Celebrity deaths in 2017: Famous faces gone too soon including Keith Chegwin and David Cassidy
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2016 was a tough year, as we said goodbye to some of our best known and well-loved figures - from George Michael and Carrie Fisher to Prince and David Bowie.
And the losses have continued into 2017 with the sad news that Bill Paxton had passed away, following the deaths of stars such as Gorden Kaye, John Hurt and Tara Palmer-Tomkinson.
Here's a look at all of the celebrities we've lost in 2017 so far who have inspired generations.
DECEMBER
Keith Chegwin
(Image: WireImage)
Keith Chegwin died on December 11 aged 60 following a long-term battle with a progressive lung condition.
Famous for presenting classic TV programmes like Cheggers Plays Pop and Multi-Coloured Swap Shop, the presenter was a mainstay on British television for many years.
Christine Keeler
(Image: UGC)
The model, whose affair with Tory Cabinet Minister John Profumo rocked British politics to its core, died aged 75 after suffering from a lung condition for several months.
She was propelled into the global spotlight at only age 19 after an affair with the Secretary of State for War and a Russian diplomat during the Cold War.
Her son Seymour Platt said: "There was a lot of good around Chris’s rather tragic life, because there was a family around her that loved her.
“I think what happened to her back in the day was quite damaging."
Johnny Hallyday
(Image: REUTERS)
The veteran French rock star passed away aged 74 on December 6 after a battle with lung cancer.
His wife Laeticia Hallyday said in a statement: "Johnny Hallyday has left us. I write these words without believing them. But yet, it’s true. My man is no longer with us.
“He left us tonight as he lived his whole life, with courage and dignity."
NOVEMBER
David Cassidy
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Former teen heartthrob David Cassidy died aged 67 after suffering acute liver and kidney failure.
The Partridge Family star had been in a medically induced coma after being taken to hospital in Florida last week after his faltering health declined.
“On behalf of the entire Cassidy family, it is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, our uncle, and our dear brother, David Cassidy,” his publicist said in a statement on Tuesday.
“David died surrounded by those he loved, with joy in his heart and free from the pain that had gripped him for so long. Thank you for the abundance and support you have shown him these many years.”
The 67-year-old pop idol, who suffered years of alcohol abuse, had been battling dementia in the final months of his life following his dramatic fall from grace of the adoration he once knew.
Rodney Bewes
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
Rodney Bewes - star of BBC sitcom The Likely Lads - died aged 79.
Sharing the news on Twitter, Rodney's agent Michelle Braidman tweeted: "It is with great sadness that we confirm that our dear client, the much loved actor Rodney Bewes, passed away this morning.
"Rodney was a true one off. We will miss his charm and ready wit."
Whatever Happened to The Likely Lads? was one of the most popular sitcoms the BBC ever made and Bewes played the going-up-in-the-world and hen-pecked Bob Ferris.
In the mid 1970s, the show pulled in 27 million viewers at its peak.
Malcolm Young
(Image: FilmMagic)
After a long battle with dementia, the legendary guitarist and founder of AC/DC died on November 19 aged 64.
Surrounded by his family, he died peacefully in his sleep.
They family said in a statement on Facebook: “Renowned for his musical prowess, Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many.
“From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans.”
Lil Peep
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
American rapper Lil Peep died on November 15 aged 21 years old in a suspected suicide.
The singer, real name Gustav Åhr, was also known for his many YouTube videos which accumulated millions of views from fans.
Keith Barron
(Image: FilmMagic)
Actor Keith Barron died on November 15 aged 83 after a short illness.
Barron was most famous for his role in sitcom Duty Free in the 1980s. He also starred in ITV drama Where the Heart Is and in 2007 appeared on Coronation Street as George Trench.
Antonio Carluccio
Italian chef Antonio Carluccio died on November 8 aged 80, after a fall at home.
London-based Antonio's career spanned an epic 50 years, but he was best known for BBC Two's Tow Greedy Italians, which he hosted with fellow Italian chef Gennaro Contaldo.
He also opened the much loved Carluccio's chain of restaurants, which started life as a humble Italian food shop opened by Antonio and his wife in 1991.
He later opened the Neal Street Restaurant in Covent Garden, London, which traded for 26 years, and in 2007 was appointed an OBE for services to the catering industry.
Robert Knight
Singer Robert Knight died on November 5 aged 72, after a short illness.
He was born Robert Peebles in Franklin, Tennessee on April 24, 1945 and is best known for the 1967 hit Everlasting Love.
His subsequent recordings didn't reach the heights of Everlasting Love, but he had a few minor hits with "Blessed are the Lonely," "Isn't it Lonely Together" and "Love on a Mountain Top"
OCTOBER
Brad Bufanda
(Image: WireImage)
Brad Bufanda, who was best known for his role on Veronica Mars, died at the age of 34.
A representative for the actor confirmed to TMZ he had taken his own life on Nov 1.
The former child actor starred as Felix Toombs in the first two series of Veronica Mars and in the later movie.
