The year 2026 has seen the departure of numerous influential figures across the arts, entertainment, public service, intellectual discourse, and the sporting world. Each of these individuals, in their unique way, has contributed to the fabric of our society and left an indelible mark on our collective consciousness. This In Memoriam serves as a moment to reflect on their lives, celebrate their achievements, and honour legacies that will undoubtedly continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.
A Year of Farewells: Notable Figures Lost in 2026
The passing of prominent personalities often prompts reflection on their impact and the void they leave behind. This year was no exception, with a diverse array of individuals from various fields departing, leaving behind a rich tapestry of contributions.
Leonid Radvinsky
Leonid Radvinsky, the proprietor of the globally recognised adult entertainment platform, OnlyFans, has passed away. A spokesperson for OnlyFans confirmed his peaceful passing after a protracted battle with cancer, requesting privacy for his family during this challenging period. Radvinsky acquired Fenix International Limited, the parent company of OnlyFans, in 2018. He held a significant position as a director and majority shareholder of the company, which was established in 2016. He was 43 years old at the time of his death.Robert Mueller
Robert Mueller, a distinguished American attorney and former law enforcement official, has died. He served as the Director of the FBI from 2001 to 2013, a period marked by significant transformations within the bureau, particularly in the wake of the September 11th attacks. Mueller was recognised for his steadfast and apolitical approach, overseeing crucial reforms in counterterrorism and intelligence. He later took on the role of Special Counsel, leading the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. His comprehensive report examined the connections between the Trump campaign and Russia, as well as issues of potential obstruction of justice. Mueller is widely respected for his integrity and dedication to public service. He was 81 years old.Nicholas Brendon
Nicholas Brendon, an American actor widely remembered for his portrayal of Xander Harris in the beloved cult series Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003), has passed away. As a central and cherished character, Xander’s loyalty and often humorous nature allowed Brendon to connect deeply with audiences, solidifying his status as an iconic figure of the series. Following Buffy, he continued his television work with roles in shows such as Criminal Minds, where he played Kevin Lynch, and also engaged in various independent film and television projects. Brendon’s personal life was marked by candid discussions about his struggles with addiction and legal challenges. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, including actress Sarah Michelle Gellar. Nicholas Brendon was 54 years old.Chuck Norris
Chuck Norris, the legendary star of Walker, Texas Ranger and a prominent figure in the action film genre, has died. An American actor, producer, and martial artist, Norris transcended the screen to become a true icon of popular culture. Prior to his acting career, he established himself as a formidable karate champion, even developing his own martial art, Chun Kuk Do. His rise to fame in the 1970s was significantly boosted by his memorable fight sequence against Bruce Lee in The Way of the Dragon. He went on to star in action films like Missing in Action and achieved global stardom with the television series Walker, Texas Ranger. Beyond his professional achievements, Norris is also celebrated for the “Chuck Norris facts,” a phenomenon that gained massive traction online. He was 86 years old.Jordan Wright
Jordan Wright, a British reality television personality known for his appearances on popular shows such as The Only Way Is Essex and Ex on the Beach, has passed away. His death has sent shockwaves through his fanbase, particularly given the concerning and still unclear circumstances surrounding it. Wright was discovered deceased in a drainage canal near Bang Tao Beach in Phuket, Thailand, mere weeks after his arrival in the country. CCTV footage captured him exhibiting unusual behaviour, including pacing and appearing distressed, shortly before his disappearance from his hotel. While authorities have reported no immediate signs of assault, the investigation into his death is ongoing. He was reported missing after failing to check out of his hotel, and his body was found several days later by a local worker. He was 33 years old.Matt Clark
Matt Clark was a highly prolific American character actor whose extensive career spanned over six decades across film, television, and theatre. Renowned for his commanding presence and remarkable versatility, he featured in numerous films, including The Outlaw Josey Wales, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, and the Back to the Future trilogy. On television, he made memorable appearances in series such as Little House on the Prairie, The Waltons, and Walker, Texas Ranger. Clark was respected for his ability to imbue his roles with authenticity, whether in Westerns or contemporary dramas, becoming a familiar and trusted face for multiple generations of viewers. Matt Clark was 89 years old.Tommy DeCarlo
