Wonderwall.com is taking a look back at the bold-faced names we lost in 2021, starting with this Hollywood talent… Peter Scolari, whom mainstream audiences first got to know when he starred on the early-'80s sitcom "Bosom Buddies" alongside Tom Hanks, Died on Oct. 22 after a two-year cancer battle, Variety confirmed. He was 66. In the late '80s, Peter earned three Emmy nominations for his work on the comedy series "Newhart" and in 2016, he won an Emmy for his performance as Lena Dunham's character's father on the lauded HBO series "Girls." He also appeared in many Broadway productions during his career including "Hairspray," "Sly Fox," "Wicked," "Magic/Bird" and "Lucky Guy," in which he reunited with Tom.

Keep reading to see more stars who died this year…

RELATED: Stars who've had cancer

Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, died and director Joel Souza, 48, was wounded on the New Mexico set of the indie Western "Rust" on Oct. 21 after they were "shot when a prop firearm was discharged" by actor Alec Baldwin on location at the Bonanza Creek Ranch outside Santa Fe, authorities confirmed. No charges have been filed, but the incident remains an "open and active" investigation. A reporter and photographer for the Santa Fe New Mexican saw Alec, who was questioned by law enforcement, in tears after the tragedy. Halyna, a native of Ukraine, was transported by helicopter to University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, where she passed away, the sheriff's office confirmed. (The director was taken by ambulance to another hospital and released the same day.) According to a spokesperson for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 44 — a union for propmasters — the gun contained "a live round" and the production's propmaster was not a member of Local 44, IndieWire reported. Alec issued a statement on Oct. 22, writing, "There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family. My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna."

RELATED: Alec Baldwin and more stars react to the death of Halyna Hutchins

Video vixen and actress Tawny Kitaen died at her home in Newport Beach, California, on May 7 at 59. Five months later, the Orange County coroner's office confirmed she died from dilated cardiomyopathy, the most common type of heart disease, TMZ reported on Oct. 20, further revealing that other contributing factors included clogged arteries and that antidepressants, sedatives, Tylenol, nerve pain medication and opioids were also found in her system. Tawny starred opposite Tom Hanks in the 1984 film "Bachelor Party" and appeared in music videos for Ratt and Whitesnake, most notably the latter's "Is This Love" and "Here I Go Again," and was briefly married to Whitesnake frontman David Coverdale before going on to have two daughters with baseball player Chuck Finley during their short-lived marriage. In more recent years, the beauty — whose real first name was Julie — was known for her reality TV show appearances on series including "The Surreal Life," "Botched" and VH1's "Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew."

RELATED: Stars we lost to the coronavirus

Prolific voice actor Chris Ayres — who was best known for playing Frieza in the "Dragon Ball" series — died on Oct. 18 four years after being diagnosed with end-stage cardio obstructive pulmonary disease, Entertainment Weekly reported. He was 56. His girlfriend, actress Krystal LaPorte, announced his passing on social media. "On October 18th at 8:40pm, my world went dark. Christopher Owen Ayres passed away peacefully, held close by his mother, brother, and girlfriend. Chris loved you all. How much he loved other people filled the vast majority of our conversations. To those of you who truly loved him back, thank you. To those of you who stayed in touch, checked on him, reminded him that he was so, so much more than his job, you were the fuel of his fight. You fed the dreams of a future that kept him going longer than any normal person could go." Grieving her love, she added, "I hope where you are, the first thing you did was take a long, deep breath with your perfect lungs and danced again."

RELATED: Famous people with Alzheimer's disease

Betty Lynn — who was best known for playing Barney Fife's girlfriend Thelma Lou on "The Andy Griffith Show" — died on Oct. 16 at 95 after a brief illness, the Andy Griffith Museum revealed.

Character actor Ravil Isyanov — who portrayed Russian mobster Kirkin on "NCIS: Los Angeles" (pictured) for four seasons and appeared on a slew of other shows including "GLOW," "The Americans" and "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D." as well as in films like "Defiance" and "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" — passed away in Los Angeles on Sept. 29 after a cancer battle, People magazine reported on Oct. 13. The Moscow-bon actor — who will make a final on-screen appearance playing Billy Wilder in the upcoming film "Blonde" starring Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe — was 59.

Colin Powell — the first Black U.S. secretary of state, who served from 2001 to 2005 — died on Oct. 18 following a battle with the coronavirus. The four-star general and Vietnam veteran, 84, was fully vaccinated, his family revealed; he also suffered from Parkinson's disease and the blood cancer multiple myeloma. "General Colin L. Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, passed away this morning due to complications from Covid-19," his family wrote on Facebook. "We have lost a remarkable and loving husband, father, grandfather and a great American."

