11 Unexpected Celebrity Deaths That Left a Huge Void (5 of 6)

Kobe Bryant

One of the top 5 greatest basketball players of all time, Kobe was settling into a life of retirement when it was tragically cut short due to a helicopter crash. It also took the life of 8 others, including his daughter Gianna, who was following in his footsteps as a basketball star.

Phil Hartman

Always cheerful and full of energy, the former SNL cast member was known for his roles on “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,” “News Radio,” “Pand” as the voice of Lionel Hutz and Troy McClure on “The Simpsons.” He died at 49 in a terrible murder-suicide at the hands of his wife, who had long suffered from drug addiction and mental health problems. They left two young children.