I’m the SEO Resident here at BuzzFeed, and I cover everything from trending pop culture and celebrity news to evergreen entertainment and lifestyle topics. Just a few months into 2026, we had already lost several beloved actors, musicians, and athletes. In January and February, the deaths of comedy icon Catherine O'Hara and Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek were heartbreaking. By July, we had said goodbye to “Total Eclipse of the Heart” singer Bonnie Tyler, NASCAR icon Kyle Busch, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer alum Anthony Head. In August, the world lost the "Queen of Country Music," Dolly Parton . As we get further into 2026, here is a reminder of the most notable famous people who have died so far this year. Note: This article contains stories of murder and suicide. The actor died at the age of 80 at his Toluca Lake home in Los Angeles on Aug. 25, his manager and friend Marcia Hurwitz confirmed to People . A statement from his publicist read, "Few actors can claim to have left as many distinct fingerprints on pop culture. Though widely known for his inimitable, flamboyant characters and colorful stage performances, his greatest legacies to those who knew him were his curious, expansive mind and generous, gentle heart, both of which remained open and filled with anticipation until his final breath.” Tim was best known for his portrayal of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the cult musical The Rocky Horror Picture Show . Some of his other iconic roles include Pennywise the clown in the 1990 TV adaptation of Stephen King’s It , Long John Silver in Muppet Treasure Island, and Mr. Hector, the Plaza Hotel concierge in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York . He also starred as Rooster Hannigan in the 1982 adaptation of Annie , as well as Wadsworth, the butler, in the 1985 cult classic Clue. In 2012, Tim suffered a major stroke and used a wheelchair afterward. He received the lifetime achievement award at the Actors Fund Tony Awards Viewing Party in 2015, and the following year, he joined the cast of The Rocky Horror Picture Show: Let’s Do the Time Warp Again , a made-for-TV remake of the iconic film, in which he played the narrator and criminologist. In October 2025, he made a rare public appearance at The Rocky Horror Picture Show 's 50th-anniversary screening at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. The same month, he published a memoir, Vagabond . 2. Dolly Parton The country music legend died on Aug. 25 at the age of 80 , her nephew Brian Seaver announced in an Instagram video shared on her account. "I’m representing the Parton and Owens family today announcing the passing of my aunt, Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean, Sister, Sis and Granny to one generation and Gigi to the next," he said in the video. "This video announcement is something Dolly asked of me years ago, before I fully absorbed it as a future reality. As her head of security for more than two decades, a role my father Larry held before me, I have imagined the heaviness of this moment but haven’t truly felt it until now. It is an honor, an honor that is mixed with absolute pride and great sadness." Brian continued, "Dolly opened doors not just for me but for her entire family to reach the potential we didn’t even know was possible. Dolly also opened doors for generations of singers, songwriters, musicians and dreamers from every walk of life and across every continent. By her example, we believed that anything is possible. She never saw a door she couldn’t open, and the doors she opened made and changed history. My family and I have shared a lifetime of beautiful memories with Dolly, but so have you. She has always been on your television, your record player, your CD and on your phone playlist, becoming an extended part of your family whether you liked it or not. Our family and the team she has entrusted with her legacy will work diligently to ensure her spirit will live with us forever. Dolly was a farmer, just like her daddy; he farmed the soil, she farmed songs and happiness." "Dolly called me and said she wants to rest in a beautiful bed of plush cotton because after a life of wearing heavy rhinestones, she finally deserves to be comfortable and have some rest," he added. "Rest in peace, Aunt Dolly — Aunt, Granny, Gigi. May God bless Dolly Parton, and may God bless you all. She will always love you." Four days before her death, the singer-songwriter shared an update on her health and her recent decline after the death of her husband, Carl Dean, in March 2025. At the time, she told People that she was still working and had "so many things I want to achieve." The actor died on Feb. 19 at the age of 53, almost a year after announcing his amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) diagnosis , also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. A statement from his family reads: “He spent his final days surrounded by dear friends, his devoted wife, and his two beautiful daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his world. Throughout his journey with ALS, Eric became a passionate advocate for awareness and research, determined to make a difference for others facing the same fight. He will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered always. Eric adored his fans and is forever grateful for the outpouring of love and support he’s received.” Eric was best known for his roles as Dr. Mark Sloan, aka "McSteamy," in Grey's Anatomy , and Cal Jacobs in Euphoria. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Gayheart, and their two daughters, Billie Beatrice and Georgia Geraldine. 4. Hayden Panettiere The actor died on Aug. 16 at the age of 36, a representative confirmed to People in a statement shared on behalf of her father, Alan Panettiere. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” the statement said. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen.” The Greenville Police Department confirmed that police officers and EMS personnel responded to reports of an “unresponsive female,” later identified as Hayden, at a residence in Greenville, South Carolina, on Aug. 16. According to dispatch audio obtained by People, officials were heard discussing an “overdose” and “cardiac arrest” around the time of the actor’s death. Hayden was best known for her roles on NBC’s Heroes and the drama series Nashville , as well as her role as Kirby Reed in the Scream franchise. She made her film debut at the age of 9 as the voice of Princess Dot in A Bug’s Life , before going on to star in Remember the Titans in 2000. Prior to this, she appeared in the daytime soap operas One Life to Live and Guiding Light when she was as young as 4. Three months prior to her death, Hayden released her memoir , This Is Me: A Reckoning , in which she opens up about navigating fame at a young age and her experiences with postpartum depression, addiction and recovery, trauma, domestic abuse, and loss. 5. Catherine O'Hara The comedy legend died on Jan. 30 at the age of 71, her team confirmed to HuffPost . According to a Los Angeles County death certificate obtained by multiple news outlets , she died from a pulmonary embolism. The report listed rectal cancer as an underlying cause of her death, but a blood clot in her lung was cited as the immediate cause. Catherine was a two-time Emmy Award winner, best known for her roles in TV shows and films such as Schitt’s Creek , Home Alone , Best in Show, and Beetlejuice . She is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Luke and Matthew. The New Zealand actor died at the age of 78 on July 13 after developing pneumonia, his family announced via Instagram . "It is with immense sadness that the whānau [extended family] of Sam Neill share the news of his passing on Monday, 13th July, in Sydney, Australia. Sam was surrounded by family and passed with the dignity that has characterised his whole life," the statement read. "The loss was sudden and unexpected, but blessed by the fact that Sam remained cancer-free. They would like to express their deepest gratitude to the staff at St Vincent’s Private Hospital for their incredible care. More details will be shared later, but for now, on behalf of the family, we ask that you respect their privacy as they navigate this immeasurable loss." Three days after his death, a representative for Sam confirmed that he died of pneumonia. “Prior to becoming sick, Sam had valiantly fought and beaten lymphoma through a new treatment called CAR-T therapy,” the rep told People . Sam was best known for his role as paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise, while also acting in acclaimed films such as The Piano , My Brilliant Career , The Hunt for Red October , Dead Calm , and Hunt for the Wilderpeople. He also starred in TV shows, including Peaky Blinders and Merlin . Outside of acting, he was a winemaker who co-founded New Zealand's Two Paddocks vineyard. He is survived by his four children and eight grandchildren. 7. James Van Der Beek The actor died at the age of 48 on Feb. 11, after a public journey with stage 3 colorectal cancer . His wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, announced the news via Instagram, along with a caption that read, "Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning. He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sacredness of time. Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend." James was most known for his roles as Dawson Leery in Dawson's Creek and Mox in Varsity Blues, and he is survived by six children (Olivia, Annabel, Emilia, Gwendolyn, Joshua, and Jeremiah), whom he shares with Kimberly. 8. Chuck Norris On March 20, the actor's family shared a statement about his death via Instagram , along with a caption that read, "It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris yesterday morning. While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and was at peace. To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength. To us, he was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, an incredible brother, and the heart of our family. He lived his life with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives." The martial arts champion became an action movie star from beloved 1980s films, including Missing in Action, Lone Wolf McQuade, A Force of One , and An Eye for an Eye . His breakout role was in The Way of the Dragon, and he also starred in the TV show Walker, Texas Ranger. "While our hearts are broken, we are deeply grateful for the life he lived, and for the unforgettable moments we were blessed to share with him. The love and support he received from fans around the world meant so much to him, and our family is truly thankful for it. To him, you were not just fans, you were his friends. We know many of you had heard about his recent hospitalization, and we are truly grateful for the prayers and support you sent his way. As we grieve this loss, we kindly ask for privacy for our family during this time. Thank you for loving him with us. With love, The Norris Family," his family's statement concluded. The singer-songwriter and internet personality died at the age of 32 on June 14 in a helicopter crash in Rio de Janeiro, according to CNN Brazil . The six fatalities included five people in one helicopter and the pilot of the other aircraft. The investigation into the cause of the aircraft crash is ongoing, per People . Oliver was best known for songs like “Life Goes On” and “Miss You," and he was on a world tour at the time of his death. He released his latest studio album, Love You Madly Hate You Badly, on April 24. His debut album, Ugly Is Beautiful , came out in 2020, followed by Cowboy Tears and Alone in a Crowd. Following his death, Oliver's team shared plans to establish a foundation in his memory via his official Instagram account . "Your legacy will live on forever," the caption read. "Thank you to everyone who has reached out, shown love, support, and has done incredible tributes for Oliver. The constant love, support, and positivity is helping the family, friends, and collaborators make it through these extremely difficult times. Oliver is now back in California, where he can finally rest. His legacy will live on through his foundation/endowment named ‘Dr. Oliver Tree’s Extremely Epic Grant For Baby Geniuses,’ coming soon. This is something that Oliver had put together before his passing, written in his will. We will make sure his wish comes to fruition so that more joy, love, and art can be spread into the world, that was his final wish. Love you all so much, Oliver would be so proud of every one of his supporters, friends, and family. Peace be with Oliver." 