Last Days

On August 16, 1977, Elvis Presley – the groundbreaking performer whose voice, swagger, and style changed the face of American music – died at the age of 42. Presley’s career was defined by explosive success, from his early rockabilly hits like Hound Dog and Jailhouse Rock, to sweeping ballads like Can’t Help Falling in Love and It’s Now or Never. With 18 No. 1 singles and over a billion records sold worldwide, he became not just the King of Rock and Roll, but a symbol of cultural transformation in postwar America. Yet his later years were marked by personal isolation and a growing dependence on prescription drugs, culminating in his untimely death at Graceland, his Memphis home. Still, his influence endures—through music, fashion, and film—and his legacy as one of the most electrifying and iconic figures of the 20th century remains unshakable. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 20, 2025, George Wendt—the beloved actor best known for playing Norm on Cheers—died at the age of 76. His passing marked the end of an era for fans of the iconic sitcom and the golden age of network television. But beyond the barstool banter and sitcom stardom, Wendt's legacy lives on as a symbol of blue-collar charm, comedic timing, and the kind of everyman warmth that made Norm a household name across generations. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 20, 1973, Bruce Lee—the martial arts icon who nearly singlehandedly transformed action cinema in the 60s and 70s—died suddenly in Hong Kong at the age of 32. His untimely death shocked the world and left behind a whirlwind of rumors, controversy, and unanswered questions. But even as speculation swirled, Lee’s legend only grew as a revolutionary figure who shattered stereotypes, redefined fight choreography, and brought Eastern philosophy into Western pop culture. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On August 12, 1988, Jean-Michel Basquiat—the visionary painter whose explosive talent redefined the possibilities of contemporary art—died of a heroin overdose in his New York City studio at the age of 27. Basquiat’s meteoric rise from a graffiti tagger in the Lower East Side to a global art-world phenomenon was nothing short of revolutionary. Widely hailed as the greatest contemporary artist of his generation, Basquiat's canvases pulsed with urgency, intellect, and emotion—breaking down barriers of race, class, and tradition in the art establishment. His untimely death cemented his legend, leaving behind a body of work that continues to challenge, inspire, and command reverence, a lasting reminder of genius gone far too soon. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 29, 1974, Cass Elliot—better known to the world as Mama Cass, the powerhouse vocalist from The Mamas and the Papas—died in her London flat at just 32 years old. Her sudden passing marked the end of a career that had helped define the sound of the 1960s, with her warm, soaring vocals and magnetic presence shaping an era of folk-pop harmony and counterculture cool. From her breakout success with hits like “California Dreamin’” to her groundbreaking solo career and status as a trailblazing woman in rock, Cass Elliot’s life was filled with triumph, turmoil, and transformation. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 26, 2025, Michelle Trachtenberg – the beloved actress whose memorable roles in Harriet the Spy, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Gossip Girl made her a standout talent of her generation – passed away from complications related to diabetes at the age of 39. Trachtenberg's passing was a heartbreaking loss to those who knew and admired her, following years of struggle with mental illness and the pressures of growing up in the spotlight, but her legacy remains as a gifted performer who left a lasting impact on both television and film. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 30, 2005, Mitch Hedberg—the cult-favorite standup comedian best known for his surreal one-liners and laid-back delivery—died of a drug overdose at the age of 37. His passing cut short a singular voice in comedy, whose offbeat brilliance and shy charisma earned him a devoted following and the respect of peers across the industry. From his iconic late-night sets to his lasting influence on alternative comedy, Hedberg’s legacy as one of the most original and beloved comics of his generation continues to resonate. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On September 30, 1955, James Dean—the magnetic actor whose brooding intensity and vulnerable charm captured the spirit of a generation— died in a horrific car crash at the age of 24. Dean’s brief career was defined by iconic roles in Rebel Without a Cause, East of Eden, and Giant, where he portrayed complex, emotionally raw characters that embodied a new kind of tortured masculinity rarely seen in American film. Though he only starred in three movies, his performances left an indelible mark on cinema, and his gruesome death at such a young age cemented his mythic status as a symbol of unrealized potential and the fragility of youth. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 13, 2010, George Steinbrenner—the fiery and relentless owner who turned the New York Yankees into a global juggernaut—died of a heart attack at the age of 80. His passing marked the end of an era defined by his insatiable drive for winning, controversial leadership style, and willingness to spend whatever it took to build a dynasty. From his fierce clashes with managers and players to his transformative impact on modern baseball economics, Steinbrenner’s legacy as one of the most influential—and polarizing—figures in sports history endures. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On April 1, 2025, Val Kilmer – the charismatic and talented actor known for his chiseled looks and enigmatic presence – died at age 65. Kilmer’s career was defined by iconic roles, including his breakout performance as Iceman in Top Gun, his mesmerizing turn as Jim Morrison in The Doors, and his unforgettable portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone. Yet, his later years were marked by a courageous battle with throat cancer, during which he continued to engage with fans through his memoir and documentary, Val, and to cement his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 21, 2025, George Foreman—the legendary boxer and entrepreneur whose formidable presence in the ring as well as his business ventures made him a household name—passed away peacefully at the age of 76. Foreman’s career was defined by legendary bouts, including his dominant victory over Joe Frazier to win the heavyweight title and his iconic defeat to Muhammad Ali in the “Rumble in the Jungle.” Yet his second act as a celebrity spokesman, particularly for his namesake grill, became even more prominent than his boxing career, making him a beloved figure in American culture. His legacy endures as one of the most inspiring and multifaceted figures in sports history. Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On September 13, 1996, Tupac Shakur—the revolutionary rapper whose raw lyricism and larger-than-life persona made him a cultural icon—was gunned down in Las Vegas at just 25 years old. Less than six months later, on March 9, 1997, Christopher Wallace, better known as The Notorious B.I.G., met a similar fate in Los Angeles, his life cut short at 24. The murders, forever linked in the East Coast-West Coast rivalry that defined an era, remain unsolved, but their legacies continue to shape the world of hip-hop and beyond. Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 29, 2010, Dennis Hopper – the legendary actor and filmmaker whose groundbreaking performances and visionary direction in films like Easy Rider, Blue Velvet, Apocalypse Now, Hoosiers, and Speed, made him a defining figure of American cinema – passed away from prostate cancer at the age of 74. Hopper's passing was a significant loss to those who knew him, but his legacy is secure as one of the most daring, influential, and enduring artists in film history. Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On March 10, 2010, Corey Haim—the former teen heartthrob whose boyish charm and undeniable talent made him one of the biggest stars of the 80s—died at the age of 38. His passing marked the tragic end of a life shaped by early fame, addiction, and the relentless pressures of Hollywood. From his breakout roles in Lucas and The Lost Boys to his struggles with substance abuse and failed comebacks, Haim's legacy as a beloved icon of 80s pop culture endures. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On August 9, 2003, Gregory Hines – the legendary tap dancer, actor, and singer whose unparalleled rhythm and charismatic performances revitalized the art of tap dancing for new generations – died of liver cancer at the age of 57. Hines’ passing came after a private battle with the disease, which he had kept largely out of the public eye. Though his career spanned decades, from Broadway to Hollywood, Hines’ effortless style, innovation, and passion left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and on all those who were inspired by his artistry. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 26, 2025, Gene Hackman -- the actor who redefined the archetype of a Hollywood leading man with his raw intensity in movies like The French Connection and Hoosiers -- was found dead in his Santa Fe home alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. The resulting investigation into the circumstances of their deaths has just begun, but it will do nothing to dim Hackman's onscreen legacy as one of cinema’s most versatile and compelling figures. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 1, 2005, Luther Vandross — the velvet-voiced singer who defined romance for a generation — passed away at the age of 54, just two years after suffering a devastating stroke. With his flawless vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Vandross became one of R&B’s most celebrated artists, delivering timeless hits like Never Too Much, Here and Now, and Dance with My Father. His ability to blend soul, passion, and elegance made him a legend whose influence stretched far beyond music. Hosted by: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

'2 Angry Men' is a weekly podcast hosted by Harvey Levin and Mark Geragos. Each week, the two sit down to discuss the scandals, triumphs, and chaotic moments that shape pop culture. On this week's episode... In this exclusive interview, the Menendez Brothers open up about life behind bars, the hardships they've endured, and their hopes for a second chance. From the mental and physical toll of decades in prison to their ongoing legal battles, they share their unfiltered truth. Is freedom still within reach? Tune in as they reflect on their past, their regrets, and the fight for a future beyond prison walls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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