Actors Who Died in 2023 (Complete & Verified List)
The year 2023 saw the passing of many influential actors who shaped film, television, and stage across decades. From legendary Hollywood performers to rising television stars, these artists left a lasting impact on global entertainment.
Some deaths came after long careers and health struggles, while others were sudden tragedies that shocked fans worldwide. Their performances — whether dramatic, comedic, or heroic — continue to resonate through classic films, television series, and streaming platforms.
Below is a verified chronological list of actors who died in 2023, including their nationality, age, and the roles that made them widely recognized.
Quick Summary: Notable Actors Who Died in 2023
Among the most widely recognized actors who passed away in 2023 were:
- Alan Arkin – Academy Award-winning actor known for Little Miss Sunshine
- Matthew Perry – beloved for playing Chandler Bing in Friends
- Michael Gambon – known worldwide as Professor Dumbledore in Harry Potter
- Lance Reddick – star of The Wire and John Wick
- Andre Braugher – acclaimed actor in Brooklyn Nine-Nine
- Angus Cloud – breakout star of HBO’s Euphoria
- Ryan O’Neal – Oscar-nominated star of Love Story
These actors represent a wide spectrum of television, film, and stage talent whose work influenced generations of audiences.
Complete List of Actors Who Died in 2023
| Name | Nationality | Date of Death | Age | Known For |
| Adam Rich | American | Jan 7, 2023 | 54 | Eight Is Enough |
| Julian Sands | British | Jan 13, 2023 | 65 | A Room with a View |
| Cody Longo | American | Feb 8, 2023 | 34 | Hollywood Heights |
| Jansen Panettiere | American | Feb 19, 2023 | 28 | The Perfect Game |
| Richard Belzer | American | Feb 19, 2023 | 78 | Law & Order: SVU |
| Tom Sizemore | American | Mar 3, 2023 | 61 | Saving Private Ryan |
| Lance Reddick | American | Mar 17, 2023 | 60 | The Wire |
| Barry Humphries | Australian | Apr 22, 2023 | 89 | Dame Edna |
| Harry Belafonte | American | Apr 25, 2023 | 96 | Carmen Jones |
| Andy Smart | British | May 16, 2023 | 63 | Comedy Store Players |
| Lew Palter | American | May 21, 2023 | 94 | Titanic |
| Ray Stevenson | British | May 21, 2023 | 58 | Rome, Thor |
| Treat Williams | American | Jun 12, 2023 | 71 | Hair, Everwood |
| Alan Arkin | American | Jun 29, 2023 | 89 | Little Miss Sunshine |
| Paul Reubens | American | Jul 30, 2023 | 70 | Pee-wee Herman |
| Angus Cloud | American | Jul 31, 2023 | 25 | Euphoria |
| Ron Cephas Jones | American | Aug 19, 2023 | 66 | This Is Us |
| Bob Barker | American | Aug 26, 2023 | 99 | The Price Is Right |
| David McCallum | Scottish | Sep 25, 2023 | 90 | NCIS |
| Michael Gambon | Irish-British | Sep 27, 2023 | 82 | Harry Potter |
| Richard Roundtree | American | Oct 24, 2023 | 81 | Shaft |
| Matthew Perry | American-Canadian | Oct 28, 2023 | 54 | Friends |
| Evan Ellingson | American | Nov 5, 2023 | 35 | CSI: Miami |
| Norman Lear | American | Dec 5, 2023 | 101 | All in the Family |
| Ryan O’Neal | American | Dec 8, 2023 | 82 | Love Story |
| Andre Braugher | American | Dec 11, 2023 | 61 | Brooklyn Nine-Nine |
Actors Who Died in January 2023
Adam Rich

- Born: October 12, 1968
- Died: January 7, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Nicholas Bradford in Eight Is Enough
- Cause of death: Accidental fentanyl overdose
Adam Rich was a well-known television actor who rose to fame as Nicholas Bradford on the family drama Eight Is Enough (1977–1981). His distinctive pageboy haircut and warm on-screen personality made him a beloved child star of the late 1970s.
Despite facing personal struggles later in life, Rich remained remembered for his iconic role in one of television’s most popular family series. His passing in January 2023 saddened fans who grew up watching his performances.
Julian Sands

