Last Days

On February 24, 2014, Harold Ramis — the comedic genius who shaped some of the most iconic films in American cinema—passed away from complications of autoimmune inflammatory vasculitis at the age of 69. With his uniquely dry wit and unforgettable charm, Ramis left an indelible mark on Hollywood, not only as a writer and director but as an actor who brought beloved characters to life. From Ghostbusters to Groundhog Day, his work redefined comedy and inspired a generation of filmmakers, infusing humor with unexpected depth and intelligence.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufma

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On May 4, 2012, Adam Yauch – the pioneering musician and filmmaker whose unique voice and visionary approach helped catapult the Beastie Boys to global fame with hits like "Sabotage," "Intergalactic," and "No Sleep Till Brooklyn" – passed away from cancer after a three-year battle with the disease. Yauch's untimely death was a profound loss to those who knew him, but his legacy is secure as one of the most innovative, socially conscious, and influential figures in hip-hop and music history.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On October 22, 2024, Fernando Valenzuela -- the legendary Mexican-born pitcher for Los Angeles Dodgers who thrilled baseball fans with his quirky windup and signature screwball -- passed away from an undisclosed illness at the age of 63. Beyond his incredible feats on the baseball diamond, Valenzuela became a cultural icon that transcended the sport, transforming the Dodgers from just another baseball team into an enduring symbol of ethnic pride.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On February 20, 1999, Gene Siskel -- who partnered with fellow film critic Roger Ebert to bring movie reviews to the masses -- died from brain cancer at the age of 53. With their wildly popular thumbs up/thumbs down reviews and spirited debates, Siskel and Ebert revolutionized the art of movie criticism and spread their infectious love of cinema to millions of fans around the world.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On October 16, 2024, Liam Payne -- one of the founding members of the massively successful boy band One Direction -- died at the age of 31 from an apparent suicide at a hotel in Buenos Aires. The singer left battled several personal demons during his life, but his undeniable talent as a performer and songwriter left a lasting impression.

Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman

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On December 5, 2013, Nelson Mandela - the anti-apartheid revolutionary and former President of South Africa - died at the age of 95. His death prompted a global outpouring of grief, as well as tributes to a man of uncommon grace and compassion, who put the interests of others ahead of his own and extended the reach of freedom and dignity to millions.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On October 12, 1999, Wilt Chamberlain -- the legendary basketball superstar who once scored 100 points in a single game -- passed away in his home from a heart attack at the age of 63. Known for his towering presence and dominance on the court, Chamberlain set numerous records during his career, and many of his feats on the hardwood remain unmatched to this day. Beyond shaping the modern game of basketball, Chamberlain's inarguable charisma and tales of womanizing have made him a enduring figure of fascination in sports and entertainment.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On September 30, 2024, Dikembe Mutombo -- the NBA legend best known for deploying his iconic finger wag after blocking an opponent's shot -- passed away at 58 after a courageous battle with brain cancer. Despite his immense accomplishments as a player, Mutombo's most lasting contributions were made off the court, where he leveraged his infectious smile and generous spirit to become an ambassador of the game and a true global humanitarian.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On December 10, 2005, Richard Pryor - the groundbreaking comic whose fearless insights into race relations and modern life made him a comedy legend - died of a heart attack. Pryor single-handedly transformed stand-up comedy by using humor to reflect on social and political issues, and in doing created a new blueprint for modern comedy. Though he was beset with health problems throughout his adult life as a result of decades of drug and alcohol abuse, his sharp mind remained intact throughout his career and reminded audiences of the revolutionary talent he was.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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On November 12, 2003, Jonathan Brandis -- the beloved '90s teen star known for SeaQuest DSV and The NeverEnding Story II -- died by suicide at the age of 27. Brandis, who struggled with his transition from teen heartthrob to adult actor, left an indelible imprint on the entertainment industry during his brief career and serves as a cautionary tale about the difficulties of life in Hollywood.

Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman

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