The year 2024 saw the entertainment industry bid farewell to several notable figures, including Shannen Doherty from “Beverly Hills, 90210,” comedian Bob Newhart, Teri Garr from “Young Frankenstein,” and the iconic voice of Darth Vader, James Earl Jones, among others.
As we approach 2025, many are left pondering the future of various stars who faced hardships this past year. Some are simply aging, while others are grappling with serious health issues and personal struggles. This behavior has raised concern among fans who closely watch their favorite celebrities. Here’s a look at some stars we’re understandably worried about as the new year arrives.
Dick Van Dyke Heads Into 2025 with a Glimmer of Hope
Famed for roles in “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and “Mary Poppins,” Dick Van Dyke celebrates his 99th birthday in December 2024. Despite his age, he’s staying active, appearing on “The Masked Singer,” winning a Daytime Emmy, and participating in a Coldplay music video.
In the music video, he shared a duet with Coldplay’s Chris Martin and showcased his dancing skills, even barefoot. He has also spoken openly about aging, expressing a surprising acceptance of his mortality and stating, “I’m aware that I could go any day, but I’m not afraid.”
Britney Spears Shows Concerning Behavior Amid Career Rumors
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Since her conservatorship ended in 2021, Britney Spears has been in the spotlight for her unusual online behavior, including a concerning incident where she danced with knives, prompting a police wellness check. Recently, she marked her birthday with an odd declaration about her age and plans to move to Mexico.
Although speculations about another Las Vegas residency arose, insiders affirmed these were unfounded. Friends of Spears reportedly worry about her recent erratic actions, suggesting she may need professional assistance despite her fans’ hopes for a comeback.
Jimmy Carter Continues Hospice Care
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Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, served a single term from 1977 to 1980. Views on his time in office may vary greatly, but his actions after leaving the presidency have been commendable. He observed international elections and, together with his wife, Rosalynn Carter, contributed significantly to Habitat for Humanity by helping to construct homes. In honor of his humanitarian efforts, he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
In 2015, at 91, Carter believed he was suffering from a cold, which led to a thorough medical check-up. This led to a diagnosis of metastatic melanoma and subsequent surgery to remove a liver tumor. Unfortunately, it was revealed that the cancer had spread to four areas of his brain; however, treatments using immune therapy have allowed him to extend his life.
By 2023, both Carter and Rosalynn entered hospice care. Sadly, Rosalynn passed away at 96 in November. Carter, while remaining in hospice, celebrated his 100th birthday—making him the first U.S. president to reach such an age. His grandson, Jayson Carter, remarked on how exceptional it was to celebrate this milestone after enduring over a year in hospice. “Not everyone lives to 100, and when someone uses that time to do good, it’s certainly a reason to celebrate,” as reported by the Associated Press.
Pope Francis has raised health concerns due to ongoing issues
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Pope Francis, who began his leadership of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013, has faced numerous health challenges in recent years. The former Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now 88, has had ongoing health problems traced back to a lung surgery at 21. This has led to chronic respiratory issues, including two incidents in 2023 that caused him to cancel public appearances. That same year, he also had surgery for an abdominal hernia, in addition to ongoing knee and back problems due to sciatica, often relying on a cane or wheelchair.
In December 2024, concerns about the Pope’s health resurfaced when he appeared with a noticeable bruise on his chin during a ceremony for new cardinals. The Vatican reported that it was a minor issue, caused by an accidental bump on his bedside table. Many hope that 2025 will bring him relief from his ongoing health struggles.
Ted Turner is facing a serious health condition
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Ted Turner, the media mogul known for founding CNN and his highly publicized marriage to Jane Fonda, shared that he has been diagnosed with Lewy body dementia—an illness that affects cognitive and physical function, similar to Alzheimer’s. This condition was also faced by late actor Robin Williams.
During a 2018 interview, Turner described his experience saying, “I’m tired. Exhausted. Forgetfulness is a big issue.” His absence from the spotlight in recent years raises concerns, as Lewy body dementia can significantly shorten life expectancy, often between five to eight years post-diagnosis.
Nevertheless, in 2022, his daughter Laura provided a hopeful update, stating he has a milder version of the illness than Robin Williams did. “He’s progressing slowly and enjoying time fishing in Montana,” she mentioned, adding that being in nature is beneficial for managing stress and anxiety.
Concerns have arisen regarding King Charles’ health status
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King Charles
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King Charles III Faces Health Challenges
Just over a year into his reign, King Charles III was diagnosed with cancer following a prostate procedure. The royal family announced in February 2024 that he would pause his public activities to focus on treatment.
However, rumors began to circulate by the year’s end, suggesting that his health was in worse shape than reported, with speculations about pancreatic cancer and a prognosis of only two years left to live. A source revealed to InTouch Weekly that many in the royal circle believed the situation was dire, indicating prior health concerns even before the cancer diagnosis.
Despite these alarming claims, some reports, including those from Snopes.com, advise caution, labeling such assertions as unverified.
Pete Davidson Faces Career Setbacks
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Pete Davidson, known for his time on “Saturday Night Live,” has openly discussed his mental health challenges, including depression and bipolar disorder. After checking into rehab in summer 2024, he cancelled his stand-up tour, impacting his career significantly.
Davidson’s professional year has been rocky, as he reportedly withdrew from a second season of his semi-autobiographical show, “Bupkis,” leading to its cancellation and criticism from colleagues. A source disclosed to The Sun that this decision has affected his reputation in Hollywood, making it difficult for him to secure new projects.
This notion was echoed by New York Daily News columnist Richard Johnson, who noted that Davidson’s cancellation of “Bupkis” may have hindered his future opportunities in the industry, as his management attempts to find him new hosting roles, including a possible return to “SNL.”
Christina Applegate Opens Up About Her MS Struggles
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Christina Applegate’s life took a turning point in 2021 upon her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease she had unknowingly lived with for years. Fans have noticed her deteriorating health, leading her to use a cane publicly.
During a recent podcast appearance, she shared the intense pain caused by the disease, describing how it can leave her “screaming” in bed due to sharp and crushing sensations. She recounted the impact of MS on her daily life, explaining that sometimes she struggles to pick up her phone or open bottles, illustrating the battle against her physical limitations.
Celine Dion’s Ongoing Battle with a Rare Condition
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In 2023, acclaimed singer Céline Dion announced the cancellation of her upcoming tour due to a rare neurological condition known as stiff person syndrome. This disorder has led to unpredictable muscle spasms, often triggered by loud sounds, resulting in her losing control of her muscles.
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They worried about her falling and potentially injuring herself.
In the 2024 documentary “I Am: Céline Dion,” she revealed the challenging health crisis that led her to stop performing and recording. Even though there’s no definitive cure, she is seeking treatment. “What she endured was unimaginable,” director Irene Taylor Brodsky shared on “Today.” “I wasn’t certain she would pull through.”
Dion made a remarkable return by performing at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony in summer 2024, though her future in music is uncertain. As she expressed in the documentary (via Canada’s Juno Awards blog), she remains hopeful: “I miss the audience so much. If I can’t run, I’ll walk. If I can’t walk, I’ll crawl. I’ll never give up.”
Ozzy Osbourne Faces Serious Health Challenges, Including Parkinson’s Disease
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Known for his wild lifestyle, Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, has faced numerous health issues in recent years. His struggles stem from a 2003 ATV accident, which left him with chronic nerve pain, and he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease the same year. Multiple surgeries have affected his mobility, leading him to perform seated on an ornate throne during his appearance at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2024, unable to stand.
Sharon Osbourne, his wife and manager, mentioned that Ozzy’s health issues have hindered their plans to relocate from LA to the UK, stating, “Every time we’re ready to go, something occurs with his health,” on “The Osbournes Podcast.”
Despite his health challenges, Ozzy made a rare public appearance in October 2024 for a fan event, giving supporters hope for a possible comeback. However, with each passing day, his return to the stage appears less likely. He acknowledged in a 2023 interview with Rolling Stone UK that he may only have about a decade left, stating, “As you age, time seems to accelerate.”
Harvey Weinstein Reportedly Suffering Health Decline in Prison
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In 2017, journalist Ronan Farrow’s exposé in The New Yorker revealed Harvey Weinstein’s numerous sexual misconduct allegations and ignited the #MeToo movement. He was ultimately convicted of rape and sexual assault and is currently serving time in Rikers Island.
Weinstein’s health has considerably declined since his incarceration. The 72-year-old producer appeared frail and required a walker for mobility during court appearances, stating it wasn’t for sympathy. Legal documents indicate he suffers from numerous ailments, including leukemia, diabetes, coronary artery disease, obesity, and hypertension. He has faced multiple hospitalizations, including an emergency heart procedure.
In a statement reported by NBC News, Weinstein’s attorney described Rikers as inhumane and highlighted his lack of adequate medical care, noting only grim conditions during visits, which included bloodstained clothes and lack of sanitary essentials. Concerns about mistreatment and fears for Weinstein’s survival in prison continue to arise, as his lawyer indicated he might not receive the compassionate care he needs.
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Elton John Faces Health Challenges, Including Vision Loss
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In recent years, Elton John has battled various health issues, including prostate cancer, a severe bacterial infection, and injuries from falls that required knee surgery. He has recently opened up about new health concerns.
During late 2024, he disclosed that he lost vision in his right eye due to an infection he contracted while in the south of France. He told “Good Morning America,” “I lost my eyesight in my right eye in July, and it has been four months without sight,” adding that his left eye is also not in great condition.
Though there’s hope that his sight may return, it has hindered his ability to record new music. Referring to his recent performance at the premiere of “The Devil Wears Prada: The Musical,” he stated, “I can do something like this. But going into the studio and recording, I don’t know.” Wishing him a speedy recovery and improved health as we move into 2025.
Sophia Michaels
