On November 29, 1981, Natalie Wood — the legendary actress known for her starring roles in some of most iconic movies ever made, including Miracle on 34th Street and Rebel Without a Cause, drowned at the age of 43 under mysterious circumstances near Catalina Island, accompanied by her husband, Robert Wagner, and actor Christopher Walken. Despite initial reports labeling the incident as an accidental drowning, conflicting testimonies and subsequent investigations have fueled ongoing speculation about the true circumstances surrounding her demise. Wood's enduring legacy as a Hollywood icon continues to captivate audiences and inspire discussions about her life and the mysterious nature of her death.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On October 25, 1999, Payne Stewart — one of golf’s most charismatic and beloved figures — died tragically in a plane crash at the age of 42. Known for his distinctive knickers and clutch performances, Stewart won three major championships, including a dramatic U.S. Open victory just months before his death. His passion for the game, sportsmanship, and larger-than-life presence left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire golfers and fans around the world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 2, 1993, Pablo Escobar — the notorious drug lord whose empire revolutionized the global narcotics trade — was killed at the age of 44, following a violent manhunt in Medellín, Colombia. As the leader of the Medellín cartel for 17 years, Escobar used his formidable intelligence, relentless ambition, and ruthless capacity for violence to establish a reign of power so absolute that no one dared to challenge him. Known for both his savage brutality and his calculated philanthropy, Escobar left a complex legacy of fear and influence that still resonates to this day.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 7, 1999, Stanley Kubrick — the visionary filmmaker whose groundbreaking works reshaped the art of cinema — passed away at the age of 70, just days after completing his final film, Eyes Wide Shut. Known for masterpieces like 2001: A Space Odyssey, A Clockwork Orange, and The Shining, Kubrick pushed the boundaries of storytelling and cinematography during his brilliant career. Beyond his technical genius, Kubrick’s fearless approach to complex themes and meticulous craftsmanship continues to influence filmmakers and challenge audiences around the world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On January 26, 2020, Kobe Bryant — who is among the most decorated and revered basketball players in history, known for his unmatched work ethic and intensity that helped him win five NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers - was killed in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, alongside his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, and seven others. The tragic accident cut short a life defined by greatness yet marred by controversy, and occurred just as Bryant was transitioning from a celebrated 20-year NBA career to pursuits in storytelling, philanthropy, and mentorship. His untimely death, compounded by the loss of his young daughter and others, left a void in the hearts of fans and a legacy of resilience and ambition that will endure for generations.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 24, 2016, Garry Shandling — the trailblazing comedian who reshaped the landscape of television comedy in the 80s and 90s — passed away at age 66 after suddenly collapsing at his home. Known for his innovative blend of self-deprecating humor and sharp industry satire, Shandling left behind a legacy that forever altered the way we think about sitcoms and late-night TV. Beyond his on-screen brilliance, Shandling’s introspective approach to comedy and life inspired a generation of performers to explore vulnerability in their art.

Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On April 20, 2018, Avicii – the groundbreaking Swedish DJ and producer whose chart-topping hits like Wake Me Up, Levels, and Hey Brother redefined the electronic music landscape – tragically passed away by suicide at the age of 28. Avicii's untimely death was a devastating loss to fans and collaborators alike, but his legacy remains indelible as one of the most innovative, beloved, and influential artists in the history of electronic dance music.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we celebrate the New Year, Derek and Jason take the opportunity to reflect on some of the most memorable celebrities we didn't have a chance to cover on the podcast, focusing on their extraordinary lives and legacies.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On December 29, 2024, James Earl Carter, Jr. -- who began his career as a modest peanut farmer before becoming the 39th President of the United States -- died at his family home in Georgia at the age of 100. Although his administration was derailed by the Iran Hostage Crisis and a troubled economy at home, his post-presidential life set the standard for leading a life guided by character, integrity, humanitarianism, and basic decency.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2024 comes to a close, Derek and Jason take a look back at the most famous and influential celebrities we lost this year, and explore what made their lives and careers so memorable,

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices