Remembering the Legends: 25 Famous People Who Died in 2023


 

The world lost many iconic talents and trailblazing figures in 2023. We have lost artists, journalists, actors and actresses, fashion designers, and world leaders among others.

Some of the popular individuals we have lost are actress Sophie Anderson, musician Shane MacGowan, First Lady of the United States Rosalynn Carter, and actor and director Alan Arkin among others.

In this article, we have discussed 25 famous people who died in 2023 and have left a legacy behind. Journey with us as we discuss the amazing work they did in the industry. It is important to note they all inspired, created beauty, fought injustice, and led meaningful lives now sadly gone but never forgotten.

1. Ryan O鈥橬eal

Iconic actor Ryan O鈥橬eal, known for timeless films like Love Story and What鈥檚 Up, Doc?, passed away in 2023 at age 82. The Oscar-nominated star鈥檚 famous golden looks and talent for balancing comedy and drama made him a leading man through the 60s and 70s alongside Barbra Streisand, Ali MacGraw, and more. Though struggling with personal demons off-screen, the classics he starred in remain indelible parts of Hollywood history.

As one of the last legends of the New Hollywood era, his death marks the end of a cinematic age. Costars cherished memories working alongside O鈥橬eal鈥檚 sly humor and seeming effortless magnetism. 

2. Mirush Kabashi

Acclaimed Albanian actor Mirush Kabashi, known for his numerous stage and screen roles since the 1970s, tragically passed away in January 2023 at the age of 75. Kabashi left an indelible mark through celebrated performances in Albanian cinema as well as through his co-founding of the National Theater of Albania.

Regarded as one of Albania鈥檚 most talented actors, Kabashi captivated audiences with his magnetic screen presence and dedication to his craft. His death deeply impacted Albania鈥檚 arts community, which lost a pioneer of the country鈥檚 theater and an icon who helped shape the nation鈥檚 modern artistic identity through his diverse and moving body of work.

4. Shane MacGowan

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Shane MacGowan was a famous Irish musician and singer, best known as the lead singer of the band The Pogues. He was born in England in 1957. The Pogues combined traditional Irish folk music with rock and punk sounds and had many popular songs in the 1980s and 90s like “Fairytale of New York”. MacGowan wrote most of The Pogues songs, which often had poetic lyrics about love, Irish identity, and the immigrant experience.

Outside of music, MacGowan struggled with drinking problems. He died in 2023 at age 65. Shane MacGowan created a unique sound and left an important legacy in Celtic folk-punk music. Many musicians and fans looked up to his talent and style.

  5. Frances Sternhagen

Frances Sternhagen was an American actress born in 1930. She was very talented in plays, movies, and TV shows. Some of her famous roles were in Steel Magnolias, Sex and the City, and The Mist. She won many awards like Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. Frances was admired for her acting skills in comedy and drama. 

In 2023, she died at the old age of 93 after a wonderful life on stage and screen. Frances Sternhagen brought enjoyable performances to audiences for over 60 years with her lively spirit.

6. Rosalynn Carter

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Rosalynn Carter was the First Lady of the United States from 1977 to 1981 when her husband Jimmy Carter was president. She was born in 1927 in Georgia. As First Lady, Rosalynn focused on helping people with mental health problems. She was very involved in charity work her whole life.

After leaving the White House, Rosalynn wrote books, helped build houses for poor people, and supported other good causes. She lived to the old age of 96 before passing away in 2023. Rosalynn Carter worked hard to make people’s lives better and brought awareness to mental health issues at a time when few others did.

7. Tyler Christopher

Tyler Christopher was an American actor best known for playing roles in soap operas. He was born in 1972 in Joliet, Illinois, U.S. He got his big break playing Nikolas Cassadine on the popular show General Hospital in the 1990s. His good looks and excellent acting made him very popular. He won awards like Daytime Emmys over his long soap opera career.

Other shows he starred in were Days of Our Lives and The Lying Game. In 2023, at only 50 years old, Tyler Christopher unexpectedly passed away from a medical condition. His performances entertained millions of loyal daytime television fans for over 25 years. Tyler Christopher left his mark on the world of soap operas through his talent and dedication.

8. Matthew Perry

, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Matthew Perry was an American actor most famous for playing Chandler Bing on the hit TV comedy Friends from 1994 to 2004. Born in Massachusetts in 1969, Perry made audiences laugh with Chandler’s sarcasm. He continued acting in other TV shows and movies over the years. However, Perry also struggled with health issues and drug addiction.

In 2023, Matthew Perry sadly died at age 54. With his quick wit and goofy charm, Matthew Perry’s portrayal of Chandler left a lasting impression on TV viewers and pop culture. Millions of fans loved his funny, lovable character.

9. Suzanne Somers

Suzanne Somers was an American actress most famous for playing Chrissy Snow on the popular 1970s/80s sitcom Three’s Company. She was born in 1946 in California. With her cute personality and golden blonde hair, Somers quickly became a fan-favorite character. She went on to act in other TV shows and became a Las Vegas entertainer later in life. She also promoted health products and wrote self-help books.

In 2023, Suzanne Somers passed away after battling cancer at age 76. With nearly 50 years in show business, this beloved entertainer and entrepreneur brought her bright talent and optimism to generations of fans. Suzanne Somers left a lasting mark through her uplifting spirit both on and off the screen.

10. Michael Gambon

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Michael Gambon was an acclaimed Irish-English actor born in 1940. He was well-known for playing Professor Dumbledore in several Harry Potter movies. His deep, commanding voice and acting range also brought memorable roles like a British spy in The Singing Detective. Gambon appeared in over 100 films and TV shows in his long career spanning six decades. Respect and awards came often for this versatile performer.

Sadly, Michael Gambon passed away in 2023 at age 82. His rich legacy continues through unforgettable characters that moved audiences from Hogwarts wizards to hardened detectives and beyond.

11. Alan Arkin

Alan Arkin was an American actor and director born in 1934. He first became famous for acting in comedies and won acclaim for his performance in the 1966 film The Russians Are Coming. But he also had dramatic roles like in The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter. Arkin continued working steadily in movies and TV through the 2000s and 2010s, especially popular comedy films like Little Miss Sunshine.

In his career spanning over 60 years, Alan Arkin appeared in over 200 roles on screen and stage. In 2023, he died at age 89. Alan Arkin delivered memorable characters in a wide range of genres with his versatility, humor, and honest acting style. His work left an impact on both comedies and dramas.

 12. Ron Cephas Jones

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Ron Cephas Jones was an American actor born in 1957 in New Jersey. He acted in many theater, TV, and film projects over his long career. Jones was acclaimed for his role as William Hill on the NBC drama This Is Us from 2016-2022. His emotional acting brought him awards like an Emmy.

Other notable roles were in shows like Mr. Robot and Luke Cage. After over 30 years of superb acting, Jones passed away in 2023 at age 66. With both critical and popular praise, Ron Cephas Jones delivered powerful performances that moved audiences week after week.

13. Steve Harwell

Steve Harwell was the lead singer of the band Smash Mouth. He was born in 1967 in California. Smash Mouth had huge hits with songs like “Walkin’ on the Sun” and “All Star”. They were known for their fun, upbeat pop-rock sound. Harwell’s distinctive raspy voice was key to Smash Mouth’s music. He toured and performed with the band for over 25 years.

In 2023, Harwell passed away suddenly at age 56 due to Liver failure. As Smash Mouth’s defining frontman, Steve Harwell brought energy and attitude to arenas full of cheering fans across generations. His vocals live on in some of the most feel-good, fan-favorite songs of the era.

14. Paul Reubens

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Paul Reubens was an American comedic actor best known for creating the silly man-child character Pee-wee Herman. He was born in 1952 in New York. As Pee-wee, Reubens starred in the popular kids TV show Pee-wee’s Playhouse in the 1980s and 1990s. With his wacky laugh, bowtie, and light blue suit, Pee-wee entertained millions of children.

Later in life, Reubens acted in other movies and TV shows but was always remembered most as his beloved Pee-wee character. In 2023, Reubens died from cancer at age 70. Paul Reubens as joyful Pee-wee Herman left an enduring mark on a generation who grew up laughing and learning with this quirky cultural icon.

15. Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett was an incredibly famous American singer known for jazz and big band music. He was born in 1926 in New York as Anthony Benedetto. Some of his most popular songs were “I Left My Heart in San Francisco“, “Rags to Riches“, and “Because of You”. Bennett had over 70 albums and won many major music awards in his long career.

His smooth vocals and swing style entertained audiences for over 60 years. Tony Bennett also did artwork as a side hobby. He passed away in 2023 at the fantastic age of 96. Bennett’s timeless music created emotional connections for millions worldwide. His legacy lives on through classic American songs still enjoyed today across generations.

16. Angus Cloud

Angus Cloud was an American actor born in 1998 in California. He was best known for playing Fezco on the HBO TV series Euphoria. His character was a kind, caring drug dealer who gained a devoted fan following. Before acting, Cloud worked normal jobs like at a seafood restaurant.

He was discovered by chance and rose quickly to fame with Euphoria in his early 20s. Sadly, Angus Cloud鈥檚 life was cut short when he passed away in 2023 at only 25 years old. Through one role that connected deeply with viewers, this rising talent made his mark in Hollywood and beyond.

17. Billy Miller

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Billy Miller was an American actor best known for his roles in soap operas. He was born in 1979 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, U.S.. Miller played Billy Abbott on The Young and the Restless and Drew Cain on General Hospital. His talent and good looks made him very popular. He won three Daytime Emmy Awards for Lead Actor during his career.

In 2023, Billy Miller unexpectedly passed away at the young age of 43. His captivating performances entertained and brought joy to countless soap opera fans for over 15 years across his various starring television roles.

18. Arleen Sorkin

Arleen Sorkin was an American actress and screenwriter born in 1955 in Washington D.C. She was best known for skillfully voicing the role of Harley Quinn in the popular 1990s Batman animated series. Her quirky, high-energy performance made Harley Quinn an instant fan favorite. Sorkin also appeared on TV shows like Days of Our Lives and wrote for many others over her career.

In 2023, Sorkin sadly died at age 67. With creativity and talent both on and off screen, Arleen Sorkin helped bring to life one of the most iconic characters from any Batman franchise through her one-of-a-kind voice performance as the lovable yet unstable Harley Quinn.

19. Bob Barker

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Bob Barker was a legendary American TV game show host. He was born in 1923 in Washington state. Barker hosted the hit CBS show The Price Is Right from 1972 until 2007 – an incredible 35-year run! His charming smile, skinny microphone, and catchphrases like “Come on down!” entertained viewers for generations. Barker was also a big animal rights supporter.

He retired from show business in his mid-80s. In 2023, Bob Barker died peacefully at age 99. With his warmth and humor, this broadcasting icon brightened mornings for decades of fans who still remember Barker fondly as the friendly face of their favorite game show.

20. Mike Williams

Mike Williams was a popular American Football player in the NFL. He was born in 1994. Williams played wide receiver for 7 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs teams. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches tall, Williams used his speed and size to make many important catches and touchdowns.

Sadly, Williams died at just 29 years old in 2023. Though his time in the league was short, Mike Williams impacted the game by bringing energy and clutch plays at critical game moments. His talents on the field made him a fan-favorite player that fans will certainly miss seeing.

21. Jimmy Buffett

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Jimmy Buffett was a beloved American musician known for his “island escapism” music. He was born in 1946 in Mississippi. Buffett was the creator of the “Gulf and Western” genre, with popular songs like “Margaritaville” and “Come Monday“. His music made listeners feel like they were relaxing at the beach. Buffett recorded over 30 albums and performed sold-out concerts where fans dressed in colorful clothes.

In his later life, Buffett owned restaurants and wrote best-selling books. He died in 2023 at age 76 after battling an illness. With tunes that make a vacation feel just one song away, Jimmy Buffett’s musical legacy will continue to help listeners unwind and enjoy the beach life state of mind.

22. Gary Wright

Gary Wright was an American musician most famous for his 1976 pop hit song 鈥Dream Weaver鈥. He was born in 1943 in New Jersey. Wright played keyboards and was a member of the rock group Spooky Tooth before going solo. With a talent for writing catchy, melodic songs, he created more Top 40 singles.

Later in life, Wright focused on jazz music. He passed away peacefully in 2023 at the age of 80. Gary Wright had a gift for crafting chart-topping pop songs enjoyed by audiences all around the world over decades of changing musical styles.

23. Rick Jeanneret

Rick Jeanneret was a famous ice hockey announcer. He was the voice of the Buffalo Sabres hockey team for over 50 years. This means he talked during Buffalo Sabres games and gets fans excited. Jeanneret was known for his loud, energetic style. 

Many Buffalo fans loved listening to Jeanneret call games on the radio or TV. He died this year on August 17 due to multiple organ failure. His family stated that the organism failure began in 2021 during his final season with the team.

24. Robbie Robertson

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Canadian chameleon Robbie Robertson (1943-2023) wore many hats: Band co-founder, Dylan collaborator, Scorsese soundtrack maestro, and solo artist. Robertson’s songs, like “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” became classics.

He then traded guitar solos for film scores, crafting iconic sounds for “Raging Bull” and “The Departed.” His life, a tapestry of roots, rock, and reinvention, proved him a true musical maverick. In 100 words, that’s Robbie: a legend who redefined his melody with every move.

Robbie Robertson, the legendary guitarist and songwriter for The Band, passed away in 2023 at the age of 80. As the principal songwriter and lead guitarist for the influential roots rock group, Robertson left an indelible mark on popular music. Hits like “The Weight,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” and “Up on Cripple Creek” exemplified his thoughtful and cinematic storytelling style.

Though The Band dissolved, Robertson went on to have a successful solo career. His death marks the end of an era and a great loss of one of the most poetic and mythic songwriters to emerge from the 1960s and 70s folk rock scene. Robertson’s legacy lives on through his timeless songs and contributions to the Americana music tradition.

25. Johnny Hardwick

Animation lost a luminous star this year with the passing of Johnny Hardwick at age 64. As the voice behind fan-favorite Dale Gribble on Mike Judge鈥檚 iconic 鈥淜ing of the Hill鈥 for over 13 years, Hardwick鈥檚 hilarious performance as the paranoid, conspiracy-obsessed exterminator left an indelible mark. 

Humble despite his immense talent, Hardwick let his voice work speak volumes while avoiding the spotlight himself. With his unexpected 2023 death, the animation world mourns an irreplaceable talent who brought so many eccentric characters vibrantly to life.

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