End of an era: Famous people who died in 2025

"The deaths of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife became a source of both sadness and mystery after their bodies were found in their home in February. Authorities ultimately determined that Hackman, who was in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's, died of heart disease, likely unaware that Betsy Arakawa had died from hantavirus a week earlier. Meanwhile, the death of heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, which came just weeks after his farewell concert, marked the end of an era in music."

"The year also saw the death of boxing great George Foreman, who memorably lost a much-watched match to Muhammad Ali but whose career had inspiring second and third acts as a world champion and successful business owner. And the world said goodbye this year to Dick Cheney, the hard-charging conservative whose long career in public service included becoming one of the most powerful vice presidents in U.S. history under President George W. Bush."

"The fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as he spoke before a crowd horrified many and prompted somber conversations about political violence. And when trafficking victim Virginia Giuffre died by suicide, it brought additional scrutiny to the investigations of sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. They were among the noteworthy and influential people who died in 2025 where the deaths themselves had a widespread impact."

Multiple prominent deaths in 2025 reshaped public conversations and institutions. Pope Francis’s death led to leadership change in the Catholic Church and the emergence of an American pope. The fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk sparked horror and renewed debate about political violence. Virginia Giuffre’s suicide intensified scrutiny of investigations into Jeffrey Epstein. The deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife raised questions amid tragic circumstances; authorities cited heart disease and hantavirus. Ozzy Osbourne’s passing closed a musical era. Boxing legend George Foreman and former Vice President Dick Cheney also died, each prompting reflection on their complex legacies.

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