Famous people and celebrities who died in 1981

A dedicated page for remembering the famous people and celebrities who passed away in 1981. This year saw the loss of many influential and beloved figures who left a lasting impact on the world. From entertainment icons and sports legends to renowned scholars and public figures, our comprehensive list pays tribute to their lives and legacies. Join us in honoring their contributions and celebrating their achievements as we reflect on their remarkable stories.

Jan. 2 David Lynch
Iconic American filmmaker known for surreal and avant-garde cinema, creating groundbreaking works like 'Eraserhead', 'Blue Velvet', and the influential TV series 'Twin Peaks'. He is a key figure in postmodern cinema with a distinctive, dreamlike visual style.
Jan. 10 Richard Boone
Renowned American actor famous for his iconic role as Paladin in the TV series 'Have Gun, Will Travel'. He was a versatile performer who excelled in action roles and had a distinguished career in television and film.
Jan. 11 Beulah Bondi
Beulah Bondi was a renowned American actress known for her roles in classic films like 'It's a Wonderful Life'.
Jan. 16 Bernard Lee
Renowned British actor famous for playing 'M' in multiple James Bond films during the Sean Connery and Roger Moore eras, a quintessential portrayal of the MI6 boss.
Jan. 29 Cozy Cole
American drummer (d. 1981)
Feb. 9 Bill Haley
Pioneering rock 'n' roll musician who helped introduce the genre to mainstream America with his band Bill Haley & His Comets. His hit 'Rock Around the Clock' became an anthem of the emerging rock music era.
Feb. 12 Jean Dixon
Actress (joy of livng, you only get one life)
April 12 Joe Louis
Legendary African American heavyweight boxer who dominated the ring from 1937 to 1949, breaking racial barriers and becoming a national icon. He successfully defended his title 25 times, a record that stood for decades.
April 26 Robert Davi
Robert Davi is a renowned American actor known for his distinctive roles in action movies and crime dramas, particularly as villains and law enforcement characters.
May 18 William Saroyan
William Saroyan was a prominent Armenian-American writer known for his poignant short stories and plays that captured the immigrant experience. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1940 for 'The Time of Your Life', which he famously declined. His works like 'The Human Comedy' remain significant contributions to 20th-century American literature.
May 23 George Jessel
American actor, singer, and producer (b. 1898)
June 22 Lola Lane
Actress (zanzibar mystery ship, big fight, zanzibar)
June 23 Zarah Leander
Zarah Leander was a prominent Swedish actress and singer who achieved significant success in Germany during the 1930s and 1940s. She was a major star in European entertainment, particularly known for her work with UFA film studio and her powerful musical performances. Despite opportunities in the United States, she chose to remain in Europe with her family.
July 3 Ross Martin
American actor known for his role in the TV series 'The Wild Wild West', where he played Artemus Gordon alongside Robert Conrad.
July 16 Harry Chapin
Harry Chapin was an influential American folk singer-songwriter known for his storytelling music and humanitarian activism. He was particularly famous for his hit song 'Cat's in the Cradle' and dedicated significant efforts to world hunger relief. Throughout his career, he performed 250 concerts in 1980, with more than half focused on charitable causes.
Aug. 4 Melvyn Douglas
Melvyn Douglas was a renowned Hollywood actor who won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor in 'Hud' and 'Being There'. He had a distinguished career spanning several decades in film and television.
Aug. 19 Jessie Matthews
Jessie Matthews was a prominent British actress and singer who was a leading musical film star during the interwar period, known for her vibrant performances in West End shows and cinema.
Sept. 6 Maria Palmer
Actress (days of glory web)
Sept. 21 Nigel Patrick
British actor and director known for his work in film and television during the mid-20th century, recognized with prestigious awards.
Sept. 23 Chief Dan George
Actor (harry & tonto: little big man) dies at 82
Oct. 13 Nils Asther
Actor (son of lassie, wild orchids), died at 84
Oct. 30 Georges Brassens
Iconic French poet, singer, and songwriter who revolutionized French music with his poetic lyrics and rebellious spirit. He was a major cultural figure in France, known for his witty, satirical songs that challenged social norms. His musical style influenced generations of French artists.
Nov. 12 William Holden
William Holden was a prominent American actor who won an Academy Award and starred in iconic films like 'Sunset Boulevard' and 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'. He was a leading Hollywood actor during the mid-20th century, known for his versatile performances and charismatic screen presence.
Nov. 15 Enid Markey
Actress (foolish mothers civilization), dies in 85
Nov. 25 Jack Albertson
Emmy and Tony Award-winning actor best known for his role in the TV series 'Chico and the Man' and his memorable performance in the film 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory'.
Nov. 29 Natalie Wood
Iconic Hollywood actress who successfully transitioned from child to teenage roles, born to Russian immigrant parents. She became famous for her performances in films like 'Rebel Without a Cause' and was a prominent star of the 1950s and 1960s.
Dec. 27 Hoagy Carmichael
Hoagy carmichael was an american composer known for writing and performing popular songs such as 'stardust' and 'georgia on my mind'.