The 1980s gave us a generation of iconic performers who dominated music, movies, and television. While many have passed away, their work continues to be discovered by new fans and remains a beloved part of our cultural landscape. These artists didn’t just achieve success; they defined musical styles, set sales records, and influenced the way artists create today.
This is a tribute to 20 influential entertainers from music, movies, and TV who are no longer with us. It celebrates their most memorable work, important achievements, and the lasting impact they had on fans and popular culture.
Prince
Prince rose to fame from Minneapolis with a unique sound that combined funk, rock, pop, and R&B. He was incredibly self-sufficient, writing, producing, and playing nearly all the instruments on his albums. He captivated audiences with massive world tours and achieved huge success with the film and soundtrack ‘Purple Rain,’ which dominated the charts for weeks. Albums like ‘1999’ and ‘Sign o’ the Times’ are also celebrated for their groundbreaking production and blending of different musical styles.
It’s hard to believe it’s been years since Prince left us in 2016 at just 57. Thankfully, his incredible legacy lives on. We’re still discovering new music from his extensive archives, and it’s beautiful to see cities around the world celebrating him every June with special events and dazzling light displays. If you’re a fan, a visit to Paisley Park is a must – it’s now a museum where you can walk through his creative world, seeing his instruments, iconic outfits, and where he actually recorded so much of his music. It’s a truly immersive experience for anyone who loved his artistry.
Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s first album was a massive success, becoming one of the decade’s best-selling releases and launching several chart-topping hits. Her second album, ‘Whitney,’ also debuted at number one, setting a new record for the most consecutive number one singles by a female artist. She captivated audiences worldwide with her elaborate and popular concert tours.
Whitney Houston passed away in 2012 at the age of 48, but her incredible voice and music continue to be celebrated as landmarks in pop and R&B. Her version of ‘I Will Always Love You’ still breaks streaming records annually. Fans can also explore her life and career through exhibits featuring her iconic stage outfits, awards, and personal family photos, curated by her estate.
Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson’s album ‘Thriller,’ released in the early 1980s, became the biggest-selling album ever. The music videos for songs like ‘Billie Jean’ and ‘Beat It’ were hugely influential in popularizing music television. He continued his success with the album ‘Bad’ and a world tour that broke attendance records in many countries.
I was so saddened to hear about his passing back in 2009 – he was only 50. But honestly, his music is *everywhere* still. You can’t turn on the radio or open a streaming app without hearing his songs, and they keep re-releasing his albums to celebrate anniversaries, and people keep buying them! It’s amazing. And it’s not just the music – even the artistry behind ‘Thriller’ is still being celebrated. Museums are constantly putting on exhibits about how that short film was made, focusing on the incredible design and dance moves.
George Michael
George Michael first became famous as a member of the band Wham! He then went on to have a hugely successful solo career, starting with the album ‘Faith’ which spawned multiple chart-topping hits. He was a regular fixture on music television with his popular videos and energetic performances, and worked with many of the biggest names in pop and soul music. Later, his album ‘Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1’ showcased a more diverse range of sounds and explored new lyrical themes.
He passed away in 2016 at the age of 53. His fans honor his memory through charitable work, inspired by his generous but private giving. His estate continues to support efforts to preserve and share his music, including documenting his songwriting process and studio recordings. Recently, his albums have seen a resurgence in popularity, reaching the charts as a new generation discovers his work.
Tina Turner
As a huge fan, I’ll never forget Tina Turner’s incredible comeback with ‘Private Dancer’! That album was full of hits, and the tour was just massive – stadiums packed everywhere! She didn’t stop there, though. ‘Break Every Rule’ kept the momentum going, and she continued to wow crowds all over Europe and North America. Plus, seeing her act in ‘Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome’ was amazing – she was a true superstar!
She passed away in 2023 at the age of 83. Her life and career – including her stage performances and savvy business choices – have been celebrated in a Broadway musical and several documentaries. After her death, fans gathered at her lakeside home on Lake Zurich to leave flowers and express their condolences.
David Bowie
The 80s were a fascinating decade for David Bowie. He kicked things off with the brilliant ‘Scary Monsters’ and then really hit a commercial stride with ‘Let’s Dance’ – that album spawned some huge singles and took him on a massive world tour. Beyond music, he also made a splash in film, first with ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth’ and then with ‘Labyrinth,’ which has become a total cult classic over the years. What really struck me about this period in his career was how much he influenced the mainstream sound, thanks to his incredible collaborations with producers and guitarists. He wasn’t just *of* the 80s, he helped *define* it.
