Actors Who Died in 2023 – We’ll miss 4 more than others

As the curtain falls on another year, we reflect on the stars who lit up our screens but are no longer with us. The actors who died in 2023 left an indelible mark on our hearts and the entertainment world. From childhood heroes to legendary performers, each departure reminds us of the fleeting nature of life and the lasting impact of art. We remember their laughter, their tears, and the characters they brought to life.

These actors set examples through their performances, becoming symbols of courage, resilience, and creativity. As we bid farewell to these talented individuals, we celebrate their contributions and the joy they brought to millions. Their performances will continue to move us, entertain us, and remind us of the power of storytelling for generations to come.

Actors Who Died in January 2023

Adam Rich

Adam Rich, born October 12, 1968, was a well-known American actor. He was celebrated for his role as Nicholas Bradford on the TV series Eight Is Enough. Rich became a beloved figure with his iconic pageboy haircut, earning the nickname “America’s Little Brother” during the show’s run from 1977 to 1981.

Born in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, Rich faced personal struggles throughout his life, including substance abuse and legal issues. Despite these challenges, he remained a memorable figure on television, appearing in series like Code Red and Gun Shy. Rich died on January 7, 2023, at the age of 54. The cause of death was an accidental fentanyl overdose. His passing is one of the notable losses in 2023, leaving a void for fans who cherished his role on television.

Julian Sands

Julian Sands was born Julian Richard Morley Sands on January 4, 1958, in Otley, West Riding of Yorkshire, England. He attended Lord Wandsworth College and later studied at the Central School of Speech and Drama. Sands began his acting career in the early 1980s with roles in films like The Killing Fields and Oxford Blues. He became widely known for his role as George Emerson in A Room with a View (1985). Sands also appeared in Warlock (1989), Arachnophobia (1990), and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011). His TV work includes roles in 24, Smallville, and Rose Red.

Sands went missing on January 13, 2023, while hiking in the San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles. His body was found on June 24, 2023. He was 65 years old. Sands is remembered for his extensive work in film and television and his adventurous spirit.

Actors Who Died in February 2023

Cody Longo

Cody Longo (March 4, 1988 – February 8, 2023) was an American actor and musician recognized for his roles as Eddie Duran on Hollywood Heights and Nicholas Alamain on Days of Our Lives. He began his acting career with roles in films and television shows like Ball Don’t Lie and Medium. In 2012, Longo launched his music career, releasing singles such as “Atmosphere” and “Falling Into You.”

Born and raised in Littleton, Colorado, Longo moved to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career after high school. He also studied theatre and psychology. Longo’s career included both acting and music, and he was involved in various philanthropic efforts, including supporting art programs and children’s education through his non-profit, LiveAlive.

Longo faced personal challenges, including issues with alcoholism and legal troubles. He passed away on February 8, 2023, at the age of 34, with the suspected cause of death being alcohol poisoning. Longo left behind his wife, Stephanie Clark, and their three children. Among the celebrities we lost in 2023, Cody Longo’s impact on both television and music is remembered fondly.

Richard Belzer

Richard Belzer, born August 4, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, was a prominent American actor, comedian, and author. He is best remembered for his iconic role as Detective John Munch, which he portrayed across multiple TV series, including Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Belzer’s portrayal of Munch, who appeared on numerous other shows, set a unique television record for continuity in a single character across different series.

In addition to his acting career, Belzer was a renowned stand-up comedian and author known for his books on conspiracy theories. Despite facing personal challenges, including two divorces and a legal dispute with Hulk Hogan, Belzer’s influence in comedy and television remains significant. He passed away on February 19, 2023, in Bozouls, France. His death was met with tributes from fellow actors and fans, honoring his enduring impact on the entertainment industry.

Actors Who Died in March 2023

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick (born June 7, 1962) was an American actor known for his extensive and influential career across television, film, and video games. Reddick’s notable roles include Cedric Daniels in The Wire, Phillip Broyles in Fringe, and Chief Irvin Irving in Bosch. His film credits encompass significant roles in John Wick and White House Down. Additionally, he made a substantial impact in the video game industry with his voice work as Commander Zavala in Destiny and Sylens in Horizon Zero Dawn.

Reddick’s career was marked by his distinctive presence and versatility, contributing to his recognition and respect in the entertainment industry. He passed away on March 17, 2023, at the age of 60, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by colleagues and fans alike. His final roles include portraying Zeus in the Disney+ series Percy Jackson and the Olympians, which was dedicated to his memory.

Tom Sizemore

Tom Sizemore (Thomas Edward Sizemore Jr.; November 29, 1961) was an American actor celebrated for his intense performances in movies and TV shows. Born November 29, 1961, in Detroit, Michigan, Sizemore began his acting career with minor roles in films like Born on the Fourth of July and Lock Up. He achieved greater fame with roles in Passenger 57, True Romance, Natural Born Killers, and Heat. His most renowned film, Saving Private Ryan, was a major success. Sizemore also featured in Black Hawk Down and Pearl Harbor and provided the voice for Sonny Forelli in Grand Theft Auto: Vice City.

Despite facing personal struggles with addiction, which were highlighted in reality TV series such as Shooting Sizemore, he continued to act in various projects, including Twin Peaks and Mark Felt: The Man Who Brought Down the White House. Tom Sizemore passed away on March 3, 2023, after suffering a brain aneurysm on February 18, 2023. His impactful performances remain a significant part of his legacy in the entertainment industry. Tom Sizemore’s death is commemorated among the actors who passed away in 2023, reflecting on his contributions to film and television.

Actors Who Died in April 2023

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte (born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr.; March 1, 1927) was an American singer, actor, and civil rights activist who rose to prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Known for popularizing calypso music internationally, Belafonte’s breakthrough album, Calypso (1956), was the first million-selling LP by a single artist. His iconic songs include “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song),” “Jump in the Line,” and “Jamaica Farewell.” Beyond music, Belafonte starred in films like Carmen Jones (1954) and Island in the Sun (1957), and his final film role was in Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman (2018).

Belafonte’s contributions extended beyond the arts into activism, where he was a close confidant of Martin Luther King Jr. and a vocal critic of various political administrations. He won numerous awards, including three Grammys, an Emmy, and a Tony, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Belafonte passed away on April 25, 2023, at the age of 96, leaving behind a profound legacy in both entertainment and civil rights.

Barry Humphries

Barry Humphries, born John Barry Humphries on February 17, 1934, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, was a renowned Australian comedian, actor, and writer. He was renowned for his distinctive and vivid characters, particularly Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson. Dame Edna, a suburban housewife, turned into a glamorous and eccentric celebrity and became one of Humphries’ most famous creations. Her outrageous costumes, biting humor, and unique persona captivated audiences globally, making her a household name. Humphries’ other notable character, Sir Les Patterson, was a crude and comedic cultural attaché, showcasing Humphries’ versatility in satire.

Humphries’ career spanned across theatre, film, and television. He appeared in films like Finding Nemo and The Hobbit and gained fame for his stage performances. His one-man shows, where he performed as characters like Dame Edna and Sir Les Patterson, were particularly successful, though his New York debut received mixed reviews. Despite his retirement in 2012, Barry Humphries’ legacy in comedy and satire remains influential and celebrated. Unfortunately, he passed away on April 22, 2023, at 89, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

Paul Cattermole

Paul Gerald Cattermole, born on March 7, 1977, in St Albans, Hertfordshire, England, was an English singer and actor. He gained fame as a member of the pop group S Club 7, where he performed from 1998 until his departure in 2002. Cattermole returned to the band for their 2014 reunion tour and was set to rejoin for a second tour in 2023 before his untimely death. He passed away on April 6, 2023, at 46, in Wareham, Dorset, England.

Cattermole’s early career included a role in a local production of West Side Story and membership in the National Youth Music Theatre. He was part of S Club 7’s success, which included chart-topping singles and popular TV shows. After leaving the group, he formed the band Skua and later performed with S Club 3. Despite financial difficulties and personal challenges, Cattermole remained a beloved figure in pop music until his death.

Actors Who Died in May 2023

Andy Smart

Andy Smart, born on June 16, 1959, in Southsea, Hampshire, England, was a renowned English comedian who was celebrated for his work with The Comedy Store Players and his role in The Vicious Boys. He was also known for presenting American Football on Channel 4 and his memoir, A Hitch in Time: From Liverpool to Pamplona on a 72,000-Mile Road Trip.

Smart’s vibrant career and engaging performances earned him a lasting place in the comedy world. He passed away on May 16, 2023, at 63. His death was widely mourned by fans and colleagues alike, marking the end of a significant era in British comedy.

