IN 2022, we’ve sadly lost a number of our beloved celebrity stars.
Here’s a look at some of the iconic figures who are sadly no longer with us.
Which celebrities have died in 2022?
Raymond Briggs
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Raymond Briggs died aged 88 on August 9 2022.
The writer and illustrator’s most recognisable work includes The Snowman, Father Christmas, Fungus the Bogeyman and Ethel and Ernest.
His family shared the news: “We know that Raymond’s books were loved by and touched millions of people around the world, who will be sad to hear this news. Drawings from fans – especially children’s drawings – inspired by his books were treasured by Raymond and pinned up on the wall of his studio.”
Adding: “He lived a rich and full life, and said he felt lucky to have had both his wife Jean, and his partner of over 40 years Liz in his life.”
Dame Olivia Newton-John
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Dame Olivia Newton-John rose to fame as a pop star and for her recognisable rose as Sandy in Grease.
She passed away aged 73 on August 8.
Her husband John Easterling announced the news by writing: “Dame Olivia Newton-John (73) passed away peacefully at her Ranch in Southern California this morning, surrounded by family and friends.
“Olivia has been a symbol of triumphs and hope for over 30 years sharing her journey with breast cancer.
“Her healing inspiration and pioneering experience with plant medicine continues with the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund, dedicated to researching plant medicine and cancer.”
Bernard Cribbins OBE
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Household name Bernard Cribbins was best known for acting in the Carry-On series, Doctor Who, The Railway Children, narrated The Wombles and had the hit song ‘Right Said Fred’.
He passed away at the age of 93 on July 28.
Cribbins’ agent, Gavin Barker Associates, said in a statement: “Bernard’s contribution to British entertainment is without question. He was unique, typifying the best of his generation, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”
Paul Ryder
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Known as being a bass player and founding member of Happy Mondays, Paul Ryder died on July 15.
Announcing the news, Paul’s brother Shaun Ryder posted on Twitter: “The Ryder family and Happy Mondays band members are deeply saddened and shocked to say that Paul Ryder passed away this morning A true pioneer and legend.”
Ivana Trump
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First wife of Donald Trump, Ivana died aged 73 on July 14.
She was a businessman and fashion designer and shared three children with her former husband.
Dame Deborah James
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Dame Deborah James passed away from bowel cancer aged 40.
She died on June 28 2022.
Known as BowelBabe, she raised awareness of the disease and encouraged others to ‘find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope. And finally, check your poo- it could just save your life.’
Lester Piggott
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Nine-time Derby winner Lester Piggott died aged 86 on May 29.
He rode his first winner, The Chase, at Haydock when he was just 12 in 1948.
Confirming the news was Piggot’s son-in-law William Haggas told the PA news agency: “Sadly we can confirm that Lester died peacefully in Switzerland this morning.
“I really don’t wish to add much more than that at this stage, although Maureen will be making a statement later.”
Ray Liotta
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Actor Ray Liotta passed away on May 26 2022.
The star died in his sleep aged just 67.
He was best known for his roles in Goodfellas, Something Wild, Field of Dreams and more recently The Many Saints of Newmark.
Jordan Mooney
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Pamela Rooke, better known as Jordan Mooney died at the age of 66 from a short battle with cancer on April 3, 2022.
She was best known for her work with punk rock band the Sex Pistols.
In a statement, her partner and family said she died “peacefully” in her home town of Seaford in East Sussex, and was surrounded by her family and friends.
They added: “Jordan (Pamela Rooke) has left her mark on this planet, whether it be as ‘The Queen of Punk’, or for her veterinary work and countless prize-winning cats.
“She lived life to the full and was true to herself and others throughout the whole of her life. She was totally trusted and respected by all those who knew her.
“Jordan was a wonderful woman and will be remembered for countless decades to come.”
June Brown
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EastEnders actress June Brown passed away April 3, 2022, in her home in Surrey.
The Dot Cotton legend’s loved ones said she “died peacefully in her sleep”.
An EastEnders spokeswoman said: “We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved June Brown, OBE, MBE, sadly passed away last night.
“There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.
“June created one of the most iconic characters in Dot Cotton, not just in soap but in British television, and having appeared in 2,884 episodes, June’s remarkable performances created some of EastEnders’ finest moments.”
They finished by saying: “Rest in peace, our dearest June. You will never be forgotten.”
Tom Parker
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The Wanted star Tom Parker sadly passed away on March 30.
The news was announced by his wife, Kelsey, who told The Sun: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm Tom passed away peacefully earlier today with all of his family by his side.
“Tom was the centre of our world and we can’t imagine life without his infectious smile and energetic presence.
“We are truly thankful for the outpouring of love and support and ask that we all unite to ensure Tom’s light continues to shine for his beautiful children.”
Tom tragically died after a brave battle with brain cancer.
