Tributes pour in from around the world after Liam Payne's tragic passing
Liam has sadly died at the age of 31
Last updated 4 hours ago
Following the tragic and heartbreaking news that singer Liam Payne has sadly passed away at the age of 31, after falling from his hotel balcony in Argentina, tributes have poured in from around the world for the former One Direction star.
Liam, who leaves behind his seven-year-old son Bear Grey Payne, sadly died on Wednesday 16th October, and was in Argentina for a holiday, where he also attended the concert of his former bandmate Niall Horan.
News of his shock passing first broke late last night (16th October), when Alberto Crescenti, head of the state emergency medical system, said on Argentina's Todo Noticias TV channel that Liam fell into a courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighbourhood of Argentina's capital.
Family tribute
Liam's beloved family released a statement through a spokeswoman on Thursday 17th October, revealing they are heartbroken at the news.
It said: "We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we'll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time."
One Direction's tributes to Liam Payne
On the evening of Thursday 17th October, Harry, Louis, Niall and Zayn released a joint statement about Liam's shock passing.
It read: 'We're completely devastated by the news of Liam's passing.
'In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.
'For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.'
They signed it off with their names: 'Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry'.
The boys also individually shared tributes to Liam, with Louis Tomlinson writing: 'I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.
'I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.
'Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.
'And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam.
'A message to you Liam if you’re listening,
'I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye. I’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours , reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.
'I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.
'I wish I got chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you.
'Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you mate. Sleep well X'. (sic)
Harry Styles wrote: 'I am truly devastated by Liam's passing.
'His greatest joy was making other people happy, and it was an honour to be alongside him as he did it.
'Liam lived wide open, his heart on his sleeve, he had an energy for life that was infectious. He was warm, supportive, and incredibly loving. The years we spent together will forever remain among the most cherished years of my life. I will miss him always, my lovely friend.
'My heart breaks for Karen, Geoff, Nicole and Ruth, his son Bear, and all those around the world who knew and loved him, as I did'.
Former One Direction member Zayn also shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'Love You Bro ❤️', before continuing: 'Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me, I can't help but think selfishly that there was so many more conversations for us to have in our lives.
'I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life. When I was missing home as a 17 yr old kid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were my friend and that I was loved.
'Even though you were younger than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f---- about telling people when they were wrong. Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it.
'When it came to the music Liam, you were the most qualified in every sense. I knew nothing in comparison, was a novice child with no experience and you were already a professional. was always happy to know, no matter what happened on stage we could always rely on you to know which way to steer the ship next.
'I lost a brother when you left us and can't explain to you what I'd give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to you properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have with you in my heart forever, there is no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated.
'I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and are at peace A and you know how loved you are.
'Love you bro'.
On Friday 18th October, Niall shared a photo of the pair from their younger days in the band.
He wrote: 'I'm absolutely about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn't feel real.
'Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure.
'All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had doesn't happen often in a lifetime.
'I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently. I sadly didn't know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It's heartbreaking.
'My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course, his son Bear.
'Thank you for everything, Payno.
'Love you brother.
'Nialler'. (sic)
Tributes to Liam Payne
As well as his army of fans, famous faces from the world of music, TV and entertainment have paid public tributes to Liam, including the likes of Dermot O'Leary, Olly Murs, and Rylan Clark.
Former X Factor host Dermot O'Leary wrote: 'The worst news. I remember him as a 14 year old turning up to audition on The X Factor, and blowing us away singing Sinatra. He just loved to sing.
'He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble.
'Sending love and prayers to his family. D'. (sic)
The X Factor's official page wrote: 'We are heartbroken by the sad passing of Liam Payne.
'He was immensely talented and, as part of One Direction, Liam will leave a lasting legacy on the music industry and fans around the world.
'Our thoughts are with his friends, family and all who loved him'. (sic)
Singer Olly Murs shared a photo alongside Liam of the pair laughing, writing: 'This news is devastating, am lost for words 😣 we always had a good laugh when we saw each other, sometimes the catch ups were only short and sweet but when we did it was mostly about how annoyingly good his hair always looked, or our love for Becks, the old XF days and the tour we shared together.