10. Bonnie Tyler Born Gaynor Hopkins, the Welsh singer died at the age of 75 on July 8 after complications from emergency intestinal surgery, according to a statement shared by her family and team on her official website. "Bonnie’s family and team are heartbroken to announce that Bonnie unexpectedly passed away last night in hospital in Portugal as a result of the illness that she was being treated for," the statement read. Bonnie's death followed her being placed in an induced coma in May after undergoing emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal, and her spokesperson revealed in June that she was out of the coma but remained “very unwell” in intensive care. The singer was best known for her hit songs "Total Eclipse of the Heart," "It's a Heartache," "Holding Out for a Hero," and more. She also represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013 and was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2023 for her services to music. She is survived by her husband of more than 50 years, Robert Sullivan. 11. Jason Collins The professional basketball player, who became the NBA’s first openly gay player in 2014, died of brain cancer at the age of 47, the NBA shared in a statement on behalf of his family. "We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma," the statement read. "Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and for the exceptional medical care Jason received from his doctors and nurses. Our family will miss him dearly.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also shared a statement that said, “Jason Collins’ impact and influence extended far beyond basketball as he helped make the NBA, WNBA and larger sports community more inclusive and welcoming for future generations. He exemplified outstanding leadership and professionalism throughout his 13-year NBA career and in his dedicated work as an NBA Cares Ambassador. Jason will be remembered not only for breaking barriers, but also for the kindness and humanity that defined his life and touched so many others." Jason is survived by His twin brother, Jarron Collins, his husband, Brunson Green, and his parents, Portia and Paul Collins. 12. Anthony Head The British actor died at the age of 72 on June 5 after complications from pneumonia, according to a statement shared with the Press Association by his daughters, actors Emily and Daisy Head. “He passed away peacefully of complications due to pneumonia, surrounded by his family,” they said. “It has been, and forever will be, an honour and a privilege to be his daughters, and to have witnessed firsthand the impact both he and his work have had on so many. Our grief is far greater than the hole he has left behind, but we know his legacy will live on, in the shows he was a part of, and in the audiences that love them.” Anthony's death came months after his longtime partner, Sarah Fisher, died suddenly in December at the age of 61. At the time, Emily and Daisy announced her death in a Facebook post , writing, “We are so sorry to have to share the news that our extraordinary, kind, and talented mother, Sarah, passed away recently. It is immensely shocking to us all, and came with very little warning." Anthony was best known for his role as Rupert Giles on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Rupert Mannion on Ted Lasso . He also appeared in TV shows like Merlin , Little Britain , Motherland , Silent Witness , and Doctor Who , as well as films such as The Iron Lady . 13. Kaylee Hottle The Deaf actor died on July 21 at the age of 18, her father, Joshua Hottle, confirmed to TMZ . Joshua stated that Kaylee was killed following a car crash in Maryland, and in a video he shared on Facebook , Joshua explained the circumstances of his daughter’s death using American Sign Language. “I am taking a flight that I never would like to take,” he wrote in the post’s caption. In the video, he said that he was flying from Texas to Maryland in order to claim Kaylee’s body. The Texas School for the Deaf, which Kaylee attended, shared a statement following Kaylee’s death that read, “Our hearts are with Kaylee’s family, friends, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved her during this incredibly difficult time.” The school added, “At this time, we have very limited information and ask that everyone respect the privacy of Kaylee’s family and refrain from sharing or speculating about the circumstances surrounding the accident.” Kaylee was best known for starring in Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire , the latter of which earned her a nomination for the Saturn Awards’ Best Younger Performer in a Film award. 14. Daveigh Chase The former child actor died on June 16 at the age of 35 after contracting meningitis and "several serious blood infections," according to her boyfriend Roy Hernandez. Daveigh was best known for her role as Samara Morgan in The Ring , as well as voicing Lilo in Lilo & Stitch and Chihiro in Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away . While Chase was still receiving treatment for her health issues, Roy wrote on her GoFundMe page, saying, "Daveigh Chase, my girlfriend, has always been a light in my life. Many people know her as a talented childhood actor... [But] behind the scenes, she’s faced more than her share of hardship. After a difficult childhood and a painful falling out with her family, Daveigh was bullied and struggled to find safety and happiness in downtown LA. When we met, I promised to protect her and give her the love and comfort she deserved. Together, we found moments of happiness and hope." However, Chase's former manager, John Ryan, questioned the fundraiser's validity and urged fans not to donate. “That GoFundMe is not going toward ANY expenses for Daveigh,” he said, adding that “John [Chase's father] is next of kin and never signed any paperwork over to this so-called boyfriend." Daveigh’s official cause of death was later confirmed by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner to be acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), along with other significant conditions, including chronic polysubstance use. The medical report states that Daveigh died in a hospital, and her manner of death was natural. 15. Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon The mother of Kris Jenner died at the age of 91, according to an Instagram tribute made by Kris on July 16. “Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ,” she wrote. “There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye. My mom was the heart of our family. She taught me everything that truly matters…to love your family fiercely, to be kind, to show up for the people you love, and to never take a single moment together for granted.” Kris continued, “She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments. She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith. Mom, thank you for every sacrifice you made, every piece of wisdom you shared, and every moment you loved us so completely. I will miss our daily talks, your smile, your laughter… Our hearts are broken, but we find comfort knowing that love like yours never truly leaves us. Your love will live on in our family, in our traditions, in every moment we are together, and in every life you touched.” “When I look at my kids and my grandkids, I will forever see pieces of you in all of us," she added. "There is not a part of me that isn’t shaped by you. And if I have done anything right in this world, it’s because I spent my life trying to live in a way that would make you proud. Every memory, every moment, every blessing, it was all because of you, and I will forever thank God every single day for making you my mommy. My heart is broken into a million pieces… thank you for giving me the greatest childhood and oh what a beautiful blessed life… I love you forever Mommy. Thank you for giving us everything.” A cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed. 16. Hal Williams The actor died on July 15 at the age of 91 from natural causes at his home in Rancho Mirage, California, his representative confirmed to Deadline . Hal was best known for his TV roles in the ‘70s and ‘80s, including his performances as Lester Jenkins in 227 , Officer "Smitty" Smith on Sanford and Son , and Harley Foster on The Waltons . Throughout his five-decade-long career, though, the actor made guest appearances on various other shows like The Dick Van Dyke Show , The Dukes of Hazzard , Hill Street Blues , Night Court , Moesha , and Parks and Recreation . According to Deadline, Hal is survived by two children, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. The legendary NASCAR driver died at the age of 41, following a period of hospitalization due to severe pneumonia that developed into sepsis. NASCAR, the Busch family, and Richard Childress Racing confirmed his death in a joint statement released on May 21. "Our entire NASCAR family is heartbroken by the loss of Kyle Busch," the statement read. "A future Hall of Famer, Kyle was a rare talent, one who comes along once in a generation. He was fierce, he was passionate, he was immensely skilled, and he cared deeply about the sport and fans. Throughout a career that spanned more than two decades, Kyle set records in national series wins, won championships at NASCAR’s highest level, and fostered the next generation of drivers as an owner in the Truck Series. His sharp wit and competitive spirit sparked a deep emotional connection with race fans of every age, creating the proud and loyal ‘Rowdy Nation.’" The statement continued, "Our thoughts are with Samantha, Brexton and Lennix, Kyle and Samantha’s parents, Kurt and all of Kyle’s family, Richard and Judy Childress, everyone at Richard Childress Racing, his teammates, friends and fans. NASCAR lost a giant of the sport today, far too soon. During this incredibly difficult time, we ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy and continue to keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Further updates will be shared as appropriate.” On June 5, Kyle's wife, Samantha, shared an Instagram post where she opened up about the impact of Kyle's death on their family, including their two children, Brexton and Lennix. "As a family, we wanted to take a moment to say thank you," the caption read. "The prayers, messages, flowers, meals, hugs, and countless acts of kindness have carried us through the most heartbreaking days of our lives. While our hearts are absolutely shattered, we have felt God’s presence and arms wrapped tightly around us through each and every one of you." She continued, "From family and friends to fans and complete strangers, thank you for showing up for us. Thank you for loving our family so well. Thank you for loving Kyle. Thank you for honoring him. We may never find the words to fully express what your support has meant to us, but please know that we are deeply grateful." The legendary drummer and one-half of the reggae production duo Sly and Robbie died on Jan. 26 at the age of 73, as his wife, Thelma, confirmed to the Jamaican newspaper the Gleaner . A statement from Dunbar’s family read, “Sly’s music, spirit, and legacy touched people around the world, and we are deeply grateful for the love and support during this difficult time." Sly was a two-time Grammy Award winner and 15-time nominee, and throughout his career, he collaborated with artists such as Bob Dylan, Grace Jones, Madonna, Bob Marley, and others. 19. Louise Lasser The Emmy-nominated actor died of natural causes at the age of 87 on July 6, her friend Susan Charlotte confirmed to the New York Times and the Hollywood Reporter. She was best known for playing the title role in the 1970s soap opera Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman . She hosted an episode of Saturday Night Live in July 1976 and appeared in early comedy films directed by her former husband, Woody Allen, including Take the Money and Run and Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex . She went on to star in films like Happiness in 1998 and Requiem for a Dream in 2000. In 2014, she made a three-episode stint in HBO’s Girls as a woman named Beadie. Louise is survived by her partner, Michael Citriniti. 20. Alan Osmond The oldest member of the American family music group The Osmonds died on April 20 at the age of 76, according to a family spokesperson . At the time of his death, Alan’s wife, Suzanne Osmond, and their eight sons were with him. In a statement shared on his Facebook , Alan’s brother, Merrill Osmond, said, "Two days before my brother, Alan, passed, I was blessed to sit quietly with him. We talked as brothers do, heart to heart. He was struggling, but when I shared a joke or two, he found the strength to chuckle… and then he smiled. In a tender moment I will never forget, he leaned close and whispered something into my ear. He said, 'Merrill, you and I worked side by side. We created, we produced, we directed… we gave our hearts to The Plan with Wayne. Please… do something with it. Let people know what we were trying to say.' I want you to know, his request will be honored." The statement continued, "My brother has now stepped into the presence of our Father in Heaven with honor and peace. His life was not measured in years, but in love, sacrifice, and purpose. His creativity, his vision, and his deep understanding of the Savior’s teachings were simply part of who he was. He lived it. He felt it. He shared it. He wanted me to tell you how much he loved you, and I believe that with all my heart. He gave everything he had to the Lord, to his family, and to all of you. He truly was a missionary. He truly was a saint. And I need you to know this… he has not left me. I have felt him. I have felt his quiet encouragement telling me to keep going… to keep building faith… to keep sharing light. His testimony is not gone, it lives on, and it will continue to be felt far beyond this life. So please, don’t let your hearts be heavy. Don’t weep for him. Rejoice, knowing that your brother, your friend, your hero is no longer in pain. He is free. He is whole. He is home." 21. Robert Lee "Peabo" Bryson The singer-songwriter died at the age of 75 on June 2, according to a statement shared by his representative. "Two-time Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and balladeer, Peabo Bryson — the voice behind the Oscar-winning Disney songs ‘Beauty and the Beast' and ‘A Whole New World' — has suffered a stroke and is currently under medical care," the statement said. "At this time, the family requests privacy as they navigate this deeply personal moment together. The thoughts, prayers, and love of friends and fans are welcomed and deeply appreciated." Among his iconic ballads and Disney duets, some of Robert's other hit songs include “If Ever You're in My Arms Again,” “Can You Stop the Rain,” and “Tonight, I Celebrate My Love” with Roberta Flack. He is survived by his wife, Tanya Boniface; their son, Robert "Kit" Bryson; Linda Bryson (a daughter from a previous relationship); and three grandchildren. 22. Brenda Fricker The Irish actor died at the age of 81 after a period of ill health, her agent, Phil Belfield, confirmed on July 17 . “We will never see her like again, and the world is lesser for the lack of her," Phil said. “I was honoured to know, love and work with her, and she will always have a place in my heart and in the heart of so many film and TV fans the world over." Fricker was best known as the first Irish actress to win an Academy Award, earning Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Christy Brown's mother in My Left Foot . She also played the beloved "Pigeon Lady" in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and appeared in acclaimed films including The Field , A Time to Kill , So I Married an Axe Murderer , Angels in the Outfield , and Albert Nobbs . 23. Josh Grisetti The Broadway actor died by suicide at the age of 44 on July 10, as his Something Rotten! co-star Rob McClure announced via Instagram . “It is with a shattered heart that I share that the brilliant Josh Grisetti took his own life on Friday," Rob wrote. "I’m not ready to even attempt to understand. My heart is with his wife and family as they try to deal with the reality of this. Some of my all-time favorite memories were by this man’s side, playing his brother onstage for years, watching him inspire students while transforming the Musical Theatre program at Cal State Fullerton …and having the honor of being the Best Man at his wedding. Maggie and I are beyond heartbroken. Communities around the world will never be the same without him. We love you Josh. Just a cataclysmic loss. Memorial info to come in time." Days later, Josh's family launched a GoFundMe to support his wife, Mackenzie, and cover final arrangements. The description of the fundraiser read, "Our hearts are profoundly broken by the sudden passing of Josh Grisetti this past Friday at the age of 44. Josh was a luminous force across Broadway, television, film, and academia, leaving an indelible imprint on the global creative community." It continued, "So many of you have generously asked how you can help support Josh’s wife and family during this incredibly difficult time. Born from so many requests, this fund offers a practical way to express your love to Josh’s next of kin.” Josh was best known for his stage work in Something Rotten! and It Shoulda Be You. He also appeared on TV shows such as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel , The Knights of Prosperity , Nurse Jackie , and The Good Fight. 24. Jayden Adams The South African footballer died at the age of 25 on July 11, shortly after returning home from the 2026 FIFA World Cup . The South African Football Players Union announced his death in a statement shared on social media that read, "The South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) is devastated by the untimely passing of Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder, Jayden Adams,” the union wrote. “His passing is an immeasurable loss to his family, teammates, clubs, the football fraternity and the country at large... [South] African football has lost a gifted player, a proud servant of the game, and a young life that still had so much to offer. May his soul rest in eternal peace." Jayden's longtime partner, Aqueelah Adendorf, shared a tribute to him on Instagram , writing, "There are no words to describe the pain I’m feeling. 💔 Rest in peace, my love. Thank you for every memory, every laugh, every hug, and every moment we shared. You were not only the love of my life but also my greatest supporter and my best friend. A part of my heart left with you, and I will carry your love with me forever. Until we meet again, I’ll miss you every single day. Rest easy, my angel. I love you always and forever." An official cause of death has not yet been released, as authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of Jayden's death. 25. Valentino Garavani The Italian fashion designer and founder of the Valentino brand died on Jan. 19 at the age of 93. His foundation confirmed his death via Instagram , stating, "Our founder, Valentino Garavani, passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones." Many stars left comments on the post, and Gwyneth Paltrow shared her own post to honor him, along with the caption, "I was so lucky to know and love Valentino-to know the real man, in private. The man who was in love with beauty, his family, his muses, his friends. His dogs, his gardens, and a good Hollywood story. I loved him so much. I loved how he always pestered me to ‘at least wear a little mascara’ when I came to dinner. I loved his naughty laugh. This feels like the end of an era. He will be deeply missed by me and all who loved him. Rest in peace, Vava 💔" Throughout his career, Valentino was awarded the title of Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour) by French President Jacques Chirac in 2006, the Medal of the City of Paris in 2008, the Couture Council Award for Artistry of Fashion from the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York in 2011, and the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement in 2017. 26. Rev. Jesse Jackson The civil rights icon died on Feb. 17 at the age of 84, as his relatives and his foundation announced in a joint Instagram statement . "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Civil Rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr. He died peacefully on Tuesday morning, surrounded by his family," the statement read. "His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and human rights helped shape a global movement for freedom and dignity. A tireless change agent, he elevated the voices of the voiceless — from his Presidential campaigns in the 1980s to mobilizing millions to register to vote, leaving an indelible mark on history." The post continued: "Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world. We shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of our extended family. His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions, and we ask you to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by." He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Jacquelin, as well as their five children, daughter Ashley Jackson, and grandchildren. 27. Grizzwald "Grizz" Chapman The actor died at the age of 52 on May 22, per a statement shared on social media by his cousin, Harlem Globetrotter Donte “Hammer” Harrison. “Life gave my cousin Grizz Chapman some heavy battles, but he fought them with strength and dignity until the very end,” he wrote on Instagram . “We knew the man behind the screen. A good heart, good energy, and somebody who made an impact in this life. After years of fighting illness and dialysis, he passed peacefully in his sleep on May 22nd, 2026. I’m thankful we got time to reconnect 2 months before his passing. Rest easy, cousin. Your name and legacy will live on forever." Grizzwald was best known for playing a character who shared his name on 30 Rock . Following this role, he went on to appear in Blue Bloods , The Blacklist , and The Good Fight . He also created a sketch YouTube series called Grizz Chroniclez. He is survived by his wife, Diana, and their two children. 28. James Tolkan The actor died on March 26 at the age of 94, his management confirmed to People . James was best known for his role as Mr. Strickland in Back to the Future and Commander Tom "Stinger" Jardian in Top Gun . A crew member who worked on Back to the Future opened up about the late actor, saying, "Any time I got a chance to see James was just delightful. As mean and nasty as Mr. Strickland was, James Tolkan was the polar opposite. He was just one of the kindest men you would ever meet." James is survived by his wife of 54 years, Parmelee, and his three nieces in Des Moines, IA, according to an obituary posted on the official Back to the Future website. "Jim adored animals and would appreciate donations in his memory to your local animal shelter, animal rescue organization or Humane Society chapter," the obituary concluded. 29. Mel Schilling The Married at First Sight U.K. and Australia host died on March 24, her husband Gareth Brisbane announced in an Instagram post . She was 54 years old, and her death came after she revealed her terminal cancer diagnosis on March 12. The post’s caption read, "Melanie Jane Brisbane-Schilling passed away peacefully today, surrounded by love. In her final moments, when I thought cancer had taken away her ability to speak, she ushered me closer and whispered a message for Maddie and me that will sustain me for the rest of my life. It took all of her remaining strength, and that gesture summed up our wee Melsie perfectly. Even then, her only thought was for Maddie and me. This is a woman who became a new mum and a TV star at 42 — and nailed both. This is a woman who, through two years of chemotherapy, when she could barely lift her head from the pillow, never complained and never stopped showing courage, grace, compassion and empathy, and never missed a day of filming." Her husband’s post continued: "To most of you, she was Mel Schilling — matriarch of MAFS and queen of reality TV. To Maddie and me, she was our wee Melsie: an incredible mum, role model, and soulmate. On behalf of our family and her incredible friendship group, thank you for the support from around the world… Life can be beautiful, and life can be incredibly cruel. But ultimately, life is fleeting, fragile, and tomorrow is promised to no one. If you can do anything to honour Mel, please live life to the full, love your people well, and try not to sweat the small stuff. I had 15 wonderful years with my soulmate, and it was the privilege of my life to be by her side. For that, I will be forever thankful. Goodbye, my love. My one. Until we meet again." 30. Robert " Rob Base " Ginyard The “It Takes Two” rapper (whose real name was Robert Ginyard) and member of the hip-hop duo Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock died on May 22 at the age of 59. An official statement was shared on Robert's Instagram account , which read, "Today, we share the heartbreaking news that hip hop legend Rob Base passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, surrounded by family after a private battle with cancer." The statement continued, "Rob's music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world. Beyond the stage, he was a loving father, family man, friend, and creative force whose impact will never be forgotten. Thank you for the music, the memories, and the moments that became the soundtrack to our lives." 31. Vincent Pastore At the age of 80, the actor was found dead in his Bronx, N.Y., home on Aug. 1, per Deadline . The publication reported that Vincent’s manager, Robert Altman, had not heard from him for three days, but a close friend said Vincent’s driver had spoken to him by phone on Friday night. In a statement to People , Robert said, “Vinny was one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known. He treated everyone with warmth and respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an autograph. He genuinely appreciated the people who supported him and always made them feel valued.” He continued, “He loved being an actor. He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, taking the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.” Robert added that his “deepest condolences” go out to Vincent’s loved ones and “the countless fans whose lives he touched.” Vincent was best known for playing the role of Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on The Sopranos . Throughout the 1990s, he appeared in films like Goodfellas , Men of Respect , The Jerky Boys: The Movie , and the HBO film Gotti . He also made various TV appearances in TV shows like Law & Order , The Practice , and Hawaii Five-0 . He is survived by his daughter, Renee, according to TMZ . 32. Scott Bryce The actor died on July 12 at the age of 68 at Yale New Haven Hospital in Connecticut, his agent, Ken Melamed, confirmed to People. His wife, Jodi Stevens-Bryce, and son, Jackson Bryce, were by his side. Jackson shared a tribute to his father via Instagram , writing, “God called my dad home today. This evening my father lost his long-fought battle with cancer. What began as stage three esophageal cancer eventually spread and became brain tumors that took his life away from him. Through radiation, chemo and immunotherapy, and every moment of pain, I watched my dad face it all with pride and courage, and an unshakable belief that somehow, everything would work out and he would win. Even just a week before he passed, while battling brain tumors, slurred speech and blurry vision, he looked me in the eyes as clear as he could and told me he still believed he had a chance—and that he was willing to fight as hard as it took.” The post continued, “Scott Bryce lived a life worth celebrating. He was an incredibly successful actor in the 1980s, starring on As the World Turns and appearing in several TV shows. He was nominated for two Emmys and worked alongside some of the greatest in the industry. When asked what he wanted people to remember about him, he said, ‘I was a one-take actor. Two takes, max.’ In working with Dick Wolf on NBC, directors would schedule him at the end of the day because they knew it wouldn’t take long. Jackson added, “My dad also made sure I knew his greatest accomplishment that came at 48 years old, becoming a Dad. He supported me as far as a father possibly could. He was the loudest voice in the stands at every basketball game. He took me across the country to chase my dreams and would have done anything to see me succeed. Being my father was always his top priority. Some of my favorite memories will always be our road trips to AAU tournaments, visiting college campuses, having him by my side when I committed, and scoring my first college basket with him watching. He is a part of everything I’ve done and everything I will do. I am endlessly grateful God chose him to be my father, and I am so proud to be his son.” 33. Robert Duvall The Oscar-winning actor died at the age of 95 on Feb. 15. His wife, Luciana, shared a statement on Feb. 16 that read, "Yesterday we said goodbye to my beloved husband, cherished friend, and one of the greatest actors of our time. Bob passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by love and comfort. To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller. To me, he was simply everything. His passion for his craft was matched only by his deep love for characters, a great meal, and holding court. For each of his many roles, Bob gave everything to his characters and to the truth of the human spirit they represented. In doing so, he leaves something lasting and unforgettable to us all. Thank you for the years of support you showed Bob and for giving us this time and privacy to celebrate the memories he leaves behind." He was best known for his role as Tom Hagen in The Godfather and Lt. Col. William "Bill" Kilgore in Apocalypse Now . His other roles include films like Tender Mercies , Lonesome Dove, and To Kill a Mockingbird . 34. Victor Willis The lead singer and founding member of the Village People died at the age of 74 on June 30, according to a statement shared by the band on social media . “We are profoundly sad to announce the death of Victor Willis, lead singer of Village People,” the statement read. “Victor passed on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, of a short but aggressive illness. Privacy is requested.” His wife, Karen Willis, also confirmed his death on her Facebook . Victor was best known for his work with the Village People, co-writing hits including “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” “In the Navy,” and “Go West.” Beyond his work with the group, he spent decades fighting to reclaim ownership of his music and songwriting rights, ultimately rejoining the band in 2017 after leaving in 1980. 35. Robert Mueller The former FBI director and federal prosecutor died on March 20 at the age of 81, his family announced in a statement on March 21. “With deep sadness, we are sharing the news that Bob passed away… His family asks that their privacy be respected.” Robert's death comes after his family announced in August 2025 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease four years prior. “He retired from the practice of law at the end of that year," his family shared. "He taught at his law school alma mater during the fall of both 2021 and 2022, and he retired at the end of 2022. His family asks that his privacy be respected.” In 2017, Robert served as the special counsel who investigated President Donald Trump's ties to Russia and Russian interference in the 2016 election. The Mueller report found that Russia did interfere in the 2016 election by using social media in favor of Trump and targeting voter information databases. In response to the news of Robert's death, Trump posted on Truth Social: "Robert Mueller just died. Good, I'm glad he's dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!" 36. Patrick Muldoon The actor died suddenly on April 19 at the age of 57, his manager confirmed to Variety . His death came following a heart attack, according to Deadline . Patrick was best known for his roles as Austin Reed on the daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives , Richard Hart on Melrose Place , and Zander Barcalow in the 1997 sci-fi film Starship Troopers . Denise Richards, who costarred alongside Patrick in the 2026 film Dirty Hands, shared a tribute to the late actor via Instagram on April 23. The two dated for several years in the '90s and starred together in the film Starship Troopers . Denise's post included a video of Patrick from Dirty Hands , along with the caption, "Pat & I were supposed to do press this week for DirtyHands. He was so passionate about this movie & worked so hard on it. He was personally close to many involved..We did our first movie together & I am so blessed & grateful I did his last movie with him. While I'm still in shock and devastated, I wanted to share this clip. I know he would want everyone to see the movie. His dear friend Kevin wrote & directed & acted in it & his dear friend Guy produced & acted in it. he was so proud of this movie 🙏💔✨." 37. Christy Knowings The All That star died on Aug. 11 at the age of 46, according to TMZ . The publication cited an unnamed family member confirming that Christy had an asthma attack and was hospitalized on Aug. 7. Her family stated that she was put on life support at a Los Angeles-area hospital before she died. Kenan Thompson , fellow All That alum, shared a tribute to Christy on Instagram that read, “Man this one hit hard!!! Rest well Christy!!! Never could have imagined this day!! Sending so much love to her family!! She was a real one and one of the funniest people out here!!! Gonna miss you buddy!!! Show @christyknowings some love y’all!!! 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾❤️❤️❤️😢.” Christy also appeared in the 2009 film Mother and Child, for which she has a writing credit. Her most recent TV appearances were in three episodes of Sesame Street from 2009–2011. The former congressman and star of CBS’s The Dukes of Hazzard died in his home in Washington, Virginia, on Aug. 9 at the age of 84. His wife, Alma Viator, confirmed his death in a statement on Facebook , writing, “I lost the love of my life today. Ben passed from a massive heart attack. He was home resting in his favorite chair waiting for the Braves to come on and whoop the Yankees. Ben had the most amazing rich full life. He loved and was loved by so many. He will be missed. I loved him so so much.” After his seven-season-long role as Cooter Davenport in The Dukes of Hazzard , Ben ran for Congress in Georgia’s Fourth Congressional District, where he served in 1988 and was reelected in 1990. Following his brief tenure in Congress, he opened a museum dedicated to The Dukes of Hazzard in Virginia and launched DukesFest, an annual weekend event that included music, car races, and food for fans of the show. According to Far Out Magazine , Ben is survived by his wife and his two children, Rachel and Walker. 39. Nicholas Brendon The actor died at the age of 54, his family shared in a statement posted to Instagram on March 20. "We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes," the statement said. "Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years. In recent years Nicky has found his passion in painting and art. Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive and endlessly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was. Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support." Nicholas was best known for his role as Xander on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and FBI technical analyst Kevin Lynch in Criminal Minds . His spokesperson later stated, "While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past , he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing." The voice actor died at a hospital in Kansas City on May 18 at the age of 64, according to a representative . His death followed complications from a 2020 stroke, and he was surrounded by family when he died. Tom's rep, Zach McGinnis, stated , "Though his voice may now be silent, the characters, stories, and love he gave to the world will live on forever. But beyond the incredible career was an extraordinary man. Tom was a devoted husband and father who, alongside his wife, built a loving family of nine children — three biological and six welcomed through adoption and fostering." Tom was best known for voicing Professor Utonium in Cartoon Network's The Powerpuff Girls , as well as various characters in the Star Wars universe. Some of his other voice roles include Lord Monkey Fist in Kim Possible , Mr. Herriman in Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends , and Simon in Codename: Kids Next Door . The official Star Wars website shared a tribute to Tom, where Lucasfilm President and COO Dave Filoni said, “I am so grateful for all that he did for me and for Lucasfilm. I’m also glad that his characters and voice will live on in many ways. Wherever you go, there’s always a chance that Tom is the voice you hear guiding you through Disneyland or a galaxy far, far away. Farewell, Tom, may the Force be with you… always.” 41. Clarence Carter The Southern soul singer and guitarist died peacefully at his home in Decatur, Georgia, on May 13 at the age of 90. Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama (where many of Clarence's hits were recorded), first confirmed the news to Rolling Stone. A statement shared on the recording studio's Facebook read, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Clarence Carter. Clarence recorded many of his greatest hits at FAME Studios alongside Rick Hall and remained part of the FAME family for more than four decades. He was far more than an artist to us. He was family... [Beyond] being one of the most distinctive and soulful voices in music history, he was also a remarkably tasteful guitar player and an exceptional songwriter who penned many of his own hits. He did all of this while being blind from the age of one. Clarence Carter leaves behind a legacy of timeless music, unforgettable performances, and a friendship we will always cherish. We extend our love and prayers to his family, friends, and fans around the world." The musician's iconic hits include the 1970 ballad "Patches" and the 1986 lustful anthem "Strokin." Born in Montgomery, Alabama, he was blind from youth and was a self-taught guitarist who majored in music at Alabama State College. He is survived by his son and his wife, Joyce Jenkins, whom he married in 2001. 42. Mary Beth Hurt

The actor died on March 28 at the age of 79, as her daughter, Molly Schrader, announced in an Instagram post on March 29. Her husband, writer and director Paul Schrader, also shared with the Hollywood Reporter that Mary died at an assisted living facility in Jersey City . Mary Beth was best known for her roles in Interiors , The World According to Garp , and The Age of Innocence. She also earned three Tony Award nominations for her work on Broadway. Molly's post read, "Yesterday morning we lost my mom, Mary Beth, to Alzheimer’s after a decade long battle with the disease. She was an actress, a wife, a sister, a mother, an aunt, a friend, and she took on all those rolls with grace and a kind ferocity. Although we’re grieving there is some comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering and is reunited with her sisters in peace." 43. Robert Carradine The actor, who was best known for his roles as Lewis Skolnick in Revenge of the Nerds and the father in Lizzie McGuire , died on Feb. 23 at the age of 71. In a statement shared with Deadline , Robert's family stated, “It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away. In a world that can feel so dark, Bobby was always a beacon on light to everyone around him. We are bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul and want to acknowledge Bobby’s valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder. We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness. At this time we ask for the privacy to grieve this unfathomable loss. With gratitude for your understanding and compassion." Keith Carradine (Robert's brother) also spoke with the publication, saying, "We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it. It is an illness that got the best of him, and I want to celebrate him for his struggle with it, and celebrate his beautiful soul. He was profoundly gifted, and we will miss him every day. We will take solace in how funny he could be, how wise and utterly accepting and tolerant he was. That’s who my baby brother was.” The Grammy-nominated musician and recording artist who famously worked with the Fugees was found dead in his home in Chilmark, Massachusetts, on Jan. 12, as confirmed by the Chilmark Police Department . He was 50 years old, and according to a statement from Chilmark Police Chief Sean Slavin, there were no signs of foul play. He was best known for being a member of the musical collective Refugee Camp All-Stars, as well as for co-writing and producing several tracks on The Fugees' 1996 album The Score. John is survived by his wife, Lara Fuller, and his two children. The guitarist and founding member of the Grateful Dead died on Jan. 10 at the age of 78, according to a statement his family shared on his website and social media. The statement read, "It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Bobby Weir. He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after courageously beating cancer as only Bobby could. Unfortunately, he succumbed to underlying lung issues." "His loving family, Natascha, Monet, and Chloe, request privacy during this difficult time and offer their gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and remembrance. May we honor him not only in sorrow, but in how bravely we continue with open hearts, steady steps, and the music leading us home. Hang it up and see what tomorrow brings," his family's statement concluded. Throughout his six-decade-long career, Bob was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007, inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, and was named a recipient of the 47th Kennedy Center Honors in 2024 for lifetime artistic achievements. 46. Alex Zanardi The family of the former Formula 1 driver announced his death at the age of 59 on May 2 in a statement made to the BBC and the Guardian . "It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Alessandro Zanardi, which occurred suddenly yesterday evening, May 1," the statement began. "Alex passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who are showing their support at this time and asks that their grief and privacy be respected during this period of mourning." From 1991 to 1999, Alex raced in F1, later becoming a four-time Paralympic handcycling gold-medalist after losing both his legs in an auto racing accident in September 2001. Giorgia Meloni, the Prime Minister of Italy, shared a tribute to Alex on May 2 via Instagram , which read, "Italy loses a great champion and an extraordinary man, capable of turning every test of life into a lesson of courage, strength, and dignity. Alex Zanardi knew how to get back in the game every time, facing even the toughest challenges with determination, clarity, and an out-of-the-ordinary will. With his sporting achievements, with his example and with his humanity, he has given all of us much more than a victory: he has given hope, pride, and the strength to never give up." 47. Tyler Duckworth At the age of 44, The Challenge alum was found dead in his bathroom on Aug. 11. His mother, Joni, confirmed his death via a Facebook post shared on Aug. 13. “My son, Tyler, passed away earlier this week,” she wrote. “Cause of death has yet to be determined. I will post on Facebook about services as soon as his dad and I figure it out.” The Grand Forks Police Department confirmed to People that officers were dispatched to Tyler’s residence at roughly 11:45 a.m. on Aug. 11, following a report from his downstairs neighbors that water was coming through their ceiling. According to police, there do not appear to be any signs of foul play or a suspicious death. The cause of death is “pending the results of an autopsy,” and a toxicology report will also be conducted, which can take between 10–12 weeks, per People. 48. Reggie Bannister The musician and actor died at the age of 80, as his wife, Gigi Bannister, confirmed in a statement shared with People on Aug. 10. "Reggie Bannister fought debilitating effects of Parkinson’s while resting comfortably in his Mountain home with caregivers and Gigi by his side," the statement read. "Gigi was with him till the end, as she had vowed, until death and meant it. Reggie‘s final request was to please let his fans know, 'It’s never over.'" Gigi also shared a Facebook post where she recalled checking on Reggie on the morning of Aug. 9. "I last checked on my beloved Reggie Bannister's condition," she wrote. "He was panting but quiet and asleep. I was exhausted so I went back to sleep. At 0600 hours, our kitty, GG (Grey Guy) who has been sleeping on Reggie's bed at night, came running upstairs and jumped onto the bed meowing! I went down to see what the problem was...Somewhere inside... in my soul... I knew. Reggie was gone." She continued, "He looked so quiet and peaceful. Like he was asleep. In his bed, 'In Our Mountain Home' as his song goes. In the snap of fingers, my best friend , my confidant, my partner, my soul mate was transitioned to another dimension - a higher plane. He no longer suffers. He's no longer in pain. That gives me solace. I will see you on the flip side, honey bunny. Save me a hug! Wait for me. - gigi." Reggie was best known for his role as ice cream vendor-turned-hero Reggie in the Phantasm horror franchise. Throughout his music career, he has released six albums across various genres, performed with groups such as Stone Country and Greenwood County Singers, and worked alongside artists like Red Skelton, Sonny and Cher , and Stevie Wonder , according to IMDb. 49. Dee Freeman The actor's family shared an Instagram post to Dee's account announcing her death on April 3, following a stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis. She was 66 and best known for her roles on The Young and the Restless and Sistas. The caption of the post read, "On behalf of her family, it is with deepest sadness that we share this update with you. Dee passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026 after a brave and fearless fight with cancer. Thank you to everyone who supported Dee during her battle. It blew her away to know how many people cared about her and were pulling for her. We know Dee is up there in heaven being the force of nature she always was. Now she's doing it with her angel wings on. Rest in peace, Dee." Her publicist, Desirae L. Benson, also shared a statement , saying, “Dee wasn’t just my client — she was someone I truly respected and admired. She carried herself with a level of grace, strength, and authenticity that is rare. Even in the face of stage 4 lung cancer, she showed up with courage and dignity. Dee had a quiet power that commanded respect without ever needing to demand it. Her legacy is not just in her work, but in how she made people feel — and that will stay with us forever.” 