7 Celebrities Who Died Over The Christmas Weekend

The Christmas weekend saw the passing of seven notable figures.

From the realm of entertainment to the world of comedy, these individuals left an indelible mark on their respective fields.

Here are the seven celebrities who died over the 2023 Christmas weekend. 

1. Richard Franklin

On Christmas morning, the world bid farewell to Richard Franklin, a versatile actor recognized for his roles in "Doctor Who" and "Emmerdale." He was 87.

Franklin succumbed to a long-term illness and died in his sleep, his family said in a statement obtained by Sky News.

Franklin's career spanned TV and theater, including appearances in "Crossroads," "The Saint," "The Borgias" and "Heartbeat."

"Emmerdale" fans will remember him as businessman Denis Rigg. His portrayal of Captain Mike Yates in "Doctor Who" also remains etched in the memories of sci-fi enthusiasts.

Additionally, he graced the big screen in films like "Chemical Wedding" and "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."

2. Kamar de los Reyes

Puerto Rican actor Kamar de los Reyes passed away Sunday, leaving behind a legacy that includes his roles in the "Call of Duty" video game franchise and the soap opera "One Life To Live." He was 56.

His family said he died following a battle with cancer, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

De los Reyes showcased his talent in films like "Nixon" and "Love & Suicide." His TV career included roles in "Sleepy Hollow" and "All American."

Notably, he made a significant impact on "One Life To Live," portraying gang member-turned-lawyer and policeman Antonio in two stints: 1995 to 1998 and 2000 to 2013.

His personal life intertwined with his professional journey as he met his wife, actress Sherri Saum, during his time on the show.

3. Neel Nanda

The comedy world mourns the loss of Neel Nanda, a stand-up comedian known for his appearances on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and Comedy Central's "Adam DeVine's House Party." He was 32.

Nanda's manager, Greg Weiss, confirmed his passing in a statement to Variety Sunday, describing him as not just a great comic but a remarkable human being. 

His cause of death was not disclosed.

In addition to "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and "Adam DeVine's House Party," Nanda also made appearances on MTV, IFC's "Garkunkel and Oates," and Amazon Prime's "Inside Joke."

His last appearance was at Toronto's Jokers Theatre and Comedy Club on Dec. 15 and 16.

4. Mike Nussbaum

Mike Nussbaum, who was known as the oldest professional actor in the country, died of old age on Saturday. He was 99.

His daughter, Karen, told the Associated Press that the actor passed away at his Chicago home just days before turning 100.

Nussbaum's career in theater spanned over 50 years and earned him accolades, with his performance in David Mamet's "Glengarry Glen Ross" being recognized with a Drama Desk Award.

He remained active into his 90s, portraying Albert Einstein in "Relativity" at Northlight Theatre.

Beyond the stage, Nussbaum left his mark on the big screen with roles in "Field of Dreams" and "Men in Black."

5. Bobbie Jean Carter

The Carter family faced another tragedy as Bobbie Jean Carter, sister to Nick and Aaron Carter, died in Florida on Saturday. She was 41.

In a statement to TMZ, Bobbie Jean's mother, Jane Carter, mourned the loss of her daughter and requested privacy to grieve.

Known as BJ, she played a role in the family's music business, serving as a wardrobe stylist and makeup artist for Aaron.

She also made an appearance on the family's reality show, "House of Carters," where her struggles with addiction were revealed.

Bobbie Jean's death adds to the family's previous losses, with Aaron's drowning last year and sister Leslie's overdose in 2012.

Bobbie Jean is survived by her daughter Bella, her mother Jane, her brother Nick, her sister Angel, her half-siblings and her step-siblings.

6. Laura Lynch

A founding member of The Dixie Chicks, Laura Lynch met an untimely demise in a head-on car crash in Texas Friday. She was 64.

TMZ reported that a car slammed into the musician's vehicle as it was trying to overtake on a highway outside of El Paso.

Lynch was declared dead at the scene, while the other driver was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, the report said.

The band said in a statement to TMZ: "We are shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Laura Lynch, a founding member of The Chicks. We hold a special place in our hearts for the time we spent playing music, laughing and traveling together."

Lynch contributed to the success of The Dixie Chicks, recording three albums before her departure in 1993. She played upright bass and provided lead vocals.

Lynch's artistic pursuits extended beyond music, as she explored oil painting during her years away from the spotlight.

7. Ian Pepperell

Ian Pepperell passed away Friday after a lengthy battle with an undisclosed illness, the BBC reported. He was 53.

He was known for his role as Roy Tucker in the BBC Radio 4 drama "The Archers," where he played the long-suffering hotelier for 22 years.

In a statement obtained by the BBC, "The Archers" editor Jeremy Howe remembered Pepperell as the perfect "Archers" actor.

"It is tragic that he died in his prime, we will miss him dearly," he added.

Beyond his radio career, Pepperell appeared in "EastEnders" in 1993.