Stars that have been gone for a very long time but are still remembered with longing give off a vibe that is both sad and attractive. It does not matter if their tunes were your daily bread, if you have been a fan of their movies, or if you have only shared the universal astonishment caused by the news of their deaths; their disappearance keeps haunting you. They are not only losses; they are moments, the events that changed history because of their huge impact on pop culture, changed the way we talk about fame and its negative side, and made us think about how things would have turned out differently. This is a look backward to 10 young celebrity deaths that had a profound effect on the way we grieve, commemorate, and mythologize our stars.

10. Sharon Tate

She was only twenty-six years old when her life was ended in a very violent way, which is among the most terrible incidents in Hollywood history, the Manson Family Murders. Apart from the bright future that was taken away from her, her demise also became the emblem of the passing of an era where a less evil America was thought to exist. The Tate name is still often mentioned, and her loveliness and talent are still acknowledged and talked about, not only in one memorial but in all of them, even nowadays, after so many years.

9. River Phoenix

River Phoenix died at 23 from a drug overdose, only a few steps from The Viper Room, where the party he was attending took place. His roles in films like Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho, which were so sensitive and minimalistic, made the idea of his death a Shakespearean tragedy of grand size. There are a lot of people who think that the late River Phoenix was the one destined to become the next big thing of the ’90s and beyond: a brilliant actor, an exceptional director, and so on.

8. Karen Carpenter

The beautiful voice of the angel Karen Carpenter adorned The Carpenters’ songs and endeared them to people from all corners of the Earth; however, she was hiding the fact that she had anorexia. Her sad death at 32 took the world as a whole one step away from reality towards denial, understanding, and coping with eating disorders. Not only is music in the memory of Karen still alive, but through the consciousness and the activism that started with the death of the singer and still continues, it is possible to save lives today.

7. Amy Winehouse

Very few voices were able to have such an impactful effect as that of Amy Winehouse. The fusion of jazz, soul, and deeply personal storytelling that made her superlative was unfortunately overshadowed by the addiction that was exposed to the public, and thus, only slight was the heartbreak. It felt like the world was taking a singewhoat had barely started to unveil her true abilities away when she died aged 27. Her story is both a caution and a motivation.

6. Whitney Houston

Though she was older than others on this list, Whitney Houston’s death at 48 still took the world by surprise. With a voice that only occurred once a generation, she touched nearly every other pop and R&B artist to follow. Her demons were widely known, but her music still soars high, proving that her talent eclipses her tragedy. 

5. John Lennon

When John Lennon was assassinated in front of his New York City apartment at age 40, it wasn’t just the loss of a musician, but the loss also appeared to be the end of an era. As a Beatle, then a solo artist and activist, Lennon gave the world music and messages that still resonate today. His death left a gap that could never be replaced, yet his cries for peace continue to echo.

4. Janis Joplin

Janis Joplin was a 4th of July fireworks type of person when it came to her life and music. She had the most incredibly raspy voice, to which she combined blues and rock only, and that combination was enough to earn her a fan base of millions. Unfortunately, she passed away at the age of 27 as a result of a heroin overdose; nevertheless, her impact on the music world is so enormous that her name is still very much alive today. Janis Joplin was a 4th of July fireworks type of person when it came to her life and music. She had the most incredibly raspy voice, to which she combined blues and rock only, and that combination was enough to earn her a fan base of millions. Unfortunately, she passed away at the age of 27 as a result of a heroin overdose; nevertheless, her impact on the music world is so enormous that her name is still very much alive today.

3. Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin were members of the ’27 Club.’ Also, he was not only a skilled guitarist, but with his unique way of playing, he was a new one. He was a legend because of his infinite creation and experimentation, and his music is still studied carefully and admired by artists even today. Hendrix died young, but the music would always remind us of him.

2. Kurt Cobain

Kurt Cobain died in 1994, and that not only removed Nirvana from the planet but also killed the grunge trend of those days. At 27, Kurt Cobain was already a very reluctant spokesman of one generation; then, he took his inspiration from disenchantment and pain, and composed songs that were both fierce and truthful. His death led to discussions about mental illness and the stigma that fame causes, and gave us a heritage, which is both a warning and an inspiration.

1. James Dean

James Dean created a model for a teenage sensation who would head towards disaster. Dean had only three movies where he starred, and a car crash at 24 made him into the eternal bad boy. Dean’s style is still being copied today in fashion, cinema, and music, and part of the reason his untapped potential is one of the factors why he has become legendary. Moreover, he is the Hollywood “what if?” of the past.

They are not simply the narratives of death or celebrity loss; they deal with grieving, myth-making, and keeping our heroes alive after their death. None of these individuals is defined by the day they died, but they still represent the fact that life is short; however, it is still possible to leave a powerful heritage behind.

Worse for fans is to witness a promising career ruined before it ever truly did have the chance to be all it could be. Hollywood and the entertainment world have lost their share of talent too soon—talent that was able to make their impact, even though their moment in the sun was shortened. The following are 15 young stars who died young, under the age of 30, and left behind a legacy that still inspires, haunts, and touches us today.

15. Chance Perdomo (27)

Breaking into stardom on Gen V and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Chance Perdomo was an enormously gifted actor with boundless potential. His life was ironically brought to a halt in a 2024 motorcycle accident. Rather than recasting his role on Gen V, the show’s producers reworked the story to pay tribute to his memory—a sad dedication to a career full of promise.

14. Cameron Boyce (20)

A Disney Channel original show, Cameron Boyce stole hearts on Jessie and in the Descendants franchise of films. He died of a seizure brought about by epilepsy in 2019, sending shockwaves through fans all over the world. His last Descendants movie came out after his death, so his death hit close to the heart for the generation of viewers who grew up watching him.

13. Anton Yelchin (27)

Having completed Star Trek, Like Crazy, and Hearts in Atlantis, Anton Yelchin was fully on his way to building a whimsical CV. Tragedy intervened, though, when he died in 2016, crushed by a car against a gate. Tributes rained down upon his depth and range, and he remains alive as a reminder of missed talent.

12. Angus Cloud (25)

As Fezco on HBO’s Euphoria, Angus Cloud infused authenticity and heart into one of TV’s most scorching shows. His accidental overdose death in 2023 was contentious, fueling controversy over addiction and mental illness in Hollywood. Fans lament him as one of the few tough-around-the-edges talents who infused intensity into every scene.