50. Jennifer Runyon The actor died at the age of 65, her family confirmed via a social media post on March 8. The post stated that, "This past Friday [March 6], our beloved Jennifer passed away. It was a long and arduous journey that ended with her surrounded by her family. She will always be remembered for her love of life and her devotion to her family and friends. Rest in peace our Jenn." The actor was best known for her roles in Ghostbusters (1984) and as Gwendolyn Pierce in the CBS sitcom Charles in Charge. Erin Murphy, a friend of Jennifer's and a Bewitched alum, shared a tribute to the actor on Facebook on March 7. The caption read: "So sad to share that my friend Jennifer Runyon Corman has passed away after a brief battle with cancer. Some people you just know you’ll be friends with before you even meet. She was a special lady. I’ll miss you Jenn. My thoughts are with your family and beautiful children." 51. Shirley Raines Known as "Ms. Shirley" on social media, the TikTok star and activist was found dead inside her home in Henderson, Nevada, on Jan. 27, following a request for a welfare check by her youngest daughter, Rashawn Williams. She was 58 years old, and her organization, Beauty 2 The Streetz, confirmed her death via Instagram on Jan. 28. The caption of the post read: "It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that Beauty 2 The Streetz announces the passing of our beloved CEO and founder, Shirley Raines, affectionately known to so many as Ms. Shirley. Ms. Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada." The statement continued, saying, "Through her tireless advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment, she used her powerful media platform to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most underserved populations." In 2021, Shirley was named CNN Hero of the Year, and in 2024, she received the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Social Media Personality. The Clark County Coroner’s Office confirmed on Feb. 2 that Raines’s official cause and manner of death are still pending. 52. T. K. Carter The actor was found dead in his California home in Duarte, California, on Jan. 9. He was 69 years old, and he died from systolic heart failure, according to documents obtained from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. He was best known for his roles in films and TV shows such as The Thing , Space Jam , and Punky Brewster , and for appearances on shows including How to Get Away with Murder and Everybody Hates Chris. 53. Nathalie Baye The French film star died at her home in Paris on April 18 at the age of 77, her family confirmed to the Agence France-Presse (AFP). Her family confirmed that she died following a Lewy body dementia diagnosis, which is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer's disease. Nathalie was best known for her roles in the 2022 film Downton Abbey: A New Era and Catch Me If You Can. "Nathalie Baye had, through her choices and talent, carved out a unique path in our French cinema — rubbing shoulders with great auteurs, never giving up on popular ambition," President Emmanuel Macron of France stated in an official statement . "Throughout her career, Nathalie Baye also continued to work on stage and television, where she acted for directors such as Josée Dayan and Frédéric Tellier," the statement continued. "A woman as committed as she was independent, Nathalie Baye lent her celebrity to the cause of fighting climate change, the treatment of illnesses like claustrophobia, and the right to die with dignity. The President of the Republic and his wife pay tribute to an elegant, endearing, and inspiring star at the heart of French cinema, at the heart of so many French people. They extend their condolences to her family and loved ones." 54. Kianna Underwood The former Nickelodeon child star was killed in a hit-and-run in New York on Jan. 16 at the age of 33. The New York Police Department confirmed that she was pronounced dead at the scene after she was hit by a black Ford Explorer SUV while crossing an intersection in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn, and then “subsequently struck by a black and gray sedan.” Kianna was best known for her role on Nickelodeon’s All That and her voice work on the Nick Jr. series Little Bill. 55. Tedde Moore The Canadian actor, best known for her role as young Ralphie Parker’s teacher in A Christmas Story , died on Aug. 5 at the age of 79 in Huntsville, Ontario. A post was shared to her Facebook profile on Aug. 6 that read, “Under sunny skies overlooking Fairy Lake, Tedde passed away surrounded by family physically and spiritually in her beloved Huntsville Muskoka. Her bravery in this choice was almost overwhelming, beyond beautiful and also difficult. Forever the teacher, she had a quote for every occasion and a special way of touching the lives and hearts of everyone she met. Her magic and love will be remembered by all she took under her generous and welcoming wings. ❤️🕊️.” In addition to her role in A Christmas Story, Tedde made TV appearances on shows such as Friday the 13th: The Series , RoboCop: Prime Directives , Odyssey 5 , and This Is Wonderland . She is survived by her children, Suzanna, Noah, and Zoe, and her foster daughter, Chaunce Drury. 56. Mark Rydell The film director, producer, and actor died of natural causes on Aug. 13 at the age of 97 . His daughter, Amy Rydell, confirmed the news via Instagram on Aug. 14. "Hard to put into words how much I loved my Dad," she wrote. "He was truly one of a kind. Funniest and most talented person I’ve ever known. I am so grateful to be his daughter. RIP love your fatso potato chip #97 #missmydad." Mark was best known for directing the 1981 film On Golden Pond, which earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Director. He appeared as an actor in films such as The Long Goodbye and Hollywood Ending, as well as in the TV role of Jeff Baker in the soap opera As the World Turns. He is survived by his sister, Judy Wagner; three children; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. 57. Brandon Clarke The Memphis Grizzlies player died at the age of 29, the team confirmed on May 12. “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the statement read. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten. We express our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.” Brandon's agency, Priority Sports, first confirmed his death in a statement shared to their social media account . “We are beyond devastated by the passing of Brandon Clarke,” the statement said. “He was so loved by all of us here, and everyone whose life he touched. He was the gentlest soul who was the first to be there for all of his friends and family. Our hearts are so broken as we think about his mom, Whitney, his entire family, and all of his friends and teammates.” According to authorities in Los Angeles , Brandon's death is being investigated as a possible overdose. Per NBC4 in Los Angeles , the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) was responding to a 911 call when they arrived at a home in the San Fernando Valley, and drug paraphernalia was found at the scene. 58. Carrie Anne Fleming The actor died on Feb. 26 at the age of 51 following a breast cancer diagnosis, a representative confirmed to People . "She died peacefully with her loved ones by her side," the statement said. "It was a great privilege to have known Carrie. She was a beautiful soul, inspiring, and above all, kind. She will be greatly missed." Carrie was best known for her roles in TV shows, such as iZombie and Supernatural . Her on-screen husband from Supernatural, Jim Beaver, shared a post on Facebook on March 1, recalling his and Carrie's "meet cute" on set and how they bonded over having daughters with the same names. "As we sat on the set before our first scene, saying our hellos and breaking the ice as actors do when first paired up for a scene, she mentioned the name, Madeline Rose... Turns out that, spelling differences aside, our daughters had the same name. And that, as also happens in the movies, was the beginning of a beautiful friendship,” he said. “She was a powerhouse of vitality and goodwill and amazingly good nature, with a rapturous laugh and an utterly adorable personality that didn't seem to have an off switch." The actor and model died on March 11 at the age of 83. Her daughters, Shawn Pace Mitchell and Julia Pace Mitchell, announced that Judy had died peacefully in her sleep while visiting family in Marina Del Rey, California. She was best known for her roles as Vickie Fletcher on Peyton Place and Linda Sayers, the wife of Chicago Bears player Gale Sayers, in the TV movie Brian's Song. She also won the NAACP Image Award for Best Actress in 1970 for her trailblazing role as Pat Walters in The Young Lawyers . 60. Derran “Derry” Brownson The founding member of the British band EMF died on Aug. 13 at the age of 55 , the band announced on Instagram . "Late last night we started to hear the news that we have lost our Brother In Arms Derran Brownson," the post read. "We are devastated, the only solace we can find is that we are eternally grateful Derry was able to join us on stage a couple times just a few short months back. Nothing will ever be the same again without our band mate and friend, fly high brother Derry. 💔." According to the BBC , Derran was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and had been undergoing treatment. Best known as the keyboardist for EMF, the band formed in 1989 and released their debut album, Schubert Dip , two years later. The album peaked at No. 3 on the UK charts, with the song “Unbelievable” hitting No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in July 1991. The group reportedly broke up in 1995, and Derran started a new band, LK, before EMF reunited in 2001. Derran went on to contribute to two new EMF albums, Go Go Sapiens in 2022 and The Beauty and the Chaos in 2024. 