Last words from famous people are sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes inspiring and always fascinating! As someone approaches the end of their life they tend to reflect on their decisions and outcomes, and while it’s very sad, it’s also time to celebrate what they have achieved in their lifetime. These last words from famous people are intriguing because they allow you to see just how they feel about their lives.
1. Bob Marley
A reggae singer and musician, Bob Marley’s last words were spoken to his sons. He said “money can’t buy life” - this is a truly profound statement which really lets you see just how important it is to focus on what you truly love, as opposed to what makes you the most money. Life happens when you are truly happy, and a lot of last words from famous people seem to say the same thing.
2. John Lennon
Legendary Beatles member and self-confessed dreamer John Lennon’s last words are truly eerie. He exclaimed “I’m shot” as he stumbled into his home after being shot four times by Mark Chapman. It’s not hard to imagine how terrified he would have been, and this makes these last words really tragic.
3. J. M. Barrie
J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, uttered last words that are rather ironic. He died on June 19, 1937 after a long battle with pneumonia, and his last words were “I can’t sleep”. He was buried next to his parents in Scotland.
4. Thomas Edison
Some of the most quoted last words ever, Thomas Edison muttered “It’s very beautiful over there” before passing away. These last words are very touching and inspire many people, whether they are religious or not. It’s wonderful to think that whatever is after death is very beautiful.
5. George Harrison
Another member of The Beatles, George Harrison said something before he died that everyone should remember - “Love one another”. As you reflect on life it’s easy to see that the times when you are the happiest is when you are being kind to people, and it’s important to remember that always.
6. Frida Kahlo
She was a very controversial artist, but there is not doubt that Frida Kahlo was a truly influential woman, outspoken about many issues, particularly equality for women. However her last words were slightly morbid, with her being quoted to have said “I hope the exit is joyful and hope never to return”. Perhaps she was really hoping for a calm and peaceful journey.
7. Leonardo Da Vinci
It is no secret that Leonardo da Vinci never really believed that he had reached his full potential as an artist - his last words were “I have offended God and mankind because my work did not reach the quality it should have”. It makes you wish he was around now to see the world-renowned painter he has become!
8. Elizabeth Barrett Browning
As a poet, it is only fitting that Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s final words were just as lovely. When her husband asked her how she was feeling, she simply replied with one word - “beautiful”. She was happy and content and that certainly would have made the ordeal considerably easier.
9. Anna Pavlova
Anna Pavlova was a world-famous ballet dancer, most famous for playing the title role in Swan Lake. Her final words were “get my swan costume ready” - this shows that even right at the very end, she still cared the most about her true passion - dancing.
10. Steve Jobs
There is so much controversy and confusion around Apple co-founder Steve Jobs’ last words after he died of cancer in 2011. His sister who was with him until the end says that his last words were “oh wow oh wow oh wow” - what he was amazed by is a mystery.
11. Groucho Marx
Forever the comedian, Groucho Marx’s last words were “Die my dear? Why, that’s the last thing I’ll do!” Ironically, he died very shortly after of pneumonia on June 22, 1977.
12. Diana, Princess of Wales
She was one of the most loved women on the planet, and poor Princess Diana’s last words reflect her tragic last moments - she said “My God. What’s happened?” after her car crashed in Paris, just before she passed away. Her death was felt worldwide and hundreds of thousands of people mourned for her.
13. Leo Tolstoy
Just like George Harrison’s last words, Russian writer Leo Tolstoy’s also remind us that we are all worthy of love - he is quoted with saying “I love many things, I love all people”. Tolstoy died of pneumonia at a train station in Russia in 1910.
14. James Dean
Much like Princess Diana, famous handsome actor James Dean was also killed in a horrific car accident. His last words, which were “This guy’s got to stop - he’ll see us” refer to the head-on collision that occurred between him and another driver which ultimately resulted in his death.
15. Pablo Picasso
We are all familiar with Picasso’s crazy mismatched paintings, and by all accounts he was a jolly, fun person. He lived to a grand old age of 91 and his final words were that of celebration: “Drink to me!” he truly appreciated life and all it had to offer, and he wanted people to celebrate the life he had lead.
These famous people’s last words are interesting and I hope you’ve enjoyed reading them! I am always intrigued by how people see their own lives when they reflect on them. What is your favourite ‘last words’ quote?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some famous last words from celebrities?
- Many celebrities have memorable last words that reflect their personality, like Oscar Wilde's witty remark about speaking ill of the dead.
- Why are last words from famous people interesting?
- They often reveal insights into their character, humor, or mindset at the end of their lives.
- Did any celebrity have humorous last words?
- Yes, for example, Groucho Marx jokingly asked, 'Die, my dear? Why, that's the last thing I'll do!'.
- Can last words be verified as true?
- Some last words are well-documented, while others are anecdotal and may be romanticized over time.
- Are there famous last words about love or family?
- Yes, many celebrities expressed love or concern for family, like Johnny Cash saying, 'I will be with you, though' to his wife.
- Do last words reflect a person's beliefs or personality?
- Often, yes—they can highlight humor, courage, regret, or peace.
- Have any famous last words inspired others?
- Definitely; some last words become quotes that motivate or comfort people.
- Were some celebrity last words cryptic or mysterious?
- Yes, some were puzzling or poetic, fueling curiosity and interpretation.
- How soon before death are these last words usually spoken?
- They can be moments or minutes before death, but sometimes reported sayings might be from the last notable conversation.
- Where can I find a reliable list of famous last words?
- Books, reputable websites, and historical biographies often compile verified last words from celebrities.