As 2025 unfolds, it is proving to be a profoundly sorrowful year for the entertainment world. After losing iconic figures like Shannen Doherty and Dame Maggie Smith in 2024, the pain of new departures feels even heavier. This year, we have already said goodbye to a remarkable roster of talents, each one leaving behind a legacy that transcends fame.
Hulk Hogan
Wrestling titan Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, died on July 24 at the age of 71 following a cardiac arrest at his Florida home. Known for sparking the Hulkamania phenomenon and redefining professional wrestling in the 1980s, he headlined eight WrestleManias and won six WWE championships. Hogan, who also became a pop culture icon, is survived by his wife Sky Daily and two children.
Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan dies at 71 | Credit: reuters
Anne Burrell
Anne Burrell, the flame-haired culinary queen and television favourite, passed away on June 17, 2025, at the age of 55. Known for her vibrant personality and signature spiky blonde hair, Burrell brought both sass and soul to every plate she touched. A graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, she climbed the culinary ladder from elite Italian kitchens to primetime television.
Her no-nonsense mentorship on Worst Cooks in America made her a household name, as she turned culinary disasters into capable home cooks. Anne’s bold flavours, fierce passion, and fearless energy will forever spice up the legacy she leaves behind.
Anne Burrell | Credit: Instagram/anneburrell
Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne, the indomitable frontman of Black Sabbath and one of heavy metal’s greatest figures, passed away on July 22 at 76. Even while battling Parkinson’s since 2003, he never stopped performing, delivering a final thunderous show in his hometown just weeks before his passing. He leaves behind wife Sharon and their children, who stood by him throughout his electrifying career.
Inside Ozzy Osbourne’s financial journey and his Rs 1800 crore legacy | Credit: X | @popcrave
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
Actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, fondly remembered as Theo from The Cosby Show, tragically drowned in Costa Rica on July 20. He was 54. A gifted artist who balanced acting with poetry and jazz, Warner’s passing shocked fans worldwide.
Lifeguards absent at dangerous beach where Malcolm-Jamal drowned | Credit: Instagram/malcolmjamalwar
Also gone is soap opera legend Eileen Fulton, who died at 90. Her five-decade portrayal of Lisa Miller on As the World Turns revolutionised daytime television. Veteran actor Tom Troupe, aged 97, passed from natural causes, leaving behind a career filled with honour and depth.
Celebs who passed away in July
July saw the passing of Kylie Page, pop icon Connie Francis at 87, and Golden Globe nominee Connie Stevens. Their contributions, from kitchens to concert halls, will continue to echo in hearts worldwide.
Kylie Page dies at 28; cause under investigation | Credit: X
From Alan Bergman to Kim Woodburn, the list of legends lost this year is long, and deeply painful.