61. Glen Hansard The lead singer of the Irish rock band The Frames was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash in Dublin on July 29 at the age of 56, police confirmed in a press release. "With broken hearts we announce the passing of Glen Hansard who passed away, in the early hours of this morning, following a road traffic accident in Dublin," his representatives at ATC Management told People in a statement. "Glen’s family is deeply shocked and heartbroken by this tragic loss and respectfully requests privacy at this extremely difficult time. The family is grateful for the support they have received and wishes to thank the emergency services who attended the scene." In addition to his work in the band, Glen starred in the 2007 musical film Once, and co-wrote “Falling Slowly," the Oscar-winning original song from the film. He formed a folk-rock duo with Markéta Irglová in 2005 called The Swell Season, and he also released several solo albums, including Rhythm and Repose in 2012 and Didn’t He Ramble i n 2015, the latter of which received a Grammy nomination for Best Folk Album. He is survived by his partner, poet Maire Saaritsa, and their 3-year-old son. The actor died on Feb. 14 at the age of 74, as Fred Dekker, the director of The Monster Squad — which Tom starred in as Frankenstein's monster — shared a statement on Facebook on Feb. 18. "It's with great sadness that I share the passing of TOM NOONAN (April 12, 1951 - February 14, 2026)," Fred wrote. "Tom's indelible performance as Frankenstein in THE MONSTER SQUAD is a highlight of my modest filmography, doubtless aided by the masterful make-up designed by Stan Winston, sculpted by Tom Woodruff Jr., and applied by Zoltan Elek. Having been knocked out by his performance as Francis Dollarhyde in Michael Mann's MANHUNTER, I desperately wanted Tom to read the script and consider the part, but I knew that nabbing him was probably a long shot. Nonetheless, he agreed to meet me at his Hollywood apartment to discuss the role." Tom was also known for his performances in films such as RoboCop 2 , Manhunter, and Synecdoche, New York, as well as for his appearances in TV shows such as Hell on Wheels and 12 Monkeys . Fred concluded his statement, saying, "But all in all, he was the proverbial gentleman and scholar, and the world has lost a great talent. R.I.P. Tom. Thanks for the great work." 63. Arlene Smith The co-founder and lead singer of the 1950s quintet The Chantels died of natural causes at the age of 84 on July 29, her friend Matt Beckoff told the Hollywood Reporter . The group’s biggest hit was “Maybe,” which sold over a million copies and was ranked No. 199 on Rolling Stone‘s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in 2004. The group was dropped by their label in 1959, and Arlene subsequently pursued a solo career and eventually attended Juilliard. Arlene reformed the Chantels by 1973, with Barbara Murray and Pauline Moore joining. The group was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002. However, Arlene went on to become a teacher in the Bronx until her retirement, while continuing to perform. The former Arizona Cardinals defensive end died at age 35, his father, Greg Mauro, announced in a Facebook post on April 28. "With many tears and broken hearts, yet anchored in the unshakable certainty that our precious Josh Mauro is now healed and made new — living in the presence of the Lord — we humbly covet your prayers as our family walks through the devastating loss of our amazing son, brother, uncle, grandson and friend," Greg wrote. On Thursday, April 23, Josh breathed his last breath on this earth and his first breath in heaven," he continued. "The Lord has been our strength in this unimaginable moment. Your prayers for continued strength and comfort mean more to us than words could ever express." On May 16, Josh's cause of death was revealed to be an acute combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and ethanol intoxication, according to online records from the Maricopa County Office of the Medical Examiner, which were obtained by KKCO 11 , AZFamily , and the New York Post . Authorities ruled his death an accident. 65. Michael Patrick The actor and writer's wife, Naomi Sheehan, announced his death in a joint Instagram post on April 8. "Last night, Mick sadly passed away in the Northern Ireland Hospice. He was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease [on] 1st February 2023," the caption read, "He was admitted 10 days ago and was cared for by the incredible team there. He passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends. Words can’t describe how broken-hearted we are. It’s been said more than once that Mick was an inspiration to everyone who was privileged enough to come into contact with him, not just in the past few years during his illness but in every day of his life. He lived a life as full as any human can live. Joy, abundance of spirit, infectious laughter. A titan of a ginger haired man." Michael was best known for his role in Game of Thrones , his critically acclaimed performance as Richard III at Belfast's Lyric Theatre, and both co-writing and starring in the BBC comedy-drama My Left Nut. "We are so grateful for every person who supported us through the last few years. Mick loved this quote from Brendan Behan and this feels appropriate now: ‘The most important things to do in the world are to get something to eat, something to drink and somebody to love you.’ So, don’t overthink it. Eat. Drink. Love. Naomi - Mick’s wife," Naomi's caption concluded. 66. Corey Parker The Will & Grace star who later became an acting coach died on March 5 at the age of 60, following a terminal cancer diagnosis. Chris Ahuja, the actor's representative, confirmed his death in a statement to People , saying that, "Corey Parker was an incredible human being. He was a friend, a mentor and a deeply supportive soul to so many people in the acting community." Chris continued, stating, "I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and like countless others, I was inspired by his generosity, wisdom and dedication to helping actors grow in their craft. He will be deeply missed." The actor was reportedly diagnosed with advanced Stage 4 metastatic cancer after he underwent hip replacement surgery, according to a GoFundMe that was created to raise funds to support his family. 67. Michael Pennington The actor died on May 7 at the age of 82, according to his agent, Lesley Duff, who shared a statement with The Guardian . “After a long and wonderful life and career, Michael Pennington died peacefully in the early hours of Thursday, 7 May at Denville Hall," the statement said. Michael was known for his roles as the Imperial officer Moff Tiaan Jerjerrod in Star Wars and Michael Foot in The Iron Lady. In addition to his film appearances, Michael was an acclaimed English stage actor, director, and author. He was an honorary associate artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and he co-founded the English Shakespeare Company in 1986. On March 28, the comedian and actor's friend, Hilarie Steele, shared a statement to GoFundMe that read, "With the heaviest hearts, we share that our dear Alex passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by love and dear friends." He was 42 years old and best known for appearing on Jeff Ross Presents: Roast Battle and Blue Bloods. "He was comfortable and thankfully out of pain," the statement continued. "Christina and Everest were able to see him last night, and he was alert enough to say goodbye to his little girl, whom he has treasured every moment since the day she was born. We are devastated, but so grateful for the support, prayers, and generosity you have all shown during this unimaginable time. Your continued support now means everything as Christina and Everest navigate the days ahead and to arrange a beautiful celebration of his life. All of us will be by her side to hold her up and help her in every way possible. We love you all. We will share more when we are able. Thank you for holding this family in your hearts." The actor died after a long illness on Feb. 11, according to his longtime friend , Dorian Hannaway. Bud was 77 and best known for his role in the 1971 movie Harold and Maude , which earned a Golden Globe nomination. Some of his other appearances include Brewster McCloud , M*A*S*H* , Electric Dreams , and The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou . 70. Kiki Shepard The television host and actress died on March 16 of a heart attack, as a representative of Kiki's shared the news following her "unexpected" death. Elgin Charles, a friend of Kiki's and a hairstylist, shared a tribute to Kiki , stating, "It is with a heavy, shattered heart that I process the sudden passing of my dear friend, the legendary Kiki Shepard. To lose a light so bright without warning feels like a theft of time, leaving an ache that words can barely touch. ​Kiki was more than a cultural icon and the soul of Showtime at the Apollo; she was my sister in spirit. Our bond was forged over four decades, anchored by our shared Texas roots and a friendship that remained unbreakable through every season of life." Kiki served as cohost of Showtime at the Apollo from 1987 to 2002 and was known as the “Apollo Queen of Fashion.” Elgin continued, saying, "She was the definition of genuine — a woman of immense grace who championed the fight against Sickle Cell with the same passion she brought to the stage. ​To her family, our mutual friends, and the community she served so tirelessly: we have lost a giant. Kiki represented the very best of us, and while her physical presence is gone, her legacy as a champion for our people and a loyal friend will never fade. Rest in power, my sweet friend. You are forever loved and will be profoundly missed. ​With deepest sympathy and love,​ Elgin Charles." 71. Troy Murray The former NHL player died on March 7 at the age of 63, following a battle with cancer. Troy played 12 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks before winning a Stanley Cup in 1996 with the Colorado Avalanche. He later became the Blackhawks' broadcasting analyst, serving for over 25 years. Troy was also inducted into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. The Blackhawks chairman and CEO, Danny Wirtz, shared a statement , saying, “The Chicago Blackhawks are deeply heartbroken today as we mourn the loss of Troy Murray, our beloved 'Muzz,' and our love and support go out to his family. Troy was the epitome of a Blackhawk, so far beyond his incredible playing career with a presence felt in every corner of our organization over the last 45 years. He was admired by his teammates and our players, and was so proud to connect generations of Blackhawks through his work with the Blackhawks Alumni Association.” Danny continued, saying, "He jumped at every call to support our local community with our Foundation. He never missed a chance to say ‘hello’ in our press box and always knew the perfect time for a joke just when someone around the office needed it most. And he absolutely loved bringing Blackhawks hockey to you, our fans, night after night with a dedication to his craft that never wavered to the very end. During his long and hard battle with cancer, it was often said that Troy didn’t have any ‘give up’ in him. While our front office simply won’t be the same without him, we will carry that spirit forward every day in his honor. We’ll miss you, Troy.” 72. Valerie Perrine On March 23, a post was shared to Valerie's Facebook profile confirming her death at the age of 82. Stacey Souther, who directed the documentary short Valerie about the actor's life and was a close friend, also shared the post on Instagram . "It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that Valerie has passed away. She faced Parkinson’s disease with incredible courage and compassion, never once complaining," the post read. "She was a true inspiration who lived life to the fullest — and what a magnificent life it was. The world feels less beautiful without her in it. I love you, Valerie. I’ll see you on the other side." Valerie was best known for her roles as Eve Teschmacher in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), as well as her Oscar-nominated breakout performance as Honey Bruce in Lenny. "Please consider donating, sharing, and helping spread the word for her funeral GoFundMe," the Facebook post continued. "Her final wish is to be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery, but after more than 15 years of fighting Parkinson’s, her finances are exhausted. Let’s come together to make her last wish a reality — she truly deserves it." 73. Alex Ligertwood The former Santana vocalist died at 79, his wife, talent agent Shawn Brogan, announced in a Facebook post shared on the singer's profile on May 2. "It’s with great sadness and heartache to announce the passing of my sweet dear Alex Ligertwood, my husband of 36 years," the post read. "Alex passed peacefully in his sleep with his doggy Bobo by his side yesterday. Alex was loved by so many. If you knew him, you loved him. He touched so many with his extraordinary voice. He was all heart and soul. His favorite thing in life was to make music, sing and to share his gift with us. He performed his last show just two weeks ago. I’m grateful for that. He did it his way, on his terms, till the end. I will always love you, my sweet Alex. Rest in peace. Soar and sing with the angels, my love." In addition to Santana, Alex also played with Average White Band, Brian Auger's Oblivion Express, The Jeff Beck Group, and The Senate. Brian shared a tribute to Alex on his Facebook profile that read, "It is with an incredibly heavy heart that I must share the news that my dear friend and fellow traveler on The Oblivion Express, Alex Ligertwood, has passed away. To me, Alex aka 'Wee Eck' was simply the best singer to ever do it. In all my years of music, I never heard anyone who possessed that kind of range or that effortless, carefree ability to soar through a melody. He didn't just sing songs; he lived them. The world feels much quieter today without his voice, and I will miss my friend more than words can say. The big band in the sky just got infinitely better with Alex’s arrival." 