THE year may have only just begun, but sadly the world has already said goodbye to some much-loved stars.
Here we take the time to look back at the celebrities who have passed away in 2024, and the incredible lives they led.
Which celebrities died in February 2024?
Robin Windsor
Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor died aged 44 on February 20.
The professional dancer finished runner-up in the 2012 series of the hit BBC show with actress Lisa Riley.
Robin first appeared on the BBC series with Patsy Kensit in 2010, reaching week nine of the competition, before being eliminated at the same stage with EastEnders legend Anita Dobson two years later.
The news of his death was confirmed by Sisco Entertainment, which represented him in various areas of theatre and corporate entertainment.
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A statement said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, Robin Windsor.
“Robin’s presence in Come What May was more than just a performance; it was an embodiment of passion, grace, and sheer talent.
“His extraordinary ability to express emotion through movement captivated audiences, leaving them spellbound with every step.”
Ewen MacIntosh
The Office star Ewen MacIntosh tragically died aged 50 on February 19.
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The comedian played Kevin Bishop in the UK version of the classic sitcom starring Ricky Gervais.
Ewen’s portrayal of the deadpan accountant was praised for a string of comedy moments – including dressing as Ali G.
He also described his weakness on a staff appraisal as “eczema” and was famed for his iconic love of Scotch eggs.
Tributes flooded in for the star led by his co-star Ricky Gervais.
He wrote: “Extremely sad news. The very funny and very lovely Ewen MacIntosh, known to many as ‘Big Keith’ from The Office, has passed away. An absolute original. RIP.”
Steve Wright
BBC Radio 2 DJ Steve Wright tragically died aged 69 on February 12, after bringing joy to listeners for more than 40 years.
The veteran DJ presented Steve Wright in the Afternoon and fronted Top of the Pops.
He also presented the popular Sunday Love Songs mid-morning show on Radio 2.
His family said in a moving statement: “It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright.
“In addition to his son, Tom, and daughter, Lucy, Steve leaves behind his brother, Laurence and his father Richard.
“Also, much-loved close friends and colleagues, and millions of devoted radio listeners who had the good fortune and great pleasure of allowing Steve into their daily lives as one of the UK’s most enduring and popular radio personalities.”
Henry Fambrough
Legendary Motown singer Henry Fambrough died at the age of 85 on February 7.
The star was the last surviving original member of the hit group The Spinners.
His spokesperson revealed “he died peacefully” at his home in northern Virginia.
Henry’s death came just months after The Spinners was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Michael Jayston
Only Fools and Horses star Michael Jayston died aged 88 after a “short illness”.
The actor’s agent announced the news on behalf of his family.
He played the Valeyard, the Doctor’s dark side, in all fourteen episodes of Doctor Who from 1986.
He also made appearances in EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
Toby Keith
Legendary country star Toby Keith passed away after battling cancer.
The musician, 62, was surrounded by his family when he died on February 5.
Keith revealed in June 2022 that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer and had been receiving chemotherapy and other treatments.
A statement shared on X, formerly Twitter, said, “He fought his fight with grace and courage.
“Please respect the privacy of his family at the time.”
Ian Lavender
Dad’s Army and EastEnders star Ian Lavender died aged 77 on February 2.
He played Private Pike in the hit BBC sitcom and was the last surviving member of the cast.
In later years Ian had also become a popular character in the BBC soap EastEnders playing Derek Harkinson.
Announcing his death, a Dad’s Army spokesperson said his passing “truly marks the end of an era.”
The statement added: “His wonderful performance as Private Frank Pike will live on for decades to come.
“He leaves behind a legacy of laughter enjoyed by millions. We will dedicate this year’s tour to his memory.
“Our thoughts and love are with Ian’s wonderful wife Miki, their family and close friends.”
Jonnie Irwin
A Place in the Sun presenter Jonnie Irwin died aged 50 on February 2, after enduring a gruelling battle with lung cancer.
Jonnie, 50, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020 – a week after filming the popular show in Italy.
Tragically, the cancer spread to his brain and in 2022 Jonnie revealed he had just six months to live.
A statement about his death posted on Instagram read: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Jonnie’s passing.
“A truly remarkable soul, he fought bravely against cancer with unwavering strength and courage. Jonnie touched the lives of so many with his kindness, warmth, and infectious spirit.”
Which celebrities died in January 2024?
Charmian Abrahams
Crossroads star Charmian Abrahams died aged 96 after being hit by a delivery van.
The actress – best known for playing Mavis Hooper in the soap – died in Harborne, Birmingham, on January 15.
In a statement – released through West Midlands Police – the family said: “Charmian was a much-loved aunt and great-aunt and a dear friend to many.
“At 96 she was still full of life and energy and fiercely independent.
“In her working life she had enjoyed a long career as an actor on stage and screen, performing alongside many great theatrical figures.
“We are devastated that her life has been brought to an end so suddenly and tragically, but we will treasure our memories of her zest for life and the many good times we shared with her.”
Annie Nightingale
Radio 1 DJ Annie Nightingale passed away aged 83 on January 11.
The trailblazing presenter became the first female DJ on the station in 1970 – launching the careers of dozens of unknown artists.
Her family paid tribute, saying Annie passed away at her home in London after a “short illness”.
They added: “Annie was a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many.
“Her impulse to share that enthusiasm with audiences remained undimmed after six decades of broadcasting on BBC TV and radio globally.”
Georgina Hale
Actress Georgina Hale died aged 80 on January 4, after an incredible TV and theatre career spanning 50 years.
The star performer was known for a host of roles and featured on hit shows Emmerdale and Hollyoaks.
The actress was also well-known for her award-winning work in the films of Ken Russell.
Her performance in Mahler (1974) was rewarded with a Bafta film award as most promising newcomer.
She also received a Laurence Olivier Award nomination for her performance in the original London production of Steaming.
David Soul
Starsky and Hutch actor David Soul died on January 4.
He famously played Hutch in the hit detective series.
His wife Helen Snell said her husband died after a “valiant battle for life”.
David was also a singer, and would be known for his many talents outside acting, his wife said.
A devastated Helen wrote: “David Soul – beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother – died yesterday after a valiant battle for life in the loving company of family.
“He shared many extraordinary gifts in the world as actor, singer, storyteller, creative artist and dear friend.
“His smile, laughter and passion for life will be remembered by the many whose lives he has touched.”
Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins actress Glynis Johns died on January 4.
The star, who played Mrs. Winifred Banks in the hit 1964 film that starred Julie Andrews in the title role, was 100.
Johns’ publicist, Mitch Clem, confirmed her death to Los Angeles ABC affiliate KABC.
She died of natural causes and was living in West Hollywood, California, Clem said.
Derek Draper
Kate Garraway‘s husband tragically died on January 3, following a four-year battle with Covid.
Derek Draper, 56, was left fighting for life in hospital after suffering a massive heart attack in December 2024.
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Kate said: “I’m sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away.
“As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications.”