11. Heath Ledger (28)

From Oscar-winning, dramatic films to romantic comedies, Heath Ledger appeared to be capable of anything. His breakthrough role as the Joker in The Dark Knight solidified his status as a generation star. His tragic death in 2008 due to an accidental overdose of prescription medication stunned the world, leaving us guessing what other genius he had in store for us.

10. Brandon Lee (28)

Bruce Lee’s son, Brandon Lee, was a virtual shoo-in for superstardom in The Crow. He was fatally shot on the set in 1993 by an accidental prop gun discharge, a tragedy that continues to shadow Hollywood. His Crow would both debut and kill him, a tragic reminder of what could have been.

9. River Phoenix (23)

With his iconic roles in Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho, River Phoenix was the best actor of his generation. His sudden death in 1993 outside the Viper Room shocked Hollywood, and fans lamented the loss of a talent who was destined to be great.

8. Aaliyah (22)

A music and film legend, Aaliyah was just getting started when she perished in a plane crash in 2001. The songwriter of such hits as “Are You That Somebody” and star of Romeo Must Die and Queen of the Damned, she had an impact that continues to influence R&B and pop culture.

7. Jimi Hendrix (27)

Arguably the greatest rock guitarist ever, Jimi Hendrix transformed the sound of music. His sudden death in 1970 at age 2 made him a legend, his brief career inspiring numerous artists of every kind.

6. Janis Joplin (27)

Janis Joplin’s raw, powerful voice made her the voice of the late ’60s. Privately, she struggled with addiction, and her 1970 heroin overdose cut short a career that was already redefining rock music. She is still a woman’s pioneer.

5. Kurt Cobain (27)

Kurt Cobain was the frontman for Nirvana. He gave voice to a generation. His 1994 suicide was a cultural phenomenon and a heartbreaking loss. Cobain is still a rock icon and a face of fame in public life, and a struggler with mental illness.

4. Amy Winehouse (27)

With her raw, youthful voice to match the rawness of her lyrics, Amy Winehouse redefined soul music for the modern era. She was widely known and documented for her addiction, and her 2011 alcohol poisoning death was tragic but foreseen. Her music, though, remains.

3. James Dean (24)

The icon of the rebellion of the 1950s, James Dean’s performances in Rebel Without a Cause and East of Eden, cemented his status as a cultural icon. His on-screen death in a motor vehicle accident in 1955 embedded him in the popular psyche as the personification of rebellion for young people and random tragedy.

2. Sharon Tate (26)

Rising star of a young woman named Sharon Tate was brutally murdered by the Manson Family in 1969, while eight months pregnant. Her senseless murder was one of Hollywood’s darkest moments, overshadowing her rising career but leaving her remembered with honor. 

1. The 27 Club

From Hendrix and Joplin to Cobain and Winehouse, popular culture’s so-called “27 Club” is probably its most unsettling trend. All of these artists had such phenomenal ability, early success, and premature death at the same age. Their stories are cautionary ones, but also a reminder of just exactly how profoundly their music continues to affect us.

The loss of these young stars is a reminder of the brevity of life—and fame. No matter how brief their visitation, their legacy left behind is monumental, and the contribution they made to music, films, and pop culture can be seen today. They may have departed, but their labor ensures they are never forgotten.

For more than a few decades, Scientology has been the talk of the town in Hollywood — in a negative sense mostly — regarding its beliefs. There is a handful of celebrities who credit their lives to it, and some were leading the way in exposés that unveiled its dark side. Since the very first stars of the big screen to the most loyal ones of the small screen, here are the 12 famous people who have had the closest ties with the Church of Scientology.

12. Tom Cruise

When it comes to Scientology in Hollywood, Tom Cruise is the one. Introduced in the late ’80s by his first wife, Mimi Rogers, Cruise claims that the Church cured his dyslexia and spurred his success. He’s referred to it as “a beautiful religion” and has been one of its loudest champions. His commitment is so strong that some members apparently view him as a savior. Nevertheless, his strong connection to the Church has been attributed to the collapse of his marriages to Nicole Kidman and Katie Holmes, the former allegedly fleeing to protect their daughter from Scientology’s control.

11. Danny Masterson and Family

That ’70s Show star Danny Masterson was raised in a Scientology family and was vocal in his endorsement of the Church. But his trial on criminal charges brought an unsavory light to that relationship: Masterson was found guilty of two counts of rape and sentenced to 30 years to life in prison. Victims said Scientology had protected him, and the Church has been accused of attempting to silence accusers. His brothers — Alanna, Christopher, and Jordan — continue to be members, although their father, Joe Reaiche, has said that they were “brainwashed” against him when he left the Church.

10. Emily Armstrong

Emily Armstrong, who now leads Linkin Park, was born into Scientology. Her family was an active member, and she attended high-profile events as a child. Armstrong once stood by Danny Masterson at an initial court appearance but then went on to distance herself, stating she regretted it when further information came to light. Now, she has denounced abuse and sympathized with victims, and some fans even interpret attacks on Scientology hidden within her Dead Sara lyrics. Her current status with the Church is uncertain.

9. John Travolta

John Travolta joined Scientology in 1975 and often credits the faith with helping him through personal tragedies, including the death of his son. While he tends to keep his beliefs private, he defended the Church against criticism after Leah Remini’s documentary, saying it had supported him for decades. Some speculate he pulled back after his wife, Kelly Presto, ’s cancer battle, since Scientology’s founder opposed chemotherapy.

8. Elisabeth Moss

Mad Men and The Handmaid’s Tale actress Elisabeth Moss doesn’t talk much about her affiliation with Scientology, even though she was born into the religion. When a fan once likened the Church to the dystopian state featured in her television program, Moss was adamant that values such as religious freedom and equality were at its core. Opponents say Scientology’s behavior is more often the opposite. 

7. Catherine Bell

Most famous for Army Wives, Catherine Bell has publicly defended Scientology. She has countered that most of the criticism is based on misconceptions and invites people to read L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics themselves before judging. 

6. Jason Dohring

Veronica Mars star attributes his success to Scientology, which he was introduced to through his father. According to Dohring, religion is misunderstood by outsiders who make judgments based on secondhand information and not personal study.

5. Jenna Elfman

Jenna Elfman, best known for Dharma & Greg, has been a proud Scientologist since 1990. She asserts it provides her with energy, happiness, and balance in life.