Tommy DeCarlo, the powerful vocalist who fronted the legendary rock band Boston in its later years, has died. DeCarlo, a lifelong fan of the group, saw his life take a dramatic turn after uploading Boston cover songs online following the death of original singer Brad Delp in 2007. His vocal talent caught the attention of Boston founder Tom Scholz, leading to an audition and his eventual induction into the band. DeCarlo toured extensively with Boston, helping to carry the band’s iconic classic-rock sound to new audiences and performing beloved hits like “More Than a Feeling” and “Peace of Mind.” Tommy DeCarlo was 60 years old.Jennifer Runyon
Jennifer Runyon, an American actress best known for her contributions to film and television during the 1980s, has passed away. She gained significant recognition for her roles in popular comedies such as Ghostbusters (1984) and Up the Creek (1984). Runyon also became a familiar presence on television, appearing in series like Charles in Charge, Murder, She Wrote, 21 Jump Street, and Beverly Hills, 90210. Known for her radiant screen presence and adept comedic timing, she remained a recognisable figure in the pop culture landscape of the era. Jennifer Runyon was 65 years old.Todd Meadows
Todd Meadows was a young American fisherman and reality television personality who gained recognition for his appearance on the Discovery Channel series Deadliest Catch. The show documents the perilous lives of crab fishermen in the harsh waters of the Bering Sea. Meadows served as a deckhand aboard the vessel Aleutian Lady, quickly earning the respect of his crewmates through his strong work ethic, enthusiasm, and genuine passion for his challenging profession. He was one of the newer faces featured on the show as it filmed its upcoming season. Tragically, Meadows died after falling overboard while the boat was engaged in fishing operations approximately 170 miles north of Dutch Harbor, Alaska. He was recovered about ten minutes later, but resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful, and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. He was 25 years old.Neil Sedaka
Neil Sedaka, the celebrated American singer-songwriter and pianist who was instrumental in defining the sound of early 1960s pop music, has died. A classically trained musician hailing from Brooklyn, Sedaka achieved widespread fame with a string of enduring hits, including “Calendar Girl,” “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do,” “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen,” and “Laughter in the Rain.” Renowned for his masterful melodies and distinctive tenor voice, Sedaka successfully revitalised his career in the 1970s after an initial lull. Beyond his performing career, he also penned songs for other prominent artists, leaving a significant and lasting imprint on the popular music landscape. Neil Sedaka was 86 years old.Oliver “Power” Grant
Oliver “Power” Grant, widely acknowledged as a founding member and a pivotal business force behind the iconic hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan, playing an instrumental role in their rise during the 1990s, has passed away. Grant maintained close ties with the Staten Island collective from its nascent stages, significantly shaping its entrepreneurial ventures. He later founded Wu Wear, one of the pioneering artist-driven streetwear brands in hip-hop, which was instrumental in transforming Wu-Tang Clan into a formidable cultural and business empire. This year marks a significant milestone as the Wu-Tang Clan is set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, further cementing their enduring legacy. Oliver “Power” Grant was 52 years old.Kara Braxton
Kara Braxton, a former professional basketball player and a two-time WNBA champion, has died in a car accident. A dominant centre who played collegiately at the University of Georgia, she was selected seventh overall in the 2005 WNBA Draft by the Detroit Shock. Braxton quickly made her impact, contributing to the Shock’s WNBA titles in 2006 and 2008 with her strong interior presence and scoring prowess. Throughout her career, she also played for teams in Phoenix and New York. Known for her physical style of play and championship pedigree, Kara Braxton was a notable figure in women’s basketball. She was 43 years old.Robert Carradine
Robert Carradine, an actor perhaps best known to younger audiences for his role as Sam McGuire, the father of Lizzie, in the popular Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire, has died. With his warm and understated comedic talent, he provided a steady anchor for the early 2000s hit show, which became a defining program for a generation. Carradine hailed from the renowned Carradine acting dynasty and cultivated a diverse career in film and television, featuring memorable roles in Revenge of the Nerds, The Cowboys, and numerous television movies and series. Celebrated for his versatility and consistent on-screen presence, Robert Carradine remained a respected figure in Hollywood. He was 71 years old.Rondale Moore
NFL player Rondale Moore has been found deceased, according to multiple media reports. Investigators discovered Moore in a garage in his hometown of New Albany, and authorities suspect the cause of death to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Moore was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and played three seasons with the team. He was later traded to the Atlanta Falcons but missed the entire 2024 season due to a training camp injury. In 2025, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings, where he sustained multiple injuries, including a season-ending knee injury during the team’s preseason opener. He was 25 years old.Eric Dane
