The world has heartbreakingly lost a number of talented celebrities and TV personalities already this year.
After the loss of a phenomenally talented and loved celebrity or TV, music or film star, fans often like to look back at their lives, careers and the memories they leave behind. From much-loved comedians to popular TV hosts and musical legends, these people have entertained, inspired or helped thousands with their talents.
Here are just a few of those that TV, music, live entertainment and film lovers are missing as we take a moment to reflect on the year so far.
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From Paul O’Grady to Len Goodman, here are the famous faces we have loved and lost in 2023.
Jerry Springer, 79 – April 27
It was announced on Thursday, April, 27 that TV legend and talk show host Jerry Springer has sadly died.
The London-born entertainer passed away peacefully at his Chicago home, his heartbroken family has confirmed. While the cause of death has not yet been confirmed, his loved ones said the 79-year-old had been receiving treatment for cancer a few months before his death.
Spokesperson Jene Galvin told TMZ: “Jerry’s ability to connect with people was at the heart of his success in everything he tried whether that was politics, broadcasting or just joking with people on the street who wanted a photo or a word.
“He’s irreplaceable and his loss hurts immensely, but memories of his intellect, heart and humour will live on.”
Len Goodman, 78 – April 22
It was announced earlier this week that Strictly Come Dancing legend Len Goodman has died following a short illness.
Len Goodman, 78, was the former head judge of Strictly Come Dancing from its launch in 2004 until 2016. His death has been announced after a bone cancer diagnosis.
The Strictly favourite died on Saturday, April, 22 at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells with his family by his bedside. A spokesperson said: “I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family.”
Barry Humphries, 89 – April 22
Barry Humphries died on Saturday, April, 22 at the age of 89 after he was rushed to hospital following complications from hip replacement surgery.
The Dame Edna Everage star, who died in Sydney at the St Vincent’s hospital, reportedly had his family by his side. The comic genius is being remembered as a giant of the entertainment industry around the world.
Paul Cattermole, 46 – April 6
S Club 7 singer Paul Cattermole died on April, 6. The star’s death at 46 comes just weeks after his group announced a reunion tour.
In a statement announcing his death, Paul’s family and S Club 7 said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole.
“Paul was found yesterday, 6th April 2023 at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon.
“While the cause of death is currently unknown, Dorset Police has confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances. Paul’s family, friends and fellow members of S Club request privacy at this time.”
Paul O’Grady, 67 – March 28
Paul O’Grady died last month, in his own bed with husband André Portasio by his side.
The broadcaster and drag queen passed away aged 67 on March 28. His partner confirmed the sad news the following morning in a statement.
He said: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
“We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.”
He added: “I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
The ITV star’s death certificate has revealed he died from sudden cardiac arrhythmia, which was linked to Paul O’Grady’s ischemic heart disease.
Steve Mackey, 56 – March 2
Pulp band bassist Steve Mackey died at the age of 56 on March, 2. The Sheffield musician was best known for his success with the band during the 1990s.
Mackey joined the alternative rock band in 1989 alongside frontman Jarvis Cocker, and fellow musicians Russell Senior, Candida Doyle, Nick Banks and Mark Webber. His devastated wife, Katie Grand, confirmed the news on social media, saying: “After three months in hospital, fighting with all his strength and determination, we are shocked and devastated to have said goodbye to my brilliant, beautiful husband, Steve Mackey.
“Steve died today, a loss which has left myself, his son Marley, parents Kath and Paul, sister Michelle and many friends all heartbroken. Steve was the most talented man I have ever known, an exceptional musician, producer, photographer and filmmaker.”
She added: “As in life, he was adored by everyone whose paths he crossed in the multiple creative disciplines he conquered. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the NHS staff who worked tirelessly for Steve. He will be missed beyond words. The family has asked for privacy at this time.”
Baroness Betty Boothroyd, 93 – February 26
Yorkshire-born parliamentarian
and the first woman Speaker in the House of Commons, died aged 93 on February, 26. The trailblazer, a former professional dancer with the Tiller Girls, was an MP for 27 years and went on to sit in the Lords for Labour for a further two decades.
Flags flew at half mast in Westminster following the news and MPs took part in a minute’s silence in the Commons at the start of business after her death. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Betty was ‘a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to politics’, while Theresa May praised her ‘inimitable style, but also her immense personal warmth and kindness’.
John Motson, 77 – February 23
Legendary football commentator John Motson died earlier this year aged 77. The BBC, where he spent his 50-year career, confirmed the news on Thursday, Febuary, 23.
A voice familiar to millions, he covered 10 football World Cups alongside 10 European Championships and 29 FA Cup finals. He finally hung up his microphone in 2018.
The BBC reported his family as saying in a statement: “It is with great sadness we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today.
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