He also appeared in Malcom in the Middle, CSI: Miami and Days of Our Lives.
In 2004 Brad starred in teen romcom A Cinderella Story.
Fats Domino
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Legendary rock and roll singer Fats Domino died on October 25 at the age of 89. His biggest hits included Blueberry Hill and Ain’t That A Shame.
The star amassed 35 US Billboard Top 40 successes, selling over 100 million records and influencing a number of other musicians including Elvis Presley and The Beatles.
Robert Guillaume
(Image: Getty Images)
Actor Robert Guillaume died on October 24 aged 89 following a battle with prostate cancer.
The star was best known as the titular character in sitcom Benson, and provided the voice for Rafiki in Disney movie The Lion King.
He also appeared in hit video game Half Life 2, voicing scientist Eli Vance.
Rosemary Leach
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
Rosemary Leach sadly passed away at the age of 81.
The actress, best known for her roles in A Room With A View and That'll Be The Day, died in hospital following a "short illness", her agent confirmed.
Rosemary, who also starred as Grace in sitcom My Family, was twice nominated for a BAFTA award as best supporting actress.
The stage and screen actress won an Olivier Award in 1982 for her role in the play 84 Charing Cross Road.
Brent Briscoe
Twin Peaks star Brent Briscoe has passed away at the age of 56 on October 18.
The actor, famous for playing Detective Dave Macklay in the 2017 season of the show, died following a short stay in hospital.
Brent will also be well-known for his role in Parks and Recreation. He played JJ, the proprietor of Leslie Knope's beloved JJ's Diner.
His publicist told Variety: "We lost a class act on Wednesday. Brent played hundreds of roles throughout his career but his greatest role was to his family and friends.
Sean Hughes
(Image: WENN.com)
Comedian Sean Hughes has sadly passed away aged 51 on October 16.
The Irish funnyman had liver cirrhosis and was rushed to the Whittington Hospital, in North London, and suffered cardiac arrest.
Sean, who also starred at Pat Stanaway in Coronation Street in 2007, was a pioneering stand-up comedian and one of the youngest ever winners of the prestigious Perrier Award.
Rodney Bickerstaffe
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Rodney Bickerstaffe, the former general secretary of Unison died aged 72 on October3.
Mr Bickerstaffe led the public sector union NUPE before it became Unison, and was also a former president of the Trades Union Congress (TUC).
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn described him in glowing terms as "warm, decent and principled" and a "great friend".
Tom Petty
(Image: PA)
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Legendary rocker Tom Petty has passed away aged 66 on October 2 after he was found unconscious and in cardiac arrest at his Malibu home on Sunday night.
Following conflicting reports, his longtime manager Tony Dimitriades confirmed the sad news late on Monday evening.
"On behalf of the Tom Petty family we are devastated to announce the untimely death of our father, husband, brother, leader and friend Tom Petty," he said in a statement.
"He suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Malibu in the early hours of this morning and was taken to UCLA Medical Center but could not be revived."
Gord Downie
(Image: Reuters)
Gord Downie, lead singer of Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, passed away on October 17, aged 53.
While not well known in the UK, The Tragically Hip have won multiple awards in Canada and nine of their albums reached No. 1 in the Canadian charts.
His death was widely mourned in Canada with well known figures, such as Ryan Reynolds, Seth Rogen and Rush, all remembering the singer on Twitter.
SEPTEMBER
Hugh Hefner
(Image: Getty Images North America)
The founder of Playboy, Hugh Hefner died on September 27 at the age of 91.
A spokesman said he died "peacefully" from "natural causes" at his home The Playboy Mansion in Hollywood "surrounded by loved ones."
Hefner launched Playboy magazine in 1953 and the X-rated brand spawned TV and film companies and the famous mansion where he lived alongside dozens of his 'Bunnies'.
Always presiding over his realm in silk pajamas and a smoking jacket while puffing on a pipe, Hefner had three wives and claimed to have slept with more than 1,000 women in his lifetime.
He is survived by his 31-year-old wife Crystal, four children, Christie, who served as CEO of Playboy Enterprise for more than 20 years, David, Marston and Cooper, who currently serves as Chief Creative Officer at the company.
Liz Dawn
Coronation Street star Liz Dawn passed away aged 77 on September 25 after developing severe breathing problems resulting from emphysema.
The soap actress trod the Corrie cobbles as Vera Duckworth for 34 years, making her first appearance in 1974 ­alongside on-screen husband Jack, played by Bill Tarmey.
She left in 2008 but made one last ­appearance in 2010 when her ghost visited Jack before he passed away.
Charles Bradley
(Image: Rex)
American funk singer Charles Bradley passed away aged 68 after battling stomach cancer. His death was announced via his official Twitter account on September 23.
Bradley got his big break later in life, getting a deal with Daptone Records in 2002 after being spotted moonlighting as a James Brown impersonator.