4. Giovanni and Marissa Ribisi

Identical twins Giovanni and Marissa Ribisi grew up in the Church. Giovanni, who is best known for Friends and Avatar, has stood up for his beliefs as private and useful to him. Marissa, on the other hand, was wedded to musician Beck, who was linked with Scientology for years, too.

3. Erika Christensen

Parenthood actress Erika Christensen was raised in Scientology and explained the challenge of raising a child within the faith, noting that it’s a practice, not a belief.

2. Michael Peña

Actor Michael Peña, who has appeared in American Hustle and The Martian, has credited a Scientology program, Study Tech, as helping him with reading skills and enhancing his acting. 

1. Nancy Cartwright

The voice of Bart Simpson, Nancy Cartwright, has long been a member of the Church and one of its largest financial supporters, giving over $20 million. She has spoken of being honored by Scientology in the past as “the most beautiful acknowledgement” she had ever experienced.

From megastars such as Tom Cruise to the favorite TV voices like Nancy Cartwright, Scientology’s power within Hollywood can’t be denied. To some, it’s a haven of comfort and achievement. To others, it’s been at the center of scandal and controversy. In either case, these individuals illustrate just how far the Church’s influence goes into the industry of entertainment.

Hollywood might sparkle with red carpet and popping cameras, but offscreen, it can be exhausting, even demoralizing. While others pursue the limelight for decades, still others leave to forge entirely new lives. From royalty to fashion designers to stay-at-home parents, these are 16 major celebrities who opted for life after Hollywood, and where they wound up.

16. Karyn Parsons

As Bel-Air’s Hilary Banks, Karyn Parsons was a sitcom legend. But when her show Lush Life was cancelled, she went in a different direction. She moved to New York, pursued a course of study in filmmaking, began a family, and founded Sweet Blackberry, a nonprofit organization that tells untold stories of Black history to children. “My interests were changing. I have no regrets whatsoever. My life is wonderful,” she’s said.

15. Michael J. Fox

The iconic Back to the Future actor revealed his retirement in 2020 after suffering from memory loss on set during The Good Fight shooting. His move was reminiscent of the experience of characters he had played earlier, knowing when to take a step back. For Fox, the decision was poignant but left an enduring legacy of hope and resilience.

14. Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen

After serving as the faces of Full House and dozens of tween films, the Olsen twins exchanged scripts for sketchpads. Following their 2004 film New York Minute, they transitioned and created fashion empires, The Row and Elizabeth & James. Spotted out in public on occasion nowadays, Mary-Kate and Ashley have wholly accepted their roles as designers rather than actresses.

13. Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly possessed it all: an Oscar, Alfred Hitchcock movies, and global fame. But at only 26 years of age, she stunned the world by retiring from Hollywood to wed Prince Rainier III of Monaco. As Princess Grace, she devoted herself to philanthropy and domestic life, leaving the most refined legacy in Hollywood annals.

12. Phoebe Cates

With Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Gremlins, Phoebe Cates solidified her status as an ’80s icon. By the mid-’90s, however, she retired to raise children with husband Kevin Kline. Except for a very brief 2001 comeback, Phoebe has remained retired, now operating Blue Tree, a New York City boutique.

11. Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda left fans stunned when she quit in 1991 after marrying media tycoon Ted Turner. She believed then that her acting career was behind her. But in 2005, after they divorced, she made a comeback to Hollywood with Monster-in-Law and subsequently Grace and Frankie. She had this to say about her break: “I left for 15 years. I feel very lucky.”

10. Ke Huy Quan

From Indiana Jon, es where he was called Short Ro, und to The Goo,nies where he was referred to as Data, Ke Huy Quan fell off the radar for about 20 years because there were no opportunities for Asian actors. He took up work as a stunt coordinator instead. Inspired by Crazy Rich Asians, he made a dramatic return in Everything Everywhere All at Once and won an Oscar, and got cast in Kung Fu Panda 4 and The White Lotus.

9. Brendan Fraser

Brendan Fraser ruled the late ’90s with The Mummy and other hits before health issues and personal demons drove him from the limelight. Years away from Hollywood, his powerful turn in The Whale brought anOscar, and brought him back to fans who’d been championing his comeback all along.

8. Ian Somerhalder

From Lost to The Vampire Diaries, Ian Somerhalder was beloved by fans. But in 2019, he chose to leave acting behind. Now, he resides on a farm with his wife, Nikki Reed, and their kids, along with pursuing business ventures and making documentaries about sustainable agriculture. “I loved what I did for a long time,” he explained. “I don’t miss any of it.”

7. Evangeline Lilly

Evangeline Lilly became popular on Lost and entered the world of Marvel with the Ant-Man franchise. But then, in 2024, she announced that she was abandoning Hollywood to pursue her humanitarian endeavors and personal satisfaction. “Walking away from what feels like the obvious path (fame and wealth) can be intimidating,” she posted, “but walking into your dharma swaps the fear with fulfillment.”

6. Cameron Diaz

From The Mask to Charlie’s Angels to Shrek, Cameron Diaz was ubiquitous until 2014, when she took a hiatus after Annie. She called her decade-long absence “the best 10 years” of her life, dedicating it to family and giving birth to daughter Raddix. Recently, however, she returned with Back in Action with Jamie Foxx.

5. Rick Moranis

Comedy icon Rick Moranis appeared in Ghostbusters, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and Spaceballs. But since his wife died in 1991, he was left to bring up their kids, formally retiring by 1997. Other than some voice-over work, Rick has avoided the limelight. “I found I didn’t miss it,” he conceded.

4. Bridget Fonda

Cousin of Jane Fonda and daughter of Peter Fonda, Bridget established her own career through Single White Female and Jackie Brown. After 2002, however, she retired quietly to raise her family with composer Danny Elfman. When asked if she’d ever act again, she replied curtly: “No. I don’t think so. It’s too nice being a civilian.” 

3. Shelley Duvall

With unforgettable performances in The Shining and Popeye, Shelley Duvall was once ubiquitous. But in 2002, she stepped back from Hollywood to tend her family in Texas. She reappeared briefly for an indie film before dying in July 2024. “It’s the longest sabbatical I ever took,” she once declared. “But it was for really important reasons to get in touch with my family again.”

2. Gene Hackman

Two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman officially retired after 2004’s Welcome to Mooseport. He has since lived a peaceful existence in New Mexico, working on novels and spending time in retirement. “The business for me is very stressful,” he said, “and it had gotten to the point where I just didn’t feel like I wanted to do it anymore.”