Former child star Matthew Mindler — who most notably appeared in the movie "Our Idiot Brother" as the son of Emily Mortimer and Steve Coogan's characters and acted on "As the World Turns" as well as in other projects — was found dead on Aug. 28. He was 19. The college student had been reported missing days earlier. "It is with a grieving heart that I let you know of the death of 19-year-old Matthew Mindler from Hellertown, Pennsylvania, a first-year student at Millersville University. Our thoughts of comfort and peace are with his friends and family during this difficult time," Millersville University president Daniel A. Wubah said in a statement. "A search had been underway for Matthew since Thursday, after he was reported missing. Millersville University Police and law enforcement agencies from the area had been searching for him since that time. Matthew was found deceased this morning, Saturday, August 28 in Manor Township near campus. Matthew was transported to the Lancaster County Forensic Center by the coroner for further investigation." On Oct. 14, the Lancaster County Medical Examiner's Office revealed to TMZ that Matthew died by suicide, with toxicology tests citing sodium nitrate toxicity. His mother, Monica, told TMZ she was devastated to learn her son had purchased the substance, which is commonly used to preserve foods like meat, on Amazon and was publicly sharing the details in hopes his passing would serve as a cautionary tale for other parents.

"Oz" star Granville Adams, who played Zahir Arif on the lauded HBO drama, died after a cancer battle, the show's showrunner and executive producer, Tom Fontana, announced on social media on Oct. 10. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor — who also appeared on "Homicide: Life On the Street" over three years in the late '90s — was believed to be about 58. "Goodnight, sweet prince/and flights of angels sing thee to [thy] rest," Tom wrote alongside a photo of Granville on Instagram. "Oz" co-star Dean Winters — who earlier in the year joined Tom to launch a GoFundMe page to help Granville's family with medical bills — mourned his friend and colleague on Instagram too, writing in part, "I first met Granny in 1992 and I immediately drank the Kool Aid. His smile was infectious, his chuckle was intoxicating. He never, ever spoke ill of anyone and I defy anyone who knew him to say anything negative about this man. Granville was beloved, period. He may as well have had people throwing rose petals at his feet while he walked down the street. A humble, beautiful soul who just elevated the afterlife to a whole new level. You will be missed my friend. You are my brother and I'm a better human being for knowing you."

On Oct. 6, news broke revealing that Fuller Goldsmith — who competed on Bravo's "Top Chef Junior" in 2017 and at 14 won the Food Network's "Chopped Junior" — had died of cancer. He was 17. After going into remission four times after he was first diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at 3, the cancer surfaced for the fifth time in February. "Top Chef Junior" host Vanessa Lachey mourned Fuller on Instagram, writing, "We all Loved Fuller so much! And will never forget his contagious smile, laugh and butter tricks. Sending so much Love to his family. We will never forget you Fuller!"

Actress Cynthia Harris — who's perhaps best known for playing the mother of Paul Reiser's character on "Mad About You" — died in New York on Oct. 3, her family announced in her obituary. She was 87. Cynthia — a celebrated Broadway actress — also appeared in movies including "Three Men and a Baby" and on TV in the 1979 miniseries "Edward & Mrs. Simpson," in which she played Duchess of Windsor Wallis Simpson, and popped up on television series including "The Bob Newhart Show," "Laverne & Shirley," "Three's Company," "Archie Bunker's Place," "Law & Order" and "All My Children," the New York Post reported.

Alan Kalter — a voiceover artist who was best known as the longtime announcer on the "Late Show with David Letterman" — "passed away peacefully" on Oct. 4 at Connecticut's Stamford Hospital, Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El in Stamford told USA Today. Alan, who was surrounded by his family when he died, was 78. David mourned Alan in a statement, sharing of hiring him, "Alan's was the first and only voice we listened to. We knew he would be our choice. Whatever else, we always had the best announcer in television. Wonderful voice and eagerness to play a goofy character of himself. Did I mention he could sing? Yes he could. He enthusiastically did it all. A very sad day, but many great memories." Fans might also remember Alan's work voicing commercials for Gillette, Michelin and the USA Network, among others, and for his announcing work on game shows including "The $10,000 Pyramid," "The $25,000 Pyramid," "The Money Maze" and "To Tell The Truth."

Veteran soap opera star Michael Tylo — who played handsome Quinton Chamberlain on "Guiding Light" from 1981 to 1985 and again from 1996 to 1997 and also appeared on daytime dramas including "The Young and the Restless," "General Hospital," "The Bold and the Beautiful" and "All My Children" — died on Sept. 28 at Henderson Hospital in Henderson, Nevada, Deadline reported. He was 72 or 73, according to conflicting reports. The actor started as a visiting theater and film professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2003 and later served as assistant dean of the school's College of Fine Arts.

Willie Garson — who portrayed Stanford Blatch on "Sex and the City" and will appear on the upcoming reboot "And Just Like That…" — died on Sept. 21 at 57, his son, Nathen Garson, announced on Instagram, captioning a slideshow of photos of the actor, "I love you so much papa. Rest In Peace and I'm so glad you got to share all your adventures with me and were able to accomplish so much. I'm so proud of you. I will always love you, but I think it's time for you to go on an adventure of your own. You'll always be with me. Love you more than you will ever know and I'm glad you can be at peace now. You always were the toughest and funniest and smartest person I've known. I'm glad you shared your love with me. I'll never forget it or lose it." The beloved star — who was mourned by co-stars and celebrity friends in the wake of the sad news — died from pancreatic cancer; he had not publicly disclosed his illness before his passing.

Former child star Tommy Kirk — who was best known for his performance as Travis Coates in "Old Yeller" and for his work in other Disney movies including "The Shaggy Dog," "Swiss Family Robinson" and "The Misadventures of Merlin Jones" — was found dead in his Las Vegas home by a neighbor on Sept. 28, TMZ reported, adding that foul play is not suspected. He was 79.

On Sept. 27, the family of actress Jean Hale — who memorably played the Mad Hatter's beautiful gal Polly, the hat-check girl — on TV's "Batman" — revealed she died at 82 in Santa Monica, California, on Aug. 3, Deadline reported. Jean — who was married to actor Dabney Coleman from 1961 to 1984 — also popped up on a slew of popular television shows including "Bonanza," "Hawaii Five-O," "McHale's Navy," "The Perry Mason Show," "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour," "Hogan's Heroes" and many more. On the big screen, one of her most high-profile projects was the 1967 James Coburn spy parody "In Like Flint."

"The Wire" and "Boardwalk Empire" star Michael K. Williams — a five-time Emmy nominee who was most recently nominated in 2021 for his work on "Lovecraft Country" — was found dead in his Brooklyn apartment on Sept. 6, an NYPD source confirmed to People magazine. Another law enforcement insider told the outlet that the 54-year-old actor died of a suspected drug overdose of fentanyl-laced heroin, and on Sept. 24, the New York City Medical Examiner's Office publicly confirmed that the actor died from accidental "acute intoxication by the combined effects of fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, heroin and cocaine." Michael had long been open about his addiction battles. Celebrity friends including "The Wire" co-star Wendell Pierce took to social media to grieve. "The depth of my love for this brother, can only be matched by the depth of my pain learning of his loss," Wendell wrote in part, calling Michael an "immensely talented man with the ability to give voice to the human condition portraying the lives of those whose humanity is seldom elevated until he sings their truth."

Samoan American star Al Harrington, who made his acting debut as Detective Ben Kokua on the original "Hawaii Five-O," died on Sept. 21 after suffering a stroke the previous week, a rep confirmed to TheWrap. He was 85. "Al was truly a gift from God," his wife, Rosa Harrington, said in a statement. "A noble, compassionate, patient and gentle man with a witty sense of humor and a larger-than-life laugh that will echo in my heart until we are reunited. He was generous, quick to forgive, a hard worker, a provider and always ready to talk-story. He loved his community and even more, his culture. It was his greatest honor to represent his people on-screen, and to serve them off-screen. To know him was to feel seen, loved, safe and welcomed. As an Icon for Hawai'i, our islands and her people are mourning his loss." The actor — who was born in Pago Pago, the capital of American Samoa, but grew up in Hawaii — appeared on 10 episodes of the "Hawaii Five-O" reboot as Mamo Kahike between 2011 and 2018.

Singer Sarah Dash, a member of the girl group Labelle alongside Patti LaBelle and Nona Hendryx — the powerhouse vocalists behind the original "Lady Marmalade" — died on Sept. 20 at 76. "We were just on-stage together on Saturday and it was such a powerful and special moment!" Patti wrote on social media, mourning her friend and colleague. "#SarahDash was an awesomely talented, beautiful, and loving soul who blessed my life and the lives of so many others in more ways than I can say. And I could always count on her to have my back! That's who Sarah was…a loyal friend and a voice for those who didn't have one. She was a true giver…always serving, always sharing her talent and her time. I am heart broken, as I know all of her loved ones and fans are. But, I know that Sarah's spirit and all that she has given to the world live on! And I pray that her precious memory brings us peace and comfort. Rest in power my dear sister. I love you always!"