His music featured in a number of hit TV shows, including Suits and Ray Donovan. Charles himself appeared in Netflix's Marvel superhero series Luke Cage, performing his track Ain't It a Sin.
William G Stewart
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
Former Fifteen To One host William G Stewart passed away aged 84 on September 21 after a brief illness.
A producer and director, Stewart became a household name when he presented the general knowledge quiz which ran from 1988 until 2003.
Frank Vincent
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
Sopranos star Frank Vincent died on September 13 at the age of 78.
The actor, who also starred in Goodfellas, passed away at a New Jersey hospital while undergoing surgery following a heart attack.
Frank starred in a number of Martin Scorsese films during his career, which spanned 41 years.
He was known for his tough guy roles and starred in many mafia movies, delivering memorable performances as Billy Batts in Goodfellas and Phil Leotardo - Tony's nemesis - in TV show The Sopranos.
Walter Becker
(Image: WENN)
Steely Dan guitarist and co-founder Walter Becker died at the age of 67 on September 3.
Although no official cause of death has been given, according to reports in the US he had been “very ill and underwent surgery last month”.
Becker, along with co-member Donald Fagen, wrote some huge hits in the 70's, including "Reelin' in the Years," "Rikki Don't Lose that Number," "Deacon Blues," "Kid Charlemagne," "Hey Nineteen," and 'My Old School."
The jazz-rock group broke up in 1981 but reunited in the 90's and produced several albums, including Two Against Nature, which bagged four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year.
AUGUST
Jay Thomas
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
Cheers star Jay Thomas died aged 69 after a battle with cancer.
The sitcom star played Eddie LeBec in the hit show. He also appeared on Mork & Mindy and Murphy Brown, the latter role winning him a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series in 1990, and again in 1991.
Jerry Lewis
(Image: Daily Mirror)
On August 20, legendary American comedian and actor Jerry Lewis passed away aged 91.
Jerry, along with his comedy partner Dean Martin, dominated American show business in the 1950s and beyond with his own brand of slapstick humour.
They partnered up as the Martin and Lewis comedy team and performed in nightclubs, on radio and even their own TV shows throughout the 1940s and 50s.
As well as his comedy, Jerry was also an actor, singer and director - as well as a humanitarian activist.
Dick Gregory
(Image: REUTERS)
Dick Gregory passed away on August 19, aged 84. The pioneering standup comedian and civil rights activist made his advocacy work a key component of his on-stage persona.
Gregory made his mark in the early 1960s as a rare black comedian who was a success in nightclubs geared to white audiences. His big break famously came in 1960 when he was invited by Playboy founder Hugh Hefner to perform at his Playboy Lounge in Chicago.
His activism saw him working with Martin Luther King Jr., and he was an early opponent of the Vietnam war and South Africa's apartheid.
Bruce Forsyth
(Image: Yorkshire Television)
Legendary entertainer and face of dance show Strictly Come Dancing , Bruce Forsyth died at the age of 89.
Bruce is recognised by the Guinness World Records as having the longest television career for a male entertainer.
He shot to fame in the mid-1950s on ITV series Sunday Night at the London Palladium, before hosting shows like The Generation Game, Play Your Cards Right, The Price Is Right and You Bet!
The star also co-presented Strictly Come Dancing from 2004 to 2013, and was well known for his catchphrase, "Nice to see you, to see you nice" – which went on to be voted the most popular UK catchphrase in 2007 by the British public.
Sonny Landham
(Image: Rex Features)
Predator star Sonny Landham passed away on August 17 aged 76.
The actor, who played Billy in the classic 1987 action movie alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, died from congestive heart failure at a hospital in Kentucky.
Landham also appeared in The Warriors and 48 Hours.
Glen Campbell
(Image: Getty)
Country music legend Glen Campbell died on August 8 at the age of 81.
The singer passed away after a "long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease" in Nashville, with the news of his death revealed in a statement on his official website.
Campbell, best known for his hits Rhinestone Cowboy, Wichita Lineman and Gentle On My Mind, was being cared for in a specialist unit.
Lord Hart
Lord Hart, former government advisor during the Tony Blair years before joining the House of Lords in 2004, died on August 3 aged 77 after a battle with cancer.
He was godfather to Tony Blair's daughter Kathry and advised the Lord Chancellor from 1998 and 2007, working for Lord Irvine and Lord Falconer.
Lord Bassam, Labour's chief whip in the House of Lords said: "Lord Garry Hart's passing is very sad for the Labour Party but it's his wife Val, their family and friends who are now at the forefront of our thoughts."
Robert Hardy
Actor Robert Hardy star of All Creatures Great and Small and Harry Potter, sadly passed away on August 3 aged 91.
A graduate from Oxford University, Hardy was best known for his role as senior veterinarian Siegried Farnon in All Creatures Great and Small and also appeared in Inspector Morse, Manhunt and Edward the Seventh.