- Born: January 4, 1958
- Died: June 24, 2023 (reported missing January 13, 2023)
- Nationality: British
- Known for: A Room with a View, Warlock, Leaving Las Vegas
- Cause of death: Undetermined (remains discovered after hiking disappearance)
Julian Sands was a respected British actor recognized for his performances in both independent cinema and major Hollywood productions. He gained international recognition for his role as George Emerson in the acclaimed film A Room with a View (1985).
Sands built a versatile career with roles in films such as Warlock, Arachnophobia, and Leaving Las Vegas, as well as television appearances in series like 24 and Smallville. His disappearance during a hiking trip in California in early 2023 shocked the entertainment industry.
Actors Who Died in February 2023
Cody Longo

- Born: March 4, 1988
- Died: February 8, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Eddie Duran in Hollywood Heights
- Cause of death: Suspected alcohol poisoning
Cody Longo was an American actor and musician known for his work in television dramas. He gained recognition for playing Eddie Duran in the series Hollywood Heights and also appeared in shows such as Days of Our Lives.
In addition to acting, Longo pursued music and released several singles during his career. His sudden death at age 34 was widely reported and mourned by colleagues and fans.
Jansen Panettiere

- Born: September 25, 1994
- Died: February 19, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: The Perfect Game, The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry
- Cause of death: Cardiomegaly with aortic valve complications
Jansen Panettiere was an American actor and voice performer known for roles in family and independent films. He appeared in movies such as The Perfect Game and The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry and also contributed voice acting work in animated productions.
Panettiere began acting at a young age and occasionally appeared alongside his sister, actress Hayden Panettiere. His death at the age of 28 was attributed to heart-related complications.
Richard Belzer

- Born: August 4, 1944
- Died: February 19, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Detective John Munch in Law & Order: SVU
- Cause of death: Complications from cancer
Richard Belzer was a comedian, actor, and author best known for portraying Detective John Munch, one of the longest-running characters in television history. He played the role across multiple series, including Homicide: Life on the Street and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
Belzer originally began his career in stand-up comedy before transitioning into television and film. His portrayal of Munch became a cultural touchstone in crime television.
Actors Who Died in March 2023
Tom Sizemore

- Born: November 29, 1961
- Died: March 3, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Saving Private Ryan, Heat, Black Hawk Down
- Cause of death: Brain aneurysm complications
Tom Sizemore was an American actor known for intense performances in crime and war films. His career included notable roles in Saving Private Ryan, Heat, and Black Hawk Down.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Sizemore became known for portraying tough and complex characters. Despite personal struggles, his filmography remains influential in action and war cinema.
Lance Reddick

- Born: June 7, 1962
- Died: March 17, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: The Wire, John Wick, Fringe
- Cause of death: Heart disease
Lance Reddick was widely respected for his commanding presence in television and film. He gained acclaim for portraying Cedric Daniels in the HBO crime drama The Wire and later appeared in series such as Fringe and Bosch.
Reddick also played Charon in the John Wick film franchise and voiced characters in video games including Destiny and Horizon Zero Dawn. His sudden death prompted tributes across the entertainment industry.
Actors Who Died in April 2023
Barry Humphries

- Born: February 17, 1934
- Died: April 22, 2023
- Nationality: Australian
- Known for: Dame Edna Everage character
- Cause of death: Complications following hip surgery
Barry Humphries was an acclaimed Australian comedian, actor, and writer best known for his flamboyant alter ego Dame Edna Everage. The character became an international comedy icon through stage shows, television appearances, and films.
Humphries’ career spanned more than six decades, during which he also created memorable satirical characters such as Sir Les Patterson. His contributions to comedy, theatre, and satire made him one of Australia’s most influential entertainers.
Harry Belafonte

- Born: March 1, 1927
- Died: April 25, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Carmen Jones, Island in the Sun
- Cause of death: Congestive heart failure
Harry Belafonte was an influential American singer, actor, and civil rights activist. Though widely known for popularizing calypso music with songs like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song),” he also built a respected acting career.
Belafonte appeared in films such as Carmen Jones and Island in the Sun, becoming one of the first Black Hollywood leading men. Beyond entertainment, he played a major role in the U.S. civil rights movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr.
Actors Who Died in May 2023
Andy Smart