'Liam shared the same passions as me, the same dreams so to see his life now end so young hits hard, I’m truly gutted and devastated for his Family and of course his son Bear losing a dad x am thinking of them! RIP Liam 🙏🏻😣'. (sic)
Little Mix and solo star Jade Thirlwall shared an image of herself alongside Liam, when the pair were younger, writing: 'The news of Liam's passing is truly heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family, friends, fans, loved ones, and all who knew him. ❤️🩹
'We fell out of touch as the years went by, but back in 2008 he was the first friend I made in this industry. Both of us so young, so ambitious, both hoping we'd 'make it'. I hope you are at peace now. ♥️'
Little Mix singer Leigh-Anne also wrote: 'This is just heartbreaking 💔 every time we crossed paths he was so lovely and humble. I'll never forget seeing One Direction on tour for the first time and being instantly drawn to Liam's stage presence you could just tell he was made for that stage ❤️
'Gone way too soon 🥺 sending all my love and deepest condolences to his family and everyone close to him. 🙏'. (sic)
Ed Sheeran shared a tribute to his friend, writing: 'At a loss for words. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones, every memory I have with him is a great one, just such a heartbreaking situation. Be kind. X'. (sic)
JLS star Marvin Humes shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'I first met Liam in 2008 with the JLS boys whilst auditioning for X Factor..he was 14 years old..we instantly clicked and looked at him as a little brother..that year it worked out for us but not for him and then 2 years later he went back to audition and One Direction was born..the rest is history..
'Absolutely heartbroken by the tragic news..Liam you wanted to be a global superstar and you did it bro..just can’t believe that things have ended this way..it’s shocking..my thoughts and prayers are with all your family and friends brother..RIP 🖤'. (sic)
As well as Marvin, the official JLS Instagram page also paid tribute, writing: 'We are so shocked and saddened to hear the news this morning that Liam Payne has passed. We first met on the Xfactor in 2008 and we thought we’d share the experience together but it wasn’t to be. Liam was like our original 5th member and we always knew he’d go on to achieve great things.
'To have lost a brother of ours so young is devastating and we will fondly remember the joy and the hope and the happiness he brought to so many people’s lives. Our hearts go out to his mum and family, his little boy and all those around the world who will miss him so very deeply. Gone way too soon brother, Rest in Peace'. (sic)
Boyband McFly wrote on X: 'We’re shocked and extremely sad to wake up to the news of Liam Payne’s death. Our thoughts and love are with his family and friends at such a difficult time ❤️'. (sic)
Charlie Puth simply uploaded a photo alongside Liam.
Rita Ora, who worked with Liam on the track 'For You', posted: 'I’m devastated 💔 He had the kindest soul, I will never forget. I loved working with him so much - he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart. Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song For You takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P 🕊️'. (sic)
TV presenter and former X Factor contestant Rylan Clark took to X to pay his respects. He wrote: 'Extremely sad news. V tragic and so young. RIP Liam x'. (sic)
Presenter Laura Whitmore shared a photo of herself interviewing Liam on the BRITs red carpet. She wrote: 'The one direction lads first came into MTV when they stole the hearts of the nation on XFactor. All talented in their own right, all optimistic and excited about what was ahead. Bumped into Liam over the years many times on different shows and out and about and he was always so lovely and giving of his time.
'This particular Brits always sticks with me ,he was there with Louis and he was beaming as I could see he was very loved up with someone backstage. Was genuinely so nice to see that excitement. Sometimes we forget people in the public eye are real people with real feelings. He was a Popstar but more importantly someone’s son, father - loved by so many who are left heartbroken. My thoughts with his loved ones. I can’t believe it, but also I can. Which is devastating'. (sic)
American choreographer Brian Friedman, who worked with Liam during his time in One Direction and on The X Factor, shared an old photo of the pair together.
He wrote: 'It doesn’t even seem real that Liam has passed… feels like just yesterday he stepped in front of me in the X Factor room for coaching at Boot Camp in 2010. He was so nervous, yet so driven. There was no other option for him than to make it to the live shows. Little did he know that not only would he make it but he would be thrust into what became the biggest boy band in history called One Direction and his life would forever be changed. I only hope that he was proud of his success and knows how much he was loved. Sending you love beyond Liam ❤️🙏🏼 You will be missed'. (sic)
The BRIT Awards also paid their respects, sharing a black and white photo of Liam at the 2019 ceremony, alongside the caption: 'We are incredibly sad to learn of the tragic passing of Liam Payne. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this time'. (sic)
Steven Bartlett, who spoke candidly with Liam on The Diary Of A CEO back in 2021, wrote on X: I cannot believe what I'm reading about Liam Payne. Absolutely heartbreaking'. (sic)
Little Mix singer Jade Thirwall wrote on her Instagram Story: 'The news of Liam's passing is truly heartbreaking. Sending so much love to his family, friends, fans, loves ones, all all who knew him.
'We fell out of touch as the years went by, but back in 2008 he was the first friend I made in this industry. Both of us so young, so ambition, both hoping we'd 'make it'. I hope you are at peace now'. (sic)
Zedd, who worked with Liam on his solo single 'Get Low', shared a number of photos alongside Liam on the set of their music video, with the caption: '💔'.
Socialite Paris Hilton wrote on X: 'So upsetting to hear the news of @LiamPayne passing😢 Sending love and condolences to his family & loved ones. 🙏 RIP my friend🥺'. (sic)
Singer Cher Lloyd, who was on the same series of The X Factor, also shared an old photo alongside Liam, writing: 'From being on the show together, visiting each others homes while filming, going on tour together and watching you achieve your dreams. I’ll cherish the memories made and the laughs we had. My thoughts are with your family and friends, with everyone who loves you. My heart is breaking for your Son Bear. Rest in peace Liam.' (sic)
The Wanted singer Max George revealed he was heartbroken at the news, writing on social media: 'Devastated.
'Liam was an unbelievably supportive during one of the most difficult times in my life. I will never forget that.
'My thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this horrendous time.
'Rest in peace Liam. Max x'. (sic)
Boyzone singer Mikey Graham wrote: 'Rip Liam Payne. Such tragic news. I think it would be a wise move for record companies to have psychologists on their books from now on in his memory as a duty of care for the vulnerability of their young talent. Fame can be very damaging especially in today’s world. Lots of money. Nobody to help. Lots of yes people. Nobody honest🙏🏻'. (sic)
Venue Wembley Stadium, a place where One Direction sold-out on numerous occasions, shared a photo of the band, writing: 'We’re incredibly saddened to hear of the passing of Liam Payne.
'Our thoughts are with Liam’s family, friends and fans 🕊️ 💔'. (sic)
X Factor stars Jedward wrote: 'RIP Liam Payne 💔 condolences to friends and family', before writing in another post: 'Sending strength to Cheryl and his son Bear ❤️ and all the One direction Family. RIP @LiamPayne'. (sic)
All On The Board created a touching tribute to Liam, captioning the post with: 'Rest in peace Liam Payne. You will be forever loved, always missed and never forgotten. Sending so much love to those who loved you, your family, your friends, your One Direction brothers and the Directioners, and so much love to your son Bear'. (sic)
Hits Radio presenter Tom Green shared a photo alongside Liam, writing: 'such devastating news this morning, not every guest shows up and gives 110% to every interview, but Liam always did… he was fun, charming, engaging, energetic, honest and candid - every single time! a total star from day one. gonna miss ya bro @liampayne 💕'. (sic)
Giovanni Fletcher wrote: 'So shocked and saddened to hear the news. A little boy has lost his father. A mother has lost her son. When we see someone in the public eye it can be easy to forget the very real roles and connections they have in their personal lives. I can’t stop thinking about those people.
'That said, when you have success on the scale 1D and Liam managed to create, news like this is going to affect so many people. It’s just utterly devastating.