JULY
Sam Shepard
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Actor Sam Shepard died on July 30 aged 73 at his home in Kentucky,
He received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1979 for his play Buried Child and was nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his performance in The Right Stuff as pilot Chuck Yeager.
Hywel Bennett
(Image: Press Association)
Hywel Bennett died at the age of 73 on July 25.
Bennett, star of Shelley which at its peak pulled in 18 million viewers, made his stage debut playing Ophelia in Hamlet at the Queen's theatre in 1959.
Bennett also played gangster Jack Dalton in EastEnders but it is his role as perpetually unemployed James Shelley that will be his most fondly remembered.
John Heard
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Actor John Heard died on July 21 aged 72.
Heard is best known for his role as Peter McCallister, the dad in the Home Alone movies, in which he starred alongside a young Macaulay Culkin . He also was nominated for an Emmy for his guest appearance in The Sopranos.
More recently, he starred in cult hit movie Sharknado .
Deborah Watling
(Image: PA)
Doctor Who actress Deborah Watling passed away on July 21, six weeks after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Watling began her acting career aged just 9 years old, but her big TV break came when she landed the role of companion in Doctor Who, alongside the 2nd Doctor Patrick Troughton.
Chester Bennington
(Image: REUTERS)
Linkin Park's Chester Bennington died on July 20 aged 41, the Los Angeles County Coroner has said.
The 41-year-old Papercut singer was found dead at a private residence in Palos Verdes Estates in Los Angeles, at about 9 a.m. on Thursday.
Linkin Park were one of the seminal bands of the Noughties rap-metal movement, with their debut album, Hybrid Theory, considered to be a metal masterpiece.
The band were in the middle of a world tour for their latest studio effort, One More Light, and had just wrapped up a European leg.
Harvey Atkin
(Image: Rex Features)
Hollywood legend Harvey Atkin passed away on July 17 aged 74.
The Canadian actor was best known for his role as sergeant captain Ronald Coleman on award-winning series Cagney and Lacey.
Atkin's breakout role was starring opposite Bill Murray in 1979 comedy Meatballs.
He also starred in Law and Order: Special Victims Unit as Judge Ridenour.
The news was announced in a statement by his longtime agent Larry Goldhar, who revealed Atkin had passed away in Toronto on Monday night following a long illness.
George A Romero
(Image: Getty Images)
Night of the Living Dead director George A. Romero died aged 77 on July 16, according to the LA Times.
The Hollywood icon reportedly lost his battle with lung cancer, and passed away whilst listening to his favourite soundtrack.
Romero died in his sleep following a “brief but aggressive battle with lung cancer ,” according to a statement to The Times provided by his longtime producing partner, Peter Grunwald.
Martin Landau
(Image: Reuters)
Actor Martin Landau passed away aged 89 on July 15.
The Oscar-winner died of "unexpected complications" during a brief spell in a Los Angeles hospital, his publicist Dick Guttman said.
Landau's career began in the 1950s when he landed a supporting role in Alfred Hitchcock's North by Northwest. He then went on to become a series regular in Mission: Impossible.
He was also known for his role on sci-fi show Space: 1999 during the 1970s, and portraying horror actor Bela Lugosi in the Tim Burton movie Ed Wood.
Carol Lee Scott
(Image: Rex Features)
Carol Lee Scott, best known as her character Grotbags, died on July 4 at the age of 74 after a battle with cancer.
She first appeared as Grotbags the witch in Emu's World in January 1982, and starred alongside various companions including cowardly crocodile Croc, mechanical butler Robot Redford, and fawning manservant Grovel, and would often sing.
In 1991, she was the voice of Grotbags in the cartoon series Rod 'n' Emu, and she was also given her own spin off series of Grotbags - which ran for 29 episodes across three series.
JUNE
Barry Norman
(Image: PA)
Barry Norman, the famous film critic, died on July 1 at the age of 83.
Norman, who was also known for TV presenting and writing, leaves behind his two daughters, Samantha and Emma.
In a statement they called him "remarkable", adding: "He had a great life, a wonderful marriage and an enviable career."
Norman hosted BBC One's "Film…" show between 1972 and 1998 - its longest running host - as well as writing for the Daily Mail and the Guardian.
Michael Bond
(Image: DAILY MIRROR)
Revered creator of Paddington Bear, Michael Bond passed away at the age of 91 on June 28.
According to his publisher, HarperCollings, Bond died after a short illness.
Ann-Janine Murtagh, executive publisher of HarperCollins Children's Books, said: "I feel privileged to have been Michael Bond's publisher - he was a true gentleman, a bon viveur, the most entertaining company and the most enchanting of writers.
"He will be forever remembered for his creation of the iconic Paddington, with his duffle coat and wellington boots, which touched my own heart as a child and will live on in the hearts of future generations.
"My thoughts and love are with his wife, Sue and his children Karen and Anthony."
Adam West
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Adam West , who played Batman in the iconic 60s TV show, passed away on June 10 aged 88 after a short battle with leukaemia.
