Famous people who died from mesothelioma include esteemed actor Steve McQueen, musician Warren Zevon, NFL athlete Merlin Olsen, and more. In August 2002, Warren Zevon was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma after complaining of shortness of breath. In April 2007, Christie Hennessy was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma after months of a worsening cough. In February 2000, Bruce Vento was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma and disclosed it as the reason he would not seek reelection. In 2009, Malcolm McLaren was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma after a routine chest scan had revealed pleural plaques.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 10, 2026 00:48 UTC