Lew Palter

Leon Louis Palter (November 3, 1928 – May 21, 2023) was an American actor renowned for portraying Isidor Straus in the 1997 film Titanic. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Palter studied at Tufts University and Alfred University before earning a PhD in theater from Northwestern University.

Palter’s extensive career included stage work, directing, and teaching. He appeared in notable New York productions and directed Off-Broadway plays. His television credits spanned shows such as The A-Team, Charlie’s Angels, and Columbo, while his film roles included The Steagle and First Monday in October.

A dedicated educator, Palter taught acting at the CalArts School of Theater from 1971 until his retirement in 2013. He influenced many future actors, including Don Cheadle and Ed Harris.

Palter was married to Nancy Vawter from 1956 until her death in 2020, and they had two daughters. He passed away from lung cancer in Los Angeles at the age of 94.

Actors Who Died in June 2023

Alan Arkin

Alan Arkin, born March 26, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York, was a distinguished American actor and filmmaker whose career spanned over seven decades. His exceptional talent earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe Award, and a Tony Award. Arkin’s early career saw him gain prominence on Broadway. He became well-known for his roles in films such as “The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming” (1966), “The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter” (1968), and “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006), for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Arkin’s career also included notable work in television and voice acting, with memorable performances in “Escape from Sobibor” (1987), “The Pentagon Papers” (2003), and the animated series “BoJack Horseman” (2015–16). His final roles included appearances in “Going in Style” (2017) and “Dumbo” (2019).

Alan Arkin passed away on June 29, 2023, in San Marcos, California, at the age of 89. His death marked the end of a remarkable career that left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.

Treat Williams

Treat Williams, born Richard Treat Williams Jr. on December 1, 1951, in Stamford, Connecticut, was a celebrated American actor known for his dynamic roles in film and television. He began his career on Broadway, later gaining fame with roles in movies like Hair (1979) and Prince of the City (1981). Williams showcased his versatility across genres, appearing in notable films such as Once Upon a Time in America (1984) and The Devil’s Own (1997). His television work, including the beloved series Everwood (2002–2006), solidified his reputation as a talented actor.

Williams was also an accomplished pilot and scuba diver, and he authored a children’s book titled Air Show! (2010). He lived with his wife, Pam Van Sant, and their two children in Vermont and Utah. Treat Williams passed away on June 12, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributions to entertainment.

Death of Actors in July 2023

Paul Reubens

Paul Reubens, born Paul Rubenfeld on August 27, 1952, in Peekskill, New York, was a pioneering American actor, comedian, and writer renowned for his iconic character Pee-wee Herman. Reubens began his career in the 1970s in the Los Angeles comedy scene, where he developed Pee-wee Herman. This character gained immense popularity with The Pee-wee Herman Show (1981), known for its unique humor and inventive sketches.

Reubens achieved national fame with the 1985 film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, directed by Tim Burton. The film’s success led to Pee-wee’s Playhouse (1986–1990), a groundbreaking children’s show that earned multiple awards, including an Emmy Award. His portrayal of Pee-wee Herman became a cultural touchstone, shaping comedy and children’s programming.

Beyond Pee-wee, Reubens had a diverse career. He appeared in films such as Batman Returns (1992) and Blow (2001) and portrayed characters in animated series and video games. He was also noted for his stage work, including the Broadway production of The Pee-wee Herman Show.

Reubens died on July 30, 2023, after a private battle with myelogenous leukemia and metastatic lung cancer. His passing was a significant loss to the entertainment industry, and he is remembered for his creativity, humour, and lasting impact.

Angus Cloud

Angus Cloud, born Conor Angus Cloud Hickey on July 10, 1998, in Oakland, California, was a rising American actor. He gained fame as Fezco in the HBO series Euphoria (2019–2022), a character known for his kind nature and moral support. Angus Cloud also appeared in movies like North Hollywood (2021) and The Line (2023) and music videos for artists such as Noah Cyrus and Juice Wrld.

Cloud, of Irish descent, grew up in Oakland and is now scarred from an accident in 2013 when he fell into a construction pit. Before acting, he worked in his high school’s theater department and was discovered while working at a restaurant in Brooklyn.

