Edie Adams has passed away at age 81. The Tony Award winning actress/singer was the widow of actor Ernie Kovacs and gained fame as a sultry pitchwoman on TV commericals for Muriel Cigars. Her film credits include The Apartment, Call Me Bwana, The Best Man and the comedy classic It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World. For more on her life and career, click here

Acclaimed film and TV composer Neal Hefti has died at age 85. Hefti was regarded as a top name in jazz, but it was his work in film that gained him the most fame. He composed the classic theme for the Batman TV show that perfectly captured the pop culture aspect of the series. Another of Hefti's most enduring themes was for the 1968 hit film version of The Odd Couple. The theme was also used in the 1970s TV series. Hefti's other film scores include Barefoot in the Park, Duel at Diablo and Harlow. For obituary plus music historian Jon Burlingame's interview comments with Hefti, click here

American baby boomers will be sad to learn that Lloyd Thaxton has passed away at age 81. Thaxton was a pioneer in bringing rock 'n roll to TV in the 1960s and used his low budget, nationally syndicated program to give a boost to many acts that went on to superstardom. Thaxton would use zany antics to enhance the visual appeal of the program, which centered on teenagers dancing to the latest hits. Thaxton was one of the first TV hosts to mainstream black recording acts. When some sponsors refused to air a segment in which James Brown was the guest, Thaxton didn't cave - he dropped the sponsors instead. Sadly, as writer Ken Levine reports, a "Best of" DVD devoted to Thaxton cannot be released because some of the acts refuse to give legal clearances for use of footage on the show that made them stars. To read click here