David Bowie passed away in 2016 at the age of 69. Just two days before his death, he released his final album, ‘Blackstar,’ which was highly praised by critics. Since then, exhibits celebrating Bowie’s life and work have traveled to museums around the world, featuring items like his iconic stage costumes, original song lyrics, and designs from his concerts, including those from the 1980s.
Freddie Mercury
Throughout the early and mid-1980s, Freddie Mercury spearheaded Queen’s success with incredibly popular tours and hit songs. Their performance at Live Aid in 1985 is remembered as one of the greatest concert sets ever, and it significantly increased worldwide sales of their music. Albums like ‘A Kind of Magic,’ often connected to films, helped the band stay consistently popular around the globe.
He passed away in 1991 at the age of 45, but his impact lives on. Each year, he’s remembered on World AIDS Day, and his former bandmates continue to tour, performing his songs with special guests. Fans still visit London and Montreux to see statues and memorials connected to where he recorded his music.
Patrick Swayze
Patrick Swayze rose to fame with the movie ‘Dirty Dancing’ and solidified his position as a leading actor with films like ‘Road House’ and ‘Ghost’. He was a trained dancer, and this background heavily influenced his acting, making iconic scenes instantly recognizable and often copied. Throughout the late 80s and early 90s, he successfully starred in films that blended action, romance, and humor.
He passed away in 2009 at the age of 57. Since then, his family and coworkers have championed cancer research in his name. ‘Dirty Dancing’ remains incredibly popular, with screenings often selling out, and fans travel from all over the globe to visit locations where the movie was filmed for yearly celebrations.
Carrie Fisher
Carrie Fisher famously reprised her role as Princess Leia in the ‘Star Wars’ films of the 1980s, solidifying her legacy in science fiction. Beyond acting, she was a talented script doctor, helping to improve many films, and an accomplished writer who honestly portrayed life in Hollywood. She also bravely spoke openly about her own struggles with mental health, bringing important attention to these often-overlooked issues.
Carrie Fisher passed away in 2016 at the age of 60. For newer ‘Star Wars’ films, they used previously recorded footage of her. After her death, her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame became a place where people left flowers and messages in her memory. Her notes on scripts and personal writings are now available for both researchers and fans to study.
John Candy
John Candy was a hugely popular comedic actor known for films like ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’, ‘Uncle Buck’, and ‘Splash’. He started his career with the Second City and ‘SCTV’ and was comfortable playing both supporting and leading roles. He frequently worked with top directors and actors who consistently drew large audiences.
He passed away in 1994 at the age of 43 while filming a movie. His popular films are still shown every holiday season and consistently attract large audiences. Those who worked with him often recount stories about his dedication and filming locations all over North America.
River Phoenix
River Phoenix first gained widespread recognition with the film ‘Stand by Me’ and later received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Running on Empty’. He also played a young Indiana Jones in ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’, further increasing his popularity. Critics praised his ability to deliver compelling performances in both smaller independent films and large studio productions.
He passed away in 1993 at the young age of 23. His family’s charitable organizations continue to fund efforts related to environmental protection and animal welfare. Filmmakers and casting agents still look to his movies as examples of compelling performances by young actors.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley became a popular face on television when she joined ‘Cheers’ in the late 1980s, helping the show remain a ratings hit for many years. She also starred in the successful movies ‘Look Who’s Talking’ and its sequel. Throughout her career, Alley received numerous awards and consistently appeared on screens in homes nationwide.
She passed away in 2022 at the age of 71. Friends and colleagues remembered her extensive career in both television and movies. Even today, ‘Cheers’ continues to be popular in reruns and on streaming services, allowing new audiences to enjoy her work.
Alan Thicke
As a classic TV fan, I always remember Alan Thicke as the dad on ‘Growing Pains’ – that show was huge in the late 80s and early 90s, and really helped launch the careers of a lot of young actors. But what a lot of people *don’t* know is he was a seriously talented songwriter too! He wrote a ton of catchy TV themes, many of which you probably heard every week in primetime during that era. Plus, he was a natural on camera, hosting talk shows and game shows in both the US and Canada. He was a really versatile guy.
He passed away in 2016 at the age of 69. His music for television is still played today through various syndicated shows, with his work consistently credited. Those who knew him remember him as a mentor who helped many young actors successfully transition from child roles into adult careers.