Tragically, Angus Cloud died on July 31, 2023, at the age of 25. An accidental drug overdose caused his death. He is remembered for his impactful role on Euphoria and his promising career.

Death of Actors in August 2023

Ron Cephas Jones

Ron Cephas Jones was born on January 8, 1957. He was a celebrated American actor, best known for his role as William Hill in the acclaimed drama series This Is Us. His performance earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award and two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020.

Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Jones pursued jazz at Ramapo College before switching to theater. After graduation, he moved to Los Angeles but later returned to New York, where his career in theater took off. Jones was involved in notable productions with the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and received a Tony Award nomination in 2022 for his role in Clyde’s.

His television credits include Mr. Robot, Luke Cage, and Truth Be Told. Jones also appeared in films like Half Nelson and Across the Universe. He passed away on August 19, 2023, at 66, from complications related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Bob Barker

Robert William Barker (December 12, 1923 – August 26, 2023) was a renowned American media personality and animal rights advocate. He is best known for hosting The Price Is Right from 1972 to 2007. Born in Darrington, Washington, Barker spent his youth on the Rosebud Indian Reservation and served in the U.S. Navy Reserve during World War II. He began his broadcasting career on radio before transitioning to game shows, including Truth or Consequences.

Barker was a passionate animal rights advocate, supporting organizations like PETA and founding the DJ&T Foundation. He retired in 2007 but made occasional appearances until 2015. Barker passed away at 99 in Los Angeles after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was interred alongside his wife, Dorothy Jo, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park – Hollywood Hills.

Death of Actors in September 2023

Michael Gambon

Sir Michael Gambon, born on October 19, 1940, was a renowned Irish-English actor celebrated for his work across stage and screen. Starting his career with Laurence Olivier at the Royal National Theatre, Gambon earned three Olivier Awards and four BAFTA TV Awards over his six-decade career. In 1998, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to drama. Gambon starred in numerous Shakespearean plays and made his film debut in Othello (1965). He gained fame as Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series and appeared in acclaimed films like The King’s Speech and The Cook, the Thief, His Wife & Her Lover.

Gambon also made notable contributions to television, receiving BAFTA Awards for The Singing Detective and Wives and Daughters. As we reflect on the notable actors who died in 2023, Gambon’s passing is especially poignant. He was known for his private life, including his marriage to Anne Miller and a later relationship with Philippa Hart, with whom he had two sons. Gambon passed away on September 27, 2023, at age 82, following a bout of pneumonia.

David McCallum

David McCallum, born in Glasgow on September 19, 1933, was a celebrated Scottish actor and musician. He became famous in the 1960s for playing Illya Kuryakin on The Man from U.N.C.L.E. His role as the mysterious Russian agent turned him into a cultural icon and a heartthrob of the time. McCallum’s popularity was so immense that he received more fan mail than many other era stars.

McCallum’s acting journey started with minor roles in British films before he landed notable parts in The Great Escape and The Greatest Story Ever Told. He later starred in Colditz and Sapphire & Steel and spent 20 seasons on N.C.I.S. as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard. Born into a musical family, McCallum also released several albums. He was married twice, first to Jill Ireland and later to Katherine Carpenter, and passed away on September 25, 2023, at age 90.

Death of Actors in October 2023

Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree, born on July 9, 1942, was an iconic American actor best known for his role as John Shaft in the groundbreaking 1971 film Shaft. This role made Roundtree a pioneering figure in the blaxploitation genre and established him as a prominent leading man in Hollywood. His portrayal of the tough, suave detective earned him widespread acclaim and made Shaft an enduring cultural icon.

Roundtree’s career spanned over five decades, with notable roles in films like Shaft’s Big Score! (1972) and Shaft in Africa (1973). He also appeared in popular T.V. shows such as Roots (1977) and The Rockford Files (1974–1980). Despite facing health challenges, including a battle with breast cancer, Roundtree continued to work in the industry, showcasing his resilience and versatility.

Roundtree was married to his wife, Betty, until her passing in 1993. He remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry until his death on October 24, 2023, at 81. His legacy lives on through his influential roles and significant contributions to film and television.

Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry, born on August 19, 1969, was a celebrated American actor best known for his role as Chandler Bing on the hit T.V. show Friends. Perry’s portrayal of the sarcastic and witty character made him a household name and earned him widespread acclaim throughout the show’s run from 1994 to 2004. His performance brought humor and depth to the series, making Friends a cultural phenomenon.

