RIP: Charlie's Angel & King of Pop

It was a sad day in the entertainment world, as both Farrah Fawcett, 62, and Michael Jackson, 50, passed away.

Fawcett, best known for her toothy grin, perfectly feathered hair and tight-fitting clothing on TV's "Charlie's Angel's" in the 1970s, succumbed to a three-year battle with anal cancer. She died in St. John's Health Center in Santa Monica and is survived by her longtime companion, Ryan O'Neal, and her son, Redmond.

Although she was a sex symbol in the 1970s — the poster (right) was plastered on nearly every teenage boy's bedroom wall in her day — Fawcett was more recently known for "Farrah's Story", a television documentary that aired last month and chronicled her struggle with cancer. She was an icon of her decade and will certainly be missed by many.

Jackson, the youngest member of the Jackson 5 and the undisputed King of Pop, passed away this afternoon after he was found not breathing in his L.A. home, according to Associated Press reports. The exact cause of his death is still unclear, but reports of cardiac arrest and a coma have surfaced. The singer was 50 years old.

Jackson was staying in a Bel-Air mansion while he was preparing for a series of 50 sold-out shows at the O2 dome in London. The concerts were scheduled to begin July 13.

Jackson's unparalleled music career in the 70s and 80s was recently overshadowed by his bizarre behavior and disturbing legal troubles, but his influence on popular music is undeniable. A uniter of black and white musical influences, his records are still among the top-selling albums — his 1982 "Thriller" album remains the best selling album of all time, with more than 26 million copies sold.

I could go on and on about his accomplishments, but it would be wasted space. Even though he freaked many people out (myself included) with his eccentricity, his impact on popular culture will certainly stick with us for years to come. The moonwalk, sporting short black pants with white socks and black shoes, the lengthy, movie-like music videos, his high-pitched singing and that single, sequined glove.

Even though much of his most popular discography was released before I could walk, I can still remember watching videos like "Thriller", "Billie Jean" and "Smooth Criminal" and desperately trying to replicate his style. But no matter how hard anyone tries, it's impossible to be like Mike. As a person, he might have been troubled, but as a dancer, singer and overall performer, he was astounding. He will truly be missed.