Most Notable Celebs who Died in December 2025

December 2025 brought the loss of many important people in the entertainment industry, including stars from film, television, and music. These individuals were highly influential, shaping their fields and inspiring countless others. From classic Hollywood actors to today’s TV favorites, their work will always be remembered as a vital part of our culture. This is a tribute to twenty of those celebrated figures who passed away in December.

Steve Cropper

Steve Cropper, a highly respected guitarist, songwriter, and producer, passed away on December 3, 2025, at the age of 84. He’s most famous for his guitar work with Booker T. & the M.G.’s, the house band at Stax Records, and for collaborating with the Blues Brothers. Cropper co-wrote classic songs like ‘(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay’ and ‘In the Midnight Hour,’ and his distinctive, soulful guitar playing was a key part of the Memphis soul sound of the 1960s. He was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, a Japanese-American actor known for his roles in film and television, died on December 4, 2025, at the age of 75. He became famous for playing the villain Shang Tsung in the 1995 movie ‘Mortal Kombat’, and also appeared in films like ‘The Last Emperor’, ‘License to Kill’, and ‘Memoirs of a Geisha’. More recently, he was recognized for his role as Nobusuke Tagomi in the TV series ‘The Man in the High Castle’. Throughout his more than 40-year career, Tagawa worked in film, television, and as a voice actor.

Rachael Carpani

Rachael Carpani, an Australian actress known for her role as Jodi Fountain in the popular series ‘McLeod’s Daughters,’ passed away on December 7, 2025, at the age of 45. She later worked on American television shows like ‘Against the Wall’ and ‘The Finder,’ and appeared in the 2014 TV movie ‘If There Be Thorns.’ Throughout her career in Australia, she received multiple nominations for Logie Awards.

Kim Ji-mee

Kim Ji-mee, a legendary South Korean actress, died on December 9, 2025, at the age of 85. Known as the “Elizabeth Taylor of Korea,” she starred in over 300 films throughout her long career, including memorable performances in ‘To the Last Day’ and ‘The Guest in the Den.’ A trailblazer for women in Korean cinema, she founded her own production company in the 1970s and played a significant role in developing the country’s film industry during the mid-20th century.

Béatrice Picard

Béatrice Picard, a well-known Canadian actress, passed away on December 9, 2025, at the age of 96. For over 70 years, she was a prominent figure in Quebec’s arts community, working in both theater and television. Many Quebecers will recognize her voice as that of Marge Simpson in the French-language version of ‘The Simpsons.’ She also appeared in films like ‘A Child’s Christmas in Wales’ and ‘My Aunt Aline,’ and was honored with the Order of Canada for her lifelong contributions to the arts.

Jeffrey Garcia

Jeffrey Garcia, the American voice actor and comedian known for bringing Sheen Estevez to life in ‘Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius’ and its series, sadly passed away on December 10, 2025, at age 50. He also lent his voice to films like ‘Barnyard’ and ‘Happy Feet’, and was a talented stand-up comedian featured in several TV specials. Known for his energetic performances, Garcia was a familiar voice in children’s animation.

Jim Ward

Jim Ward, a talented American voice actor, passed away on December 10, 2025, at the age of 66. He was best known for bringing Captain Qwark to life in the ‘Ratchet & Clank’ games and TV show. He also lent his voice to popular characters like Doug Dimmadome in ‘The Fairly OddParents’ and Diamondhead in ‘Ben 10’. Throughout his career, he worked in radio, commercials, and even major films like ‘Spider-Man’. He received a Daytime Emmy Award for his work in voice acting.

Stanley Baxter

Stanley Baxter, a beloved Scottish actor and comedian, died on December 11, 2025, at the age of 99. He was a prominent figure on British TV, famous for his elaborate and comedic specials like ‘The Stanley Baxter Picture Show’. Baxter started his career in radio and theater, then moved into films such as ‘The Fast Lady’ and ‘Father Came Too!’. He was well-known for his incredible impressions and large-scale musical performances. In 1991, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Comedy Awards.

May Britt

May Britt, the Swedish actress, passed away on December 11, 2025, at the age of 91. She began her career after being noticed by filmmakers in Italy and eventually found success in Hollywood, appearing in films like ‘The Young Lions’ and ‘The Blue Angel’. Her 1960 marriage to Sammy Davis Jr. was a notable moment, happening during the American Civil Rights movement. After getting married, she stepped away from acting to concentrate on her family, but later rediscovered her creativity through painting and made a few appearances on television.

Peter Greene

I was really saddened to hear about the passing of Peter Greene, a fantastic character actor who died on December 12, 2025, at the age of 60. He was a master at playing villains – anyone who saw ‘Pulp Fiction’ will instantly remember his chilling performance as Zed, and he was equally memorable as Dorian Tyrell in ‘The Mask’. You might also recognize him from roles in films like ‘The Usual Suspects’ and ‘Under Siege 2: Dark Territory’. What always struck me about Greene was his incredibly intense presence on screen and that really unique voice. He kept working steadily throughout his life, appearing in independent films and popping up in TV shows, which is a testament to his talent.

