Instead of celebrating Christmas Day, these musicians' families and fans once suffered pain as they mourned their deaths on the supposed special day.
Far from what the song lyrics say, "It's the most wonderful time of the year," the Christmas season has also witnessed the deaths of famous singers and musicians all over the globe. As people celebrate this year's season, they also take their time to remember these music icons who died on Christmas Day.
George Michael
On Dec. 25, 2016, legendary pop icon George Michael died at his home. The coroner's office determined that he died of dilated cardiomyopathy with myocarditis and a fatty liver.
Even after his passing, he is still considered one of the most powerful icons of the MTV generation and one of the best-selling musicians of all time. He worked on "Faith," "Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1," "Older," "Songs from the Last Century," and "Patience" before his passing.
Vic Chestnutt
The Georgia native died on Dec. 25, 2009, in his hometown following an overdose of muscle relaxants. He fell into a coma after the incident.
Less than a month before his death, he appeared in an interview on National Public Radio and revealed that he attempted suicide several times in the past. Amid his struggles, he received his fans' love and support especially since he inspired them with his talent despite being paralyzed from the neck down.
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Eartha Kitt
Before her supposed 82nd birthday, Eartha Kitt passed away on Christmas Day 2008. The singer, who died of colon cancer, was known for her Christmas song, "Santa Baby."
Dean Martin
Dean Martin established his empire while collaborating with A-listers like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis in Rat Pack. He died at the age of 78 of acute respiratory failure due to emphysema. The musician, before his death, was struggling with the effects of his cigarette smoking.
Charlie Chaplin
Aside from being a comic actor, Chaplin famously wrote and composed renowned songs. Among the titles under his belt are "Mandolin Serenade," "Smile," "The Spring Song," "Final Speech from The Great Dictator," and "This Is My Song."
Chaplin died on Christmas Day in 1977. His wife, Oona, confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep.
"All the presents were under the tree. Charlie gave so much happiness and although he had been ill for a long time it is so sad that he should have passed away on Christmas Day," she said.
In the years leading to his death, he lost his hearing and sight while also struggling due to trouble speaking. His doctor, however, clarified that the renowned artist died from old age.
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