He was diagnosed with stage four glioblastoma back in October 2020.
He was told that he likely had 12 to 18 months to live, but after six rounds of chemotherapy and 30 radiotherapy sessions, the singer revealed his tumour was “stable” back in November.
Tom also announced in March that he had written a heartbreaking book about his battle.
Sadly, his wife later confirmed that he had passed away later that month after a gruelling health battle.
Barry Cryer
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Comedy legend Barry Cryer died at the age of 86 on January 27.
His heartbroken family said: “He had a gift for friendship and a genius for putting people at their ease. Oh yes, and he made many people laugh. A lot.”
They said he died peacefully in “good spirits” surrounded by his family – and was making jokes right until the end.
He was known for his work with some of the great British comedians.
Barry wrote for many showbiz legends – including Sir Bruce Forsyth, The Two Ronnies and Morecambe and Wise.
Peter Robbins
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Peter Robbins who voiced Peanuts actor Charlie Brown, passed away at the age of 65 on January 25.
The exact circumstances around his death are not clear.
The actor had previously spoken publicly about his battles with bipolar disorder and was released from prison in 2019 after serving four years for sending threatening letters to the manager of a mobile home park where he lived.
Peter started voicing Charlie Brown in 1963, appearing in several Peanuts cartoons.
His love for the character was so strong that he got a tattoo of Charlie Brown and his pooch, Snoopy, on his arm.
Peter was also a child actor, working professionally by the age of seven. He appeared in episodes of The Munsters as Elmer but landed his iconic role as Charlie Brown when he was nine.
Thierry Mugler
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Fashion designer Thierry Mugler passed away on January 23 at the age of 73.
He rose to fame in the 1980s while working on his fashion collection for men and later went on to become internationally adored, and completed his first haute couture collection in 1992.
After retiring in the early 2000s, he returned in 2019 to design a dress for Kim Kardashian at the Met Gala.
Louie Anderson
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Louie Anderson died at 68 after battling cancer.
Louie – best known for his role as Mom Baskets on Zach Galifianakis’ comedy series Baskets – was hospitalized while battling cancer.
He was being treated for Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma., but lost his battle on January 21, his publicist told TMZ.
Born on March 24, 1953, he toured the nation as a stand-up and was named by Comedy Central as “One of 100 Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of All Time.”
Louie won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series and for his role as “Christine” in 2016 – Baskets ran for four seasons until 2019.
Meat Loaf
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The iconic singer and actor sadly passed away aged 74 on January 20, with TMZ reporting he died from Covid – although these claims are yet to be confirmed.
Born Marvin Lee Aday on September 27, 1947, the singer shot to fame with his powerful, wide-ranging voice.
His Bat Out Of Hell trilogy – Bat Out of Hell, Bat Out Of Hell II: Back Into Hell, and Bat Out Of Hell III: The Monster Is Loose – has sold more than 65 million albums worldwide.
Meat Loaf was a Grammy winner and won Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance for the song I’d Do Anything For Love.
His family said: “Our hearts are broken to announce that the incomparable Meat Loaf passed away tonight with his wife Deborah by his side.”
Hardy Krüger
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German actor and author Hardy Krüger passed away on January 19 at the age of 93.
A statement from the actor’s agency said: “His warmth of heart, joie de vivre, and his unshakable sense of justice will make him unforgettable.”
Over the years, he had appeared in a number of films including A Bridge Too Far, Hatari!, The Flight of the Phoenix, and Wild Geese.
Gaspard Ulliel
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French movie star Gaspard died at age 37 following a ski accident.
His tragic passing happened on January 19.
The 37-year-old model and actor was rushed to hospital in a serious condition after the incident in the La Rosière ski resort in the Savoie region but didn’t make it.
He will appear posthumously in Marvel’s upcoming Moon Knight series.
André Leon Talley
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André Leon Talley passed away on January 18 at the age of 73.
The American fashion journalist, stylist, creative director, and editor-at-large of Vogue magazine held a number of titles over the years, including Vogue’s first African-American male creative director.
He was known for his eye-catching style while also being a trailblazer in the fashion world, using for more inclusivity on the runway, especially for Black models.
His story is told in the 2018 documentary “The Gospel According to Andre” which can be streamed on HBO Max and Hulu.
Yvette Mimieux
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Yvette, an actress known for roles in iconic films such as The Black Hole from 1979, died at age 80 of natural causes on January 17.
The iconic star most famously starred opposite Rod Taylor in the 1960 George Pal-directed adaptation of the H.G. Wells novel The Time Machine.
The film was produced at MGM Studios where Yvette was soon put under a long-term contract.
Jordan Cashmyer
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16 and Pregnant star Jordan died aged just 26-years-old.
She passed away on January 16, but the former reality TV star’s cause of death is unknown.
Jordan, her boyfriend, Derek Taylor, and daughter Evie appeared on MTV’s 16 & Pregnant back in 2014.
