Each new year, perhaps with the exception of 2020, brings new adventures and experiences.
There are memorable moments, standout news stories and exciting unveilings that become synonymous with the era in which they took place.
For all the highlights, however, come equally dark moments; moments that give us pause, frighten us and bring a unanimous sorrow.
The passing of a celebrity is one of those moments that can stay with us forever – recalling where we were and who we were with when we learnt of the sad news.
We’re paying tribute to all those who have passed in 2021.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following article contains images of people who have died.
This article also deals with the topic of suicide. If you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, help is always available. Call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
David Gulpilil
Yolŋu performer and artist David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu passed away from lung cancer in November, aged 68. The icon who starred in films like Crocodile Dundee, Storm Boy, Rabbit-Proof Fence, and Australia has left an incredible mark on the world.
Hugh Jackman, who had the privilege of working with David, remembered him in a solemn message, “I join all Australians, and the world over, in mourning the loss of David Gulpilil Ridjimiraril Dalaithngu… His contribution to film is immeasurable. From his cheeky laugh, to that mischievous glint in his eye and effortless ease in front of the camera … His humanity is irreplaceable.”
Bert Newton
The Australian television legend passed away on October 30 aged 83.
The news came following a long health battle he had been fighting since May when he had his leg amputated. His wife Patti shared that it was ultimately a difficult road to recovery for the star.
“It was complications with everything,” she told the Daily Mail.
“When you have a leg amputated, you have to be on a lot of painkillers, and Bert had had, just this year alone, he’s had eight procedures, which all involved anaesthetics, and that affects you pretty badly. Your whole system and just everything closes down really. That was all.”
James Michael Tyler
The Friends star, who was best known for his role as Gunther on the sitcom, passed away at the age of 59 in October following a battle with prostate cancer.
“The world knew him as Gunther (the seventh “Friend”), from the hit series “Friends,” but Michael’s loved ones knew him as an actor, musician, cancer-awareness advocate, and loving husband,” a statement released by his family said.
“Michael loved live music, cheering on his Clemson Tigers, and would often find himself in fun and unplanned adventures. If you met him once you made a friend for life.”
Willie Garson
Willie Garson, best known for his role as Carrie Bradshaw’s close friend Stanford Blatch on Sex and the City, died in September following a cancer battle.
The 57-year-old was due to appear in the Sex and the City reboot, titled And Just Like That which had kicked off filming in June and he was last spotted on set in July.
Brian Henderson
Australia’s longest serving news presenter, known best for hosting Channel Nine’s Sydney weeknight news from 1957 until 2002, passed away in August age 89.
An inductee of the TV WEEK Logies Hall of Fame and a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to TV news, entertainment and journalism, Brian’s legacy is incredible.
Francis Mossman
New Zealand soap Shortland Street star Francis Mossman tragically died in August at the age of 33. The news of his passing broke via several LGBTQI+ sites, however details around what led to the heartbreaking event remain unclear.
His brothers wrote on a GoFundMe page: “Francis was an energetic force and a much-loved brother and son. He was a well-respected member of the acting community and found a supportive and endearing family community in Sydney. His smile and energetic presence will be sorely missed by those lucky enough to have known him.”
Dieter Brummer
Home And Away star Dieter Brummer tragically passed away at age 45 in July, his death sending shockwaves through the Australian showbiz community.
The beloved actor died by suicide and there was an outpouring of love, support and activism around mental health following his passing. In a statement shared by his family, they urged anyone struggling to reach out and get help in the wake of Dieter’s heartbreaking loss.
“We lost our handsome, talented, funny, complicated and beloved Dieter. He has left a massive hole in our lives and our world will never be the same… should you, or anyone you know be affected by this, or indeed are feeling pain at this time, there are good people that you can talk to. Please pick up the phone – Lifeline 13 11 14.”
John ‘Strop’ Cornell
John ‘Strop’ Cornell sadly passed away in July aged 80 after a 20-year battle with Parkinson’s.
The close friend of Paul Hogan appeared alongside the star on the Paul Hogan Show as well as helping to produce hist most acclaimed film, Crocodile Dundee.
David Leckie
TV executive David Leckie, who was known for his work at Nine and Seven Networks, passed away aged 70 in his NSW Southern Highlands home in July.
Geoffrey Edelsten
The eccentric businessman was found dead in his Melbourne apartment on Friday June 11, aged 78.
Carla Zampatti
Celebrated Australian designer Carla Zampatti, 78, passed away in April having succumb to her injuries from a fall at the gala premiere of La Traviata on Sydney Harbour.
Prince Phillip
Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, passed away just months shy of his 100th birthday on April 9th.
Larry King
Iconic talk show host Larry King died on January 22 after he contracted COVID-19.
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