Legends of Las Vegas: Remembering Icons We Lost in 2024

Legends of Las Vegas: Remembering Icons We Lost in 2024

By Michael Thompson

December 31, 2024 at 03:02 PM

As Las Vegas bid farewell to several influential figures in 2024, their legacies left an indelible mark on the city's rich history. Here's a tribute to those we lost:

Bob Newhart smiling at camera

Bob Newhart smiling at camera

Bob Newhart (died July 18, age 94) revolutionized comedy in Las Vegas with his iconic deadpan delivery and one-sided phone conversations. From his 1963 Sahara debut through performances at the Sands, Desert Inn, and Caesars Palace, he brought his unique brand of humor to the Strip.

Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gormé singing

Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gormé singing

Steve Lawrence (died March 7, age 88) and wife Eydie Gormé defined Las Vegas entertainment in the '60s and '70s. Their performances at the Sands and Caesars Palace showcased their mastery of American standards until Lawrence's retirement in 2019 due to Alzheimer's.

Portrait of gambler Archie Karas

Portrait of gambler Archie Karas

Archie Karas (died September 7, age 73) achieved legendary status during "The Run," turning $50 into $40 million through poker and pool. His spectacular rise and fall, culminating in losing everything by 1995, became casino lore.

Pete Rose wearing baseball cap

Pete Rose wearing baseball cap

Pete Rose (died September 30, age 83) made headlines both for his baseball excellence and his controversial betting activities. The MLB legend spent his final years in Las Vegas, where sports betting became legal in 2018.

Man wearing dark suit and fedora

Man wearing dark suit and fedora

Crandell Addington (died April 14, age 85), known as "the Dandy," holds the record for most WSOP Main Event final table appearances (seven) and was renowned for his impeccable style and No-Limit Hold'em expertise.

Toby Keith with red solo cup

Toby Keith with red solo cup

Toby Keith (died February 5, age 62) progressed from $10 shows at Arizona Charlie's to becoming a country music superstar. His final performances were at Park MGM just months before his passing.

Police photo of Richard Tito

Police photo of Richard Tito

Tito Jackson (died September 15, age 70), integral to the Jackson 5's success, helped establish the group's Las Vegas presence through their landmark 1974-75 MGM Grand residency.

O.J. Simpson points handgun at camera

O.J. Simpson points handgun at camera

O.J. Simpson (died April 10, age 76) spent his final years in Las Vegas following his release from Lovelock Correctional Center, where he served nine years for a 2007 Palace Station robbery incident.

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