The actor portrayed the Caped Crusader on the small screen from 1966 to 1968. In later years, West also regularly appeared on animated comedy Family Guy, voicing a fictional version of himself.
More recently, Adam reprised his Batman role in animated movie Return of the Caped Crusaders and video game Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham.
Andy Cunningham
(Image: BBC)
Andy Cunningham, the man who brought joy to hundreds of thousands of children with TV show Bodger And Badger, died on June 5 at the age of 67.
He died in Brighton's Royal Sussex County Hospital following a lengthly battle with cancer, his sister Tessa told Press Association.
She paid tribute to him, calling him generous, passionate and hilarious.
Peter Sallis
(Image: BBC)
Actor Peter Sallis , who starred in Last of the Summer Wine, died on June 5 aged 96.
Sallis played Norman Clegg in the long-running BBC comedy from 1973 until 2010.
He was also well known for voicing the character of Wallace in Nick Park's Wallace and Gromit series of stop motion animated films.
MAY
Roy Barraclough
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Roy Barraclough , star of Coronation Street , passed away on June 1 aged 81.
Best known for playing Eric Gilroy in the ITV series for 22 years, Barraclough died after a short illness according to his agent.
As well as Coronation Street, Barraclough appeared in Casualty, Last Of The Summer Wine, Last Tango In Halifax and appeared in the BBC's one-off tribute to Are You Being Served? as Mr Grainger.
Commenting on his death, Gavin Barker Associates said in a statement: "Our client Roy Barraclough has passed away today aged 81 after a short illness."
John Noakes
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Blue Peter’s John Noakes died on May 28 aged 83.
John was Blue Peter’s longest-serving presenter. He joined the hit children's show on 30th December 1956 and left the programme after twelve and a half years on 26th June 1978.
He is considered by many to have been the most successful and memorable Blue Peter presenter in its entire history.
He was known for his daredevil stunts and looked after Blue Peter dog Shep.
Gregg Allman
(Image: Publicity Picture)
Rocker Gregg Allman , who founded The Allman Brothers Band with his late brother, Duane, died on May 27 at the age of 69.
Gregg's career saw him awarded several Grammys, as well as be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
He was also named the 70th greatest singer of all time by Rolling Stone.
The singer-songwriter married Cher in 1975, but they divorced just four years later.
Sir Roger Moore
(Image: United Artists)
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Sir Roger Moore died on May 23, aged 89, after a short battle with cancer.
A statement was released on the James Bond star's Twitter account by his family.
It read: "With the heaviest of hearts, we must share the awful news that our father, Sir Roger Moore, passed away today. We are all devastated."
He died in Switzerland after a short battle with cancer.
The London-born star is best known for playing famous secret agent 007.
Chris Cornell
(Image: Getty)
Soundgarden and Audioslave rocker Chris Cornell died on May 18, aged 52.
His rep Brian Bumbery called the death "sudden and unexpected" and said his wife and family were shocked.
As the lead singer for Seattle-based Soundgarden, Cornell helped inspire the 90s grunge rock movement.
He was also a Grammy award-winning, Golden Globe-nominated singer, songwriter, guitarist, composer and lyricist.
He later became involved in philanthropy and started the Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation to support children facing challenges, including homelessness, poverty, abuse and neglect.
Geoffrey Bayldon
(Image: LWT)
British actor Geoffrey Bayldon died on May 10 at the age of 93.
BBC presenter Lizo Mzimba confirmed the news, tweeting: "Sad news. Actor Geoffrey Bayldon, best known for playing Catweazle and Worzel Gummidge's Crowman has passed away aged 93 his agency has says (sic)."
The Leeds-born actor was the star of many British TV series, including children's show Catweazle and the BBC's Watch, in which he played Magic Grandad in 1995.
But it was his role as the Crowman in Worzel Gummidge that put Geoffrey's name on the map, as the programme ran from 1979 until 1981.
Michael Parks
Twin Peaks and Kill Bill II actor Michael Parks sadly passed away on May 10, aged 77.
Writer and close friend Kevin Smith announced the news to legions of fans over Twitter.
He played French-Canadian drug runner Jean Renault in the ABC television series Twin Peaks and on the official "Kill Bill" website it proclaims that he is "frequently cited by longtime fan Quentin Tarantino as the world's greatest living actor."
Parks leaves behind one son, James, and his wife Oriana.
Robert Miles
(Image: djrobertmiles/Twitter)
Trance DJ and producer Robert Miles passed away on May 9 aged 47.
The Swiss-born star, who was most famous for his '90s smash-hit Children, died from an unreported illness.
Miles, real-name Robert Concina, scored a number one hit in six countries with his iconic floor-filler before moving on to more experimental sounds; eventually setting up Open Lab (a Balearic radio station).
Christopher 'Big Black' Boykin
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Christopher "Big Black" Boykin passed away on May 9 aged 45.
Boykin, half of MTV's "Rob & Big" duo, died on Tuesday, his representative confirmed. A cause of death has not yet been reported.
