Recap / Teri Garr, Phil Lesh and Liam Payne among the figures from the world of entertainment we have lost in October

Oct 31 , 2024

American actress Teri Garr, pictured here in 1987, whose hit films include Tootsie, Young Frankenstein and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, has died at the age of 79. Photo: AP

An Oscar nominee, a legendary rock band bassist and the singer mother of superstar Whitney Houston were just a few of the giants from the world of entertainment who passed away last month

1. Tootsie Oscar nominee, Young Frankenstein star, and Close Encounters actress Teri Garr dies at 79

The beloved actress who earned an Oscar nomination for her role opposite Dustin Hoffman in Tootsie had a career spanning film and TV, from Elvis Presley movies to Star Trek. Her legacy includes her comedic talent and resilience against the health challenges of multiple sclerosis.

2. Phil Lesh, Grateful Dead founding member and bassist, dead after battle with cancer and liver transplant

Lesh, a bass player with the legendary rock band, was known for his innovative playing and iconic live performances, and his influence extended beyond the stage, embodying the spirit of the Grateful Dead’s devoted community. He was 84.

3. Hollywood mourns Lynda Obst, producer of Sleepless in Seattle and Interstellar, and a champion for women

The trailblazing producer behind a string of hit films was also celebrated for a commitment to advocating for gender equality in the industry. Her battle with COPD, linked to smoking, serves as a cautionary tale.

4. One Direction star Liam Payne dies in fall at Buenos Aires Hotel after recent release of single Teardrops

Fans mourn the untimely death of the former boyband singer, known for hits such as “What Makes You Beautiful” and “Story of My Life,” at the age of 31 after tragedy in Argentina.

5. Legendary gospel and soul singer Cissy Houston - mother of Whitney Houston - dead at 91

The singer, who co-founded the Sweet Inspirations and collaborated with music legends like Aretha Franklin and David Bowie, leaves a legacy that includes Grammy-winning gospel albums and a pivotal role in the crossover of gospel into mainstream pop.

Part of this article was produced with the assistance of generative AI.