Although John Isaac passed away in late 2023, the news only reached us in February 2024. We want to ensure that John is remembered not only for his extraordinary photographs of Michael Jackson but also for his kindness and gentle spirit.
Sandra Crouch passed away on Sunday, March 17, at Northridge Hospital in Northridge, California, due to complications from radiation treatment for a non-cancerous brain lesion. Alongside her twin brother, Andraé, Sandra collaborated with Michael Jackson on numerous songs, including “Man In The Mirror” and “Will You Be There.” Their contributions are credited on the albums Bad, Dangerous, HIStory, Blood on the Dance Floor, and Invincible.
Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, renowned for his signature animal prints on leather and textiles, passed away in April this year at the age of 83. Michael Jackson wore several of Cavalli’s designs, which remain beloved by fans.
Houston Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee passed away last July at the age of 74. Known for her dedication to public service, she met with Michael Jackson and 15 African ambassadors to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic and visited wounded veterans of the Iraq War at Walter Reed Army Medical Center on March 31, 2004, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. Jackson Lee also spoke at Michael Jackson’s funeral, where she presented a House resolution honoring his legacy.
Jackie Gouché-Farris, cherished by fans for her soulful backup vocals on Michael Jackson’s songs You Are Not Alone and Blood on the Dance Floor, passed away in August at the age of 61. A talented singer and songwriter, Jackie’s voice and artistry contributed to the magic of these iconic tracks. Beyond her work with Michael Jackson, she was admired for her extensive contributions to the music industry and her impact on gospel and contemporary music. Her warmth, talent, and spirit will be deeply missed.
Linda Deutsch, a legendary special correspondent for The Associated Press, passed away in September at the age of 80. Over her nearly 50-year career, she crafted compelling first drafts of history, covering many of the nation’s most high-profile criminal and civil trials, including those of Charles Manson, O.J. Simpson, and Michael Jackson. Known for her fair and balanced reporting, Michael Jackson fans remember her as one of the few journalists who stood by him during his trial, asserting that he was being framed. Her integrity and dedication to truthful reporting left an indelible mark on journalism.
Also passing in September, American actor James Earl Jones, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Darth Vader’s voice in Star Wars, died at the age of 93. Fans may also recognize his distinctive voice from The Legend Continues documentary, released in 1988. His powerful presence and unforgettable voice made him a beloved figure in entertainment history.
Perhaps the most shocking loss of the year was Tito Jackson, who passed away at the age of 70. As a member of the iconic Jackson 5 and later The Jacksons, Tito played a pivotal role in shaping the group’s groundbreaking sound and legacy. His rhythm guitar skills and rich vocal harmonies were essential to their global success. Beyond his musical contributions, Tito was the steady, reliable force within the Jackson family, offering unwavering support to his siblings, including his brother Michael. His loss marks another profound blow to the Jackson family and the world of music, leaving fans and loved ones mourning the passing of a true legend.
Greg Hildebrandt, an acclaimed American illustrator known for his fantasy and science fiction work alongside his twin brother Tim, passed away on October 31, 2024, at the age of 85. Renowned for their Lord of the Rings illustrations and the first Star Wars poster, the brothers also contributed to comics and collectible card art. In 1989, Greg had the chance to meet Michael Jackson, who commissioned him to create a painting of himself as Peter Pan for the Neverland Ranch. While Greg produced several detailed sketches that were later combined into a single concept, the project ultimately remained unfinished.
Quincy Jones, a legendary music producer and composer, collaborated with iconic artists such as Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, and Ray Charles, leaving an unparalleled legacy in the music industry. Among his many achievements, he produced Michael Jackson’s record-breaking album Thriller and directed the star-studded 1985 charity single We Are the World. Jones also showcased his versatility by composing the soundtrack for the British classic film The Italian Job (1969), starring Michael Caine. He passed away last November at the age of 91, leaving behind a monumental influence on music and film.
The film industry lost a legend with the passing of Colin Chilvers, an Academy Award-winning director and special effects pioneer, at the age of 79. Best known for his groundbreaking work on Superman: The Movie (1978), which earned him an Oscar, Chilvers revolutionized cinematic visual effects. He also contributed to iconic projects like Rocky Horror Picture Show, X-Men, and Bride of Chucky. Colin Chilvers’ collaboration with Michael Jackson, particularly directing the Smooth Criminal sequence in Moonwalker (1988), created one of pop culture’s most iconic visuals, with its innovative effects and unforgettable choreography. Colin Chilvers later reflected on this collaboration in the documentary Walking on the Moon, providing rare insights into their creative partnership.
