John Aprea

Ken Flores

Feb 01, 1996 - Jan 27, 2025

Los Angeles, CA

‘LatinXL’ creator and the beloved stand-up comedian Ken Flores dies at 28. Born Kenyi Flores, the comedian died on Tuesday; the reason for his untimely demise is not yet reported. However, not officially confirmed, the beloved comic is said to have suffered a cardiac arrest through law enforcement sources. He was scheduled to perform on Thursday at a club in Pheonix after a gig in Norcross, Georgia. His tour started on January 10 in Portland, Oregon, and was supposed to end in San Diego in the middle of April. The Chicago native got his career in comedy while he was a teenager himself. He started by posting videos on YouTube, with some of his clips going viral on WorldStarHipHop. While he was serving as a bank teller in his early 20s, he said that he was motivated by the owner of The Comedy Shrine to perform at the Aurora venue's open mic event. Ken Flores was a rising stand-up comedian who recently also made an appearance in the Netflix is a Daily Joke podcast. He also performed at the Netflix Is A Joke stand-up festival. Big in stature and even bigger in personality, Ken had a unique way of connecting with people. His crowd work was unparalleled. However, his humor, brutal honesty, and authenticity truly resonated with his audience everywhere. His relatable material drew people in. Ken Flores' demise has left a gaping void in the realm of comedy. However, his legacy of dedication and laughter to uplifting others in the industry will be cherished.

Jeff Baena

Jun 28, 1977 - Jan 02, 2025

Los Angeles, CA

Jeff Baena, the legend who directed and co-wrote the dark comedy "I Heart Huckabees," tragically died on Friday at his residence in Los Angeles at the age of 47. He also directed fantastic films, including "Horse Girl" and "Life After Beth." Jeff elevated dark thematic elements with humor in his works. Jeff and Aubrey married in 2021 and frequently collaborated on his projects. His wife opened up about their unconventional wedding on "The Ellen Show." One of the few director/actor couples in the U.S. independent film scene, Aubrey Plaza and Jeff Baena together made the four enjoyably twisted movies, starting with the zombie comedy "Life After Beth (2014)." Baena was a witty and shrewd writer-director, while Aubrey brought her witheringly sarcastic, cooler-than-thou persona to the roles he wrote for her. Beneath the flippant surface and the deceptively arch, their films had a deeper emotional meaning. More recently, Jeff executive produced, wrote, directed, and created Showtime's series "Cinema Toast" in 2021. Moreover, he also produced and directed the movie "Spin Me Round," in 2022. Jeff is survived by his wife, Aubrey Plaza; his mother, Barbara Stern; his stepfather, Roger Stern; his father, Scott Baena; his stepmother, Michele Baena; his brother, Brad Baena; and his stepsiblings, Jed Fluxman and Bianca Gabay.

Charles Shyer

Oct 10, 1941 - Dec 26, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

Charles Shyer, an Oscar-nominated writer-director, passed away at 83. He was a successful filmmaker popularly known for his work in “Private Benjamin,” which he co-produced and co-wrote, as well as “Father of the Bride,” which he directed and co-wrote. He passed away in a hospital in L.A. after suffering a brief illness. Shyer had his hand in a number of successful comedies for more than four decades, mostly working with Meyers, whom he got married to in 1980. Born in L.A. in 1941, he had his teeth writing for TV. Before shifting his career toward films, he assisted Garry Marshall and worked on many shows, including “The Odd Couple.” His breakthrough came with “Private Benjamin,” which he co-wrote with Harvey Miller and Meyers. For this 1980’s comedy hit, Shyer got nominated for an Oscar, as well as a WGA Award. All those films the couple directed became one of the most fantastic teaming for comedy in the industry until they ended up in a divorce in 1999, shortly after writing and producing the 1998 remake of “The Parent Trap.” Their daughters Hallie and Annie, whose names were used for Lohan’s twin characters in this Disney film, both also appeared in the film. His most recent work includes directing and writing a Netflix film, 2022, “The Noel Diary.” Moreover, he also served as a co-writer and producer of the 2023 holiday film “Best Christmas Ever!” He is survived by his two children, Sophia and Jacob, from his marriage.