Boykin was skateboarder and entrepreneur Rob Dyrdek's best friend and bodyguard, starring alongside him in Rob & Big for three seasons.
The fan-favorite reality series showed the two in their day-to-day lives, filming such adventures as adopting a mini-horse and breaking Guinness world records.
Moray Watson
(Image: Rex Features)
Moray Watson passed away on May 2, at the age of 88.
The actor is best known for playing the Brigadier in The Darling Buds of May in the early 1990s.
He appeared in several films including The Grass Is Greener in which he played opposite Cary Grant, Deborah Kerr, Robert Mitchum and Jean Simmons.
He also played Elizabeth Bennet's dad in the 1980 film version of Pride and Prejudice.
APRIL
Leo Baxendale
(Image: Rex Features)
Cartoonist Leo Baxendale, creator of the The Beano’s Bash Street Kids and Minnie the Minx, died at the age of 86 on April 27.
Beano artist Kev Sutherland broke the news on Facebook, writing: "Sad news that Leo Baxendale has died. Aged a rather admirable 86, I’d forgotten quite how long ago he started in comics.
"Creating Minnie and the Bash St Kids over 60 years ago, then Wham comic and all its characters ten years later, then Sweeney Toddler & Willy The Kid in the 70s, which is where I first came across him, he’s done more than most to leave their mark on our business."
Baxendale was also responsible The Beano’s Little Plum and The Three Bears strips and co-created the Wham! and Beezer comics.
Jonathan Demme
(Image: Getty)
Jonathan Demme, the director of huge films including Silence Of The Lambs, Philadelphia and Rachel Getting Married, passed away on April 26 at the age of 73.
A source close to his family revealed to IndieWire that his cause of death was esophageal cancer and complications from heart disease.
He had originally been treated for his cancer in 2010 but it returned in 2015, with his condition declining in recent weeks.
Jonathan leaves behind his wife Joanne Howard and his three children, Ramona, Brooklyn and Jos.
Michael Mantenuto
(Image: WireImage)
Former Disney star Michael Mantenuto, best known for his role as Jack O'Callahan in the 2004 film Miracle, died on April 24, aged 35.
The actor committed suicide on Monday at Saltwater State park, where his body was later found in his car on Monday afternoon.
The former actor - who had quit Hollywood for the army - was a University of Maine hockey star before getting his acting break in Miracle, which chronicled the victory of the U.S. hockey team over the much favored Soviet Union team in the 1980 Olympic Games.
Erin Moran
(Image: Rex Features)
Erin Moran, best known for playing Joanie Cunningham on Happy days, died on April 22, aged 56.
According to TMZ, the actress was found unresponsive on Saturday afternoon by authorities in Indiana.
Henry Winkler, who starred opposite Moran as The Fonz in the iconic series, tweeted: "OH Erin...now you will finally have the peace you wanted so badly here on earth. Rest In It serenely now...too soon."
While Ron Howard shared: "Such sad sad news. RIP Erin. I'll always choose to remember you on our show making scenes better, getting laughs and lighting up tv screens."
Ugo Ehiogu
Tottenham Hotspur Under-23 coach Ugo Ehiogu passed away on April 21.
The former England and Aston Villa defender was rushed to hospital after collapsing at Tottenham's training centre.
The 44-year-old received medical treatment on site before being transferred to hospital by ambulance. But doctors were unable to save him.
Clifton James
American actor Clifton James, who played Sheriff Pepper in two of the James Bond films, died on April 15 at the age of 96.
The star acted opposite Sir Roger Moore in 1973's Live And Let Die, and again the following year in The Man With The Golden Gun.
Clifton passed away at his home in Oregon from complications relating to his diabetes.
Charlie Murphy
(Image: AFP)
Eddie Murphy’s older brother Charlie died on April 12 at the age of 57.
Charlie was an actor, comedian, and writer, best remembered for the Comedy Central sketch-comedy series Chappelle's Show.
He had been battling blood cancer when he died in New York.
Tim Pigott-Smith
(Image: PA)
Tim Pigott-Smith died at home on April 7, aged 70.
The British actor, best known for his role in the BAFTA-winning The Jewel in the Crown TV series, was described as "one of the greatest actors of his generation" by his agent.
The actor leaves behind his wife, Pamela Miles, and their son Tom.
Don Rickles
(Image: Rex Features)
American stand-up comedian and Hollywood star Don Rickles died on April 6, aged 90.
The actor and funny-man passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning at his home in Los Angeles as a result of kidney failure, his publicist Paul Shefrin confirmed.
The Toy Story star - who voiced the character Mr. Potato Head - passed away with his wife of 52 years, Barbara, at his side.
He would have turned 91 on May 8.
MARCH
Ronnie Moran
(Image: Daily Mirror)
The legendary Liverpool midfielder Ronnie Moran passed away on March 22 aged 83.
Moran was a loyal servant to Liverpool FC, operating as a player, coach and assistant manager in his storied time at the club.