Melvin Van Peebles — a pioneer of modern Black cinema — died on Sept. 21 at his home in New York City. He was 89. Melvin was also the father of actor-director Mario Van Peebles. "In an unparalleled career distinguished by relentless innovation, boundless curiosity and spiritual empathy, Melvin Van Peebles made an indelible mark on the international cultural landscape through his films, novels, plays and music," said a statement from his family, The Criterion Collection and Janus Films, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. "His work continues to be essential and is being celebrated at the New York Film Festival this weekend with a 50th anniversary screening of his landmark film 'Sweet Sweetback's Baadas**** Song'; a Criterion Collection box set, 'Melvin Van Peebles: Essential Films,' next week; and a revival of his play 'Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death,' slated for a return to Broadway next year."

Fashion editor and journalist Richard Buckley — the longtime husband of designer-filmmaker Tom Ford — "died of natural causes after a long illness" on Sept. 19, according to a statement from Tom's reps, People magazine reported. He was 72. "Richard passed away peacefully at their home in Los Angeles with Tom and their son Jack by his side," the statement said. Tom and Richard, who during his long career wrote for publications including New York Magazine, Women's Wear Daily and Vanity Fair, were a couple since 1986 and wed in 2014.

Norm Macdonald, the actor, comedian and influential former star of "Saturday Night Live" who manned the "Weekend Update" desk in the '90s, died on Sept. 14 at 61, his management firm confirmed to Deadline. Lori Jo Hoekstra, the comic's producing partner and friend — who was with Norm when he passed away — revealed that he'd privately been battling cancer for nine years. "He was most proud of his comedy," she said. "He never wanted the diagnosis to affect the way the audience or any of his loved ones saw him. Norm was a pure comic. He once wrote that 'a joke should catch someone by surprise, it should never pander.' He certainly never pandered. Norm will be missed terribly." Dozens of friends and fellow comics and Hollywood stars mourned Norm on social media.

RELATED: Stars diagnosed with cancer

Hollywood's Golden Age actress Jane Powell died of natural causes at her home in Wilton, Connecticut, on Sept. 16, Deadline reported. She was 92. Early in her career, she notably starred in MGM musicals including 1951's "Royal Wedding" with Fred Astaire and 1954's "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." Later, she appeared on "Growing Pains" as Alan Thicke's character's mother as well as on the soap operas "Loving" and "As the World Turns" in the '80s and '90s and made guest appearances on all the major now-classic TV shows including "Fantasy Island," "Love Boat" and "Murder, She Wrote," Variety added. Jane long worked in the theater too and might also look familiar to TV viewers from her many Polident commercials. The actress was also a bridesmaid in the first of late screen legend Elizabeth Taylor's many weddings.

Stand-up comedian and actor Art Metrano — who's best remembered as boss Ernie Mauser in the second and third "Police Academy" movies and as Chachi's manager uncle Rico Mastorelli on the "Happy Days" spinoff sitcom "Joanie Loves Chachi" — died of natural causes at his home in Aventura, Florida, at 84 on Sept. 8, son Harry told The Hollywood Reporter.

Character actor Michael Constantine, who's perhaps best known for his work as the Windex-loving father of the bride in the hit movie "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," died at home in Reading, Pennsylvania, on Sept. 8, from natural causes at 94, his hometown newspaper reported. Michael's lengthy resume also includes a notable role as the high school principal on "Room 222." He won an Emmy for his performance on the popular sitcom in 1970.

Comedian Fuquan Johnson, a stand-up performer who also wrote for TV's "Comedy Parlour Live," is dead at 43 from what TMZ reported was a suspected unintentional drug overdose of fentanyl-laced cocaine. According to the webloid, a 911 call summoned police and paramedics to a residence in Venice, California, in the early morning hours of Sept. 4 where the funnyman and two other people, comedian Enrico Colangeli, 48, and Natalie Williamson, 33, also died at the scene. Another comedian, podcast host Kate Quigley, 39 — who made headlines in 2020 when she dated country music star Darius Rucker — was rushed to the hospital and survived. "I'm alive. I'm not great. But im. Ok," she texted a friend hours later, The Sun reported.

Girls Aloud singer Sarah Harding died on Sept. 5 a little more than a year after sharing that she'd been diagnosed with breast cancer, which had spread to other parts of her body. She was 39. The British music star's mother announced the sad news on Instagram. "It's with deep heartbreak that today I'm sharing the news that my beautiful daughter Sarah has sadly passed away. Many of you will know of Sarah's battle with cancer and that she fought so strongly from her diagnosis until her last day. She slipped away peacefully this morning," her mum, Marie, wrote. "I'd like to thank everyone for their kind support over the past year. It meant the world to Sarah and it gave her great strength and comfort to know she was loved. I know she won't want to be remembered for her fight against this terrible disease — she was a bright shining star and I hope that's how she can be remembered instead."