'Thinking back to the start of Liam’s career and meeting him and the guys backstage at the X-Factor. They had such hopes and dreams, and boy did they deliver.
'Sending love to Liam’s family and friends, and to the fans who will be hugely affected by this. Xx'. (sic)
Former X Factor judge Sharon Osbourne wrote: 'Liam, my heart aches. We all let you down. Where was this industry when you needed them? You were just a kid when you entered one of the toughest industries in the world. Who was in your corner? Rest in peace my friend 🕊️ @liampayne'. (sic)
Our thoughts are with Liam's family and friends at this sad time. ❤️
Remembering the famous faces we've sadly lost in 2024:
Glynis Johns
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Derek Draper
Kate Garraway announced on 5th January that her beloved husband Derek Draper had sadly passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest in early December.
She wrote on Instagram: 'I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed. I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible. Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.' (sic)
David Soul
Actor and singer David Soul sadly died at the age of 80 in early January. He was best known for his role as Detective Kenneth 'Hutch' Hutchinson in the television series Starsky & Hutch, but also had a string of music hits in the 70s.
Christian Oliver
German actor Christian Oliver, famous for his role in Speed Racer, was tragically killed alongside his two daughters in a helicopter crash in the Caribbean. The pilot was also sadly killed in the crash, which happened in January.
JPR Williams
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams sadly died at the age of 74 in January. It's understood he passed away in hospital surrounded by his family after short illness battling bacterial meningitis.
Adan Canto
Designated Survivor and X-Men actor Adan Canto sadly passed away in January at the age of 42, following a battle with cancer. In a statement, his publicist Jennifer Allen said: "Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many."
Georgina Hale
Bafta-winning actress Georgina Hale, best known for her role in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 80 in January. Tributes poured in for the popular actress, who also appeared in Doctor Who, Budgie, One Foot in The Grave, Minder, The Bill and A Rather English Marriage.
Annie Nightingale CBE
Annie Nightingale, trailblazing presenter and DJ, sadly died at the age of 83 in January, following a short illness. Her family confirmed the news in a statement, where they described her a "pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many."
Lynne Marta
Footloose, Joe Kidd and Starsky & Hutch actress Lynne Marta sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January, following a short battle with cancer. Marta's friend Chris Saint-Hilaire confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Martin McCallum
British theatre director Martin McCallum, best known for shows such as Cats and Les Miserables, sadly passed away at the age of 73 in January, peacefully and surrounded by his beloved family.
Frank Farian
The founder of 'Daddy Cool' band Boney M, Frank Farian sadly passed away at the age of 82 in January. The German music producer, who founded the band back in 1974, died peacefully in his Miami apartment according to his representatives.
Mummy Pat Webb
Gogglebox star Pat Webb sadly died at the age of 75 in January following a long illness. Her son Stephen who she appeared alongside between series 10-12, announced the news on social media, with Gogglebox bosses also paying tribute to her online.
Chita Rivera
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Jonnie Irwin
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Carl Weathers
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Aston Barrett
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Ian Lavender
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Michael Jayston
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Toby Keith
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Steve Wright
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Robin Windsor
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John Savident
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Chris Nicholl
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Kenneth Mitchell
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Dave Myers
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Cat Janice
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Eric Carmen
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Karl Wallinger
The Waterboys and World Party singer Karl Wallinger sadly passed away at the age of 66 in March. The musician's publicist confirmed the news in a statement, with musicians around the world paying tribute to Karl.
M Emmet Walsh
Actor M Emmet Walsh, who starred in movies such as Blade Runner and Knives Out over his six-decade career, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in March. A statement from his manager confirmed he suffered a cardiac arrest at Kerbs Memorial Hospital in St Albans, Vermont.
George Gilbey
Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey sadly passed away at the age of 40 in March 2024, following a tragic accident in his workplace. Gogglebox bosses paid tribute to George on Instagram, writing; 'George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete.
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Chance Perdomo
Actor Chance Perdomo, who was best known for his roles in Gen V and the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, sadly died in March at the age of 27, following a motorbike accident. Tributes from around the world poured in for the actor following the sad news.
