Famous people and celebrities who died in 1984

A dedicated page for remembering the famous people and celebrities who passed away in 1984. 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. 20 Johnny Weissmuller
Legendary Olympic swimmer and actor best known for playing Tarzan in 12 films between 1932 and 1948. He won five Olympic gold medals in swimming and became a global pop culture icon through his portrayal of the jungle hero.
Jan. 21 Jackie Wilson
Legendary R&B and rock 'n' roll singer known for his extraordinary four-octave vocal range and dynamic performances. He was a pivotal figure in transitioning rhythm and blues to soul music and is considered one of the most influential performers of his era.
Feb. 15 Ethel Merman
Legendary Broadway and Hollywood musical star renowned for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. She dominated musical comedy in the mid-20th century, starring in iconic shows like 'Anything Goes' and 'Annie Get Your Gun'. Her distinctive voice and charismatic performances made her a true entertainment icon.
March 5 William Powell
William powell was an american actor known for his roles in classic films such as the thin man series and my man godfrey.
March 24 Sam Jaffe
Actor dr zorba ben casey dies from cancer at 93
April 1 Marvin Gaye
Legendary Motown singer and songwriter who revolutionized soul music, known for his powerful social commentary and innovative musical style. He was a pivotal figure in R&B and soul music during the 1960s and 1970s, creating groundbreaking albums like 'What's Going On'.
April 12 Ruth Taylor
Actress (gentlemen prefer blondes), is killed at 76
April 26 May McAvoy
Actress ben hur dies at 82 following a heart attack
May 4 Diana Dors
British sex symbol and actress of the 1950s and 1960s, known for her platinum blonde looks and provocative image. She transitioned from glamour model to character actress, making significant contributions to British cinema.
May 16 Andy Kaufman
Iconic comedian and performance artist known for his surreal, avant-garde comedy style. He gained fame through Saturday Night Live and the sitcom Taxi, blurring lines between comedy and performance art.
May 16 Irwin Shaw
Renowned American novelist and playwright known for works like 'Rich Man, Poor Man', a critically acclaimed novel that was later adapted into a popular television miniseries.
May 28 Eric Morecambe
Eric Morecambe was a legendary British comedian who formed the iconic comedy duo Morecambe and Wise with Ernie Wise. Their comedy partnership spanned decades and became a beloved part of British entertainment, with their Christmas specials drawing massive audiences.
June 20 Estelle Winwood
Actress (miracle on 34th street), is killed at 99
July 7 Flora Robson
Renowned British actress known for her powerful performances in film and theater, with a career spanning several decades.
July 19 Faina Ranevskaya
Russian actress (born 1896).
July 27 James Mason
Renowned British actor known for iconic roles in classic films like 'Lolita', 'Bloodline', and 'The Boys from Brazil'. He was a prominent Hollywood star with a distinguished career spanning several decades.
July 29 Fred Waring
Fred Waring was a prominent American musician, bandleader, and television personality known for leading the popular musical group 'Waring's Pennsylvanians' during the mid-20th century.
Aug. 5 Richard Burton
Richard Burton was a legendary Welsh actor renowned for his Shakespearean performances and international film career. He was nominated for multiple Academy Awards and was known for his extraordinary acting talent and tumultuous personal life. His powerful voice and charismatic presence made him one of the most celebrated actors of his generation.
Aug. 7 Esther Phillips
Esther Phillips was a renowned American R&B singer known for her versatile musical style, spanning genres like pop, country, blues, and soul. Her powerful vocals and emotional performances made her a significant figure in mid-20th century music.
Aug. 8 Richard Deacon
American character actor known for his comedic roles in television shows like 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'The Mothers-in-Law'. He was a versatile performer with a distinctive appearance and comedic timing.
Sept. 6 Ernest Tubb
Legendary country music singer-songwriter known as the 'Texas Troubadour', who significantly influenced the development of honky-tonk music.
Sept. 14 Janet Gaynor
Pioneering Hollywood actress who won the first Academy Award for Best Actress and starred in landmark films like 'A Star is Born'. She successfully transitioned to contemporary art in her later years.
Sept. 17 Richard Basehart
Richard Basehart was a versatile American actor known for his significant roles in film and television, including the classic 'Moby Dick' and the sci-fi series 'Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea'. He won the New York Drama Critics Award for his performance in 'The Hasty Heart' and appeared in over 30 films throughout his distinguished career.
Sept. 25 Walter Pidgeon
Canadian-american actor and singer (d.1984)
Oct. 5 Leonard Rossiter
British comedy actor known for roles in sitcoms like 'Rising Damp' and 'The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin'. He was a prominent television and stage performer in the 1970s and early 1980s.
Oct. 16 Peggy Ann Garner
American actress known for her roles in classic films, particularly as a child performer. She appeared in notable movies like 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' and worked in theater. She passed away at 53 from cancer.
Oct. 23 Oskar Werner
A renowned Austrian actor famous for his critically acclaimed performance in François Truffaut's 'Jules and Jim', a landmark French New Wave film that significantly influenced cinema.
Nov. 13 Dorothy Arnold
Actress (house of fear phantom creeps), who dies at 66
Dec. 7 Jeanne Cagney
Actress (quicksand kentucky rifle), dies aged 65
Dec. 24 Peter Lawford
Peter Lawford was a prominent British-American actor who appeared in 57 films and multiple TV series. He was a key member of Frank Sinatra's famous 'Rat Pack' and notably became John F. Kennedy's brother-in-law through his marriage to Patricia Kennedy.