Seen by Liverpool fans as the epitome of the famous Boot Room culture, his recent book, Mr Liverpool, summed up what the club meant to him.
Colin Dexter
(Image: Rex Features)
The author of Inspector Morse, Colin Dexter, died peacefully in his Oxford home on March 21 2017 at age 86.
An alumni of Cambridge University, Dexter wrote the series between 1975 and 1999, which were later adapted by ITV Studios between 1987 and 2000.
The TV series was so popular that a sequel series, Lewis, and a prequel series, Endeavour, were made.
Chuck Berry
(Image: REUTERS)
Musical icon Chuck Berry sadly died on March 18 at the age of 90.
The rock n' roll legend - known as the father of that movement - had been producing music since the 1950s and wrote pioneering tracks such as Johnny B Goode.
His first No.1 came in 1972 with My Ding-a-Ling.
He was the great-grandchild of African-American slaves, and his parents, Martha and Henry Berry, migrated from the South during World War I to St Louis in search of work.
Joni Sledge
(Image: Rex / Reuters)
Star of Sister Sledge Joni passed away on March 11.
The band, most known for their hit We Are Family, expressed considerable grief at her passing.
In a statement they said: "On yesterday, numbness fell upon our family. We welcome your prayers as we weep the loss of our sister, mother, aunt, niece and cousin Joni Sledge.
"We thank you for privacy as we hurt for her presence, but also for embracing her radiance and the sincerity with which she loved life."
John Forgeham
(Image: ITV)
Best known for his work in Footballers' Wives, in which he played Frank Laslett, John Forgeham sadly passed away on 11 March, aged 75.
He also had a role in The Italian Job and graduated from the Royal Academy of Drama in 1964.
His friend, the scriptwriter Simon Golding, paid tribute to John, tweeting: "So very sad to hear today the loss of my good friend, actor John Forgeham. A larger-than-life character & such a powerful actor. RIP John x."
John Surtees
(Image: PA)
John Surtees, the only man to win the Formula One and motorcycle Grand Prix titles, died on March 10 at the age of 83.
Surtees, who won the F1 title in 1964 to add to his 500cc motorcycle world titles from 1956, 1958, 1959 and 1960, "passed away peacefully".
His wife Jane and daughters Leonora and Edwina were by his side.
Tommy Page
(Image: Getty Images)
New Kids On The Block have paid tribute to songwriter Tommy Page who died on 3 March, aged 46.
The I’ll Be Your Everything singer died after taking his own life, Billboard reports.
He is survived by his husband Charlie and their three children.
FEBRUARY
Bill Paxton
(Image: FameFlynet)
Star of Aliens and Titanic, American actor Bill Paxton died on 25 February due to surgical complications.
Hailing from Texas, Paxton appeared in a number of Hollywood hits including The Terminator, Twister, Predator 2 and a number of other high-profile films.
In a statement his family said: "It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery.
"Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable."
Neil Fingleton
(Image: Getty)
Britain and the EU's tallest man Neil Fingleton died on 25 February, reportedly of heart failure.
The County Durham native was best-known for his portrayal of Mag the Mighty in HBO's Game of Thrones and as Doctor Who villain the Fischer King.
Moving to the US to pursue a career in basketball, Fingleton eventually found his calling in the acting industry.
Warren Frost
Twin Peaks star Warren Frost died on 17 February, aged 91.
The World War II veteran turned actor was known for his portrayal of Dr Will 'Doc' Hayward in the cult '90s TV series, which was co-created by his son, Mark Frost.
His family confirmed he passed away at his home in Middlebury, Vermont after a long illness.
Peter Skellern
(Image: Getty)
Former pop star Peter Skellern died on 17 February following a battle with brain cancer.
The singer, who had a hit in the 1970s with You're A Lady, was 69.
His family said: "Peter's creativity in art, comedy and music stand as his legacy to love and laughter.
"The love he brought to us will continue to be shared with everyone through his music.
"We will miss him with all our hearts."
Skellern was ordained as a priest and a deacon on the same day last year after being given special dispensation by the Archbishop of Canterbury , Justin Welby.
Dick Bruna
Dick Bruna, the children's author and artist who created the cartoon white rabbit Miffy, died on 16 February aged 89.
Bruna, who sold more than 80 million Miffy books, died in his sleep in his hometown of Utrecht, his publisher said in a statement.
Bruna created the character to entertain his infant son after seeing a rabbit in the dunes while on a seaside holiday and went on to relate the giant-eared, orange-pullovered bunny's adventures in over 30 books sold worldwide.
Sara Coward
(Image: BBC)
Archers icon Sara Coward died on 13 February at the age of 69 after a battle with cancer.
Editor of the Radio 4 show Huw Kennair-Jones paid tribute to the actress, saying everyone who worked with her is "very sad" after hearing the news.
"Sara was a gifted actress with a unique voice," he went on.