1. Daniel Day-Lewis

Famous for melting into his parts, Daniel Day-Lewis is the sole winner of three Best Actor Academy Awards. In 2017, following Phantom Thread, he declared himself retired from acting. “This is a personal choice and neither he nor his representatives will say anything else on the matter.” To his word, he has stayed hidden from view.

Life After the Spotlight

These stars left Hollywood behind, but in so many ways, the real drama of their lives only began after the cameras stopped filming. Whatever path they took, family, philanthropy, fashion, or farming, they demonstrated there’s life, and frequently happiness, beyond fame.

Hollywood loves a wedding—and lives off an acrimonious divorce even more so. Three marriages too much? In Hollywood, that’s essentially the warm-up round. Stars have made marriage a second feature, complete with whirlwind Vegas weddings, fairytale commitments, and soap-opera finales. Here’s a list of the most married celebrities in Hollywood history, from six times walking down the aisle to a whopping nine.

10. Pamela Anderson (6 Marriages)

Pamela Anderson’s romance has been nearly as legendary as her Baywatch swimsuit. She notoriously married Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee a mere four days after meeting him in 1995—a roller-coaster relationship that collapsed in 1998. Since then, she married Kid Rock, poker player Rick Salomon (twice), film producer Jon Peters (although she later admitted it wasn’t official), and bodyguard Dan Hayhurst. That adds up to six ceremonies in total. Anderson quipped that she might not be finished yet.

9. Billy Bob Thornton (6 Marriages)

Oscar-winning Billy Bob Thornton has been down the aisle six times, with romantic relationships as vibrant as his life. His wives have been Melissa Lee Gatlin, Toni Lawrence, Cynda Williams, Pietra Dawn Cherniak, Angelina Jolie (recall the infamous vials of blood?), and Connie Angland, whom he married in 2014 after over a decade together. For Thornton, it seems like marriage number six could be the winner.

8. Rue McClanahan (6–7 Marriages)

Playing Golden Girls’ Blanche Devereaux, Rue McClanahan was notorious for her flirtations—and the real-life credentials caught up with the character. She married a minimum of six men, and possibly seven, including Tom Bish, Norman Hartweg, Peter DeMaio, Gus Fisher, Tom Keel, and Morrow Wilson. She even named her memoir My First Five Husbands. And the Ones Who Got Away. That says it all.

7. Lana Turner (8 Marriages)

One of the great leading ladies of Old Hollywood, Lana Turner, had eight marriages to seven grooms. Among them were her whirlwind affairs with musician Artie Shaw for four months, two marriages to Joseph Stephen Crane, and subsequent marriages to Bob Topping, Lex Barker, Fred May, Robert Eaton, and Ronald Pellar. Her love life was as dramatic as those in her movies.

6. Elizabeth Taylor (8 Marriages)

Elizabeth Taylor was well-nigh Hollywood’s patron saint of marriage. She married eight times to seven men: Conrad Hilton Jr., Michael Wilding, Mike Todd, Eddie Fisher, Richard Burton (twice!), John Warner, and Larry Fortensky. Her passionate, diamond-spangled romance with Burton—two marriages and two divorces—is the stuff of legend.

5. Mickey Rooney (8 Marriages)

Legendary actor Mickey Rooney lived nearly a century and packed in eight marriages along the way. His first was to Ava Gardner, followed by Betty Jane Phillips, Martha Vickers, Elaine Devry, Barbara Thomason, Marge Lane, Carolyn Hockett, and finally Jan Chamberlin. Rooney once joked, “Weddings? I’ve been to a lot of them”—a serious understatement.

4. Larry King (8 Marriages)

Broadcasting icon Larry King was nearly as famous for his suspenders as for his serial nuptials. He married eight times to seven women, including two marriages to Alene Akins. His final marriage to Shawn Southwick was unraveling at the time of his death in 2021. King summed it up best: “I got married a lot. In my head, I’m not a marrying guy.”

3. Jennifer O’Neill (9 Marriages)

Actress Jennifer O’Neill, most famously known for Summer of ’42, has the record for one of Hollywood’s busiest bride histories—nine marriages to eight grooms. She married for the first time at 17 years old and even remarried one ex-husband, Richard Alan Brown, after a previous breakup. Her life is the testimony that hope springs eternal when it comes to “the one.”

2. Zsa Zsa Gabor (9 Marriages)

As far as wedlock goes, Zsa Zsa Gabor is still Hollywood royalty. She married nine times, with a list that ranged from Turkish politician Burhan Asaf Belge, to hotel tycoon Conrad Hilton, actor George Sanders, banker Herbert Hutner, oil trust heir Joshua S. Cosden Jr., Mattel co-founder Jack Ryan, attorney Michael O’Hara, actor Felipe de Alba (brief one-day marriage), and lastly Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt, who stayed with her until she passed on at 99. Ninth time truly was the charm.

1. Honorable Mentions

While these top the charts, many others have their own significant track records. Richard Pryor was married seven times (to five women), always going back to the exes. Joan Collins, Martin Scorsese, and David Foster each boast five marriages. Nicolas Cage has also uttered “I do” five times—his briefest marriage lasted four days in Vegas. And the stars who double-dipped with the same partner: Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Richard Pryor and Jennifer Lee, Larry King and Alene Akins.

The reasons are different—some point to growing apart, others the immense pressure of fame, hectic schedules, or simply seeking love over and over. Marriage is in Hollywood both a romantic gesture and a high-risk gamble. Yet if there’s something that these stories are guaranteed to prove, it’s that in Tinseltown, hope of finding forever love never really dies—no matter how many wedding rings it may require.

Hollywood thrives on fame, and at times, that fame is very much above the others. The height of the average female American is 5’4″, but there is a certain group of actresses who are taller than their on-screen and off-screen co-stars. No matter if they are playing leading roles in big dramas, delivering the punchline of a comedy, or grabbing all the attention on the red carpet, these women are proving that being a bit taller is just another way to have more star power. Why not list the top 10 tallest actresses who are currently working in Hollywood?

10. Jennifer Lawrence – 5’9″ (175 cm)

Jennifer Lawrence is only a foot away from six feet, but still stands taller than most if she is 5’9″. Her debut as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games was not just one that put a spotlight on her singing skills, but also one that made evident her innate ability to give the character a physical side and power. No matter if she is one of the strong characters in action movies or is playing the role of a witty female in romantic comedies, her height always gives her a certain off-stage accompaniment as well as her on-stage shining.

