2 “from an unexpected cardiac event after a week long battle in the hospital.” He added, “Michael was young, in perfect health, and the doctors have no explanation for what happened.”

He also left a truly beautiful and heartbreaking tribute to Heslin on Instagram.

Heslin was well known for his work in Lioness and The Holiday Proposal Plan.

Martin Mull

Beloved actor Martin Mull passed away at the age of 80, and his daughter Maggie Mull confirmed this. She shared the announcement on Instagram saying, “I am heartbroken to share that my father passed away at home on June 27th, after a valiant fight against a long illness. He was known for excelling at every creative discipline imaginable and also for doing Red Roof Inn commercials. He would find that joke funny. He was never not funny.”

She added, “My dad will be deeply missed by his wife and daughter, by his friends and coworkers, by fellow artists and comedians and musicians, and—the sign of a truly exceptional person—by many, many dogs. I loved him tremendously.”

Mull had over 100 acting credits, with some of his most well-known roles being Clue, Veep, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, to name a few.

He is survived by his daughter Maggie, and his wife Wendy Haas.

Tamayo Perry

Pirates of the Caribbean actor and surfer Tamayo Perry passed away following a shark attack on June 23 in Hawaii. 

“Tamayo’s personality was infectious, and as much as people loved him, he loved everyone else more,” Honolulu Ocean Safety acting chief Kurt Lager said in a press conference, per The Guardian. “Our condolences go out to Tamayo’s family.”

Taylor Wily

Hawaii Five-0 star Taylor Wily passed away on June 20. He was 56 years old.

The news was confirmed by one of the show’s executive producers Peter M. Lenkov on Instagram. 

“T, as I told you many times, I fell in love with you at the first audition,” Lenkov wrote. “You came in with a towel on your head mopping up sweat, and I was smitten. You charmed me into making you a regular… on the show… and in my life. You were family. And I will miss you every day, brother.”

“PS: when we spoke last week, we laughed at how right you were from Day 1,” he continued. “Five-0 was our dream job. And I was so lucky we got to share that magic together.”

Donald Sutherland

Donald Sutherland, a beloved actor known for his work in MASH, The Hunger Games franchise, Klute, Pride & Prejudice and much more, passed away on June 20 in Miami after a “long illness,” Deadline reports. He was 88. 

“With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away,” wrote his son and fellow actor Kiefer Sutherland on Instagram. “I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly.”

“He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that,” the caption continued. “A life well lived.”

In addition to Kiefer, Sutherland is survived by his wife Francine Racette, his children Roeg, Rossif, Angus and Rachel as well as his four grandchildren. 

Anouck Aimée

Oscar-nominated French actress Anouck Aimée, who starred in movies like La Dolce Vita and A Man and a Woman, died on June 20 at 92 years old. 

Her daughter, Manuela Papatakis, confirmed the news on Instagram.  

“With my daughter, Galaad, and my granddaughter, Mila, we are immensely saddened to announce the decease of my mother, Anouk Aimée,” Papatakis wrote alongside a black and white picture of Aimée. “I was at her bedside when she passed away this morning at her home in Paris. With infinite love.💞♾️” 

Hiram Kasten

Stand-up comedian and actor Hiram Kasten passed away on June 16 after “fighting through a multitude of illnesses,” his family revealed on Facebook. He was 71.

“Hiram Kasten loved show business and lived his dream of being in show business,” the statement read.

“His most satisfying and greatest role though was as a family man,” the touching statement continued. “He loved being a dad to his beautiful and brilliant daughter who survives him, Millicent Jade Kastenbaum of Manhattan. Her many achievements in her young life and in her career as an Assistant District Attorney have made him burst with pride and love.”

“He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum of Batavia, New York, who loved and tenderly cared for him until the end,” the statement concluded. 

Francoise Hardy

The iconic French singer Francoise Hardy has passed away at 80 years old, after a 20 year battle with cancer. She was a leading figure of the yé-yé wave, and released over 30 albums in her career.

She is survived by her son Thomas Dutronc.

Enchanting

Rapper Enchanting, the up-and-coming rapper formerly signed to Gucci Mane’s label, 1017 Records, has died at the age of 26. Per EOnline, her friend confirmed her death, which was days after there were reports about her being on life support.

She released two albums in her lifetime: 2022’s No Luv and 2023’s Luv Scarred / No Luv.

Johnny Wactor

General Hospital star Johnny Wactor was shot and killed in a robbery gone wrong on May 26 in downtown Los Angeles, TMZ first reported. He was 37. 