The young parents’ heartbreaking story played out on the show, as they were homeless while Jordan prepared to give birth.
Wavy Navy Pooh
Rapper Wavy Navy Pooh passed away on January 14 at the age of 28.
He was reportedly shot while driving with a one-year-old and a five-year-old in the car.
The Miami-born rapper was a rising star who was signed to the Quality Control Music label.
To date, his most successful song is Guwop, which was a collab with veteran rapper Gucci Mane.
Rosa Lee Hawkins
Rosa Lee Hawkins passed away on January 12 at the age of 76 after suffering from internal bleeding and other complications following a surgical procedure at Tampa General Hospital in Florida.
The star was known as the youngest member of the 1960s girl group the Dixie Cups.
Ronnie Spector
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Ronnie, the lead singer of the legendary girl group the Ronettes, died following a short battle with cancer.
She was 78 years old when she passed away on January 12.
Her family said in a statement: “Ronnie lived her life with a twinkle in her eye, a spunky attitude, a wicked sense of humour, and a smile on her face.
“She was filled with love and gratitude.”
The Ronettes – who used to tour with the Beatles – were known for hits like Baby I Love You and Walking in the Rain.
Clint Arlis
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Bachelor Nation mourned the death of Bachelorette contestant Clint.
He was just 34 when he passed away on January 11, although it is unknown how he died.
Clint appeared during the eleventh season, which aired back in 2015.
During the series, he was one of the men vying for the love of Kaitlyn Bristowe.
Clint was eliminated from the lineup during his third week.
Bob Saget
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Stand-up comedian and actor Bob shocked the world of comedy when he passed away aged just 65.
He died suddenly on January 9 of a suspected heart attack or stroke.
Bob was famous for his roles on Full House, How I Met Your Mother, and America’s Funniest Home Videos.
Calvin Simon
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Calvin Simon died at 79-years-old on January 6.
He was the co-founder of the music group Parliament-Funkadelic and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member.
The late music star contributed to the tracks such as Give Up the Funk, and Flash Light.
Marilyn Bergman
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Marilyn, a lyricist who has won multiple Oscars, Emmys, and Grammys — and was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame died in the early hours of January 8.
She was aged 93 when she passed away following respiratory failure.
Her husband Alan was reportedly by her side at her time of death.
The couple, who married in 1958, are best known for their songs The Way We Are, How Do You Keep the Music Playing? and hundreds of others.
Sidney Poitier
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The legendary actor, who was the first Black man to win a Best Actor Oscar, passed away on January 6.
Aged 94 years old Sidney died from a combination of heart failure, Alzheimer’s dementia, and prostate cancer.
He started in Hollywood during the 1950s, focusing on the themes of race and social justice in much of his work.
Among Sidney’s films included roles in Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, In the Heat of the Night, and Lilies of the Field.
The Miami-born star won an Oscar in 1959 for his work in The Defiant Ones.
Joan Copeland
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The Broadway actress died at her home in New York City on January 4 aged 99.
The famed soap opera star was also the sister of legendary playwright Arthur Miller – who wrote many of the plays Joan performed in during her six-decade-long career.
She was also the younger sister of Kermit Miller, and was briefly sister-in-law to Marilyn Monroe when the blond bombshell was married to Arthur.
Shane Warne
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Shane Warne was found collapsed in his room during a trip to Thailand by his business manager at a luxury villa on the island of Koh Samui.
According to Thai police, Warne died of “natural causes” on March 4, 2022, as revealed by his autopsy.
Shane’s parents Keith and Brigette said: “The night of the 4th of March 2022 is when a never-ending nightmare began for our family, for that is the date we lost our much loved and admired son, father, brother and Uncle, Shane Keith Warne’ a tragedy we will never come to terms with.
Jamal Edwards
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Jamal Edwards MBE died at the age of 31 on February 20, 2022.
The music mogul passed away following a DJ set at a bar the previous night.
His mum Brenda Edwards who appears on Loose Women shared the tragic news about her son’s passing.
Following her announcement, friends of Jamal came forward and shared how his cause of death may have been a heart attack.
Lynda Baron
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Lynda Baron passed away at the age of 82 on March 5, 2022.
She is best known for playing Aunt Mabel on the children’s TV show Come Outside which aired in the 90s.
Lynda also appeared in a number of screenplays including Open All Hours, Hands of the Ripper and Fat Friends.
Her cause of death has not yet been announced.
Tony Walton
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Tony Walton died at the age of 87 after suffering from a stroke.
He worked as a designer and was a visual consultant on the iconic 1964 Disney movie Mary Poppins.
The production designer also won an Oscar for his work on the 1979 Bob Fosse film All That Jazz.
Tony also secured an Emmy in 1985 for his work in the tragedy movie Death of a Salesman, which stars legendary actor Dustin Hoffman.
