Besides music and entertainment, the world has also lost members of the royal family throughout the year 2025. The death of the people who have been leading us to a better future has affected us very deeply, and unfortunately, this is only a fraction of the truth. The first ten people whom the world has lost this year are those who have made the most significant contributions to their field, and their sudden departure is a reminder of the shortness of life and the impact their work will last forever.
10. Sha‘Vi Lewis
Sha’Vi Lewis was an American designer, well-known for being one of the designers on Project Runway. He died at just 39 years old. To his family, he was a bright light: a creative man whose personality left a mark on everyone who met him. His fans remember bold designs and a fearless approach to fashion, a warm, generous spirit off the runway. Lewis’ untimely death poignantly shows the reality of a talent gone too soon and leaves behind him a legacy to inspire aspiring designers.
9. Michelle Trachtenberg
The performer, who made her legendary roles from Buffy the Vampire Slayer to Gossip Girl, died at age 39, and it shocked many all over the world. Poised, versatile, and charming on camera, Trachtenberg once assured fans she was “happy and healthy.” Her death is a sad reminder that not everything may be as it seems, and her performances are among several that made her an icon to those who grew up watching her on screen.
8. Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa
Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home. Celebrated for iconic roles in films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, Hackman leaves behind a career spanning decades of cinematic excellence. No foul play was suspected, yet the dual passing of this couple has left a profound sense of loss in the hearts of fans who admired their private yet enduring love.
7. Angie Stone
Soul singer Angie Stone died at 63 in a car accident. With her velvety voice, Stone touched fans around the world with hits that celebrated love, resilience, and joy. Her daughter and legions of fans mourn the passing of a performer whose talent and spirit brightened a sometimes somber world. And her music will live on into the ages as testimony to the artistry that Stone embodied.
6. David Johansen
David Johansen, the flamboyant frontman of the New York Dolls, died at 75 after a decade of health battles that included cancer and a brain tumor. Johansen’s influence on punk and rock music is immeasurable. He inspired legions of musicians with his raw energy and fearless performances. More than his music, he was highly respected for living through such tough times and standing by his work till the end. His legacy will continue to echo much beyond the boards.
5. Carl Dean
Carl Dean, the husband of country music legend Dolly Parton for over 60 years, died at 82 in Nashville. Though soft-spoken and out of the spotlight, Dean’s love and partnership with Parton were called “beyond words” by his wife. It was the end of an era for the iconic couple, whose enduring relationship stood as a testament to commitment, support, and shared life experiences away from the spotlight.
4. Roy Ayers
Jazz and soul icon Roy Ayers, who penned the iconic Everybody Loves the Sunshine, has died aged 84 after a long illness. Ayers’ music helped define a generation of jazz, funk, and R&B, influencing artists across genres with his smooth grooves and innovative compositions. Beyond his music, Ayers was celebrated for mentoring younger musicians and leaving a creative legacy that continues to shape the sound of contemporary music.
3. D’Wayne Wiggins
Guitarist D’Wayne Wiggins of Tony! Toni! Toné! Died on Thursday at the age of 64 after a year-long battle with bladder cancer. Besides being a member of the pioneering R&B group, he also mentored numerous up-and-coming artists and left a mark on the music world that went beyond his own performances. He is remembered by friends, collaborators, and fans alike as a generous, inspiring figure whose artistry and guidance helped shape the next generation of musicians.
2. Prince Frederik of Luxembourg
Prince Frederik of Luxembourg passed away when he was only 22, after his long struggle with a rare mitochondrial disease. He had become known for his courage and grace. The young prince said his goodbyes to his family recently, leaving the small nation in mourning. Frederik’s brief life touched many, symbolizing resilience, dignity, and the personal struggles behind the mask of royal privilege. His memory is kept dear both at home and to those who, from afar, followed his life.
1. Simon Fisher-Becker
Actor Simon Fisher-Becker, known for his roles in Harry Potter and Doctor Who, has died aged 63. Beloved for his kindness, humor, and generosity, Fisher-Becker was a friend to many in the acting community and a memorable presence on screen. His passing leaves a gap in the hearts of colleagues and fans alike; his work and personal warmth continue to inspire those who admired him throughout his career.
2025 was a year of significant loss; it will take a long time to be forgotten; however, the contributions of these people will remain forever. Their influence spans from music and acting to fashion and being a member of the royal family, and their lives are proof of the joy, inspiration, and creativity that they brought to the world. Although we miss them terribly, the traces they left behind remain very much alive through the works of art and the memories that will always comfort and motivate their fans, not only now but also in the future.