Last Days

On March 29, 2024, Lou Gossett Jr. – who rose to fame with his Emmy-award-winning portrayal of Fiddler in the miniseries Roots and an Academy Award-winning turn as drill sergeant Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentlemen – died after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of African-American actors, and as one of the kindest and most beloved men in Hollywood history. Hosts: Jason Beckerman and Charles Latibeaudiere Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 5, 2022, Kirstie Alley -- best known for her iconic role as Rebecca Howe on Cheers and her memorable performances in movies like Look Who's Talking -- passed away from colorectal cancer at the age of 71. Alley's legacy was complicated by her public struggles with weight loss and personal views on various social and political issues, but such controversies never overshadowed her feisty wit and immense talents. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 29, 1981, Natalie Wood — the legendary actress known for her starring roles in some of most iconic movies ever made, including Miracle on 34th Street and Rebel Without a Cause, drowned at the age of 43 under mysterious circumstances near Catalina Island, accompanied by her husband, Robert Wagner, and actor Christopher Walken. Despite initial reports labeling the incident as an accidental drowning, conflicting testimonies and subsequent investigations have fueled ongoing speculation about the true circumstances surrounding her demise. Wood's enduring legacy as a Hollywood icon continues to captivate audiences and inspire discussions about her life and the mysterious nature of her death. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 25, 1999, Payne Stewart — one of golf’s most charismatic and beloved figures — died tragically in a plane crash at the age of 42. Known for his distinctive knickers and clutch performances, Stewart won three major championships, including a dramatic U.S. Open victory just months before his death. His passion for the game, sportsmanship, and larger-than-life presence left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire golfers and fans around the world. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 7, 1999, Stanley Kubrick — the visionary filmmaker whose groundbreaking works reshaped the art of cinema — passed away at the age of 70, just days after completing his final film, Eyes Wide Shut. Known for masterpieces like 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and The Shining, Kubrick pushed the boundaries of storytelling and cinematography during his brilliant career. Beyond his technical genius, Kubrick’s fearless approach to complex themes and meticulous craftsmanship continues to influence filmmakers and challenge audiences around the world. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On April 20, 2018, Avicii – the groundbreaking Swedish DJ and producer whose chart-topping hits like Wake Me Up, Levels, and Hey Brother redefined the electronic music landscape – tragically passed away by suicide at the age of 28. Avicii's untimely death was a devastating loss to fans and collaborators alike, but his legacy remains indelible as one of the most innovative, beloved, and influential artists in the history of electronic dance music. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2024 comes to a close, Derek and Jason take a look back at the most famous and influential celebrities we lost this year, and explore what made their lives and careers so memorable, Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 1, 2021, Dustin Diamond — the actor and comedian whose portrayal as the quirky and lovable Samuel "Screech" Powers on Saved by the Bell made him a household name—passed away from cancer just weeks after being diagnosed. Despite his iconic role, Diamond's post-show life was beset by legal troubles, financial hardships, and publicized conflicts with former castmates, particularly following the release of his controversial memoir. In his later years, however, Diamond sought personal growth and reconciliation, reconnecting with fans and finding solace in a quieter, more grounded life. His passing marked the end of a turbulent yet impactful journey, remembered for both its trials and the joy he brought to millions through his unforgettable role as Screech. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 23, 1982, a tragic accident on the set of Twilight Zone: The Movie claimed the lives of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors, Myca Dinh Le and Renee Shin-Yi Chen, when a helicopter crashed during filming. The devastating event cast a shadow over the film's legacy and became a defining moment in Hollywood, prompting stricter safety regulations and a reevaluation of on-set practices to better protect cast and crew. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 2, 2017, Tom Petty – the iconic musician and songwriter whose heartfelt lyrics and timeless rock anthems like Free Fallin, American Girl, and I Won't Back Down, made him a cornerstone of American music – passed away from an accidental drug overdose at the age of 66. Petty's untimely death was a profound loss to those who knew him, but his legacy is secure as one of the most beloved, enduring, and influential figures in rock and roll history. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 1, 1999, Walter Payton — the legendary running back for the Chicago Bears and an enduring symbol of grit and grace on the football field — passed away at age 46 due to complications from a rare liver disease. Known as "Sweetness" for his smooth yet relentless playing style, Payton left behind a legacy that reshaped the NFL and inspired countless fans. Beyond his athletic achievements, Payton’s humanitarian efforts and public fight with the illness that took his life brought greater awareness to organ donation. Hosted by: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 31, 2023, Angus Cloud – the rising actor whose breakout role as Fezco in HBO’s Euphoria captivated audiences with his raw, understated portrayal of a complex and sympathetic character – died of a drug overdose at the age of 25. Cloud’s untimely death came just weeks after losing his father, an experience that deeply affected him. Though his career was just beginning, Cloud’s distinctive screen presence and genuine authenticity left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and on all those who came to know him. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 20, 1999, Gene Siskel -- who partnered with fellow film critic Roger Ebert to bring movie reviews to the masses -- died from brain cancer at the age of 53. With their wildly popular thumbs up/thumbs down reviews and spirited debates, Siskel and Ebert revolutionized the art of movie criticism and spread their infectious love of cinema to millions of fans around the world. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela - the anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa - died at the age of 95. His death prompted a global outpouring of grief, as well as tributes to a man of uncommon grace and compassion, who put the interests of others ahead of his own and extended the reach of freedom and dignity to millions. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 12, 1999, Wilt Chamberlain -- the legendary basketball superstar who once scored 100 points in a single game -- passed away in his home from a heart attack at the age of 63. Known for his towering presence and dominance on the court, Chamberlain set numerous records during his career, and many of his feats on the hardwood remain unmatched to this day. Beyond shaping the modern game of basketball, Chamberlain's inarguable charisma and tales of womanizing have made him a enduring figure of fascination in sports and entertainment. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On September 30, 2024, Dikembe Mutombo -- the NBA legend best known for deploying his iconic finger wag after blocking an opponent's shot -- passed away at 58 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Despite his immense accomplishments as a player, Mutombo's most lasting contributions were made off the court, where he leveraged his infectious smile and generous spirit to become an ambassador of the game and a true global humanitarian. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sponsored by: AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code "LAST" and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! ------ On December 10, 2005, Richard Pryor - the groundbreaking comic whose fearless insights into race relations and modern life made him a comedy legend - died of a heart attack. Pryor single-handedly transformed stand-up comedy by using humor to reflect on social and political issues, and in doing created a new blueprint for modern comedy. Though he was beset with health problems throughout his adult life as a result of decades of drug and alcohol abuse, his sharp mind remained intact throughout his career and reminded audiences of the revolutionary talent he was. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 12, 2003, Jonathan Brandis -- the beloved '90s teen star known for SeaQuest DSV and The NeverEnding Story II -- died by suicide at the age of 27. Brandis, who struggled with his transition from teen heartthrob to adult actor, left an indelible imprint on the entertainment industry during his brief career and serves as a cautionary tale about the difficulties of life in Hollywood. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 4, 1970, Janis Joplin, the “Queen of Rock” whose famously raw and emotional voice captured the pain and angst of a generation, died at the age of 27. Joplin’s three year run of success was among the most unexpected and impressive in music history, and her untimely death left everyone asking what might have been. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 25, 2017, Bill Paxton - the beloved actor whose relatable, everyman charm endeared him to generations of audiences in movies like The Terminator, Aliens, Twister and Titanic - died from a stroke following surgery to repair a heart condition that had plagued him since childhood. Paxton's untimely death was devastating to those who knew him, but his legacy is secure as one of the kindest, humblest, and most talented actors of his generation. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices