Celebrity deaths in 2025 brought a wave of grief across the entertainment world. From renowned actors and musicians to beloved athletes and influencers, numerous stars passed away, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire. News broke early in the year with the passing of Jeff Baena, husband of actress Aubrey Plaza, at the age of 47. Medical examiner records later confirmed his death by suicide. Just days later, the world mourned the loss of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star James Lee Williams, better known as The Vivienne, at the young age of 32. Authorities confirmed there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding their death.
The month of January continued with a series of heartbreaking losses. Figure skating icon Dick Button passed away at 95, one day after a tragic plane crash claimed the lives of several U.S. figure skaters and coaches. Singer Marianne Faithfull, known for her iconic song “As Tears Go By,” died at 78. “The Voice” alum Ryan Whyte Maloney died by suicide at 44, and rapper DJ Unk, real name Anthony Platt, passed away at 43.
February brought more somber news. Irish boxer John Cooney died at 28 following a head injury sustained during a title fight. Ginna Dix, wife of “Maine Cabin Masters” star Matt “Dixie” Dix, passed away unexpectedly at 48. Miami Dolphins alum Howard Twilley died at 81, and influencer Laleska Alexandre tragically passed at 28 due to septic shock. The entertainment world also mourned the loss of actress Lee Joo-Sil, known for her role in Netflix’s “Squid Game,” who died at 81 after battling stomach cancer.
Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu, star of the series “Meteor Garden,” died from pneumonia at 48. Other notable deaths in February included music mogul Irv Gotti, co-founder of Murder Inc. Records, who died at 54 after battling diabetes.
Throughout the year, other prominent figures passed away, including “Twin Peaks” co-creator David Lynch at 78, actress Joan Plowright at 95, country singer Melba Montgomery at 86, director Jeannot Szwarc at 85, actor Paul Danan at 46, “General Hospital” star Leslie Charleson at 79, MLB pitcher Brian Matusz at 37, “Puff the Magic Dragon” writer Peter Yarrow at 86, singer Brenton Wood at 83, Wayne Osmond at 73, “Moonshiners” star Kenny Law at 68, and TikTok star Chris O’Donnell at 31. Each loss served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact these individuals had on their respective fields.
These are just a few of the many celebrities who died in 2025. Their contributions to entertainment, sports, and culture will be remembered for years to come.