Former "Today" show weatherman Willard Scott — who also notably played Ronald McDonald and Bozo the Clown on TV during his long career — passed away on Sept. 4 at his farm in Delaplane, Virginia, following a brief illness, his wife confirmed to The New York Times. Fellow weather forecaster Al Roker mourned Willard on Instagram. "We lost a beloved member of our @todayshow family this morning. Willard Scott passed peacefully at the age of 87 surrounded by family, including his daughters Sally and Mary and his lovely wife, Paris. He was truly my second dad and am where I am today because of his generous spirit. Willard was a man of his times, the ultimate broadcaster. There will never be anyone quite like him," Al wrote.

Seven-time Emmy winner Ed Asner — who won fans as newsman Lou Grant on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and later as the star of the spinoff "Lou Grant" — died on Aug. 29. The acclaimed character actor was 91. Ed, who also took home five Golden Globes during his long career and served as president of the Screen Actors Guild in the '80s, also notably starred in "Rich Man, Poor Man," "Roots," "Up" and "Elf," among other shows and movies. His family announced the sad news in a statement on Ed's Twitter account, writing, "We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully. Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head- Goodnight dad. We love you."

Pioneering Jamaican producer, songwriter and performer Lee "Scratch" Perry died at a hospital in Lucea, Jamaica, on Aug. 29. The Grammy winner was 85. "Perry was a pioneer in the 1970s' development of dub music with his early adoption of studio effects to create new instrumentals of existing reggae tracks," Jamaica Prime Minister Andrew Holness shared in a statement. "He has worked with and produced for various artists, including Bob Marley and the Wailers, the Congos, Adrian Sherwood, the Beastie Boys, and many others. Undoubtedly, Lee Scratch Perry will always be remembered for his sterling contribution to the music fraternity. May his soul Rest In Peace."

Wonderwall.com is taking a look back at the bold-faced names we lost in 2021, starting with this reality TV star… Nene Leakes' husband Gregg Leakes — who made frequent appearances on "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" between 2008 and 2019 — died on Sept. 1 following a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 66. "After a long battle with cancer, Gregg Leakes has passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by all of his children, very close loved ones and wife Nene Leakes," publicist and family friend Ernest Dukes said in a statement, according to The Wrap. "We ask that you pray for peace and strength over their family [and] allow them to mourn in private during this very, very difficult time." Gregg was diagnosed with stage III colon cancer in the summer of 2018. By May 2019, the cancer had gone into remission, but in June 2021, Nene announced that it had returned and that her husband had been hospitalized. Gregg and Nene tied the knot in 1997, divorced in 2011 and remarried in 2013. They share one son, Brentt. Nene has another son from a previous relationship, while Gregg has five older kids from previous relationships.

Actor Michael Nader, who memorably played the love interest of two formidable characters on two popular dramas — Alexis Colby's third husband, Dex, on the original "Dynasty" and Erica Kane's two-time husband, Hungarian count Dimitri Marick, on "All My Children" — died from an untreatable form of cancer in Northern California on Aug. 23 at 76. His wife, Jodi Lister, and rescue dog, Storm, were by his side. "With heavy heart, I'm sharing the news of the passing of my beloved, Michael. We had 18 wonderful years together with the many dogs we fostered and adopted," Jodi told Michael Fairman TV in a statement. "Recently, Michael was so thrilled to reconnect with his friends from the cast of 'Dynasty' during Emma Samms virtual event to help raise funds for Long-Covid research. Michael was working on a book about his life and addiction at the time of his death. He was a beautiful and fascinating man with many talents and skills.  I will miss him forever."

On Aug. 24, a rep for "So You Think You Can Dance" season 11 alum Serge Onik — who also appeared in the 2021 movie "In the Heights" and on TV's "Dancing With the Stars," Marvel's "Agent Carter," "Jane the Virgin" and "Bones" — shared the heartbreaking news that the professional dancer was dead at 33. "He was an amazing dancer with a huge heart and he touched the lives of everyone who met him," Jim Keith of the Movement Talent Agency told Entertainment Weekly. "He will be truly missed. This is a sad day for us at the agency and for the dance community as a whole." Details, including a cause of death, were not released.

Charlie Watts — who played drums for the Rolling Stones for nearly 60 years — is dead at 80. On Aug. 24, publicist Bernard Doherty shared the sad news with The Associated Press that the Grammy-winning percussionist "passed away peacefully in a London hospital earlier today surrounded by his family," adding that "Charlie was a cherished husband, father and grandfather and also as a member of The Rolling Stones one of the greatest drummers of his generation." News of Charlie's death came a few weeks after he underwent an unspecified emergency surgery that caused him to pull out of his band's fall tour dates.

Saxophonist Brian Travers, a founding member of reggae group UB40, died after a "long and heroic battle with cancer" on Aug. 22 at his home in Birmingham, England, surrounded by his family, his band announced the following day. He was 62. The Grammy nominee, who with his bandmates delivered hits including "Red Red Wine" and "(I Can't Help) Falling In Love With You," sold more than 100 million records and enjoyed more than 40 Top 40 hits in the U.K.