"Even when she was navigating the tribulations of Caroline Sterling's love life, Sara's deft wit and clever characterisation meant Caroline was never solely defined by her relationships but always as a fully rounded, intriguing woman of substance.
"We will all miss her both professionally and personally."
Archers' legend Sara Coward dies aged 69 after four decades starring on soap
Al Jarreau
(Image: Rex Features)
Al Jarreau died on 12 February, aged 76.
The acclaimed vocalist from Milwaukee boasted a 42 year career in the music industry, with hits including Breakin' Away, Boogie Down and Never Givin' Up.
Jarreau continued touring and performing until the month before his death.
He remains the only artist to have won a Grammy award in the jazz, pop and R&B categories.
Tara Palmer-Tomkinson
Tara Palmer-Tomkinson died on 8 February, aged 45.
The former It girl, who more recently appeared on I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here , had recently revealed a secret year-long battle with a brain tumour.
Doctors discovered the tumour in January last year.
Alan Simpson
(Image: Rex Features)
Sitcom writing icon Alan Simpson, one half of the much-loved Galton and Simpson duo, died on 8 February at the age of 87.
Scriptwriter Simpson, famed for his writing partnership with Ray Galton, was part of the brain trust behind classics such as Steptoe and Son and Hancock's Half Hour.
"Having had the privilege of working with Alan and Ray for over 50 years, the last 40 as agent, business manager and friend, and latterly as Alan's companion and carer, I am deeply saddened to lose Alan after a brave battle with lung disease," said manager Tessa Le Bars.
Richard Hatch
(Image: Getty Images North America)
Richard Hatch, the star of the original Battlestar Galactica series, passed away aged 71 on 7th February after a battle with pancreatic cancer, his manger confirmed to Variety.
Hatch played Captain Apollo in the original Battlestar series, which aired from 1978-79, a role that earned him a Golden Globe nomination for best actor in a television series - drama.
He also had a role in the 2003 reimagined series, playing Tom Zarek.
JANUARY
John Wetton
(Image: Getty)
John Wetton, a legend of the pro rock movement, passed away on 31 January at the age of 67 after losing his battle with cancer.
The death of Wetton, who played in a star-studded series of bands, was confirmed by a statement on his official website.
It said: "Rock music legend John Wetton sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning, after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer.
"John valued his over 11 years of sobriety and volunteered time in fellowship with other alcoholics to share his experience, strength and hope with them.
"John is survived by his recently wed wife Lisa and 18 year old son Dylan, brother Robert and mother Peggy."
Geoff Nicholls
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
Former Black Sabbath musician Geoff Nicholls died on 28 January, aged 68, after a battle with lung cancer.
Bandmate Tony Iommi revealed the keyboardist had passed away in an emotional Facebook post.
Tony wrote: "I'm so saddened to hear the loss of one of my dearest and closest friends Geoff Nicholls. He's been suffering for a while now with lung cancer and he lost his battle this morning.
"Geoff and I have always been very close and he has been a real true friend to me and supported me all the way for nearly 40 years. I will miss him dearly and he will live in my heart until we meet again. Rest In Peace my dear friend. Tony."
Sir John Hurt
The actor John Hurt died on 25 January, aged 77, after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
He played roles in a number of blockbuster films, including Elephant Man, Alien and Harry Potter.
He also appears in the biopic Jackie, about the widow of John F Kennedy, which is currently in cinemas.
Mary Tyler Moore
(Image: Getty Images)
American actress Mary Tyler Moore died on 25 January at the age of 80.
Moore shot to stardom as a suburban housewife in 1960s comedy The Dick Van Dyke Show. She went on to play the role as Mary Richards on 'The Mary Tyler Moore' show from 1970 to 1977.
The TV icon had a long battle with diabetes.
Gorden Kaye
'Allo 'Allo! star Gorden Kaye passed away aged 75 on 23 January in a care home.
The actor - who is best known for his role as Rene Artois in the British TV comedy - left behind an impressive legacy and career.
He appeared in all 84 episodes of the show for a decade until 1992, and reprised the role 1,2000 times in the stage adaptation.
Miguel Ferrer
(Image: CBS)
US actor Miguel Ferrer died on 19 January aged 61 after battling cancer.
The star - a cousin of George Clooney - was most famous for his roles in RoboCop and Twin Peaks. More recently, he appeared in NCIS: Los Angeles.
Ferrer was also a voice actor in a slew of animated shows and films such as Adventure Time and a number of DC Comics superhero features.
Graham Taylor
(Image: Hulton Archive/Getty)
Former England , Watford and Aston Villa manager Graham Taylor died of a heart attack on 12 January at the age of 72.
A family statement said: "With the greatest sadness, we have to announce that Graham passed away at his home early this morning of a suspected heart attack.
Peter Sarstedt
The celebrated singer and songwriter Peter Sarstedt died aged 75 on 8 January.
The musical artist is best known for his hit song 'Where do you go to my Lovely?'
The song was a chart topper in the UK in February 1969 and stayed there for four weeks.