A tribute to some of the most beloved stars we lost in 2020 – in memoriam

Honoring some of the dearest stars of our era through the words of those who knew them best.

Bidding farewell has never been an easy task, especially when it comes to the stars from the entertainment world who we have grown to love. With profound grief, we said goodbye to many notable celebrities.

Toots Hibbert

“So sad to hear of Toots Hibbert’s passing. When I first heard ‘Pressure Drop’ that was a big moment – he had such a powerful voice and on stage, he always gave the audience his total energy. A sad loss to the music world.”
 – Mick Jagger

Diana Rigg

“My Beloved Ma died peacefully in her sleep early this morning, at home, surrounded by family. She died of cancer diagnosed in March and spent her last months joyfully reflecting on her extraordinary life, full of love, laughter, and deep pride in her profession. I will miss her beyond words.”
– Rachel Stirling

Chadwick Boseman

“I’m absolutely devastated. This is beyond heartbreaking. Chadwick was special. A true original. He was a deeply committed and constantly curious artist. Few performers have such power and versatility. He had so much amazing work still left to create. I’m endlessly grateful for our friendship.”
– Chris Evans
“Chadwick was someone who radiated power and peace. Who stood for so much more than himself. Who took the time to really see how you were doing and gave words of encouragement when you felt unsure. I’m honored to have the memories I have. The conversations, the laughter. My heart is with you and your family. You will be missed and never forgotten.”
– Brie Larson

Ben Cross

“I am filled with sadness to learn of the passing of Ben Cross. It was an absolute dream to play opposite him in Dark Shadows. He was elegant, funny, enormously generous to me as a young actress and he will always have a special place in my heart.”
 – Joanna Going

Jack Sherman

“We of the RHCP family would like to wish Jack Sherman smooth sailing into the worlds beyond, for he has passed. Jack played on our debut album as well as our first tour of the USA. He was a unique dude and we thank him for all times good, bad, and in between. Peace on the boogie platform.” – Red Hot Chili Peppers

James Harris aka Kamala

“Very sadden by the passing of Big Jim ‘Kamala’, like everyone else I would always ask if it was ok to take the leg drop for the finish as requested by the office. Jim would always say ‘let’’ just keep making that money’, he was such a kind soul, RIP big brother, only love4U HH.”
– Hulk Hogan

Regis Philbin

“Regis graced us with warmth, humor & a self-deprecating wit, always bringing happiness to us all. Our hearts go out to Joy and to his family. Rest In Peace, Regis.” – Bob Iger

Sir Ian Holm

“I had such a good time and fruitful one with Ian, and my only regret was not to have worked with him once again. Ian talked to me during production [of Alien] quite a lot, which I found to be very helpful. A great talent and a great man — we’ll miss him.”
– Ridley Scott

Naya Rivera

“She inspired and uplifted people without even trying. Being close to her was both a badge of honor and a suit of armor. Naya was truly one of a kind, and she always will be.” – Chris Colfer

Kelly Preston

“It is with a very heavy heart that I inform you that my beautiful wife Kelly has lost her two-year battle with breast cancer. She fought a courageous fight with the love and support of so many. My family and I will forever be grateful to her doctors and nurses at MD Anderson Cancer Center, all the medical centers that have helped, as well as her many friends and loved ones who have been by her side. Kelly’s love and life will always be remembered. I will be taking some time to be there for my children who have lost their mother, so forgive me in advance if you don’t hear from us for a while. But please know that I will feel your outpouring of love in the weeks and months ahead as we heal. All my love, JT.” – John Travolta

Pop Smoke

“We are devastated by the unexpected and tragic loss of Pop Smoke. Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family, friends, and fans, as we mourn this loss together.”
– Republic Records
“Rest Up Pop Smoke, you were too young. God Bless and comfort your family. What a crazy trajectory you were on man smh.”
– Chance the Rapper

Kobe Bryant and daughter Gigi

“Kobe was so much more than an athlete, he was a family man. That was what we had most in common. I would hug his children like they were my own and he would embrace my kids like they were his. His baby girl Gigi was born on the same day as my youngest daughter Me’Arah.”
– Shaquille O’Neal
“Kobe was a legend on the court and just getting started in what would have been just as meaningful a second act. To lose Gianna is even more heartbreaking to us as parents. Michelle and I send love and prayers to Vanessa and the entire Bryant family on an unthinkable day.” – President Barack Obama

Rocky Johnson

“I love you. You broke color barriers, became a ring legend and trail blazed your way thru this world. I was the boy sitting in the seats, watching and adoring you, my hero from afar. The boy you raised to always be proud of our cultures and proud of who and what I am. The boy you raised with the toughest of love. The intense work. The hard hand. The adoring boy who wanted to know only your best qualities. Who then grew to become a man realizing you had other deep complex sides that needed to be held and understood.”
– Dwayne Johnson

Source: DigitalSpy