Gerry Conway
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Adrian Schiller
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OJ Simpson
American Footballer turned actor O.J. Simpson, sadly died aged 76 in April, following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news of his death on X, formerly Twitter, saying he has 'succumbed to his battle with cancer.'
Mike Pinder
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Brian McCardie
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Richard Tandy
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Bernard Hill
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Ian Gelder
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He wrote: 'It is with huge huge sadness and a heavy heart broken into a million pieces that I'm leaving this post to announce the passing of my darling husband and life partner Ian Gelder. He was my absolute rock and we'd been partners for more than 30 years. If we weren't together we spoke to each other every day.'
As well as being a prolific stage actor, Ian was best known for his role on Game of Thrones as Kevan Lannister, the brother of Tywin Lannister who was portrayed by Charles Dance.
Susan Buckner
Grease star Susan Buckner passed away in May 2024. A statement from her daughter, Samantha Mansfield, described her as "magic" and added: "The light she brought into every room will be missed forever." Among those who paid tribute to Susan, who starred as Patty Simcox in the 1978 film, was her Grease co-star John Travota, who wrote: 'Susan, you made Grease that much more special! We will miss you!'
Sam Rubin
Hollywood reporter Sam Rubin, who often appeared on This Morning, sadly passed away at the age of 64 in May. This Morning paid a tribute to Sam, saying: "He woke up Tinseltown every day for decades with his likeable charm and knowledgeable take on the movie world, he was on first name terms with the stars and became affectionately known as 'Hollywood Sam'. We will miss him."
David Sanborn
Revered jazz saxophonist David Sanborn, who worked with a smorgasbord of rockers including David Bowie, Eagles, Bruce Springsteen and The Rolling Stones, sadly died at the age of 78 in May, following an extended battle with prostate cancer with complications.
Gudrun Ure
Scottish actress Gudrun Ure, who starred in the 1980s children's show Super Gran, sadly died at the age of 98 in May. Gudrun became a household name bringing the character of Granny Smith, created by author Forrest Wilson, to the small screen.
Charlie Colin (Train)
Founding member of the band Train, Charlie Colin died age 58 in May. The guitarist was part of the band until 2005, before leaving he had co-written their album 'My Private Nation' released in 2003, as well as co-writing and performing their breakthrough song 'Drops of Jupiter' in 2001.
Richard M Sherman
Songwriter Richard M Sherman, best known for writing over 150 songs for Disney movies, including Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, sadly died at the age of 95 in May, due to an age-related illness.
Elizabeth MacRae
American actress Elizabeth MacRae, who starred in shows such as General Hospital and Gomer Pyle, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in May.
Colin Gibb (Black Lace)
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Nicholas Ball
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Dr Michael Mosley
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Michael's wife Dr Clare Bailey Mosley said at the time: " "I don't know quite where to begin with this. It's devastating to have lost Michael, my wonderful, funny, kind and brilliant husband."
Paul Spencer (Dario G)
Nineties dance star Paul Spencer, from the trio Dario G, sadly died at the age of 53 in June. The musician revealed in an online post last year that he had stage four rectal cancer and a shadow on his liver.
Donald Sutherland
Canadian actor Donald Sutherland, best known for his roles in things like The Hunger Games, MASH, Kelly's Heroes and the 70s version of Invasion of the Bodysnatchers, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in June, following a long illness.
Bill Cobbs
American actor Bill Cobbs, best known for roles in Night at the Museum, Demolition Man and The Bodyguard, sadly passed away at the age of 90 in June. The actor died peacefully in his sleep at his home in California.
Shannen Doherty
Actress Shannen Doherty, known for her roles on 90210 and Charmed, passed away after battling breast cancer since 2015. Shannen's publicist Leslie Sloane said: "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease."
Bob Newhart
American comedian and actor Bob Newhart sadly died at the age of 94 in July, following a series of short illnesses. Bob appeared in The Big Bang Theory and also played the role of the diminutive dad of adopted full-size son Will Ferrell in the movie Elf.
