Celebrities We Said Goodbye To in 2023
Tina Turner
The music world mourned the loss of ‘The Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll’, Tina Turner, who died in May aged 83.
Turner’s rise to fame began in the 1960s alongside Ike Turner, her former husband and musical partner, with hits like River Deep – Mountain High. However, her solo career skyrocketed in the 1980s with the release of the album Private Dancer, featuring iconic tracks such as What’s Love Got to Do with It and Better Be Good to Me. This marked a remarkable comeback, solidifying her status as a global music icon.
Beyond her musical prowess, Turner’s electrifying stage presence and energetic performances captivated audiences worldwide. Her autobiographical book, I, Tina, shed light on her tumultuous marriage and personal struggles, emphasizing her strength and resilience.
Tina Turner’s legacy transcends generations, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and inspiring countless artists with her enduring talent and unwavering spirit.
Paul O’Grady
Beloved TV presenter and comedian Paul O’Grady passed away in March aged 67.
His journey to stardom began with his drag queen persona, Lily Savage, which gained popularity in the British club scene during the 1980s.
O’Grady’s breakthrough came in the late 1990s when he transitioned from the cabaret circuit to mainstream television with the successful Lily Savage’s Blankety Blank. However, it was his warm and affable personality that endeared him to a broader audience. In the early 2000s, he reinvented himself as himself, hosting the immensely popular daytime show The Paul O’Grady Show, where his witty banter and genuine charm made him a household name.
Beyond his television career, O’Grady showcased his talents as an author, with several best-selling autobiographies, offering insights into his colourful life and career.
Sinéad O’Connor
The world of music suffered a great loss with the passing of Irish singer Sinéad O’Connor in July, aged 56.
Emerging in the late 1980s, she quickly gained international acclaim with her debut album The Lion and the Cobra, showcasing her distinctive blend of folk, rock, and Celtic influences.
O’Connor achieved worldwide fame with her iconic rendition of Prince’s Nothing Compares 2 U which topped charts and earned her multiple awards, including a Grammy.
Beyond her musical talent, Sinéad O’Connor is recognized for her outspoken activism, often using her platform to address topics like abuse and women’s rights.
Len Goodman
Len Goodman, renowned ballroom dancer and beloved judge on Strictly Come Dancing, passed away aged 78 in April after a short illness. Known for his catchphrase “It’s a 10 from Len”, Goodman’s passing left a void in the UK television and dance.
Growing up in Blackfen, Kent, England, Len discovered his passion for dancing at a young age. He honed his skills and became a successful competitive dancer, eventually transitioning into a sought-after choreographer. Len’s expertise in ballroom and Latin dance styles set him apart in the dance community.
Goodman’s fame skyrocketed when he became a judge on Strictly Come Dancing, a role he held from the show’s inception in 2004 until 2016.
His dedication to dance education and his charismatic presence made him a beloved figure in the world of entertainment and dance.
Jerry Springer
American talk show host Jerry Springer, best known for his eponymous show, passed away aged 79 in April.
Springer’s show, which ran from 1991 to 2018, was a cultural phenomenon that changed the landscape of daytime television with its sensationalised real-life stories. The show often featured guests engaged in heated confrontations and unconventional behavior, making it a cultural phenomenon and earning Springer a reputation as the “King of Trash TV.”
Beyond television, Springer ventured into acting, with appearances on various shows and even a role in the Broadway production of Chicago. Despite the criticism surrounding his show, Jerry Springer became a pop culture icon, known for his charismatic hosting style and humorous approach to the chaos on his stage.
