Years ending: notable lives lost in 2025

This episode of The Intelligence from The Economist looks back at the lives of notable and inspiring figures who died this year. The episode remembers Pope Francis, who aimed to change the Catholic Church into a more merciful institution. It also reflects on Dick Cheney's powerful and divisive tenure as Vice President, Charlie Kirk's fiery conservatism and tragic death, and Jane Goodall's lifelong advocacy for animals. Additionally, the episode acknowledges the passing of influential figures from stage and screen, such as Diane Keaton and David Lynch, and Brian Wilson, the creative force behind the Beach Boys. Finally, the episode shares the stories of individuals who made a profound impact in less conventional ways, such as Alice Tan Ridley, a subway busker turned superstar, and Martin Graham, who transformed a chicken shed into an opera house.