Ray Reardon MBE
Six-time world snooker champion Ray Reardon sadly passed away at the age of 91 in July, following a lengthy cancer battle.
Roberta Taylor
Actress Roberta Taylor, best known for her roles as Inspector Gina Gold in The Bill and Irene Raymond in EastEnders, sadly passed away at the start of July at the age of 76. Tributes poured in for Roberta from the world of entertainment.
John Mayall
The British blues musician John Mayall died peacefully aged 90 at his home in California in July. Often described as the godfather of British blues, his Bluesbreakers band involved Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac's Peter Green, Mick Fleetwood and John McVie.
Janet Andrewartha
Actress Janet Andrewartha, best known for playing the role of Lyn Scully in Australian soap Neighbours, sadly died at the age of 72 in July. The Neighbours social media accounts announced the sad news, paying tribute. The post read: 'Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street's Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner.'
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Former England football manager Sven-Göran Eriksson sadly passed away at the age of 76 in August, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. The Swede, who managed the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, admitted at the start of 2024 he only had a year to live "at best". Following his passing, tributes poured in from around the world.
Fatman Scoop
American rapper Fatman Scoop sadly died at the age of 53 at the end of August. The performer, whose real name was Isaac Freeman, had been performing at an event in Connecticut in the United States on Friday (August 30th) when he collapsed on stage.
Sol Bamba
Former footballer Sol Bamba passed away at the age of 39 in August. The former Cardiff, Middlesbrough and Leicester defender was working as a technical director at Turkish side Adanaspor, when he fell ill before a match and was taken to hospital.
A statement from the club said: "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there.
"Our condolences to his family and our community."
Herbie Flowers
Esteemed bass guitarist Herbie Flowers, who worked with an array of rock icons, sadly died aged 86 in September 2024. A statement issued by a family member on Facebook read: 'While we knew and loved him as Uncle Herbie, his musical contributions have likely touched your lives as well. He played bass on many of the songs from the golden age of rock.
'As a studio musician in London in the 60s and 70s he got to know and contribute to the music of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Marc Bolin, Cat Stevens, Harry Nilsson, Al Kooper, Melanie and many other popular musicians.'
James Earl Jones
Actor James Earl Jones, known around the world for being the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars, and Mufasa in Disney's 1994 film The Lion King, sadly died at the age of 93 in September. Tributes from around the world of entertainment poured in for the actor following the news.
Tito Jackson
Original member of The Jackson 5, Tito Jackson, sadly died at the age of 70 in September. His three sons announced the sad news in a statement, writing: 'We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing.'
Dame Maggie Smith
Harry Potter and Downton Abbey actress Dame Maggie Smith sadly passed away at the age of 89 on Friday 27th September. Her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin confirmed she died peacefully in hospital. They said in a statement: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
Kris Kristofferson
Grammy-winning singer and actor Kris Kristofferson sadly died at the age of 88 in late September. The American country star died "peacefully" at home in Maui, according to a statement issued on behalf of his family.
Cissy Houston
Grammy Award-winning singer Cissy Houston - mother of the legendary Whitney Houston - sadly died in early October 2024 surrounded by family in her New Jersey home, at the age of 91, having been under hospice care for Alzheimer's disease. On top of being the mother of the late Whitney Houston, Cissy was famed for her back-up singing for the likes of Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, as well as her vocals featuring on records with names such as Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Jimi Hendrix, Luther Vandross, Beyonce, and even her daughter, Whitney. Her daughter-in-law said: "Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family. Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives... Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts."
Alex Salmond
The former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond sadly passed away at the age of 69 in October, just hours after giving a public speech in North Macedonia. Following his sudden death, Alex's family released a statement, with tributes pouring in from the world of politics and royalty.
Liam Payne
One Direction singer Liam Payne sadly died at the age of just 31 in October, following a fall from a hotel balcony whilst he was on holiday in Argentina. Following the shock news, tributes poured in for Liam from around the world of entertainment, with his former One Direction band mates Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, all posting their own personal tributes.
If you are affected by this story, you can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.