9. Ann Colter – 5’9″ (175 cm)

Ann Coulter, known most for her sarcastic political commentary, has been a figure in the entertainment world as well, for instance, in Sharknado 3 and as a recurring guest on daytime talk shows. At 5’9″, her somewhat tall stature goes well with her massive personality, so she is never lost in the crowd, no matter the event. In addition to being a force to reckon with in terms of ideas, she is also utterly so in terms of form and content, as her voice and stature make sure she glides none too far below the radar in Hollywood society, whether you like her or not.

8. Stephanie Corneliussen – 5’11” (180 cm)

Model and actress Stephanie Corneliussen of Denmark is the one who blends the European touch and toughness with the glamor of Hollywood. She is almost six feet tall, and her unusual looks and impactful aura have made her very popular on Mr. Robot and American Horror Story, where her image complements the more dark and mysterious aspects of the plot, gaining her recognition. The combination of her modeling career and her acting skills makes her one of those artists who can effortlessly dominate fashion shoots and complex TV characters.

7. Whitney Cummings – 5’11” (180 cm)

The very presence of Whitney Cumming, who is one of the best things that comes with height, is the whole package of confidence and a sense of humor. The 5’11” tall stand-up comedian, writer, and actress has turned their sharp wit and elevation to their advantage on shows like Whitney and 2 Broke Girls. Rather than trying to hide her distinct quality of appearing, she often jokes about it, and thus, what other people might see as a downside is what she uses in her stand-up. In a boardroom, she could be just as powerful a force as in a comedy club, where she performs.

6. Ilfenesh Hadera – 5’11” (180 cm)

Ilfenesh Hadera got there by playing in Baywatch, She’s Gotta Have It, and The Blacklist, and with her 5’11” size, she made sure to be a visual picture of the leadership she portrayed. Her characters are firm but friendly as she mixes the qualities of sportiness, grace, and charm. Hardly ever is her height pointed out as the reason she is such an unforgettable actress; rather, it is just one of the elements that add to her unique charm.

5. Tricia Helfer – 5’11” (180 cm)

Tricia Helfer is well known by science fiction fans as the quintessential Cylon of Battlestar Galactica. Being 5’1″ tall with model features and attitude, she was able with her commanding presence to impress and elicit fear, thus making her character successful as a seductive and mysterious machine. Moreover, for her achievements in sci-fi, Helfer has also been in comedies and has demonstrated a lot more than just being a pretty face; however, if her height is not to be considered, she is definitely being overshadowed by the rest of the cast for the scenes she unwillingly breaks into.

4. Mariel Hemingway – 5’11” (180 cm)

Mariel Hemingway, the daughter of the one and only film director and granddaughter of the literary icon Ernest Hemingway, has carved her path in Hollywood with her remarkable acting talent. Her 5’11” frame, complemented by her natural elegance, has been the medium through which she has delivered her memorable performances in movies like Star 80 and Superman IV. Talent and not her surname were the foundation of her career; however, it was her presence that made her stand out. Besides her height, which adds to her appeal, she is capable of commanding the screen in both serious and comedy roles.

3. Rachel Hunter – 5’11” (180 cm)

Rachel Hunter got her start as a model but soon became an actress and television host. At 5’11”, she possesses the timeless runway physique, and it easily carried over to her appearances on screen in films such as Two Shades of Blue and her travel show, Rachel Hunter’s Tour of Beauty. On television or in movies, Hunter’s statuesque figure and down-to-earth nature have maintained her presence in the public eye for decades.

2. Stacy Keibler – 5’11” (180 cm)

Stacy Keibler initially became known in the professional wrestling arena before arriving in mainstream entertainment. With her athleticism and long legs, her 5’11” height provided a remarkable advantage both in the ring and subsequently on shows such as Dancing With the Stars. Keibler’s height, combined with charm and charisma, assisted her in making an easy transition from sport to Hollywood and now stands as one of the most familiar tall stars working in the business.

1. Nicole Kidman – 5’11” (180 cm)

Not only is Nicole Kidman an Oscar-winning actress, but also one of the tallest stars in Hollywood. She and her stature, along with her grace, have made her a red carpet icon for years. Besides that, she’s tall with her wide-ranging roles from Moulin Rouge! to The Hours and Big Little Lies. The height of her character is not only a matter of fact—it is also a reference to her acting skills of playing characters, which at the same time possess emotional complexity and are strong.

Honorable Mentions – Other Tall Queens

Numerous tall actresses in Hollywood are tall, and these top 10 countdown actresses narrowly miss the list. Lucy Lawless, who achieved fame as the warrior woman in Xena: Warrior Princess, is 5’11” tall and always looks powerful and confident. Abbey Lee was a very strong presence both in Mad Max: Fury Road and The Neon Demon, thus the actress, who is almost six feet tall, had quite the inimitable one for the screen.

Swedish actress Lena Olin and Vikings star Alyssa Sutherland are the ones who prove that height can be an added layer of depth to an already impressive skill set. And of course, Sigourney Weaver is there too — at 5’11”, she wasn’t long in helping to define the female action star category with her landmark role in Alien as Ellen Ripley.

Just being tall will not turn an actress into a star; however, it might be the reason that gives her a unique characteristic, which enables her to be noticed among the others. Not only are these ladies not tearing down their physiques, but they are also doing it to their advantage, reminding us that talent comes in all sizes. In Hollywood, it is not a matter of being included in the crowd; rather, it is about standing out, and literally, you cannot be taller.

Let’s get real—Hollywood adores an origin story. And in the case of celebrities, perhaps nothing makes for a richer, more inspiring history than being raised in a family that doesn’t conform to so-called “traditional” family status. From actors raised by same-gender parents to those whose moms or dads came out later in life or transitioned under a spotlight, these tales remind us that love, and a little bit of chaos, make for the best kind of families. Here are 15 stars who were raised with LGBTQ+ parents and show that family doesn’t come in conventional ways, but in the heart.

15. Jena Malone

Before she was a scene-stealer in The Hunger Games and Donnie Darko, Jena Malone was brought up by her mom, Deborah, and her mom’s girlfriend, whom she affectionately referred to as her “godmom.” As Jena once explained, she had no idea their arrangement was different from everyone else’s until many years later. “It was the sole relationship my mom had with a female,” she explained. “When they split, she discovered Christianity and began dating men again.” It wasn’t normal, but it was love-filled.