Héctor Alterio

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Héctor Alterio on December 13, 2025. He was 96 years old and truly a giant of Spanish-language cinema. I first really noticed him in ‘The Official Story,’ which, as you probably know, won an Academy Award – a well-deserved recognition! But he was so much more than that one film. I also loved his work in ‘The Truce’ and ‘Son of the Bride.’ He wasn’t just a film actor, though; he had a fantastic career on stage, performing in both Argentina and Spain, where he lived for many years. It was great to see him receive a Goya of Honor back in 2004 – a perfect tribute to a lifetime dedicated to film.

Anthony Geary

Anthony Geary, a beloved actor known for his long career in daytime television, died on December 14, 2025, at age 78. He was famous for playing Luke Spencer on ‘General Hospital,’ a role he held for over thirty years. Geary won a record eight Daytime Emmy Awards for his acting, and the wedding episode of his character and Laura Webber in 1981 is still the most-watched in soap opera history. He retired from ‘General Hospital’ in 2015.

Rob Reiner

Rob Reiner, the beloved American filmmaker and actor, died on December 14, 2025, at age 78. He first became well-known for his role as Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the TV show ‘All in the Family,’ a performance that won him two Emmy Awards. He later became a celebrated director, creating iconic films like ‘This Is Spinal Tap,’ ‘Stand by Me,’ and ‘When Harry Met Sally…’. He also directed the critically acclaimed legal drama ‘A Few Good Men,’ which was nominated for an Academy Award. Beyond his work in entertainment, Reiner co-founded Castle Rock Entertainment and was a passionate advocate for political causes.

Gil Gerard

Gil Gerard, the actor famous for playing Captain William “Buck” Rogers, passed away on December 16, 2025, at age 82. He was the star of the sci-fi series ‘Buck Rogers in the 25th Century,’ which aired from 1979 to 1981, and also appeared in many TV movies and shows like ‘Sidekicks’ and ‘Nightingales’. In later years, he hosted documentaries and acted in independent films, including ‘The Nice Guys’. His role as Buck Rogers made him a well-known figure in 1980s pop culture.

James Ransone

James Ransone, the American actor known for playing Ziggy Sobotka in season two of HBO’s ‘The Wire’, passed away on December 19, 2025, at age 46. He also appeared in several popular films, including ‘It Chapter Two’ as the adult Eddie Kaspbrak, and the horror series ‘Sinister’ and ‘Sinister 2’. Ransone’s television credits also include ‘Generation Kill’ and ‘Treme’. He was a versatile actor who consistently worked on both independent and large-scale film projects.

Sreenivasan

Sreenivasan, a celebrated Indian actor, writer, and director, passed away on December 20, 2025, at the age of 75. He was a major figure in Malayalam cinema, famous for his witty and insightful commentary on life in Kerala. Sreenivasan created and starred in iconic films such as ‘Sandesham’, ‘Nadodikattu’, and ‘Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala’. He and actor Mohanlal frequently worked together, creating some of the most popular comedies ever made in India. Throughout his career, he won numerous Kerala State Film Awards for his writing and acting.

Pat Finn

Pat Finn, a well-known comedic actor, died on December 22, 2025, at age 60. He was best remembered for his role as Bill Norwood on the TV show ‘The Middle’, but also appeared regularly on ‘The Drew Carey Show’ and ‘Murphy Brown’. He also had parts in the films ‘I Am Chris Farley’ and ‘The Bachelor’. Before his television and film work, Finn was a performer with the Second City comedy group and starred in countless commercials.

Vera Alentova

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Vera Alentova on December 25th, 2025. She was 83. As a film lover, I’ll always remember her incredible performance in ‘Moscow Does Not Believe in Tears’ – a truly special movie that even won an Oscar! She was a mainstay at the Pushkin Theatre in Moscow for years, and I also enjoyed her work in films like ‘Tomorrow Was the War’ and ‘The Envy of Gods’. It’s wonderful that she received the title of People’s Artist of the Russian Federation back in 1992 – a well-deserved recognition of her talent.

Brigitte Bardot

Brigitte Bardot, the famous French actress and activist, died on December 28, 2025, at age 91. She first gained international recognition as a sex symbol after appearing in the 1956 film ‘And God Created Woman.’ Bardot acted in 47 movies before surprisingly leaving the film industry in 1973 while still incredibly popular. Afterwards, she dedicated her life to animal welfare, founding the Brigitte Bardot Foundation. Her impact on both fashion and cinema continues to be felt today, making her a significant figure in 20th-century culture.

Isiah Whitlock, Jr.

Isiah Whitlock Jr., the American actor known for playing the memorable and corrupt State Senator Clay Davis on HBO’s ‘The Wire,’ passed away on December 30, 2025, at age 71. He worked often with director Spike Lee, appearing in films like ‘25th Hour,’ ‘BlacKkKlansman,’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods.’ Whitlock also had roles in television shows such as ‘Your Honor’ and ‘The Good Cop.’ He was a highly respected character actor, celebrated for his unique style and ability to bring characters to life.

Let us know what you think about the lives and work of these famous people by leaving a comment below.

2026-01-07 18:47