- Born: June 16, 1959
- Died: May 16, 2023
- Nationality: British
- Known for: Comedy Store Players improvisational comedy
- Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed
Andy Smart was a respected British comedian and improvisational performer known for his work with the Comedy Store Players in London. His energetic stage presence and quick improvisational wit made him a standout performer in the UK comedy scene.
Smart also appeared in television programs and comedy events, becoming a familiar figure in British live comedy for decades. His death in May 2023 was widely mourned by fellow comedians and audiences.
Lew Palter

- Born: November 3, 1928
- Died: May 21, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Isidor Straus in Titanic
- Cause of death: Lung cancer
Lew Palter was an American actor and acting teacher known for portraying Isidor Straus in the blockbuster film Titanic (1997). His performance in the film’s emotional farewell scene became one of its most memorable moments.
Palter had a long career in television and theatre, appearing in series such as Columbo, The A-Team, and Charlie’s Angels. He also spent decades teaching acting at the California Institute of the Arts.
Ray Stevenson

- Born: May 25, 1964
- Died: May 21, 2023
- Nationality: British
- Known for: Rome, Thor, RRR
- Cause of death: Not publicly disclosed
Ray Stevenson was a versatile British actor known for powerful performances in historical dramas and action films. He gained international recognition for playing Titus Pullo in the HBO series Rome.
Stevenson also appeared in major productions including Marvel’s Thor films, King Arthur, and the Indian epic RRR. His sudden death during filming in Italy shocked fans and colleagues across the global film industry.
Actors Who Died in June 2023
Treat Williams

- Born: December 1, 1951
- Died: June 12, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Hair, Everwood
- Cause of death: Motorcycle accident injuries
Treat Williams was an American actor with a career spanning film, television, and stage. He rose to fame with the musical film Hair (1979) and later appeared in movies such as Prince of the City and Once Upon a Time in America.
Williams also became widely known to television audiences for his role in the drama series Everwood. His sudden death in a motorcycle accident in Vermont led to tributes from across the entertainment community.
Alan Arkin

- Born: March 26, 1934
- Died: June 29, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Little Miss Sunshine, Argo
- Cause of death: Natural causes
Alan Arkin was an Academy Award-winning actor celebrated for his work across film, television, and theatre. He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in Little Miss Sunshine (2006).
Arkin’s career spanned more than seven decades, with notable roles in The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming, Argo, and the Netflix series The Kominsky Method. He was widely respected for his versatility and understated comedic talent.
Actors Who Died in July 2023
Paul Reubens

- Born: August 27, 1952
- Died: July 30, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Pee-wee Herman
- Cause of death: Cancer
Paul Reubens was an American actor, comedian, and writer best known for creating the eccentric character Pee-wee Herman. The character gained national fame through Pee-wee’s Playhouse and the film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure.
Reubens’ imaginative style helped shape children’s television in the 1980s and influenced generations of comedians. His death after a private battle with cancer marked the end of an era for fans of the iconic character.
Angus Cloud

- Born: July 10, 1998
- Died: July 31, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Fezco in Euphoria
- Cause of death: Accidental drug overdose
Angus Cloud was a rising American actor who gained widespread recognition for playing Fezco in the HBO series Euphoria. Despite having little acting experience before the role, his natural performance quickly earned him a strong fan following.
Cloud also appeared in films and music videos during his brief career. His sudden death at the age of 25 shocked fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Actors Who Died in August 2023
Ron Cephas Jones

- Born: January 8, 1957
- Died: August 19, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: This Is Us
- Cause of death: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complications
Ron Cephas Jones was an award-winning actor known for portraying William Hill in the television drama This Is Us. His performance earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Guest Actor.
Jones had a long career in theatre, television, and film, appearing in productions such as Mr. Robot and Luke Cage. His work was praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
Bob Barker

- Born: December 12, 1923
- Died: August 26, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Host of The Price Is Right
- Cause of death: Alzheimer’s disease complications
Bob Barker was a legendary American television host and media personality. He hosted the game show The Price Is Right from 1972 to 2007, making it the longest-running game show in North American television history.
Barker also hosted Truth or Consequences and became widely known for advocating animal rights. His decades-long television career made him one of the most recognizable personalities in American broadcasting.
Actors Who Died in September 2023
David McCallum