14. Jennifer Grey

We know her as Baby from Dirty Dancing, but Jennifer Grey’s own life is as touching. Her dad, Broadway icon Joel Grey, revealed he was gay when he was 82 years old. Jennifer said in People that she was “so happy” for him: “To love who you love… that can only be a good thing.”

13. Ally Sheedy

The Breakfast Club icon Charlotte Sheedy’s mom was a lesbian after she divorced. Ally has been an advocate for acceptance throughout, stating, “It’s hard for me to understand not loving a family member because they’re gay.” That acceptance extended to her own son, Beckett, who is trans, just one example that love and acceptance truly do run in the family.

12. Amy Adams

Long before she was shining on-screen, Amy Adams was adjusting to a family change. Her Mormon parents divorced when she was 11, and her mom, Kathryn, subsequently moved in with a woman. Amy has remained close to her mom ever since, frequently bringing her to the red carpet. Her family might not be textbook, but it’s closer than ever.

11. Mandy Moore

The This Is Us actress has a family history straight out of a contemporary heartwarmer. Her parents broke up, and her mom, Stacy, started dating tennis pro Claudette Laliberte, and both of Mandy’s gay brothers. “There are no secrets in our lives,” Mandy explained. “I adore and accept my mom and brothers with all my heart. Seeing them live honestly makes me so proud.” 

10. 50 Cent

Rapper and actor Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has spoken about his lesbian mother, Sabrina, who passed away when he was eight. He then lived with his grandparents. “My mom was a lesbian. My whole childhood was like that,” he revealed. He even spoke about their relationship in his semi-autobiographical book Playground.

9. Dave Bautista

As Dave Bautista was coming of age in the Castro District of San Francisco with his mom, Donna Raye, who is a proud lesbian, he believes she instilled the strength and self-assurance in him. “She never apologized for who she was or who she loved,” he said. “A strong lesbian raised a strong man.”

8. Paul Bettany

The WandaVision star’s father, Thane Bettany, came out as gay at 63 after 25 years of marriage. He spent two decades with his partner Andy Clark, but after Andy’s death, he returned to the closet out of religious guilt. “The shame he felt was heartbreaking,” Paul said. “He couldn’t even mourn the love of his life.”

7. Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster was brought up by her mom, Evelyn “Brandy” Almond, and her mom’s long-term partner, whom she and her brothers referred to as Aunt Jo. Jodie would later come out publicly at the Golden Globes in 2013. Having two moms as a child obviously informed her strong sense of authenticity and resilience.

6. Robert De Niro

The actor’s father, Robert De Niro Sr., was a talented artist who publicly came out as gay during the 1940s. De Niro went on to produce a documentary on his dad and how they had experienced love and comprehension in the less tolerant times. “I wish we had talked more,” De Niro explained. “Sometimes later is too late, do things now.”

5. Kendall & Kylie Jenner

The youngest of the Kardashian-Jenner family was raised with Caitlyn Jenner, who transitioned as a transgender woman in 2015. Kendall and Kylie have both spoken publicly about how her transition strengthened their relationship. “When my dad came out, our relationship grew,” Kendall explained. “She could finally be honest with me.” Kylie added, “Watching her live her truth has been inspiring.”

4. Katy Tur

MSNBC anchor Katy Tur’s father, Zoey Tur, is a pioneering journalist and helicopter pilot who came out as a trans woman in 2013. Their relationship has had ups and downs, but Katy has spoken openly about her dad’s journey. “She told me, ‘I’m going to become the right person,’” Katy recalled. “That helped me understand her anger and her courage.”

3. Liza Minnelli

Born to Hollywood royalty Judy Garland and director Vincente Minnelli, Liza was raised amid art and secrets. Her father was suspected of being gay but maintained his private life in Hollywood. Nonetheless, their relationship was loving and respectful, evidence that love sees beyond labels. 

2. Natasha & Joely Richardson

Actresses Joely and Natasha Richardson are descended from an artistic family with a rich LGBTQ+ heritage. Their father, Tony Richardson, was biromantic as was their grandfather, actor Michael Redgrave. Joely once described, “My father’s identity was a footnote, not a headline. What mattered most was his passion for life and art.”

1. Jay-Z

Number one on our list is Jay-Z, whose mom, Gloria Carter, publicly came out as a lesbian in 2017. Jay has talked about how upsetting this was: “She sat in front of me and said, ‘I think I love someone,'” he remembered. “I really cried.” He later celebrated her in his song Smile, praising her bravery to be herself. In 2023, Jay and Beyoncé publicly went to the wedding of Gloria to her fiancé, Roxanne Wilshire.

These stars confirm one undeniable fact: family isn’t about being a specific shape; it’s about love, honesty, and acceptance. No matter who raised them, em two moms, a gay dad, a trans parent, they remind us that the most unusual roots tend to beget the strongest, most beautiful families.

It’s no secret that Hollywood loves its muscle-bound leading men. From superheroes to gladiators, the silver screen has long been dominated by physiques that look carved out of stone. But who are the real-life powerhouses behind those epic roles—and what does it actually take to look that way? Grab your protein shake, because we’re counting down the 15 strongest stars in Hollywood. And yes, we’re doing it backwards—because saving the heaviest hitters for last just feels right.

15. Chris Evans

Before Captain America, Evans was athletic but not in the least bulky. To play Marvel’s star-spangled soldier, he added serious bulk with the guidance of trainer Simon Waterson. Compound heavy lifts, bodyweight training exercises, and a disciplined diet made him bulk out quickly. Evans confesses that eating was more challenging than training, but the outcome—a superhero’s physique that was powerful yet agile—was worth the grind.

14. Jake Gyllenhaal

Gyllenhaal’s Southpaw transformation is one of the most dramatic in Hollywood. He was a real prizefighter in training: every day road work, thousands of sit-ups, sparring sessions, and an all-consuming work ethic. The shredded, fight-ready physique he achieved was so realistic that it heightened the performance itself. Even now, in his 40s, he continues to push himself for performances, recently putting himself back into heightened physicality for Road House.

13. Hafthor “The Mountain” Bjornsson

This one’s hardly fair—Hafthor’s not merely playing strong, he is strong. Former World’s Strongest Man and Game of Thrones actor is over two meters tall and deadlifted a record 500kg (1,104 lbs) back in the day. When he appears on screen, no special effects are required—he’s an actual giant whose strength feats make Hollywood’s fittest stars look puny.

