Michael Jackson, 50, 1958 -2009

Michael Jackson is arguably one of the most successful entertainers of all time as the King of Pop. Who could ever forget his famous moonwalk? Or his ever-changing appearance? His chart-topping music like Thriller and Smooth Criminal or his eccentric lifestyle? The Los Angeles-born superstar was an unstoppable force of music.

At the same time, his personal life was complicated. He had reportedly suffered tremendous abuse as a child and was dogged by unproven allegations that left him embroiled in child abuse suits. The news of his death came in June 2009, only days before his comeback for the This Is It music tour.