Grammy-nominated music star Don Everly of the Everly Brothers (left) — one of rock 'n' roll's most influential duos, who were known for their impressive vocal harmonies — died in Nashville on Aug. 21. He was 84. "Don lived by what he felt in his heart," his family said in a statement to the Los Angeles Times. "Don expressed his appreciation for the ability to live his dreams … with his soulmate and wife, Adela, and sharing the music that made him an Everly Brother." Don's late younger brother and bandmate, Phil (right) — with whom he recorded hit songs including "Cathy's Clown," "All I Have to Do Is Dream" and "Bye Bye Love" — passed away in 2014.

Japanese actor and martial arts legend Shinichi "Sonny" Chiba — who had memorable roles in movies including "The Street Fighter," "Kill Bill" and "The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift" — died from complications of COVID-19 on Aug. 19, his rep confirmed to Variety. He was 82.

Conservative talk radio host Phil Valentine, who in July was hospitalized with COVID-19, died from complications caused by the illness in August. He was 61. His station, SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, confirmed his passing in an Aug. 21 tweet. Phil had made headlines as he was a vocal vaccine skeptic and himself wasn't vaccinated, but after he was moved into a critical care unit, brother Mark Valentine said the radio host regretted that he wasn't a stronger advocate for COVID-19 vaccination. "I know if he were able to tell you this, he would tell you, 'Go get vaccinated. Quit worrying about the politics. Quit worrying about all the conspiracy theories,'" Mark told The Tennessean in July. "He regrets not being more adamant about getting the vaccine. Look at the dadgum data."

On Aug. 13, Grammy-winning folkabilly singer-songwriter Nanci Griffith died in Nashville. She was 68. While she was a talented singer herself, Nanci was perhaps best known for her songs that were performed by other artists like Kathy Mattea's "Love at the Five and Dime" and Suzy Bogguss's "Outbound Plane," Variety reported, as well as for her duets with Emmylou Harris, John Prine, Willie Nelson, the Chieftains, Darius Rucker and more.

Pat Hitchcock — the only child of famed director Alfred Hitchcock and his wife, screenwriter and film editor Alma Reville — died in Thousand Oaks, California, on Aug. 9, one of her daughters confirmed to Variety. She was 93. Pat, who began acting as a child, appeared on Broadway and acted in many television shows and films including some of her father's projects like "Strangers on a Train," "Psycho," "Stage Fright" and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents."

Former child star Jane Withers, whose career flourished during Hollywood's Golden Age, died in Burbank, California, on Aug. 7, daughter Kendall Errair told Deadline. Jane was 95. Her breakout role came opposite fellow child star Shirley Temple in 1934's "Bright Eyes" and, after starring in many movies as a kid, she acted on the big screen as an adult in the 1956 film "Giant" alongside Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson and James Dean. In the '60s and '70s, she notably played Josephine the Plumber in TV ads for Comet cleanser. "My mother was such a special lady," her daughter told Deadline. "She lit up a room with her laughter, but she especially radiated joy and thankfulness when talking about the career she so loved and how lucky she was."

RELATED: Stars with Alzheimer's disease

On Aug. 7, actress Markie Post — who was best known for her work on the sitcoms "Night Court" in the '80s and '90s and "Hearts Afire" opposite John Ritter, as well as the early '80s action series "The Fall Guy" with Lee Majors — passed away following a nearly four-year cancer battle, manager Ellen Lubin Sanitsky told Deadline. In more recent years, Markie appeared on everything from "Scrubs," "Odd Man Out" and "Chicago P.D." to "Santa Clarita Diet" and "The Kids are Alright." She also memorably played the mother of Cameron Diaz's character in "There's Something About Mary." Markie was 70. Co-stars including "Night Court" foil John Larroquette took to social media to grieve the loss. "Her grace, her warmth, her intelligence, her compassion, her optimism, her empathy, her humility, her love and devotion to her family. And her flawless comic timing, her beauty, her laugh and more," John wrote on Twitter, "we all wish she could have stayed longer but we thank the cosmos for blessing us and enriching the world with her for as long as it did."

On Aug. 7, Kool & the Gang co-founder Dennis "Dee Tee" Thomas "passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 70 in New Jersey," the band said in a statement on social media. The Grammy winner "was known as the quintessential cool cat in the group, loved for his hip clothes and hats, and his laid-back demeanor. A huge personality while also an extremely private person, Dennis was the alto saxophone player, flutist, percussionist as well as master of ceremonies at the band's shows," the statement continued. "Dennis' prologue featured on the group's 1971 hit 'Who's Gonna Take the Weight' is legendary and an example of his showmanship. Dee Tee was the group's wardrobe stylist who made sure they always looked fresh. In the band's early days, Dennis also served as the 'budget hawk,' carrying the group's earnings in a paper bag in the bell of his horn."