Anna Karen
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Anna Karen passed away on February 22, 2022, at the age of 85.
She died tragically as a result of a fire in her home in Ilford, East London.
Three fire engines and 20 firefighters rushed to the home to tackle the flame.
Despite their best efforts, Anna, unfortunately, died at the scene.
Karen played Aunt Sal, the sister of Barbara Windsor (Peggy Mitchell).
Anna’s agent Shane Collins, who also represented her best friend Barbara shared “It is very sad news.
“But I’m happy that Anna will now be with her best mate Barbara and her beloved husband Terry Duggan.”
Scott Hall
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Scott Hall passed away at the age of 63 on March 14, 2022.
The WWE wrestler known as Razor Ramon died after being taken off life support.
Scott was rushed to the hospital after falling and breaking his hip.
He then suffered three heart attacks following a blood clot and was placed on life support.
Peter Bowles
Peter Bowles passed away at the age of 85.
The To The Manor Born star died of cancer on March 17, 2022.
Bowles played Richard DeVere in the BBC sitcom between 1979 and 1981.
The actor’s agent Gavin Barker confirmed the tragic news in a statement and shared: “The actor Peter Bowles has sadly passed away at the age of 85 from cancer.
“Starting his career at the Old Vic Theatre in 1956, he starred in 45 theatrical productions ending at the age of 81 in The Exorcist at the Phoenix Theatre.
“He leaves his wife of over 60 years, Sue, and their three children Guy, Adam and Sasha.”
Ann Davies
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Former Doctor Who, EastEnders and Grange Hill actress Ann Davies passed away on April 26, 2022, aged 87.
The 87-year-old actress was the beloved wife of late The Good life star Richard Briers and mother to ITV Endeavour’s Lucy Briers and daughter Katie.
Ann’s agent Barry Langford paid tribute to the actress and confirmed the tragic news in a tweet which said: ”Sadly my lovely client of 34 years Ann Davies has passed away yesterday.
“A superb actress with TV credits including #DoctorWho and #TheSculptress, Ann was devoted to her beloved late husband #RichardBriers and their daughters Lucy and Kate.
“She will be very much missed. #RIP Annie.”
Deborah James
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English journalist and BBC podcast host Dame Deborah James tragically passed away on June 28, 2020, at just 40 years old.
The You, Me and the Big C host sadly lost her long battle with bowel cancer.
Paying their tributes on social media, her family shared: ”We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Dame Deborah James; the most amazing wife, daughter, sister, mummy.
”Deborah passed away peacefully today, surrounded by her family.
”And a few final things from Deborah…“find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope. And finally, check your poo – it could just save your life.”
Before her death, Deborah created the Bowelbabe fund for Cancer Research – which has so far raised £7,431,347.
Dennis Waterman
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English actor and singer Dennis Waterman sadly passed away on May 8, 2002, after a secret two-year battle with lung cancer – at the age of 74.
Best known for his appearances in New Tricks, Minder and The Sweeney – Dennis died in Spain, with his wife by Pam his side.
His second wife Patricia Maynard paid tribute to Dennis and said: ”
“I’m terribly sad that he’s gone but I’m really pleased that he did not suffer and died peacefully.
“He had lung cancer and was really quite poorly for the last couple of years. The girls are very upset.”
Kay Mellor
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Leeds-born scriptwriter Kay Mellor OBE died aged 71 on May 15, 2022.
Mellor was one of British TV’s leading dramatists and was praised for her many popular TV series – including Band of Gold, Fat Friends and The Syndicate.
Her Husband Anthony and daughters Yvonne and Gaynor said her death had left them ”heartbroken.”
Ray Liotta
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Goodfellas star and American actor Ray Liotta, passed away in his sleep whilst in the Dominican Republic – where he was filming Dangerous Waters.
He died at the age of 67 on May 26, 2022.
He sadly left behind his daughter Karsen and fiancé Jacy Nittolo – who was with him in the Dominican Republic when he died.
Lester Piggot
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Nine-time Epsom Derby winning jockey, Lester Piggott died on May 29, 2022 – aged 86.
Piggott’s son-in-law William Haggas confirmed that Lester died peacefully in a hospital in Switzerland, close to his home.
Members of the racing world paid tribute to their fellow jockey, including Willie Carson who said: ”I feel as though I have lost part of my life in a way, as Lester has been part of my life ever since I came into racing.
”I came to his in-laws as an apprentice and he was part of my life right from the word go until the end. He was an iconic figure in the horse racing world. He is a legend.”
James Caan
The Godfather star James Caan passed away aged 82 – on July 6, 2022.
The news was shared via his official Twitter page, reading: “It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Jimmy on the evening of July 6.
“The family appreciates the outpouring of love and heartfelt condolences and asks that you continue to respect their privacy during this difficult time.”