Following the news, Wactor’s agent, David Shaul, confirmed his death to People. 

“Not just a talented actor who was committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him,” Shaul told the outlet. “Standing for hard work, tenacity and a never give up attitude. In the highs and lows of a challenging profession he always kept his chin up and kept striving for the best he could be.”

“Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone,” the statement continued. “He would literally give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”

“He was a good person,” Wactor’s brother Johnny told People. “He was taken way too early, and no one should be taken like this at all. He touched a lot of people. He believed in his core values to the end, and he lived life to the fullest the way he wanted to. And he was happy doing that.”

Grayson Murray

Golf star Grayson Murray passed away on May 25. He was 30 years old. 

“We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words,” PGA TOUR Commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement. “The PGA TOUR is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.”

In a statement from his family, Murray’s parents confirmed he died by suicide. 

“Was Grayson loved? The answer is yes. By us, his brother Cameron, his sister Erica, all of his extended family, by his friends, by his fellow players and – it seems – by many of you who are reading this,” his parents wrote in a statement to the PGA Tour. “He was loved and he will be missed.”

“We would like to thank the PGA TOUR and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support,” it continued. “Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now.”

“Please respect our privacy as we work through this incredible tragedy, and please honor Grayson by being kind to one another,” the statement ended. “If that becomes his legacy, we could ask for nothing else.”

Charlie Colin

Charlie Colin, bassist and founding member of the band Train, passed away on May 22 after slipping and falling in the shower while house-sitting for a friend, TMZ first reported. He was 58. 

“When I met Charlie Colin, front left, I fell in love with him,” the band wrote in a tribute to the musician on Instagram. “He was THE sweetest guy and what a handsome chap. Let’s make a band that’s the only reasonable thing to do. His unique bass playing and beautiful guitar work helped get folks to notice us in SF and beyond.”

“I’ll always have a warm place for him in my heart,” the tribute continued. “I always tried to pull him closer but he had a vision of his own. You’re a legend, Charlie. Go charm the pants off those angels❤️🙏🏼 ⭐️.”

Sian Scale

Beloved model Sian Scale has tragically passed away at the young age of 28, after a battle with cancer. She was known for appearing in Vanity Fair, as well as fashion houses such as Marc Jacobs, Burberry and Chanel. 

“She was determined and strong and had such grace in navigating the most difficult year of her life with such acceptance, optimism and vulnerability,” her family said in a statement obtained by NYPost. “Sian was very generous, loving, kind, fun, adventurous and modest”.

Bernard Hill

Bernard Hill, best known for his role as Captain Edward Smith in Titanic, has passed away at 79, his agent confirmed to BBC. He started acting in 1974, and has been in over 130 credits, and nabbed two BAFTA nominations. Along with being a decorated actor, he is survived by his fiancée Alison and son Gabriel.

Mandisa

Former American Idol contestant and Grammy-winning Christian singer Mandisa was found dead in her Nashville home on Thursday, April 18. She was 47.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” her representative confirmed to local outlet The Tennessean. “At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

Mandisa Lynn Hundley appeared on season 5 of American Idol and went on to have a successful career making contemporary Christian music, even winning a Grammy for her 2013 album, Overcomer. 

Roberto Cavalli

Legendary fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has died. He was 83 years old.

His fashion brand, named after himself, announced the news on Instagram. “It is with great sadness that today we say our final goodbyes to our founder Robert Cavalli,” the statement reads. “From humble beginnings in Florence, Roberto succeeded in becoming a globally recognised name loved and respected by all.”

“Naturally talented and creative, Roberto believed that everyone can discover and nurture the artist within themselves,” the post continues. “Roberto Cavalli’s legacy will live on via his creativity, his love of nature and via his family who he cherished.”

In the caption, Fausto Puglisi, the brand’s creative director, said his goodbye to Cavalli. “Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore but I know I will feel your spirit with me always,” he wrote. “It is the greatest honour of my career to work under your legacy and to create for the brand you founded with such vision and style.”

O.J. Simpson

Controversial football star O.J. Simpson died on April 10 at age 76 after a battle with cancer, according to a statement shared by his family. 

“On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren. During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace,” a post on Simpson’s social media account read.

Simpson is survived by two children from his first marriage to Marguerite L. Whitley and two from his marriage to Nicole Brown.

Simpson’s successful football career has long been overshadowed by his 1994 arrest following the murders of Brown and her friend, Ron Goldman. The Hall of Fame football player was accused, tried and ultimately acquitted of the murders. 