74. Jessie Jones The actor and playwright died on March 20, according to an online obituary written by her creative partner Jamie Wooten. The obituary read, "Jessie Jones — Playwright, actress and damn fine cook, has made her final exit, stage left, leaving behind hit comedies, memorable performances, and recipes so delicious it would make your mouth jealous of your stomach. Jessie — witty, stylish and exceedingly kind and gracious to all — was the very definition of the word 'vivacious'. She died at seventy-five after a long illness, and the loss of Jessie Jones from our ranks leaves us down one seriously fabulous human." Jessie had many TV appearances throughout her career, including in Murphy Brown , Melrose Place , Night Court , Who's the Boss?, and Designing Women. She also co-wrote the Southern comedies Dearly Departed and The Sweet Delilah Swim Club. On April 1, Jamie shared a statement with People , saying, "Jessie was an unbelievably talented and kind woman, and knowing her life’s work will continue — bringing laughter to theaters around the world — brings great solace." 75. Ueli Kestenholz The Swiss snowboarder and Olympic bronze medallist died after being buried in an avalanche in Switzerland while snowboarding with a friend on Jan. 11. He was 50 years old, and the Swiss Ski Federation announced his death on Jan. 13, via a news release . The release read, "His life was far too short. An avalanche last Sunday in the Lötschental valley proved fatal for the father of two. Swiss-Ski and the snowboard community are devastated." Swiss-Ski President Peter Barandun also stated, "We extend our deepest condolences to Ueli's family and loved ones." 76. Kara Braxton The WNBA announced the news of Kara's death at the age of 43 on Feb. 22 via a post on X . "It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton," the statement read. "A 10-season veteran, Kara played with the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time." Kara played 10 seasons for the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty . She was named SEC Freshman of the Year in 2002 while playing for the University of Georgia, and she was named an All-Star in 2007. According to a statement from the Cobb County Police Department , a fatal car collision occurred on the evening of Feb. 21. The statement read, "A blue 2023 Ford Mustang Mach E, operated by Kara Brown Braxton Jackson, was traveling north on I-285 approaching Cobb Parkway in the left lane. Brown Braxton Jackson failed to maintain her lane, and the Ford collided with the concrete median wall." Authorities stated that, "The Ford continued in a northerly direction against the concrete wall until coming to rest on the left shoulder of I-285 at Cobb Parkway. Brown Braxton Jackson was transported to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased." 77. Leonid Radvinsky The owner of the adult content platform OnlyFans died of cancer at the age of 43, as a spokesperson for the company shared with People . "Leo passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer. His family have requested privacy at this difficult time.” 78. Joseph Allen "Country Joe" McDonald The co-founder and lead singer of the 1960s psychedelic folk-rock group, Country Joe and the Fish, died on March 7 at the age of 84. The band announced via a since-deleted Facebook post that Joe died of complications from Parkinson's disease, and that he was surrounded by his family. "At this time, the McDonald family requests privacy during this very difficult period," the post read. Joe was also famous for his solo performance of the Vietnam War protest anthem "I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag" at the 1969 Woodstock Festival . An official obituary stated that, “McDonald was widely recognized as one of the defining voices of the 1960s counterculture movement. His music blended folk, rock, and political commentary, capturing the spirit of a generation deeply affected by social upheaval, civil rights struggles and the Vietnam War.” 79. Elle Simone Scott The chef and television host died on Jan. 8 at the age of 49, after a long battle with ovarian cancer. Carla Hall, a close friend of Elle's and a fellow chef, shared a tribute to her via Instagram , with a caption that read: "Chef Elle Simone Scott was a friend, a force, and a trailblazer. She showed up with excellence, generosity, and deep love for food and community. At America’s Test Kitchen, Elle helped open doors that had long been closed — becoming one of the first Black women audiences saw in the test kitchen, and doing so with grace, authority, and joy." The caption went on, stating, "She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media. Her voice mattered. Her work mattered. She mattered. Elle faced ovarian cancer with courage and honesty, using her platform to educate, advocate, and uplift even while fighting for her life. That kind of strength leaves a mark. We honor you, Elle. Your legacy lives on in every kitchen you inspired and every cook who finally saw themselves reflected back. Rest well my sister. 💛" Elle became a trailblazer in the culinary community as the first Black woman to join the cast of the beloved PBS cooking show, America’s Test Kitchen . 80. Chase Pistone Chase's older brother, Nick Pistone, confirmed through a Facebook post on March 2 that the former NASCAR driver had died at the age of 42. “Well my young brother and best friend is gone,” Nick’s post read. “I'm broken hearted and don't know if I'll ever get over this. I miss you Chase already and I hope you are in a better place. I love you and I miss you so much already!!!!!!!” Although Nick did not share Chase's cause of death, he and Tom Pistone, their older brother, requested that auto racing news outlet Legends Nation "post the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which is 988 on a phone or text," according to their tribute to Chase that was shared via Instagram . "Chase was not only a wheelman in Legends and Late Models, but his Chase Pistone Inc. Legends team was a force to be reckoned with every time they showed up at a track, and they usually walked away with the winner’s trophy," the rest of the tribute read. The Midnight Oil rock band drummer died on Jan. 20 at the age of 70, three years after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The band announced his death via an Instagram statement , where the caption read, "We are shattered and grieving the loss of our brother Rob. For now there are no words but there will always be songs. Love Always from Jim, Martin & Pete." The band also released a separate post on Facebook , which read, "After fighting heroically for almost three years, Rob is now free of pain — ‘a glimmer of tiny light in the wilderness’. He died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. The family asks that anyone wanting to honour Rob donate to Pankind, Pancreatic Cancer Australia or Support Act." 82. Kenny Morris The original Siouxsie and the Banshees drummer died on Jan. 15 at the age of 68, as his friend and music journalist John Robb confirmed via tribute on the publication Louder Than War. The tribute read, "Kenny was a friend of ours, and it was always a pleasure to see and hang out with him when visiting Cork in Ireland, where he had been living. He was sweet, articulate, artistic and fascinating company and his beautiful eccentricity was adorable. He would turn up in a suit and a dress with open handcuffs on one hand and the next time in a totally different yet perfectly created bricolage of style, whilst still dressing in the artful confrontation of the 1976 punk era that he was such a key part of." John concluded his tribute to the British rocker by saying, "It was great to know you, Kenny and we will miss your sweet eccentricity and long WhatsApp messages and your art and your gentle presence in a cruel world." 83. Yeison Jiménez The Colombian singer-songwriter died on Jan. 10 at the age of 34, as a representative confirmed via a statement on Instagram that he was among six people killed in a plane crash near Paipa, Colombia. Translated from Spanish, the statement reads, “With heavy hearts and indescribable grief, Yeison Jiménez's organization and team deeply regret to announce his passing. Today, we not only say goodbye to an artist; we say goodbye to a son, a brother, a friend, a human being full of dreams and courage, who transformed his story into a source of hope for thousands.” Yeison is survived by his wife and three children. 84. Brad Arnold The lead singer of 3 Doors Down died on Feb. 7 at the age of 47, as the band announced via Instagram . The post reads, "With his beloved wife Jennifer and his family by his side, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, in his sleep after his courageous battle with cancer." The statement continued, saying, "Brad's songwriting became a cultural touchstone for a generation, producing some of the most enduring hits of the 2000s, including the band's breakout hit, 'Kryptonite,' which he wrote in his math class when he was just 15 years old." The post continued, stating, "Above all, he was a devoted husband to Jennifer, and his kindness, humor and generosity touched everyone fortunate enough to know him. Those closest to him will remember not only his talent, but his warmth, humility, faith and deep love for his family and friends. The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time and kindly asks that their privacy be respected. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered." Are there any celebrities who have died in 2026 whose work meant a lot to you? Tell us about it in the comments. The National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline is 1-800-950-6264 (NAMI) and provides information and referral services; GoodTherapy.org is an association of mental health professionals from more than 25 countries who support efforts to reduce harm in therapy. Dial 988 in the United States to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline . The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7/365. Your conversations are free and confidential. Other international suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org . The Trevor Project, which provides help and suicide-prevention resources for LGBTQ youth, is 1-866-488-7386. Do you love all things scary, dark, and creepy? Subscribe to the That Got Dark newsletter to get your weekly dopamine fix of the macabre delivered RIGHT to your inbox!