A look back at the lives and legacies that shaped the modern world
The year 2025 marked the passing of an extraordinary range of global figures whose influence spanned religion, science, cinema, sport, politics, music, literature, and public life. From spiritual leaders and cultural pioneers to sporting legends and creative icons, their deaths resonated across continents and generations.
Below is a look back at some of the most notable personalities who died this year and the legacies they leave behind.
Religion
Pope Francis (88)
The first Latin American pontiff reshaped the Catholic Church with his humility, calls for compassion, and reformist outlook. He softened attitudes on social issues and expanded the role of women in Church leadership. Over 250,000 people attended his funeral at the Vatican.
The Aga Khan, Karim Al Husseini (88)
The spiritual leader of millions of Ismaili Muslims, philanthropist and racehorse owner, died in February, leaving behind a global development and humanitarian legacy.
Science and Exploration
Jane Goodall (91)
The world-renowned primatologist and environmental activist dedicated her life to wildlife conservation and global ecological awareness.
Jim Lovell (97)
Commander of Apollo 13, whose leadership during NASA’s near-disastrous Moon mission became a symbol of resilience and ingenuity.
James Watson (97)
Co-discoverer of DNA’s structure, whose work revolutionized modern genetics.
Cinema and Television
Robert Redford (89)
A Hollywood icon and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, Redford shaped generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Val Kilmer (65)
Remembered for iconic roles in Top Gun, The Doors, and Batman Forever, Kilmer died after years of health struggles.
Gene Hackman (95)
The Oscar-winning actor of The French Connection and Unforgiven was found dead alongside his wife in February.
David Lynch (78)
Visionary filmmaker behind Twin Peaks and Mulholland Drive, known for redefining surrealist cinema.
Sport
George Foreman (76)
Legendary heavyweight boxer and two-time world champion, remembered for “The Rumble in the Jungle.”
Hulk Hogan (71)
The face of professional wrestling in the 1980s, Hogan transformed the sport into a global entertainment powerhouse.
Diogo Jota (28)
The Liverpool and Portugal footballer died tragically in a car accident, shocking the global sports community.
Music
Ozzy Osbourne (76)
The “Prince of Darkness” and Black Sabbath frontman whose influence shaped heavy metal.
Brian Wilson (82)
The creative genius behind The Beach Boys’ timeless sound.
Roberta Flack (88)
Soulful singer whose ballads defined a generation.
Literature
Mario Vargas Llosa (89)
Nobel laureate and one of Latin America’s greatest literary voices.
Tom Stoppard (88)
Celebrated playwright known for intellectual wit and linguistic brilliance.
Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o (87)
Kenyan author and outspoken critic of post-colonial injustice.
Politics and Public Life
Dick Cheney (84)
Former US Vice President and a central figure in early 21st-century American foreign policy.
Jean-Marie Le Pen (96)
French far-right political leader whose career remained deeply controversial.
Muhammadu Buhari (82)
Former Nigerian president whose tenure shaped Africa’s most populous nation.
Jose Mujica (89)
Uruguay’s former president, globally admired for his modest lifestyle and progressive reforms.
Journalism and Media
Hussam al-Masri (49)
Reuters cameraman killed in Gaza, one of the many journalists who lost their lives covering global conflicts.
Ruth Weiss (101)
Veteran journalist who documented some of the darkest chapters of the 20th century.
Enduring Legacy
The deaths of these figures in 2025 underscore the profound impact individuals can have across faith, culture, science, and society. Their contributions continue to influence the world long after their passing.