In 2008, he was convicted of felony armed robbery and kidnapping after forcing men to return memorabilia he claimed they stole from him. He was released from prison in 2017 and kept a low-profile since. 

Cole Brings Plenty

1923 actor Cole Brings Plenty has passed away at the age of 27. 

His father confirmed the news of his passing, after he was found dead in a wooden area. “I am deeply saddened to confirm that my son, Cole, has been found and is no longer with us,” his father said on Instagram. “We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone for the prayers and positive thoughts you sent for Cole.”

He added, “We would also like to thank everyone who came to walk beside us as we searched for my son and provided the resources we needed to expand our search areas. I learned this week how many people knew the goodness in Cole’s heart and loved him.”

Chance Perdomo

Chance Perdomo, star of Gen V and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, has passed away at the young age of 27, after a motorcycle accident.

“It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Chance Perdomo’s untimely passing as a result of a motorcycle accident,” a representative said to Variety. “Authorities have advised that no other individuals were involved. His passion for the arts and insatiable appetite for life was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth will carry on in those who he loved dearest.”

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr., who made history as the first Black man to win a Supporting Actor Oscar in 1983 for his role in An Officer and a Gentleman, has passed away. He was 87 years old. 

“It is with our heartfelt regret to confirm our beloved father passed away this morning,” his family said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “We would like to thank everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.” 

Steve Harley

The frontman of the British rock band Cockney Rebel, Steve Harley, passed away at the age of 73. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. One of his daughters released a statement after he passed from cancer, saying, He “passed away peacefully at home. We know he will be desperately missed by people all over the world.”

Eric Carmen

Musician Eric Carmen, known for his songs “Hungry Eyes” and “All By Myself,” died on March 12. He was 74.

“It is with tremendous sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Carmen,” his wife Amy Carmen wrote in a statement. “Our sweet, loving and talented Eric passed away in his sleep, over the weekend.”

“It brought him great joy to know, that for decades, his music touched so many and will be his lasting legacy,” the statement continued. “Please respect the family’s privacy as we mourn our enormous loss.”

Steve Lawrence

Singer Steve Lawrence passed away on March 7, per The Hollywood Reporter. He was 88. 

The “Pretty Blue Eyes” singer died in Los Angeles following complications from Alzheimer’s disease, publicist Susan DuBow announced. 

Iris Apfel

Fashion icon Iris Apfel has passed away at the age of 102. The interior designer, fashion designer, and icon was known for her colorful looks, fashion collections, and her iconic crushing of ageism.

Anne Whitfield

White Christmas actress Anne Whitfield has sadly passed away at the age of 85. In early Feb, Whitfield died after “suffering an unexpected accident while on a walk in her neighborhood,” per ENews via Yahoo, but her family was able to say goodbye.

She is survived by her children Julie Stevens, Evan Schiller and Allison Phillips, and seven grandchildren.

She was most well-known for her roles in White Christmas, Tick, Tick, Tick, and Annie Get Your Gun.

Richard Lewis

Actor Richard Lewis, known for his work in Curb Your Enthusiasm, died on Feb. 28, Variety reported. He was 76. 

While further details on his passing were not provided, Lewis was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and announced his retirement from stand-up comedy in April of 2023. 

Thomas Kingston

Thomas Kingston, the husband of Lady Gabriella Kingston, died on Feb. 25. He was 45. 

“It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the death of Thomas Kingston, our beloved husband, son and brother,” his family said in a statement at the time, per Us Weekly. “Tom was an exceptional man who lit up the lives of all who knew him. His death has come as a great shock to the whole family and we ask you to respect our privacy as we mourn his passing.”

Upon further investigation into his passing, his death was ruled a suicide, per The Telegraph. 

Kenneth Mitchell

Kenneth Mitchell, known for his work in Star Trek: Discovery, sadly passed away on Feb. 24 following a 5 ½-year battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease, per NBC.  He was 49 years old.

“For five and a half years Ken faced a series of awful challenges from ALS,” his family wrote in a statement on Instagram. “And in truest Ken fashion, he managed to rise above each one with grace and commitment to living a full and joyous life in each moment.” 

“Ken is forever grateful for the massive amounts of love and endless support he received from his community along this journey,” the statement continued. “Especially the courage, resilience and strength displayed from his extraordinary wife, family and friends.” 

Mitchell is survived by his wife Susan and their children Lilah and Kallum.

Chris Gauthier

Chris Gauthier, an actor known for his roles in Once Upon a Time and Eureka, passed away on Feb. 23, CNN reports. He was 48.

