A Look Back at the Notable Figures We Lost in 2025

2025 was a tough year for fans of the arts, music, and activism. Many well-known figures passed away, leaving a significant impact on their respective fields. The year started with the loss of Twin Peaks creator David Lynch on January 16. Lynch, who was 78, was known for his unique storytelling and directing skills. His work left a lasting mark on cinema. In February, the world lost two more icons. Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in The Adventures of Pete & Pete and Buffy the Vampire, died from diabetes complications at the age of 39. Around the same time, legendary actor Gene Hackman passed away at 95. Hackman was famous for his roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven. April saw the passing of actor Val Kilmer, who was 65. Kilmer, known for his roles in Top Gun and The Doors, had been battling cancer for years. His death was a significant loss for the film industry. July was a particularly tough month. Professional wrestler and reality TV star Hulk Hogan died of a heart attack at 71. Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, famous for his role in The Cosby Show, drowned while on vacation in Costa Rica. He was 54.The music world also suffered significant losses. Grammy-winning singer Roberta Flack died of cardiac arrest at 88. Her hit songs, such as "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, " are still beloved today. Sly Stone, the frontman of Sly and the Family Stone, passed away from pulmonary disease at 82. Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson died of respiratory arrest at 82. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Black Sabbath co-founder, died after a battle with Parkinson's disease at 76. In October, the world lost primatologist and activist Jane Goodall. She passed away in her sleep at the age of 91. Goodall's work with chimpanzees and her advocacy for animal rights made her a beloved figure worldwide. The year ended with more losses. Actress Diane Keaton, known for her roles in Annie Hall and The Godfather, died of pneumonia at 79. French actress and activist Brigitte Bardot passed away at 91. Actor James Ransone, known for his roles in The Wire and It: Chapter 2, died by suicide at 40.