Bob Saget
Bob Saget was best known for his roles on the popular 1980s sitcom ‘Full House’ and as the host of ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos.’ He helped bring amateur video clips to a wide audience long before YouTube and other online video sites existed. Throughout his career, he also performed stand-up comedy and toured extensively.
He passed away in 2022 at the age of 65. His work has been celebrated through cast get-togethers and fundraisers benefiting children’s hospitals and the comedy world. ‘Full House’ episodes are still popular and can be found on streaming platforms, continuing to appeal to viewers of all ages.
Paul Reubens
Paul Reubens became famous for creating Pee-wee Herman, starring in the movie ‘Pee-wee’s Big Adventure’ and the TV show ‘Pee-wee’s Playhouse’. The show’s unique style – from its set design to its music and celebrity guests – inspired many future artists in film and television. ‘Pee-wee’s Playhouse’ also received numerous awards during its original run.
He passed away in 2023 at the age of 70. Since then, those managing his legacy have collaborated with archives to safeguard costumes, props, and scripts from his work on television and in film. The character he played remains a popular subject in looks back at children’s television and 1980s culture.
Corey Haim
Corey Haim rose to fame as a teen idol in the 1980s, starring in popular movies like ‘Lucas’, ‘The Lost Boys’, and ‘License to Drive’. He often worked alongside Corey Feldman, and together they created films that defined a generation. Haim successfully moved between dramatic and comedic roles, making him a frequent face in magazines and on television talk shows.
He passed away in 2010 at the age of 38. Since then, films and documentaries have re-examined his life and the challenges he faced as a child actor. His most famous movies continue to be celebrated by collectors who trade posters and other keepsakes.
Irene Cara
Irene Cara was famous for singing the theme song to ‘Fame’ and co-writing and performing ‘Flashdance… What a Feeling,’ a hit song that won awards and became popular worldwide. Her voice defined 80s dance-pop and movie soundtracks, and she also appeared as an actress in films and TV shows.
She passed away in 2022 at the age of 63. Her music is still popular today, often heard in gyms, at parties, and in commercials and sporting events. Industry groups have carefully documented her work as a songwriter and performer.
Tawny Kitaen
Tawny Kitaen gained fame after appearing in the movie ‘Bachelor Party’ and became a familiar face in the late 80s thanks to her appearances in popular rock music videos. She became a symbol of the glam rock era and continued to appear on television with various roles throughout the 90s.
She passed away in 2021 at the age of 59. Her music videos are still popular today, often appearing in shows and documentaries about the 1980s. Dedicated fans continue to seek out and visit the places where those videos were filmed, and they’ve even created online maps to help others find them.
Tom Petty
Tom Petty had a hugely successful run of hit songs in the late 1970s and 1980s, both with his band The Heartbreakers and as a solo performer. Albums like ‘Damn the Torpedoes’ and ‘Full Moon Fever’ were packed with singles that were all over the radio. He also became a familiar face in early music videos on cable television.
He passed away in 2017 at the age of 66. Every year, concerts and radio programs celebrate his life and career by featuring highlights from his tours and time in the recording studio. His family and representatives continue to release previously unheard music, including live performances from the 1980s and different versions of his most famous songs.
Olivia Newton-John
Olivia Newton-John successfully transitioned her fame from the 1970s into the 80s with the hit song ‘Physical,’ which topped the charts for weeks. She also kept acting and was a frequent guest on TV specials and at charity events. Her music videos and the energetic style they showcased became iconic symbols of the 1980s.
She passed away in 2022 at the age of 73, but her legacy lives on. Cancer research organizations established in her honor continue to raise money and help patients. Her music remains popular thanks to re-released albums, and her workout videos still inspire fitness enthusiasts today.
Robin Williams
Robin Williams first became famous on TV with ‘Mork & Mindy’, then starred in popular 80s films like ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ and ‘Dead Poets Society’. He successfully balanced stand-up comedy with acting, demonstrating a talent for both funny and serious roles. His quick-thinking, improvisational style had a lasting impact on comedy, both live and in movies.
He passed away in 2014 at the age of 63. People often remember his influence through memorial events and efforts to raise awareness about mental health. His movies are still studied in schools and universities as examples of great comedy, drama, and acting.
Tell us your most cherished memories of these 80s stars in the comments below – we want to hear about the moments that stood out to you!
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2025-10-06 08:52