12. Sylvester Stallone

Few actors embody “ripped action hero” like Stallone. Back in his Rocky and Rambo days, he was benching 400 lbs and squatting 500 lbs. He strained so hard that at one point he ripped his pec in a competition, requiring more than 160 stitches. Yet even at this point, long past his 70s, Sly continues to train with the intensity of a man half his age.

11. Michael B. Jordan

Whether it’s boxing with Creed or sparring with T’Challa in Black Panther, Jordan’s makeovers are on another level. For Killmonger, he allegedly had seven protein-rich meals a day while bludgeoning himself with heavy incline presses and strength circuits. The result: a deadly, fight-ready appearance that kept up with his merciless on-screen demeanor.

10. Henry Cavill

After a more slender gamer frame, Cavill reformed himself into Superman in the hands of trainer Mark Twight’s tough love. The regimen combined Olympic lifts, calisthenics, and stamina work, reducing his body fat level to under 10% and adding serious size. Cavill has stated that the training not only provided him with the physique for the cape, but also the discipline to sustain the role.

9. Jason Statham

Statham doesn’t only act tough—he lives it. His training consists of explosive, functional strength: calisthenics, martial arts, gymnastic-style holds, and combat conditioning. He’s been known to train under the guidance of military-style instructors, opting for raw, real-world power rather than bulk. If anyone appears prepared to fight a dozen bad guys simultaneously, it’s him.

8. John Cena

Before reaching Hollywood, Cena was already a top WWE star. His strength levels are mind-boggling—squatting close to 300kg, benching more than 200kg, and pulling near 300kg. Cena trains with unrelenting commitment, and his home gym is the stuff of legend among emerging athletes.

7. Mark Wahlberg

Wahlberg’s infamous daily schedule—waking before dawn, multiple workouts, endless meals—has become meme-worthy, but the results are undeniable. His 335-lb bench is no joke, but what really defines him is consistency. While others bulk and cut for roles, Wahlberg stays camera-ready year-round.

6. Hugh Jackman

Across almost two decades of portraying Wolverine, Jackman rebuilt his physique repeatedly. He became a member of the “1,000-pound club” with a total bench, squat, and deadlift of over 1,000 lbs. His prescription? Heavy compound lifts to develop strength, then high-rep finishers to remain lean. His commitment provided us with one of the cinema’s greatest physiques.

5. Jason Momoa

Momoa’s training appears less like a gym session and more like an adventure in the wilderness. Surfing, boxing, climbing, sprints—his training doesn’t just keep him strong and agile but also massive. The ability to churn out weighted pull-ups with almost 90 lbs attached is an indicator of how functional his strength is.

4. Zac Efron

Forget the High School Musical child—Efron’s Baywatch makeover was savage. He dropped down to a freakish sub-5% body fat within three months through intense functional training and calisthenics. Nowadays, he freely exposes his techniques on his YouTube series, unveiling to his fans that his body isn’t all genes—it’s a grind in its purest form.

3. Chris Hemsworth

Hemsworth’s Thor physique is perhaps the ultimate body for Hollywood. With trainer Luke Zocchi, he alternates between weightlifting, functional training, and endurance sessions—sometimes two or three per day. The most difficult thing, his stunt double says, isn’t the training but the food. It takes about 8–10 meals and 4,000 calories of food per day, which is effectively another full-time job.

2. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

At the age of 51, The Rock just keeps on getting bigger. His portable gym—the “Iron Paradise”—tips at 20 tonnes, and his twice-daily routine has him benching more than 400 lbs while keeping himself in action-figure shape. His commitment is unyielding, albeit his bulk has also rekindled Hollywood’s constant controversy surrounding the use of PEDs and the pressure placed upon actors to appear superhuman.

1. Arnold Schwarzenegger

At the top of our list is the original starter. Arnold isn’t an actor—he’s a symbol of power. A seven-time Mr. Olympia, record-holding lifter, and one of the first action stars, he raised the bar for all to follow. His mythical lifts (200kg bench, 310kg deadlift) and dedication to training throughout his life make him Hollywood’s original—and still greatest—strongman.

Behind every screen transformation is a brutal reality: months of gym torture, rigorous diets, championship trainers, and occasionally a bit of Hollywood smoke and mirrors. From Mark Twight’s brutal philosophies to rumors of performance enhancers, there’s more than one path to creating a blockbuster body. But one thing’s certain—strength in Hollywood isn’t for the cameras only. For these celebrities, it’s a way of life.

Hollywood may love its rising young stars, but there’s a special kind of magic in the veterans who’ve outlasted decades of trends, genres, and changing tastes. These are the icons who have graced both the big and small screens for generations—proof that talent, charm, and passion for the craft only grow stronger with time. Today, we’re tipping our hats to 11 of the oldest living legends in film and television.

11. Nancy Olson

Nancy Olson’s life is the stuff of which classic Hollywood success stories are made. Most famous for her Oscar-nominated turn as Sunset Boulevard’s Betty Schaefer, Olson continued to delight fans in Disney classics such as The Absent-Minded Professor and Son of Flubber. Although she retired from acting in the 1980s, she’d make sporadic comebacks for one-off appearances—and included a 2014 film role—demonstrating that the screen magic never left her.

10. Mel Brooks

Few comedy names bring the same gravitas as Mel Brooks. From Blazing Saddles through Young Frankenstein, his films have set the standard for comedic filmmaking for decades. Brooks also counts among the select EGOT winners, having won Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards. Aside from writing and directing, Brooks started Brooksfilms, producing classics such as The Elephant Man and The Fly. With a career of over 75 years, his creative spark is still burning bright.

9. David Attenborough

David Attenborough’s voice is one that the world heeds. His pioneering Life series on a documentary set the benchmark for nature shows, combining breathtaking imagery with his warm, authoritative voice. More recently, Attenborough has been an outspoken champion of the environment, calling for action on climate change and conservation. His voice and vision have led generations to care for the world.

8. Dick Van Dyke

At 98, Dick Van Dyke retains the same energy that propelled him to household fame in the 1960s. From The Dick Van Dyke Show to his iconic role in Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, it has been one long masterclass in entertainment for the ages. With Emmys, a Tony, a Grammy, and even a face-saving return cameo in Mary Poppins Returns, Van Dyke continues to demonstrate that art and joy have no shelf life.