- Born: September 19, 1933
- Died: September 25, 2023
- Nationality: Scottish
- Known for: NCIS, The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
- Cause of death: Natural causes
David McCallum was a Scottish actor and musician who gained fame in the 1960s as secret agent Illya Kuryakin in The Man from U.N.C.L.E.. The role made him a major television star of the era.
Later in his career, McCallum became widely known to modern audiences as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on the long-running CBS series NCIS. His career in film and television lasted more than six decades.
Michael Gambon

- Born: October 19, 1940
- Died: September 27, 2023
- Nationality: Irish-British
- Known for: Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter
- Cause of death: Pneumonia
Sir Michael Gambon was an acclaimed stage and film actor best known internationally for portraying Professor Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter film series.
Over his long career, Gambon also starred in productions such as The Singing Detective, Gosford Park, and The King’s Speech. His powerful stage performances earned him several prestigious theatre awards.
Actors Who Died in October 2023
Richard Roundtree

- Born: July 9, 1942
- Died: October 24, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Shaft
- Cause of death: Pancreatic cancer
Richard Roundtree was a pioneering American actor who became a cultural icon for his role as detective John Shaft in the 1971 film Shaft. The role made him a leading figure in the blaxploitation film movement.
Roundtree later appeared in numerous films and television series over a career spanning more than five decades.
Matthew Perry

- Born: August 19, 1969
- Died: October 28, 2023
- Nationality: American-Canadian
- Known for: Chandler Bing in Friends
- Cause of death: Acute effects of ketamine
Matthew Perry was a beloved television actor best known for portraying Chandler Bing in the hit sitcom Friends. His sarcastic humor and emotional performances made the character one of television’s most memorable roles.
Perry later appeared in films and series while also becoming an advocate for addiction recovery.
Actors Who Died in November 2023
Evan Ellingson

- Born: July 1, 1988
- Died: November 5, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: CSI: Miami, My Sister’s Keeper
- Cause of death: Accidental fentanyl overdose
Evan Ellingson was an American actor known for television roles including Kyle Harmon in CSI: Miami. He also appeared in the film My Sister’s Keeper.
Ellingson began acting at a young age and worked in both television and film during the early 2000s. His death at age 35 highlighted ongoing concerns about opioid addiction.
Actors Who Died in December 2023
Norman Lear

- Born: July 27, 1922
- Died: December 5, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Creator of All in the Family
- Cause of death: Cardiac arrest
Norman Lear was a legendary television writer and producer who transformed American sitcoms. He created groundbreaking shows including All in the Family, The Jeffersons, and Maude.
Lear’s work introduced social and political themes into mainstream television comedy and influenced decades of television storytelling.
Ryan O’Neal

- Born: April 20, 1941
- Died: December 8, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Love Story, Barry Lyndon
- Cause of death: Congestive heart failure
Ryan O’Neal was a major Hollywood star known for his Oscar-nominated role in Love Story. He also appeared in films such as What’s Up, Doc? and Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon.
O’Neal remained active in film and television for decades, maintaining a lasting presence in Hollywood.
Andre Braugher

- Born: July 1, 1962
- Died: December 11, 2023
- Nationality: American
- Known for: Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Homicide: Life on the Street
- Cause of death: Lung cancer
Andre Braugher was a critically acclaimed actor known for his commanding performances in television dramas and comedies. He won multiple Emmy Awards for his role as Detective Frank Pembleton in Homicide: Life on the Street.
Later, he gained a new generation of fans as Captain Raymond Holt in the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Why 2023 Was a Significant Year of Loss in Film & Television
The actors who died in 2023 represented a wide range of entertainment eras:
- Golden-age Hollywood veterans
- Emmy-winning television performers
- Rising streaming-era stars
- Stage legends and voice actors
Many careers spanned 40–70 years, shaping multiple generations of film and television storytelling.
Editorial Note
This list includes actors whose deaths were confirmed in 2023 through publicly reported sources. Ages, nationalities, and causes of death are included where available from reliable records. The list focuses primarily on performers widely recognized for work in film, television, or theater.
Final Reflection
The actors who died in 2023 leave behind performances that continue to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide. Through unforgettable characters and powerful storytelling, they shaped the cultural landscape of film and television.
Though these artists are gone, their work remains preserved in cinema, television archives, and digital platforms — ensuring their legacy will continue to influence future generations of actors and filmmakers.