“We can confirm that our friend and client, Chris Gauthier, passed away on Friday morning, February 23, at the age of 48 after a brief illness,” the actor’s representatives shared with the outlet. “As a beloved character actor, Chris shared his talents with so many of us both on television and in film. His loss is felt not just by his fans but by those of us who were lucky enough to know him more personally. On behalf of his family, we ask for privacy during this time so that they are able to grieve properly.”

Gauthier is survived by his wife Erin and his two sons, Ben and Sebastian.

Toby Keith

Country music singer-songwriter Toby Keith died on Feb. 5 after a battle with stomach cancer, his family revealed in a statement the following morning. He was 62.

“He fought his fight with grace and courage,” the statement read, according to AP News. He was diagnosed in 2022.

Don Murray

Actor Don Murray, who earned an Oscar nomination for his role in Bus Stop alongside Marilyn Monroe, died on Feb. 2 at age 94.

Wayne Kramer

Singer Wayne Kramer, founding member of The MC5, died Feb. 2 at age 75.

According to a post on his official Instagram, “he passed away peacefully today from pancreatic cancer. He will be remembered for starting a revolution in music, culture, and kindness.”

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers, an actor known for his roles in Rocky, Happy Gilmore and The Mandalorian, passed away on Feb. 1. He was 76 years old.

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers,” his family said in a statement to Page Six. “He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024.”

“Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life,” the statement continued. “Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations.”

“He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend,” the statement concluded. The late actor is survived by his ex-wife and their two sons.

Chita Rivera

Trailblazing Broadway legend Chita Rivera died on Jan. 30 in New York City after a brief illness, according to Good Morning America. 

The 91-year-old Latina was born Dolores Conchita Figueroa del Rivero in Washington D.C. Across her career she amassed 10 Tony nominations, winning twice.

Rivera originated the roles of Anita in West Side Story, Rose Alvarez in Bye Bye Birdie and Velma Kelly in Chicago. 

Adan Canto

It was reported on January 9 that actor Adan Canto, known for his role in The Cleaning Lady and Designated Survivor, passed away following a battle with appendiceal cancer, per The Wrap. He was 42. 

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” Canto’s reps at UTA, Entertainment360 and Viewpoint said in a statement to the outlet. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”

“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Adan Canto,” Fox Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television said in a statement to the outlet. “A wonderful actor and dear friend, we were honored to have him as part of the Warner Bros. Television and Fox Entertainment families since his U.S. debut in The Following more than a decade ago.”

“Most recently, he lit up the screen in The Cleaning Lady with a powerful performance that showcased his artistry, range, depth and vulnerability,” the statement continued. “This is an unfathomable loss, and we grieve alongside his wife Stephanie, their children and loved ones. We will miss Adan dearly.”

Canto and his wife, Stephanie Ann Canto, shared kids Roman Alder, 3, and Eve Josephine, 1. Our hearts go out to his family at this time. 

James Kottak

James Kottak, the longtime drummer for the rock band Scorpions, passed away on Jan. 9 at the age of 61. 

“Very sad news … our dear friend and Drummer for 20 years James Kottak has passed at the age of 61,” the band wrote in a Facebook post alongside a black-and-white photo of Kottak. “James was a wonderful human being , a great musician and loving family man … he was our Brother from another Mother and will be truly missed . … Rock ‘n Roll Forever. RIP James.”

Christian Oliver

Christian Oliver, an actor known for his roles in Speed Racer, Wrong Turn and Valkyrie, died on Jan. 4 along with his two daughters after their small plane crashed into the sea off a Caribbean island, per Deadline. Oliver was 51 while his kids, Madita and Annik, were 12 and 10, respectively. 

The pilot of the plane, Robert Sachs, also passed away. 

“Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft experienced difficulties and nose-dived into the ocean,” the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force said in a statement, per the outlet. “Fishermen and divers from Paget Farm went to the scene of the incident in their boats to render assistance.”

All four bodies have been recovered. The crash is currently under investigation. 

David Soul

David Soul, who played the original Hutch in the series Starsky & Hutch, passed away on Jan. 4. He was 80 years old. 

According to his wife, Helen Snell, the actor died following “a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family,” BBC reports.

“He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist and dear friend,” she continued. “His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched.”

Glynis Johns

Actress Glynis Johns, who was known for her roles in Mary Poppins, The Sundowners and A Little Night Music, passed away on Jan. 4 due to natural causes, her manager told The Hollywood Reporter. Johns was 100 years old.