2025 was one of those years that felt like a steady stream of bad news—icon after icon, voice after voice, presence after presence. Some were legends who’d been around forever. Others were gone far too soon. Either way, the cultural void they left behind was impossible to ignore.

He never asked for your sympathy. As cameras flashed and crowds cheered, Chadwick Boseman quietly carried a terminal illness and chose not to tell the world.

Chazz Palminteri recovered from a personal setback by writing the film that defined his career.

Scotty Beckett joined Our Gang in the 1930s, instantly becoming a fan favorite with his sharp delivery and bright smile. He stole scenes without ever trying. Everyone assumed a kid that charismatic was headed for a long, golden career—but childhood fame rarely works out that way. And sadly, Beckett was no exception.

Few wrestlers have ever burned as brightly as “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. From Canadian roots to WWF stardom to Hollywood movies, Piper was one of the greatest entertainers of his generation.

For some stars, the roles they are most associated with also left them with regret, discomfort, or awkward memories. We explore actors whose most iconic roles didn't age how they hoped.