Art Evans

Mar 26, 1942 - Dec 20, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

"Die Hard 2" actor Art Evans dies at 82 after bravely managing diabetes for many years. The screen star, known for his groundbreaking role in "A Soldier's Story," is now among the stars. Born Arthur James Evans in Berkeley, California, he made his acting debut with a role in James Baldwin's play "The Amen Corner." He aced this role at Frank Silvera's Theater of Being in L.A. Later on, in 1965, this show went to Broadway. On the professional front, he has portrayed more than 120 films and TV roles. Evans rose to fame in 1984 after he co-starred in the blockbuster mystery "Wilkie." Apart from his deliverance in numerous roles, he was undeniably best known for his role in the action classic "Die Hard 2," as Leslie Barnes. Art also aced his roles in "Youngblood," "Big Time, "Fright Night," "Bitter Harvest," "National Lampoon's Class Reunion," "Metro," "School Daze," and "Tales from the Hood." In the realm of television, he was featured in "The X-Files," "Hill Street Blues," "Family Matters," "Monk," and "M*A*S*H." His final role was a two-episode voiceover stint in 2022 and 2023 on the Disney+ animated series "The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder." Art's wife, Babe Evans, and son, Ogadae Evans, survive him.

Lee Ramer

Apr 26, 1934 - Nov 30, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

Champion of the Hammer Museum, Lee Ramer, is laid to rest. She was 90 years of age. Lee Ramer, a longtime L.A. arts leader and early champion of L.A. as a cultural capital, passed away at home Sunday. From 1994 to 2013, Ramer served on the L.A. Cultural Affairs Commission, eventually becoming the group’s president. Her service in the city government started in 1978 with her work as a cultural affairs assistant and deputy for 17 years to former City Councilman Joel Wachs. Born Ina Lee Brown on April 27, 1934, in Stamford, Connecticut. She enrolled at Wellesley College in Massachusetts and majored in political science. Lee completed her graduation in 1956. In 1957, she got married to a well-known businessman, Lawrence J. Ramer, and the couple moved to Los Angeles. For them both, cultural affairs and philanthropy were of significant value. Apart from this, during her time on the Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Commission, she was appointed as the city’s chief of protocol in 1999. The year before, Lee, along with her husband, founded the AJC Berlin Lawrence and Lee Ramer Institute for German-Jewish Relations. Her children, Stephanie Ramer, Mark Coleman, and Douglas Ramer; her son-in-law, Susan Ramer; daughter-in-law, Michelle; and three grandchildren survive her.

Israel Vázquez Castañeda

Dec 24, 1977 - Dec 01, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

Mexican boxer Israel Vazquez, who was also a three-time world champion, passed away at 46. The celebrated Mexican boxing legend, Israel, had been battling sarcoma cancer. He started his professional boxing career in 1995, and it did not take him long to gain recognition for his exciting rivalry with his fellow Mexican boxer “Rafael Marquez.” Both of them squared off four times between 2007 and 2010, with each of them winning two bouts. Their 2007 and 2008 encounters were particularly memorable, both receiving the respected “Fight of the Year” honors. Following this victory, Vazquez suffered a detached retina after his retirement, which led to the loss of his right eye. His final fight took place in May 2010, where he was defeated by his opponent via a brutal knockout. Vazquez’s career achievements include winning the vacant IBF super bantamweight title in 2004 with a victory over “Jose Luis Valbuaena,” defending it twice, and in 2005, later seizing the WBC title from “Oscar Larios” with a third-round stoppage. He got the WBC title until his first encounter with Marquez, where he withdrew in round seven because of breathing problems caused by a broken nose. A few months later, he reclaimed the title by knocking out Marquez in the sixth round despite sustaining cuts above both of his eyes. His eye injuries kept him away from the boxing ring for a long period of time, and he eventually had to give up his WBC title. After getting three surgeries, he made a brave comeback for a fourth fight against his nemesis – Marquez, but sadly, he suffered a third-round knockout loss. With a record of 5 defeats and 44 victories (out of which 32 were by knockout), he bid farewell to his career.

Wayne Northrop

Apr 11, 1947 - Nov 28, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

"Days of Our Lives," star – Wayne Northrop is now among the stars at the age of 77. Actor Wayne Northrop leaves behind the acting industry mourning over such an immense loss. It is important to note that he has been battling with Alzheimer's disease for the past six years. Born on April 12, 1947, to Donna and Robert Northrop, Wayne was born and raised in Sumner, Washington. He earned his degree in communications from the University of Washington. Right after college, Northrop traveled Europe for a couple of years and learned German along the way. When he got home, he enrolled himself in a local community college acting class, which boosted his professional acting career. The Washington native took pride in his massive television career that spanned over 30 years, multiple hit dramas, and several networks. He was an alumnus of the L.A. Actors' Theatre, which was founded by Ralph Waite, the star of "Waltons." Northrop started his professional career in the late 1970s with smaller roles in many series, such as "Police Story," "Eight is Enough," and "The Waltons." Wayne also got his first multi-episode role upon joining the cast of "Dynasty," which turned out to be the Emmy-winning ABC drama in 1981. During his "Dynasty" period, he also starred in "Days of Our Lives," NBC's long-running drama. He appeared in more than 1,000 episodes from 1981 to 2006. Wayne left and rejoined multiple characters, including Dr. Alex North and Det. Roman Brady. He also showed up in many TV movies, including "Going for the Gold: The Bill Johnson Story," "The Haunting of Lisa," and "You Are the Jury," as well as "Beggarman, Thief." He is survived by his loving wife, Lynn Herring; two sons; and stepmother, Janet Northrop.

Sir Lady Java

Aug 19, 1942 - Nov 15, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

Pioneering performer and activist – Sir Lady Java has taken her last breaths at 82. Sir Lady Java, a legendary performer who appeared with some of the shiniest names in the show business, died on November 16, 2024. She was also known simply as Lady Java and moved from New Orleans to Los Angeles during her childhood. In the 1960s, she became the star of the L.A. nightclub scene, where she worked as a comedian, singer, and dancer, appearing with some industry giants such as Richard Pryor, Sammy Davis Jr., Don Rickles, and Redd Foxx. As a child, she had a cheerful spirit that shined brightest. She was able to transition at a young age with her supportive mother by her side, who became an inspiration for her throughout her career. Right after graduating high school, Java stepped into the Black performing arts scene in L.A., where her family has shifted. It didn’t take her long to make a name for herself there. She took inspiration from other entertainers before her, including Josephine Baker and Mae West. She did stand-up comedy, go-go danced, and utilized her talent in hat-making and fashion design to create show-stopping and bold looks, which she eventually became known for. Apart from her nightclub performances, Java also starred in films. She played herself in “The Human Tornado” in 1976. She also appeared in the documentary “Little Richard: I Am Everything” in 2023 and an American Masters episode from the same year, “Little Richard: King and Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll.” Lady Java leaves behind her legacy of being proud and out.

Al Ferrara

Dec 21, 1939 - Nov 14, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

Al “The Bull” Ferrara, a 1960s Dodgers outfielder, was laid to rest at 84. Al Ferrara, who won World Series championships in 1963 and 1965 with the Dodgers prior to joining the Padres, passed away on Friday, November 15. He was nicknamed “The Bull” and made his major league debut for the Dodgers in 1963. He stayed a part of the team through 1968. Al batted .256 with 23 home runs in 249 games in five seasons with L.A. In that time, Al became a part of National League pennant-winning teams in 1963, 1965, and 1966. He did not play in the 1963 or 1965 World Series. However, he made an appearance during the 1966 World Series, which was won by Baltimore. In the next year, he had a career year, leading his team with a .812 OPS and 16 home runs. Ferrara was voted “Dodger of the Year,” awarded to the most valuable player of the team. After five seasons with the Dodgers, he became available for the 1968 expansion draft. Padres selected him, and he had 27 homers and 109 RBIs in two-plus seasons playing left field for the Padres prior to them trading him in May 1971 to the Cincinnati Reds. After the 1971 season, Al got his retirement. Soon, he returned as an alumni ambassador to the Dodgers organization in 2009. He kept on making appearances representing the club and serving the community throughout this year. Alfred John Ferrara Jr. was born on December 22, 1939 in Brooklyn. He briefly attended Long Island University on a scholarship he secured for baseball prior to signing with the Dodgers. After bidding farewell to baseball, he went into sales for different home-improvement companies, eventually beginning his own company, “Major League Construction.” He sold this business after 30 years. Al’s son, Al III, and two grandchildren survive him.

Jonathan Haze

Mar 31, 1929 - Nov 01, 2024

Los Angeles, CA

The Star of the “Little Shop of Horrors,” Jonathan Haze, passed away at 95. Jonathan Haze, the actor who starred in “Roger Corman,” as the flower shop assistant in just one of the dozens of films he acted in with the B-movie legend, departed from this world at his home in Los Angeles on Saturday. Haze, a cousin of popular drummer Buddy Rich, was a versatile and invaluable member of Corman’s company. He appeared in “Monster From the Ocean Floor” and “The Fast and the Furious” until 1967, when he acted in “The St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.” He also served as an assistant director on “The Born Losers.” The Pittsburgh native also played and aced a lot of roles. Some of his famous works include a diminutive Viking in The Saga of the Viking Women and Their Voyage to the Waters of the Great Sea Serpent (1957), a manservant working for an alien in Not of This Earth (1957), a Latino soldier in It Conquered the World (1956), a pickpocket in Swamp Women (1956), a dimwitted bartender in Gunslinger (1956), an outlaw in Five Guns West (1955), and a contaminated man in Day the World Ended (1955). He is survived and remembered by his daughters Deedee and Rebecca, his grandchildren Ruby, Rocco, and Andre, and his great-grandson Sonny. His wife, Roberta Keith, a great costume designer, passed away in September. The couple married in the mid-1960s and divorced in 1981.