The Recent Celebrity Deaths That Stunned Hollywood In July 2025
By Kelly Coffey-Behrens on July 24, 2025 at 6:45 PM EDT
The entertainment world is reeling after a devastating string of celebrity deaths in recent days, a heartbreaking stretch that has seen the loss of beloved stars across music, television, wrestling, and the culinary world.
Each left an indelible mark on their respective industries and on the hearts of fans everywhere.
Pop Icon Connie Francis Dies At 87, Leaving Behind A Legacy Of Love And Heartache
On Tuesday, July 16, the music industry said goodbye to one of its most cherished voices.
Connie Francis, the pop singer, and actress whose hits like “Who’s Sorry Now?” and “Lipstick on Your Collar” defined a generation of teenage heartache and romance, passed away at age 87.
Her publicist and longtime friend Ron Roberts confirmed the news in a heartfelt Facebook post. “It is with a heavy heart and extreme sadness that I inform you of the passing of my dear friend Connie Francis last night.” Francis’ powerful voice and enduring presence left a lasting legacy in both music and film.
Culinary World Mourns Anne Burrell After Sudden Death At 54
The string of celebrity deaths continued the following day, on Wednesday, July 17, celebrity chef and Food Network star Anne Burrell was found “unconscious and unresponsive” in her Brooklyn home. She was later confirmed to have died by suicide at the age of 54.
Known for her no-nonsense charm on "Worst Cooks in America," Burrell’s sudden passing shocked the culinary world and beyond.
‘Cosby Show’ Star Malcolm-Jamal Warner Dead At 53 After Drowning In Costa Rica
Then on Sunday, July 20, "The Cosby Show" alum Malcolm-Jamal Warner, 53, died after being swept away by a rip current while swimming near Cocles Beach in Limon, Costa Rica. The star was caught in a powerful rip current while swimming near Cocles Beach in Limon and, despite efforts to save him, was later pronounced dead at the scene.
Volunteer lifeguard Mike Geist, who helped with the rescue, said he and another responder raced into the water after hearing a distress call. A passing surfer managed to bring Warner’s daughter to shore safely, while Geist and a fellow rescuer searched for Warner beneath the waves.
“We found him below the surface, near the ocean floor,” Geist recalled, adding that a surfer pulled Warner to the surface, where resuscitation efforts began immediately.
Two vacationing doctors performed CPR for more than 30 minutes, but sadly, Warner could not be revived. Authorities later confirmed his cause of death as asphyxia due to drowning.
‘Prince Of Darkness’ Ozzy Osbourne Dies At 76 Surrounded By Family
Just two days later, on July 22, the rock world bid farewell to an icon, Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness.”
The 76-year-old Black Sabbath frontman passed away following complications from Parkinson’s disease and other long-term health issues.
His final performance with the band in Birmingham, just weeks prior, now stands as a powerful farewell to a remarkable career. “He died surrounded by love,” his family said in a heartfelt statement.
From his groundbreaking days with Black Sabbath to his reinvention as a solo artist and reality TV sensation, Ozzy Osbourne carved out a legacy defined by fearless reinvention, unapologetic rebellion, and an unfiltered authenticity that captivated generations.
Jazz Legend Chuck Mangione Dies at 84
But unfortunately, the celebrity deaths didn't end there.
Beloved jazz musician Chuck Mangione, best known for his smooth flugelhorn sound and the iconic crossover hit “Feels So Good,” passed away in his sleep on July 22 at the age of 84. His death was confirmed by a funeral home in his hometown of Rochester, New York.
A towering figure in pop-jazz, Mangione’s career spanned more than three decades and 30 albums. He earned two Grammy Awards and 14 nominations, solidifying his legacy as one of the genre’s most accessible and influential artists.
In addition to his chart-topping music, Mangione became a familiar face to younger audiences through his recurring animated cameo as himself on "King of the Hill."
WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Dies At 71
On July 24, the wrestling community was rocked by the sudden death of Hulk Hogan, the towering, mustachioed superstar who brought “Hulkamania” to the mainstream.
The 71-year-old, whose real name was Terry Bollea, died at his home in Clearwater, Florida. The tragic news came just two days after his close friend and longtime on-screen manager Jimmy Hart assured fans Hogan was “doing phenomenal.”
A 12-time world champion and WWE Hall of Famer, Hogan remained active with fans and business ventures up until his death.
As tributes pour in for each of these remarkable individuals, fans around the world are left reflecting on just how much they gave, and how deeply they’ll be missed.