DJ Paul Johnson — a house music icon from Chicago and influence for many modern-day DJs — passed away from complications of COVID-19 at 50 on Aug. 4. Paul was best known for his 1999 single "Get Get Down," which hit No. 1 on Billboard's Dance Club Songs chart.

Saginaw Grant — a Native American character actor with dozens of credits in films and television shows including "Breaking Bad" and "The Lone Ranger" — died on July 28, rep Lani Carmichael told CNN. He was 85. On top of his acting career, Saginaw was the "hereditary chief and the medicine man of the Sac & Fox tribe" as well as a man who "traveled the world speaking of his traditions, his experiences, his sobriety and his faith as both a Native American and a Christian," his rep added.

Actor Jay Pickett, who was best known for his work on soap operas including "General Hospital," "Port Charles" and "Days of Our Lives," died on the Idaho set of the film "Treasure Valley," colleagues announced on Aug. 1. He was 60. "Many of you have already heard about the tragedy that happened two days ago. Jay Pickett, our leading man, writer, producer, and creator of this movie passed away suddenly while we were on location preparing to film a scene," director-producer Travis Mills wrote on the movie's Facebook page. "There is no official explanation for the cause of his death but it appears to have been a heart attack." Travis added that "Everyone present tried as hard as they could to keep him alive. Our hearts are broken and we grieve for his family who are so devastated by this shocking tragedy." A separate post written by actor Jim Heffel explained that Jay "died sitting on a horse ready to rope a steer."

Ron Popeil — the inventor and TV salesman known for his infomercials and catchphrases like "But wait! There's more" and "Set it and forget it" — died from a brain hemorrhage at Cedars Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles on July 28, The New York Times reported. The Ronco founder, who sold consumers everything from the Veg-O-Matic and the Pocket Fisherman to the Showtime Rotisserie & BBQ and the Inside-the-Shell Egg Scrambler — was 86.

On July 28, Grammy-nominated rock group ZZ Top announced that their bassist, Dusty Hill, was dead at 72. "We are saddened by the news today that our Compadre, Dusty Hill, has passed away in his sleep at home in Houston, TX," read a statement from surviving members Frank Beard and Billy Gibbons. "We, along with legions of ZZ Top fans around the world, will miss your steadfast presence, your good nature and enduring commitment to providing that monumental bottom to the 'Top.' We will forever be connected to that 'Blues Shuffle in C.' You will be missed greatly, amigo."

Grammy-winning musician Joey Jordison — founding drummer of the metal band Slipknot who later performed in Scar The Martyr, Murderdolls and Sinsaenum — "passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 26," his family said in a statement to Billboard. He was 46. TMZ reported that, according to law enforcement sources, no foul play is suspected and no illegal drugs were found at his home. The medical examiner is working to determine a cause of death. Fellow rockers mourned Joey, with Korn guitarist James "Munky" Shaffer telling TMZ that his former tourmate — who in 2016 revealed he'd been diagnosed with the neurological disorder transverse myelitis a few years earlier, around the time he left Slipknot — was a "warrior," adding that Joey "loved drums, loved music, loved playing … It's very sad that he's gone so young … What an amazing f****** drummer."

Comedian Jackie Mason passed away at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City on July 24. He died in his sleep after experiencing breathing issues, his friend, famed lawyer Raoul Felder, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. Jackie — who was a rabbi before he became known for his Borscht Belt style of comedy — was 93. During his long career, he earned a special Tony Award thanks to the success of his first (of many) one-man Broadway shows, "The World According to Me!," and won two Emmys on top of appearing in movies like "The Jerk," "Caddyshack II" and "History of the World: Part I."

On July 16, "Just a Friend" hitmaker Biz Markie (real name: Marcel Theo Hall) died in a Baltimore hospital after suffering a series of complications from diabetes, TMZ reported. He was 57. "Biz created a legacy of artistry that will forever be celebrated by his industry peers and his beloved fans whose lives he was able to touch through music, spanning over 35 years," his rep said in a statement. The hip-hop community mourned too, with many stars sharing tributes to the rapper on social media. "Rest in power Biz..I love you bro," LL Cool J wrote on Instagram alongside a video in which he shared memories from their friendship. The Roots' Questlove wrote a long message that began, "Biz built me man. In my early early stages it was Biz who taught me the REAL places to cop records….Biz taught me what cities had good digging…..Biz taught me where to collect 45s……Biz taught me where to collect 8TRACK TAPES!!" Tweeted A Tribe Called Quest's Q-Tip: "This one hurts baad… D*** I'm gonna miss u."

