Tributes paid to Moody Blues founder Mike Pinder
The keyboardist died on Wednesday at his home in California.
Last updated 26th Apr 2024
Mike Pinder, one of the founding members of rock band The Moody Blues, has died at the age of 82.
The Birmingham-based band, famous for hits such as Nights In White Satin, Go Now, Question and Tuesday Afternoon, was created by Ray Thomas, Denny Laine, Graeme Edge, Clint Warwick and Pinder in 1964.
In a statement on Facebook on behalf of the late musician’s family, former band member John Lodge announced that keyboardist Pinder died on Wednesday at his home in California.
He said: “Michael’s family would like to share with his trusted friends and caring fans that he passed peacefully. His final days were filled with music, encircled by the love of his family.
“Michael lived his life with a childlike wonder, walking a deeply introspective path which fused the mind and the heart.
“He created his music and the message he shared with the world from this spiritually grounded place; as he always said, ‘Keep your head above the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground’.
“His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”
Born in Birmingham, Pinder contributed to the band’s music throughout the 1960s and 1970s including their first album The Magnificent Moodies and the 1978 record Octave.
He left the band during the 1970s and release solo albums The Promise in 1976 and 1994’s Among The Stars.
Famous faces we've lost this year
Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role as Mrs Banks in the 1964 film, sadly died at the age of 100 in January. Mitch Clem, her manager, said she's passed "peacefully" in Los Angeles.
Derek Draper
Kate Garraway announced on 5th January that her beloved husband Derek Draper had sadly passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest in early December.
She wrote on Instagram: 'I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed. I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible. Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.' (sic)
David Soul
Actor and singer David Soul sadly died at the age of 80 in early January. He was best known for his role as Detective Kenneth 'Hutch' Hutchinson in the television series Starsky & Hutch, but also had a string of music hits in the 70s.
Christian Oliver
German actor Christian Oliver, famous for his role in Speed Racer, was tragically killed alongside his two daughters in a helicopter crash in the Caribbean. The pilot was also sadly killed in the crash, which happened in January.
JPR Williams
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams sadly died at the age of 74 in January. It's understood he passed away in hospital surrounded by his family after short illness battling bacterial meningitis.
Adan Canto
Designated Survivor and X-Men actor Adan Canto sadly passed away in January at the age of 42, following a battle with cancer. In a statement, his publicist Jennifer Allen said: "Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many."
Georgina Hale
Bafta-winning actress Georgina Hale, best known for her role in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 80 in January. Tributes poured in for the popular actress, who also appeared in Doctor Who, Budgie, One Foot in The Grave, Minder, The Bill and A Rather English Marriage.
Annie Nightingale CBE
Annie Nightingale, trailblazing presenter and DJ, sadly died at the age of 83 in January, following a short illness. Her family confirmed the news in a statement, where they described her a "pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many."
Lynne Marta
Footloose, Joe Kidd and Starsky & Hutch actress Lynne Marta sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January, following a short battle with cancer. Marta's friend Chris Saint-Hilaire confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Martin McCallum
British theatre director Martin McCallum, best known for shows such as Cats and Les Miserables, sadly passed away at the age of 73 in January, peacefully and surrounded by his beloved family.
Frank Farian
The founder of 'Daddy Cool' band Boney M, Frank Farian sadly passed away at the age of 82 in January. The German music producer, who founded the band back in 1974, died peacefully in his Miami apartment according to his representatives.
Mummy Pat Webb
Gogglebox star Pat Webb sadly died at the age of 75 in January following a long illness. Her son Stephen who she appeared alongside between series 10-12, announced the news on social media, with Gogglebox bosses also paying tribute to her online.
Chita Rivera
Broadway legend Chita Rivera sadly passed away at the age of 91 in January. Famed for roles such as Anita in West Side Story, Velma in Chicago and Rose in Bye Bye Birdie, Chita won many awards throughout her amazing career.
Jonnie Irwin
After being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020, and it later spreading to his brain, TV presenter Jonnie Irwin sadly passed away at the age of 50 in February. His family released a statement to confirm the sad news, with tributes pouring in from the world of entertainment.
Carl Weathers
American actor Carl Weathers, best known for playing the role of Apollo Creed in the Rocky films franchise, sadly passed away at the age of 76 in February. According to a statement by his family, Carl died peacefully in his sleep.
Aston Barrett
The bassist of reggae band Bob Marley and the Wailers, Aston Barrett, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. Announcing his passing in a statement, his family revealed he'd had a 'long medical battle', but didn't confirm his cause of death.
Ian Lavender
Dad's Army actor Ian Lavender, best known for playing the role of Private Pike in the hit sitcom, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. He was the last surviving member of the main cast.
Michael Jayston
Actor Michael Jayston, best known for roles in Doctor Who and Only Fools and Horses, sadly died in February following a short illness. Michael's agent confirmed the news, saying: "It is with great sadness that I have been asked by his family to share the news Michael Jayston sadly passed away this morning (Monday) after a short illness.
"Those who knew Michael will know he was full of love, laughs and happiness. He adored meeting his fans all over the world. His family and friends would appreciate privacy at this time."
Toby Keith
Country music legend Toby Keith sadly died at the age of 62 in February, following a battle with stomach cancer.