Eric Dane, an American actor celebrated for his charismatic screen presence and versatility across television and film, has died. He achieved widespread fame for his portrayal of Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan in the highly successful medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, a role that cemented his status as a fan favourite and a pop culture figure. Prior to this, he appeared in series such as Charmed, and later took on the lead role in TNT’s The Last Ship. In more recent years, Dane garnered renewed critical acclaim for his intense performance as Cal Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria. With a career spanning decades, he maintained a consistent presence in Hollywood. He had recently announced his diagnosis with ALS. He was 53 years old.Lil Poppa
Popular rapper Lil Poppa, whose real name was Janarious Mykel Wheeler, has died. The cause of his death was not immediately disclosed. Lil Poppa was signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group and had released several successful tracks in recent years, including “Love & War,” “Mind Over Matter,” and “HAPPY TEARS.” His 16-track album Almost Normal Again was released in August, and he had recently put out a new single titled “Out of Town Bae.” He was 25 years old.Jesse Jackson
Jesse Jackson, a preeminent American civil rights activist, Baptist minister, and political leader who played a pivotal role in social justice movements for over five decades, has died. A close associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson was present during crucial moments of the civil rights era. He later founded influential organisations such as Operation PUSH and the Rainbow Coalition, dedicated to advancing economic and racial equality. Jackson made history by running for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, breaking significant barriers for Black candidates in national politics. Known for his powerful oratory and unwavering advocacy, Jesse Jackson remained an influential public figure. He was 84 years old.Robert Duvall
Robert Duvall, widely regarded as one of the most respected actors of his generation, has passed away. His career, spanning more than six decades, saw him rise to prominence in the 1960s and achieve widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Tom Hagen in The Godfather (1972) and The Godfather Part II. He earned an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Tender Mercies (1983) and delivered unforgettable performances in films such as Apocalypse Now, The Great Santini, Lonesome Dove, and The Apostle, which he also wrote and directed. Known for his understated intensity and remarkable versatility, Duvall was a towering figure in American cinema. He was 95 years old.Bud Cort
Actor Bud Cort, celebrated for his iconic role as Harold in the cult classic film Harold and Maude, has died. He had been battling an illness for some time. Cort also starred in Robert Altman’s Brewster McCloud and appeared in a variety of other projects, including MASH, Heat, The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, Coyote Ugly, and Pollock*. Bud Cort was 77 years old.James Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek, an actor best known for his breakout role on the hit teen drama Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003), has died. His earnest performance made him a household name and a pop culture icon for a generation. He later appeared in projects such as Varsity Blues and Pose, often demonstrating a willingness to playfully parody his own public image. Beyond his acting career, he has spoken openly about fatherhood and personal growth. He was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in 2024. He was 48 years old.Brad Arnold
Brad Arnold, the singer and co-founder of the rock band 3 Doors Down, formed in Mississippi in the mid-1990s, has died. He was instrumental in propelling the band to chart success with hits such as “Kryptonite,” “Here Without You,” and “When I’m Gone.” Under his leadership, 3 Doors Down became one of the most popular alternative rock bands of the 2000s, earning multiple awards and selling millions of albums worldwide. In recent months, Brad Arnold had announced he was undergoing treatment for cancer. He was 47 years old.Chuck Negron
Chuck Negron, the iconic voice of the band Three Dog Night, one of the most popular groups of the 1970s, has died. Possessing a remarkable vocal power, he left an enduring mark on music history with memorable performances on classics such as “Joy to the World,” “One,” and “Mama Told Me (Not to Come).” The band achieved immense success, with a string of hits dominating the airwaves and a significant number of chart-topping songs. Alongside his illustrious musical career, Chuck Negron also spoke openly about his personal struggles and his journey toward redemption. He was 83 years old.Catherine O’Hara
Catherine O’Hara, the celebrated Canadian actress renowned for her impeccable comedic timing and profound emotional depth, has died. She first gained recognition as a key cast member of the influential sketch series SCTV, where her versatility and sharp characterisations were particularly notable. O’Hara went on to build an extraordinary career, collaborating on cult favourites such as Beetlejuice, Home Alone, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and Waiting for Guffman. More recently, she achieved widespread acclaim for her role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, earning multiple awards and international praise, as well as appearing in The Studio with Seth Rogen. Catherine O’Hara was 71 years old.Bob Weir
Bob Weir, the iconic American musician, has passed away. Best known as a founding member of the legendary band Grateful Dead, where he served as rhythm guitarist and singer, he was instrumental in shaping the band’s distinctive sound, which masterfully blended psychedelic rock, folk, blues, and improvisation. As a member of the Grateful Dead, he co-wrote and performed several songs that have become cult classics, including “Sugar Magnolia” and “Playing in the Band.” Following the band’s dissolution in 1995, Weir pursued a prolific solo career with various projects, including RatDog, Furthur, and Dead & Company, continuing to keep the band’s legacy alive on stage. Bob Weir was 78 years old.Valentino Garavani
Valentino Garavani, one of the most influential and elegant fashion designers of the 20th century, has passed away. As the founder of the Valentino fashion house, he built a haute couture empire celebrated for its refinement, timeless designs, and the iconic “Valentino red.” From the 1960s onwards, his creations graced international icons such as Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren. A master of classic elegance, he left an indelible mark on the fashion world with his meticulous attention to detail, luxurious aesthetic, and emphasis on femininity. Although he retired from the catwalk in 2008, his enduring legacy remains omnipresent. Valentino Garavani was 93 years old.Kianna Underwood
Kianna Underwood was an actress and former child star, best recognised for her work with Nickelodeon. She began her career at a very young age, lending her voice to the character of Fuchsia Glover in the animated series Little Bill between 1999 and 2004. She later appeared in several episodes of the comedy show All That in 2005, alongside other performers who would become well-known faces in American television. Although she later stepped away from the entertainment industry, her work continues to evoke childhood memories for many viewers. Kianna Underwood died tragically after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run accident in Brooklyn. She was 33 years old.T.K. Carter
T.K. Carter, an actor and comedian best known for his work in television and film during the 1980s and 1990s, has died. He first gained recognition for his role as Marcus Henderson in the crime drama series The White Shadow, before becoming a familiar face to the general public through appearances on Punky Brewster, Seinfeld, and Martin. On the big screen, he starred in popular comedies such as Hollywood Shuffle and Friday. A versatile performer, Carter left his mark on a generation with his expressive humour and energetic screen presence. T.K. Carter was 69 years old.Rob Hirst
Rob Hirst, an iconic Australian musician best known as the drummer and one of the founding members of the band Midnight Oil, has died. As the rhythmic backbone of the band, he was instrumental in shaping its powerful and socially conscious sound, which expertly blended rock, new wave, and punk influences. With Midnight Oil, Hirst contributed to seminal albums such as Diesel and Dust, Blue Sky Mining, and Earth and Sun and Moon, which left a significant mark on both Australian and international music. Renowned for his precise and energetic drumming, he was also an occasional songwriter and a quiet activist, embodying the band’s spirit of engagement. Rob Hirst was 70 years old.Yeison Jiménez
Yeison Jiménez, a Colombian singer and songwriter recognised as one of the leading figures in Colombian popular and regional music, has died. A native of Manzanares in the department of Caldas, he made a name for himself with heartfelt songs inspired by everyday life, love, and personal struggles. He rose to prominence with songs such as “Aventurero,” “Tenías razón,” and “Mi venganza,” building a solid career marked by numerous hits and a strong connection with his audience. His expressive voice and authentic delivery helped to revitalise the genre. Yeison Jiménez was 34 years old.John Forté
John Forté, a rapper, producer, and songwriter known for his introspective style and artistic depth, has passed away. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s as a member of The Fugees, collaborating closely with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean on the seminal album The Score. He subsequently developed a solo career marked by personal projects that blended hip-hop and soul influences. His career was also notably shaped by a period of incarceration, followed by a celebrated creative comeback, establishing him as a figure of resilience and reflection within contemporary hip-hop. John Forté was 50 years old.Kim Vo
Kim Vo, an internationally acclaimed stylist and hairdresser renowned for his expertise in hair colouring and styling, has died of cancer. Born in Vietnam and based in the United States, he established himself in Hollywood as the trusted hairstylist for numerous celebrities, including Sharon Stone, Jennifer Lopez, and Cindy Crawford. As the founder of the prestigious Kim Vo Beverly Hills salon, he built a brand synonymous with luxury, elegance, and innovation. His artistic approach and keen eye for detail made him an essential reference in the worlds of beauty and fashion. Kim Vo was 58 years old.
