Last Days

Twenty-five years ago on July 16, 1999, John F. Kennedy Jr. -- the son of of the late president whose salute of his father's casket in 1963 created one of the most indelible images of the 20th century -- died in a plane crash with his wife and sister-in-law while on the way to a cousin's wedding in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts. His death sent shockwaves through the country, as people reckoned with yet another tragic example of the Kennedy Curse.Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On June 19, 2016, Anton Yelchin was killed in a freak accident when he was pinned between a driveway gate and his massive SUV. Just 27 years old when he died, Yelchin had already proven himself to be a versatile and talented actor on the big screen, leaving little doubt his tragic death had robbed Hollywood of one of its brightest young stars.Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 7, 2011, Dr. Conrad Murray was convicted for involuntary manslaughter in the death of Michael Jackson. With the tragic chapter finally closed, Michael's fans could once again reflect on his unmatched career and indelible legacy, from his groundbreaking music and electrifying performances, to his enduring influence on music and culture.Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fifteen years ago this week, on June 25, 2009, Michael Jackson died of an overdose of the anesthetic propofol, and blame was cast at Dr. Conrad Murray, the man accused of giving him the lethal dose. But Michael Jackson's death was decades in the making, stemming from an horrific on-stage accident that sparked a prescription drug addiction, which was then fed by physicians trying to curry favor with their famous client, and exacerbated by all of those who were more interested in getting him back on stage to make money than in saving his life.Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Farrah Fawcett -- the stunningly beautiful actress best known for her iconic role on Charlie's Angels -- passed away after a courageous public battle with anal cancer on June 25, 2009. Despite showing tremendous resilience and strength throughout her health struggles, Fawcett's death was overshadowed by the sudden death of pop superstar Michael Jackson, which captured global attention and robbed his fellow icon of the spotlight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the morning of June 5, 2018, Kate Spade - the iconic fashion designer who revolutionized the handbag and accessory markets in the 1990s and 2000s - hanged herself in her Upper East Side apartment. But despite the tragedy, Kate Spade left a legacy of singular kindness and generosity, and will forever be known as one of the most important and successful women in the history of American fashion.Hosts: Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On January 5, 1998, Sonny Bono -- one half of the legendary Sonny & Cher duo whose hit songs and variety show became cultural touchstones of the 60s and 70s -- died after a ski accident in Lake Tahoe. Although his musical legacy remains an important piece of music history, Bono's pivot to politics later in life is perhaps the best testament to a career defined by his scrappy perseverance and ineffable charm.Hosted by Jason Beckerman & Derek Kaufman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 27, 2024, Bill Walton -- the NBA legend whose brilliant but injury-shortened career set the standard for basketball excellence in the 70s and 80s -- passed away from colon cancer at the age of 71. Although his accomplishments on the court are rivaled by few, he will perhaps best be remembered for his colorful personality and quick wit in the broadcast booth.Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 5, 2024, Toby Keith – the country star whose songs about patriotism and blue-collar values made him one of the most successful musicians of all time - died of stomach cancer. Keith was an exceptionally talented singer and songwriter, but perhaps his greatest gifts were his intelligence and his authenticity, which gave him unique perspectives on war, politics, and friendships, and the ability to change minds and challenge stereotypes.Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 23, 2024, Morgan Spurlock -- the filmmaker behind the 2004 documentary "Super Size Me" documentary -- passed away from cancer at the age of 53. His infectious enthusiasm, sense of humor, and creativity in a genre usually populated by films with more serious and sober tones set Spurlock's projects apart, shedding light on some of the most important social issues of the day and carving out a lasting legacy.Hosts: Derek Kaufman & Jason Beckerman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices