Last Days

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

On June 10, 2004, Ray Charles — the iconic musician whose genre-defying sound reshaped modern music — passed away at age 73 due to complications from liver disease. Known as "The Genius" for his groundbreaking blend of gospel, jazz, blues, and country, Charles left behind a legacy that not only transformed the soundscape of American music but also broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 1, 2021, Dustin Diamond — the actor and comedian whose portrayal as the quirky and lovable Samuel "Screech" Powers on Saved by the Bell made him a household name—passed away from cancer just weeks after being diagnosed. Despite his iconic role, Diamond's post-show life was beset by legal troubles, financial hardships, and publicized conflicts with former castmates, particularly following the release of his controversial memoir. In his later years, however, Diamond sought personal growth and reconciliation, reconnecting with fans and finding solace in a quieter, more grounded life. His passing marked the end of a turbulent yet impactful journey, remembered for both its trials and the joy he brought to millions through his unforgettable role as Screech. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On July 23, 1982, a tragic accident on the set of Twilight Zone: The Movie claimed the lives of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors, Myca Dinh Le and Renee Shin-Yi Chen, when a helicopter crashed during filming. The devastating event cast a shadow over the film's legacy and became a defining moment in Hollywood, prompting stricter safety regulations and a reevaluation of on-set practices to better protect cast and crew. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On October 2, 2017, Tom Petty – the iconic musician and songwriter whose heartfelt lyrics and timeless rock anthems like Free Fallin, American Girl, and I Won't Back Down, made him a cornerstone of American music – passed away from an accidental drug overdose at the age of 66. Petty's untimely death was a profound loss to those who knew him, but his legacy is secure as one of the most beloved, enduring, and influential figures in rock and roll history. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On November 1, 1999, Walter Payton — the legendary running back for the Chicago Bears and an enduring symbol of grit and grace on the football field — passed away at age 46 due to complications from a rare liver disease. Known as "Sweetness" for his smooth yet relentless playing style, Payton left behind a legacy that reshaped the NFL and inspired countless fans. Beyond his athletic achievements, Payton’s humanitarian efforts and public fight with the illness that took his life brought greater awareness to organ donation. Hosted by: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On July 31, 2023, Angus Cloud – the rising actor whose breakout role as Fezco in HBO’s Euphoria captivated audiences with his raw, understated portrayal of a complex and sympathetic character – died of a drug overdose at the age of 25. Cloud’s untimely death came just weeks after losing his father, an experience that deeply affected him. Though his career was just beginning, Cloud’s distinctive screen presence and genuine authenticity left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and on all those who came to know him. Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On November 3, 2024, Quincy Jones -- the legendary producer responsible for countless pop hits with musicians like Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, and Ray Charles -- has passed away at 91 while surrounded by loved ones in his Bel-Air home. Jones leaves behind monumental legacy across the entertainment landscape from his pioneering collaborations in the studio to his groundbreaking work in film and television to his tireless efforts on behalf of various social causes. Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Eric Colley Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored by: AirDoctor! Head to airdoctorpro.com and use promo code "LAST" and you’ll receive UP TO $300 off air purifiers! Exclusive to podcast customers, you will also receive a free 3 year warranty on any unit, which is an additional $84 value! ------ 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices