Some stars shine forever, but the world has to say goodbye to a few legends. This year marked the conclusion of the final chapter for some of the biggest names in entertainment, sports, and beyond. Their passing is a tremendous loss, and their contributions continue to shape the world they left behind. Here's a look at some icons who said their goodbyes in 2025.
George Lowe
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George Lowe was the voice of Space Ghost. He is best known for turning a forgotten superhero into an absurd, hilarious talk show host. His talent reached radio and commercials, but Space Ghost was his crown jewel. Fans will forever hear his booming delivery echo through late-night animation's weird and wonderful corners.
Clint Hill
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Most people don't recognize the names of Secret Service agents, but Clint Hill wasn't most people. His quick actions couldn't save the president, but they likely saved Jackie Kennedy. Hill carried that day with him for the rest of his life, later writing books about his experiences. He dedicated decades to protecting presidents.
Dick Button
Credit: Youtube
Before figure skaters were landing triple axels left and right, there was Dick Button—the first man ever to land a double axel in competition. He dominated the ice and went on to win two Olympic gold medals and five world championships. The sport wouldn't be what it is today without him, and every skater who soars owes a little bit to Button.
Linda Nolan
Credit: X
Linda Nolan was part of the sister act that brought the world hits like I'm In the Mood for Dancing. Over the years, she embraced TV, musicals, and even reality shows. Her battle with cancer was a public one, and she faced it with honesty and humor, never losing her signature spirit.
Barbie Hsu
Credit: Instagram
Barbie Hsu's role in Meteor Garden made her an Asian household name. She set the standard for romantic dramas for years to come. Her sudden passing left a gap in the entertainment world. For many, she'll always be the bright-eyed, strong-willed Shan Cai, the role that made an entire generation believe in fairytale love stories.
Kim Sae-Ron
Credit: Reddit
Kim Sae-Ron grew up on screen and delivered powerful performances in The Man from Nowhere and A Brand New Life. She has always been poised for greatness, but her journey came with many struggles. Personal challenges have overshadowed her work, including a high-profile incident that led to her stepping away from the limelight.
Gene Hackman
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Gene Hackman never played by Hollywood's rules. He walked away from acting in 2004, content with his decades-long career that included The French Connection, Superman, and Unforgiven. Even in retirement, he remained a legend and won two Oscars. Hackman never chased fame—he let the work speak for itself.
Roberta Flack
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The world stopped and listened when Roberta Flack sang Killing Me Softly with His Song. Her voice was smooth, powerful, and gentle. She made music that was personal, whether it was love songs or political statements. She became one of the first Black women to dominate multiple genres simultaneously.
Marianne Faithfull
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Lots of people knew her as Mick Jagger's girlfriend in the '60s, but Marianne Faithfull was much more. She had her musical career, starting as a folk singer before evolving into a husky-voiced rock legend. She established her career further with albums like Broken English that showcased her raw, world-weary vocals.
Michelle Trachtenberg
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Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans remember Michelle Trachtenberg as Dawn, the little sister who suddenly appeared and changed everything. Others knew her from Harriet the Spy, EuroTrip, or Gossip Girl. While she stepped away from acting in recent years, her passing left fans heartbroken.
D'Wayne Wiggins
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Few R&B groups defined the late '80s and early '90s like Tony! Toni! Toné! D'Wayne Wiggins was at the heart of their smooth sound as the guitarist and producer whose signature groove helped create classics like Anniversary and It Never Rains (In Southern California).
Angie Stone
Credit: Instagram
Angie Stone had a voice as rich as velvet. She combined soul, R&B, and hip-hop in a way that felt effortless. Hits like No More Rain (In This Cloud) and Brotha showcased her ability to turn personal struggles into something deeply relatable. Her influence could be heard in artists like Jill Scott and Erykah Badu.
Brian James
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Punk rock didn't just appear out of nowhere—people like Brian James built it. He is the guitarist and co-founder of The Damned and was instrumental in unleashing the UK's first punk single, New Rose, in 1976. His aggressive riffs, raw energy, and don't-care attitude set the stage for an entire movement.
Lynne Marie Stewart
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Lynne Marie Stewart will forever be Miss Yvonne to Pee-wee's Playhouse fans. She is the over-the-top, flirty, and fabulous "Most Beautiful Woman in Puppet Land." But that was just one piece of her long career. She appeared in everything from MASH* to It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. She had a knack for bringing a touch of joy to every role.
Tony Roberts
Credit: Reddit
You didn't have to be a film buff to recognize Tony Roberts. He was a staple of Woody Allen films, playing the witty, level-headed friend in Annie Hall, Play It Again, Sam, and Manhattan. The screen may have lost one of its most reliable supporting players, but his performances still shine.