7. Jimmy Carter

Most famous as America’s 39th president, Jimmy Carter has perhaps had an even greater effect on the world since leaving office. The current longest-living U.S. president has spent decades working on humanitarian issues, promoting peace, and working for the environment. His Nobel Peace Prize is only one of a number of awards that attest to a life dedicated to service and world improvement.

6. Eva Marie Saint

Eva Marie Saint has had a career that most actors can only hope for—lasting more than seven decades, touching film, stage, radio, and television. She received an Academy Award for On the Waterfront and mesmerized audiences opposite Cary Grant in Hitchcock’s North by Northwest. Most recently, she was seen in Winter’s Tale and provided voice work in The Legend of Korra, solidifying her status as a multi-generational star.

5. Ray Anthony

Ray Anthony is not only a bandleading legend but also the sole remaining member of the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Famous for his hit recording of “At Last,” Anthony has been on the scene for more than 80 years. At age 102, his Hollywood Walk of Fame star remains a living link to the golden era of big band music. 

4. Frances Wessells

Frances Wessells demonstrates that dance keeps one young. Performing professionally well into her late 90s, she’s amazed audiences with her poise and energy, even taking on a role in the Latin Ballet of Virginia’s The Legend of the Poinsettia. As an instructor and performer, she’s influenced countless students to keep active and create at any age.

3. June Spencer

At 103, June Spencer just completed a record-breaking career as Peggy Woolley in the BBC radio soap The Archers, a position that she held for more than 70 years. Her remarkable career on the program has presented her with numerous lifetime achievement awards and a place in broadcasting history.

2. Caren Marsh Doll

One of the dying remnants of Hollywood’s Golden Age, Caren Marsh Doll contributed to many MGM productions and notoriously played Judy Garland’s stand-in for The Wizard of Oz and Ziegfeld Girl. The oldest living Hollywood actress, her life is an opportunity to experience the early days of movie magic.

1. Elisabeth Waldo

At 106, Elisabeth Waldo is the oldest living entertainment personality. A classically trained violinist, composer, and conductor, Waldo’s life has brought her from rural origins to concert halls around the world. Her distinctive blending of classical and Latin American music represents a lifetime of discovery and creativity.

What’s their secret?

Studies in the Blue Zones documentary identify shared practices: being active, maintaining close social connections, consuming primarily plant-based diets, and having a sense of purpose. Betty White attributed her longevity to optimism and a sense of humor, while legends such as Mel Brooks and Dick Van Dyke continue producing well into old age.

These incredible women demonstrate that passion, purpose, and a little determination can sustain the spotlight for a lifetime—and beyond.

Hollywood likes to glint, yet behind the glint is a much darker truth. Some of its seemingly invincible stars were quietly fighting devils—internal battles with addiction, depression, and the destructive price of fame. Their own tragedies were only sensationalized by their deaths; they were harsh reminders of the cruelty of the spotlight. Here we look back on 10 artists whose lives were shortened by overdose or addiction, in reverse order of the most recent tragedies to the legends of the last decades.

10. Lil Peep (1996–2017)

Gustav Åhr, whose stage name was Lil Peep, was being hailed as a trailblazer of emo-rap music. His tombstone-honest singles about suffering, depression, and drug use resonated deeply with fans. He died at the age of 21 from an accidental fentanyl and Xanax overdose. His death shocked the music world and caused instantaneous controversy over the risks of drug use, which has been glamorized in youth culture.

9. Mac Miller (1992–2018)

Mac Miller possessed the hip-hop equivalent of the friend-next-door—laid-back, sincere, and down-to-earth. But addiction was common knowledge. He died in 2018 at the age of 26 after overdosing on a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and alcohol. His death brought to light the epidemic that is spreading its scope through fentanyl-laced substances, a lethal trend that has driven a record number of young overdoses.

8. Cory Monteith (1982–2013)

To Glee fans, Cory Monteith was Finn Hudson more than anything else—he was the heart and soul of the series. Fans were shocked when he died at 31 from a heroin and alcohol overdose. The incident served as a reminder that nothing matters to addictions, and it is not only deadly but also bad to obtain alcohol mixers and drugs.

7. Brittany Murphy (1977–2009)

Brittany Murphy is most famous for 8 Mile and Clueless. She was loved for her bubbly personality and acting abilities. When she passed away at the age of 32, the cause of death was pneumonia, anemia, and drug intoxication. Her life demonstrated just how thin the lines are between health, drug addiction, and mental illness. Even years after remains Hollywood’s biggest enigma.

6. Heath Ledger (1979–2008)

Heath Ledger’s iconic portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight won’t be forgotten, but sadly, one of his last. At only 28, he accidentally overdosed on legally prescribed drugs, such as sleeping pills and painkillers. His death served to demonstrate how fatal legally prescribed medication can become if abused. The world lost a talented genius in the prime of his talent.

5. River Phoenix (1970–1993)

River Phoenix was the most promising young star of his time, appearing in Stand by Me and My Own Private Idaho. Just 23 when he died outside Hollywood club Viper Room, having ingested a lethal mix of heroin and cocaine. His death is an unfortunate reminder of possible lost talent and the dangers of polydrug use.

4. Chris Farley (1964–1997)

Chris Farley was comedy gold on SNL and at the movies in movies like Tommy Boy. But when the laughter faded, he had to contend with drug addiction and illness. He died from an overdose of a drug in his Chicago apartment at age 33. It’s a sad reminder that pain is masked behind laughter, and popularity will not mask personal conflict.

3. Janis Joplin (1943–1970)

Janis Joplin’s gravelly, soul-stirring singing made her a legend. Her war on heroin, though, was not unknown. She died of a heroin overdose in a Los Angeles hotel room at age 27, forever sealing her place in the squalid “27 Club.” Brief, however, she was. Her fearless talent scared and inspired generations of artists.

2. Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970)

Jimi Hendrix revolutionized music with his onstage guitar pyrotechnics. Superstardom and addiction proved to be a lethal combination. He died at 27 after combining barbiturates with alcohol and smothering in his sleep. His life is rock music’s most tragic tale—a prophetic loss when he was re-writing the music of tomorrow.

1. Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962)

These movies are not so much about celebrities as about deeper struggles with addiction, mental illness, and the stress of modern life are in them. One in five American adults has a mental illness, and overdose deaths among youth have exploded in the last few years, fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

If anything, these tragedies serve to remind us that addiction is colorblind to fame, fortune, or talent. It can happen to anyone. And though the stars that were lost left behind wonderful legacies, their stories also compel us to continue talking about mental illness and addiction—because lives are at stake.