Kathy Kirby, 72

The star singer Kathy Kirby reigned supreme on television during the mid-60s, with people regularly tuning in to variety shows to watch the gorgeous lady. Her magnetic presence drew the audience in hordes; ‘The Kathy Kirby Show’ clocked a 20 million viewership. It wasn’t surprising; she was billed as Britain’s highest-paid female singer. Her demise in 2011 due to a short illness was a huge loss.

Born Kathleen O’Rourke, her talent was discovered early as a teenager. She had found roaring success with songs like ‘Dance On!’ and ‘You’re the One.’ Her powerful vocal range and glamorous blond hair reminiscent of Marilyn Monroe quickly made her the most sought-after singer for decades.