On July 12, Travis Orndorff announced on Instagram that his father, WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Paul Orndorff — better known as Mr. Wonderful — had died at 71. "Most of you will remember him for his physique. Many will remember his intensity. But if I could only get you to understand and see his heart," Travis wrote in part in a loving tribute alongside a photo of himself hugging his dad. Paul was one of the stars of the very first WrestleMania in 1985 during which he faced off against Hulk Hogan and Mr. T. "RIP my brother, love you and thank you for always making me fight for everything in our matches," Hulk wrote on social media upon hearing the sad news. "Heaven just got even more Wonderful."

Charlie Robinson — who's perhaps best known for playing court clerk and Vietnam vet Mac Robinson on the sitcom "Night Court" — died in Los Angeles on July 11 from cardiac arrest with multisystem organ failures due to septic shock and metastatic adenocarcinoma, which is a type of glandular cancer, his manager confirmed to Entertainment Weekly. He was 75. Charlie, who did a lot of work in the theater, also appeared in movies like "Set It Off," "Antwone Fisher" and "The House Bunny" and TV shows including "Buffalo Bill," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "House," "Grey's Anatomy" and more.

William Smith, who was known for playing tough guys, passed away at 88 on July 5 at the Motion Picture & Television Country House in Los Angeles, his wife confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. He appeared in everything from "Rich Man, Poor Man" and "Any Which Way You Can" to "Hawaii Five-O" and "Laredo."

Stage and screen star Chick Vennera died from cancer at his Burbank, California, home on July 7, Deadline reported. He was perhaps best known for his disco dance scene performed on top of parked cars in the '70s flick "Thank God It's Friday" and for playing Enrique/Pepe on TV's "The Golden Girls." He also starred in Robert Redford's "The Milagro Beanfield War," performed in "Grease" on Broadway and with the show's national touring company and voiced characters on "Animaniacs" and "Batman Beyond." Chick was 74.

Filmmaker and actor Robert Downey Sr. — the father of Marvel star Robert Downey Jr. — died in his sleep more than five years after he was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, third wife Rosemary Rogers told the New York Daily News on June 7. He was 85. Downey Sr. is known for directing the Madison Avenue advertising satire "Putney Swope" and myriad projects including episodes of TV's "The Twilight Zone." He also worked as a cinematographer and acted from the 1950s until 2011 in projects including "To Live and Die in L.A.," "Boogie Nights" and his final film, "Tower Heist." "Last night, dad passed peacefully in his sleep after years of enduring the ravages of Parkinson's ..he was a true maverick filmmaker, and remained remarkably optimistic throughout," Downey Jr. wrote on Instagram on July 7 alongside a vintage photo of his father. "According to my stepmoms calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years. Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint, and our thoughts and prayers are with you."

Stage, TV and movie actress Suzzanne Douglas passed away at 64 on July 6, her family confirmed on social media. She notably performed on Broadway in shows including "Into the Woods," "Threepenny Opera" and "The Tap Dance Kid" in the 1980s before focusing on the big and small screens, appearing on television in projects including "When They See Us," "The Parent 'Hood" and "Against the Law" and in films like "Jason's Lyric," "School of Rock" and "How Stella Got Her Groove Back." 

Famed Hollywood director Richard Donner — who helmed everything from "The Omen" and the original "Superman" flick to the "Lethal Weapon" film series, "The Goonies" and "Scrooged" — died on July 5 at 91, his production company confirmed to Variety. He also produced a slew of movies during his long career including "Free Willy," "The Lost Boys," "Any Given Sunday," "X-Men," "X-Men Origins: Wolverine" and more. Hollywood stars took to social media to mourn Richard upon hearing of his passing, with Ben Stiller praising his talent for making "big time movies … that remain in our consciousness." "Goonies" star Sean Astin remembered he had "the biggest, boomiest voice you could imagine [and] commanded attention and … laughed like no man has ever laughed before," calling him "so much fun" and someone who "cared." "Goonies" actor Corey Feldman called Richard "the closest thing I ever had 2 a real father." Filmmaker Steven Spielberg said that "being in his circle was akin to hanging out with your favorite coach, smartest professor, fiercest motivator, most endearing friend, staunchest ally, and — of course — the greatest Goonie of all. He was all kid. All heart. All the time."

On July 4, rockabilly-country music star Sanford Clark, whose 1956 Top 10 hit "The Fool" was re-recorded by Elvis Presley and The Animals, died from COVID-19 at a Joplin, Missouri, hospital where he was receiving cancer treatment before his coronavirus diagnosis, publicist and fellow performer Johnny Vallis told Billboard. He was 85.

On June 10, actor Ray MacDonnell — who'