Steve Wright
Legendary broadcaster Steve Wright sadly died at the age of 69 in February. In a statement shared with the BBC, Steve's family said: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright."
Tributes poured in for the broadcaster from around the world, with fellow presenters Ken Bruce, Simon Mayo and Tony Blackburn all sharing their fond memories.
Robin Windsor
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor sadly passed away at the age off 44 in February. Robin appeared on the show between 2010-2012, working with the likes of Deborah Meaden, Lisa Riley, Anita Dobson and Patsy Kensit. Tributes have poured in for Robin from the world of entertainment.
Ewen Macintosh
Actor Ewen Macintosh, best known for playing the role of Keith in The Office, sadly passed away at the age of 50 in February. His management confirmed the news in a post on X, formerly Twitter.
John Savident
Actor John Savident, best known for playing the role of Fred Elliott in Coronation Street between 1994 and 2005, sadly passed away at the age of 86 in February. His agent confirmed the news, saying: "We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday. He was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
Chris Nicholl
Former Southampton, Aston Villa and Northern Ireland defender, Chris Nicholl, sadly died at the age of 77 in February. Chris had been living with dementia, specifically chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which he attributed to brain damage caused by repeatedly heading balls over his lengthy career.
Kenneth Mitchell
Actor Kenneth Mitchell, who appeared in Captain Marvel and a Star Trek series, sadly died at the age of 49 in February. Kenneth was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease five and a half years ago.
Dave Myers
Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers passed away on 28th February at the age of 66, after a two-year battle with cancer. The TV star's co-star Si King announced the sad news on social media.
Cat Janice
Singer Cat Janice, whose song 'Dance You Otta My Head' went viral on TikTok after she dedicated it to her beloved son, sadly lost her battle with a rare form of cancer in February. Her family announced the sad news in a post on Instagram.
Eric Carmen
American singer Eric Carmen, best known for his tracks 'Hungry Eyes' and 'All By Myself', sadly died at the age of 74 in March. Eric, who rose to fame with the Raspberries, passed away in his sleep, as confirmed by his beloved wife in a statement.
Karl Wallinger
The Waterboys and World Party singer Karl Wallinger sadly passed away at the age of 66 in March. The musician's publicist confirmed the news in a statement, with musicians around the world paying tribute to Karl.
M Emmet Walsh
Actor M Emmet Walsh, who starred in movies such as Blade Runner and Knives Out over his six-decade career, sadly passed away at the age of 88 in March. A statement from his manager confirmed he suffered a cardiac arrest at Kerbs Memorial Hospital in St Albans, Vermont.
George Gilbey
Gogglebox and Celebrity Big Brother star George Gilbey sadly passed away at the age of 40 in March 2024, following a tragic accident in his workplace. Gogglebox bosses paid tribute to George on Instagram, writing; 'George was part of the Gogglebox family for eight series alongside his mum Linda and step-dad Pete.
'Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Linda, and George's family and friends at this very sad time. The family have asked for privacy.'
Chance Perdomo
Actor Chance Perdomo, who was best known for his roles in Gen V and the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, sadly died in March at the age of 27, following a motorbike accident. Tributes from around the world poured in for the actor following the sad news.
Gerry Conway
Fairport Convention drummer Gerry Conway sadly passed away at the age of 76 in March, following a battle with motor neurone disease. His bandmates confirmed the news via a statement, with tributes pouring in from around the world.
Adrian Schiller
Death In Paradise and The Last Kingdom actor Adrian Schiller died 'suddenly and unexpectedly' at the beginning of April. His agent Scott Marshall Partners announced the sad news, saying in a statement: 'He has died far too soon, and we, his family and close friends are devastated by the loss.'
OJ Simpson
American Footballer turned actor O.J. Simpson, sadly died aged 76 in April, following a battle with cancer. His family confirmed the news of his death on X, formerly Twitter, saying he has 'succumbed to his battle with cancer.'
Mike Pinder
Mike Pinder, one of the founding members of rock band The Moody Blues, sadly died at the age of 82 in April. The keyboardist died at his home in California, but his cause of death has not been announced.
Brian McCardie
Scottish actor Brian McCardie died suddenly at the age of 59 at the end of April, with his wife confirming the sad news online. Brian had an remarkable career, appearing in movies such as Speed 2: Cruise Control and Rob Roy, and TV shows such as Time, Line of Duty and Snatch.
Richard Tandy
Long-time Electric Light Orchestra keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist Richard Tandy sadly died at the age of 76 at the start of May. ELO lynchpin Jeff Lynne broke the news of Tandy's passing with a statement on social media.
Bernard Hill
Bernard Hill played King Théoden in Peter Jackson's The Lord of The Rings films, after originallyrising to fame back in 1982 on the BBC TV drama Boys from the Blackstuff. He also appears in the current series of The Responder.
Bernard sadly passed away on Sunday 5th May at the age of 79.
Kris Hallenga (founder of CoppaFeel!)
Kris Hallenga, the founder of CoppaFeel! sadly died at the age of just 38 in May 2024. Kris founded the charity after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer at the age of just 23. Since her diagnosis, she campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of breast cancer.
A statement on the charity's website said: "She hasn't lost a battle, she wasn't in a fight and she certainly wouldn't want you to see her death as tragic.
"She was simply living. She was 38 and died with fulfilment and a heart full of love."