As we honor the celebrities who died in 2023, it’s impossible not to reflect on Perry’s significant impact. Perry’s acting career extended beyond Friends, with notable roles in films like Fools Rush In (1997) and The Whole Nine Yards (2000). He also appeared in T.V. series such as The Odd Couple (2015–2017). Despite personal struggles, including battles with addiction, Perry remained a respected figure in the industry and continued to act and advocate for mental health awareness.

Perry passed away on October 28, 2023, at the age of 54. His legacy is marked by his significant contributions to television comedy and his impact on fans and colleagues.

Death of Actors in November 2023

Evan Ellingson

Evan Ellingson, born on July 1, 1988, was an American actor known for his roles in television and film. He made his acting debut in 2001, appearing in the T.V. movie Living in Fear and on General Hospital. Ellingson gained recognition for his role as Kyle Harmon on C.S.I.: Miami from 2007 to 2010. He also appeared in the 2009 film My Sister’s Keeper, where he played Jesse Fitzgerald.

Ellingson was born and raised in La Verne, California, and faced significant personal challenges throughout his life. He began struggling with drug addiction at age 19, following the tragic death of his older brother. Despite seeking treatment in 2021, Ellingson’s life was cut short. He passed away on November 5, 2023, at the age of 35, due to an accidental fentanyl overdose while residing in a sober-living home. His death was a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles with addiction.

Death of Actors in December 2023

Norman Lear

Norman Lear (July 27, 1922 – December 5, 2023) was a trailblazing American producer and screenwriter known for transforming television. He created influential sitcoms like All in the Family, Maude, and The Jeffersons, which tackled social and political issues with humor. His work broke new ground by addressing controversial topics such as race, gender, and politics, making him a pioneering force in T.V. history. Lear received many awards, including six Emmys and the National Medal of Arts. He was also a dedicated activist, founding People for the American Way to counter the influence of the Christian right.

Lear’s personal life included three marriages and six children. He passed away on December 5, 2023, at the age of 101 from cardiac arrest. His impact on television and social issues remains profound, and his legacy continues to be celebrated.

Ryan O’Neal

Ryan O’Neal, born Charles Patrick Ryan O’Neal on April 20, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, was a renowned American actor famous for his roles in Love Story and Barry Lyndon. His career spanned several decades and included a notable T.V. role in Peyton Place. High-profile relationships and familial struggles marked O’Neal’s personal life. He married actress Joanna Moore in 1963, with whom he had two children before their separation. His second marriage was to Leigh Taylor-Young, with whom he had a son. O’Neal’s long-term relationship with Farrah Fawcett was turbulent but enduring, lasting from 1979 until she died in 2009.

As we remember the actors who died in 2023, it’s clear that O’Neal’s contributions to film and television left a lasting impression. His health declined over the years due to leukemia and prostate cancer. He passed away on December 8, 2023, at the age of 82, from congestive heart failure, with cardiomyopathy as a contributing factor. He was laid to rest beside Fawcett at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary.

Andre Braugher

Andre Keith Braugher, born on July 1, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois, was a distinguished American actor celebrated as Detective Frank Pembleton in Homicide: Life on the Street and Captain Raymond Holt in Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Braugher, A talented performer, received critical acclaim for his work in television and film, earning two Primetime Emmy Awards and numerous nominations throughout his career. His impressive range also saw him in productions like Glory, City of Angels, and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.

Braugher married actress Ami Brabson in 1991, and they had three sons together. He passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 61 due to lung cancer. Despite having been a smoker earlier in life, he quit in 2010. His death was deeply felt in the entertainment industry, where he was remembered for his exceptional talent and generous spirit.

In the End

Looking back on the actors who died in 2023, we recognize their deep mark on our lives. Each of these performers brought something unique to their roles, from heartfelt drama to unforgettable comedy, enriching our cultural landscape. They were more than just celebrities; they were artists who spoke to our shared experiences and emotions.

Their performances touched us in ways that words alone could not. Whether through laughter, tears, or moments of introspection, they offered a glimpse into different facets of the human experience. As we remember them, we celebrate their contributions and the joy they brought into our lives. Though they are no longer with us, their legacy endures through their work, continuing to inspire and connect us. Their stories and characters will always hold a special place in our hearts, a testament to the lasting power of their art.