Celebrities We Said Goodbye To in 2023

We have said to goodbye to many celebrities in 2023. From the realms of TV, film, music and beyond, many beloved figures have taken their final bow. In honour of their legacies, we pay tribute to some of these remarkable individuals whose lights may have dimmed, but their impact will continue to illuminate our world for years to come.

Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry, the actor who became a household name as the lovable Chandler Bing in the cultural phenomenon Friends, passed away in October at the age of 54.

Raised in Ottawa, Canada, he developed an early interest in acting and attended Ashbury College before moving to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams.

Perry’s breakthrough came with Friends, a role that earned him critical acclaim and widespread popularity.

Beyond Friends, Perry enjoyed a diverse career in film, television, and theater. He has starred in projects such as The Whole Nine Yards, Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip, and The Odd Couple on Broadway.

His untimely passing has left a gaping hole in the hearts of fans and fellow actors alike, who remember him for his impeccable comedic timing and warm-hearted nature.

Andre Braugher

Two-time Emmy award-winning actor Andre Braugher, famed for his roles in Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Homicide: Life on the Street, died in December aged 61.

In addition to his success on the small screen, Braugher made a significant impact in the world of theatre and film. He showcased his versatility in movies like Glory, for which he received an NAACP Image Award nomination, and Frequency

He passed away after a brief illness, leaving behind a rich legacy in television and theatre and a host of heartbroken fans and co-stars who admired his indomitable spirit and unyielding talent.

Shane MacGowen

Best known as the lead singer and songwriter for the influential folk punk band The Pogues, the passing of Shane MacGowan in November aged 65, marked the end of an era in the music world.

In 1982, he co-founded The Pogues, blending traditional Irish folk with punk rock to create a unique sound that resonated with audiences worldwide. Known for his punk roots and Irish folk influences, MacGowan was the voice behind the Christmas classic, Fairytale Of New York.

He was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ivor Novello Awards in 2015, recognising his significant impact on the music industry.

His powerful songwriting and distinctive vocal style have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Sir Michael Gambon

Sir Michael Gambon, a stalwart of British theatre and cinema, died peacefully in September aged 82. Best known for his portrayal of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter series, Gambon’s career spanned six decades and saw him earn numerous accolades for his versatile and compelling performances.

His journey in the world of performing arts began on the stage, where he earned acclaim for his work with the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

In addition to his theatrical success, Gambon is widely recognized for his contributions to film and television. One of his most iconic roles is that of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter, where he took over the character after the passing of Richard Harris. His portrayal of the wise and enigmatic wizard endeared him to audiences globally.

Knighted in 1998 for his services to drama, Sir Michael Gambon captivated audiences with his magnetic performances.

Sir Michael Parkinson

Esteemed talk show host Sir Michael Parkinson passed away in August aged 88. Known affectionately as ‘Parky’, his career spanned over six decades and became an iconic figure in the world of media and entertainment.

His eponymous talk show Parkinson ran from 1971 to 1982 and from 1998 to 2007, providing a platform for candid and insightful celebrity interviews.

Beyond his television career, Parkinson made contributions as a journalist and author, sharing his insights and experiences. His impact on the media landscape has been recognized with numerous awards and honours, including a knighthood in 2008 for his services to broadcasting.

His passing marks the end of an iconic chapter in British television history.