Another year, another heartbreaking amount of passings. From celebrity children gone too soon to several stars who lost valiant health battles, 2026 has been a tough one for celebrity deaths, right from the very start. While they may be gone, they’ll never be forgotten.
In memoriam…
Related: From Drugs To Murder: Hollywood’s Darkest Moments
Contents [hide]
- 1 Victoria Jones
- 2 Catherine O’Hara
- 3 James Van Der Beek
- 4 Robert Duvall
- 5 Lil Poppa
- 6 Eric Dane
- 7 Robert Carradine
- 8 Todd Meadows
- 9 Carrie Anne Fleming
- 10 Chuck Norris
- 11 Mel Schilling
- 12 Alex Duong
- 13 Patrick Muldoon
- 14 Alan Osmond
- 15 Darrell Sheets
- 16 Ted Turner
- 17 Jake Hall
- 18 Kyle Busch
- 19 Pierre Deny
- 20 Owain Rhys Davies
- 21 Lauren Bennett
- 22 Matt Brown
- 23 James Handy
- 24 Patrick Godfrey
- 25 Anthony Head
- 26 Margaret Kerry
- 27 Oliver Tree
- 28 Tom Dreesen
- 29 Daveigh Chase
- 30 Michael Byrne
- 31 Clive Davis
- 32 Jill Smokler
- 33 Josh Grisetti
- 34 Sam Neill
- 35 Mary Jo Shannon
- 36 Kaylee Hottle
- 37 Vincent Pastore
- 38 Hayden Panettiere
- 39 Dolly Parton
- 40 Tim Curry
Victoria Jones
(September 3, 1991 – January 1, 2026)
Tommy Lee Jones‘ daughter Victoria Jones was found dead on January 1 in a San Francisco hotel. According to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, she died from the toxic effects of cocaine. Her death was rules an accident. She was 34.
Catherine O’Hara
(March 4, 1954 – January 30, 2026)
Catherine O’Hara died at 71 on January 30. Her immediate cause of death was listed as pulmonary embolism. A secret battle with rectal cancer was listed as the underlying cause.
Catherine was a super accomplished actress best known as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek and Macaulay Culkin‘s mother in Home Alone, as well as in hits like Best in Show, Beetlejuice, The Studio, and more.
James Van Der Beek
(March 8, 1977 – February 11, 2026)
James Van Der Beek died after a years-long battle with colorectal cancer on February 11 at age 48, leaving behind his wife and their six young kids. James was most beloved for starring in Dawson’s Creek, but he was also in many other popular projects, including Varsity Blues, Texas Rangers, Labor Day, Scary Movie, and Pose.
Robert Duvall
(January 5, 1931 – February 15, 2026)
Film star Robert Duvall died on February 15, his family sadly announced. He was 95. He was best known for playing Tom Hagen in The Godfather. He also starred in The Pale Blue Eye, his final role, as well as movies Secondhand Lions, Lonesome Dove, Apocalypse Now, Tender Mercies, To Kill A Mockingbird, The Judge, and Gone In 60 Seconds.
Lil Poppa
(March 18, 2000 – February 18, 2026)
Rapper Lil Poppa died on February 18 at 25. He died by suicide, according to the Fulton County coroner via TMZ. Born Janarious Mykel Wheeler, the Florida artist signed to Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group and released songs like Love & War, Mind Over Matter, and HAPPY TEARS.
Eric Dane
(November 9, 1972 – February 19, 2026)
Actor Eric Dane sadly passed away at 53 on February 19, less than a year after he announced his ALS diagnosis. He was best known for his work on Grey’s Anatomy, Euphoria, Valentine’s Day, and much more.
He leaves behind two teenage daughters, Billie and Georgia, whom he shared with his wife Rebecca Gayheart (they had separated but called off their divorce after his diagnosis).
Robert Carradine
(March 24, 1954 – February 23, 2026)
Robert Carradine, beloved for playing Lizzie’s dad on Lizzie McGuire, died on February 23 at age 71. His family heartbreakingly revealed he died by suicide after a “two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder.” He was also known for work in the Revenge of the Nerds film series, Mean Streets, Coming Home, and Escape From L.A.
Todd Meadows
(DOB Unknown, 2000 – February 25, 2026)
Deadliest Catch deckhand Todd Meadows shockingly died on February 25 after falling overboard while filming the Discovery Channel show in the Bering Sea. He was 25.
Carrie Anne Fleming
(August 16, 1974 – February 26, 2026)
Canadian actress Carrie Anne Fleming died on February 26 at 51 following a breast cancer battle. She was best known for playing Candy Baker on iZombie and Bobby Singer’s wife Karen in Supernatural (as seen above). She also appeared in Supergirl, Viper, Happy Gilmore, and more.
Chuck Norris
(March 10, 1940 – March 19, 2026)
Actor Chuck Norris died following an undisclosed medical emergency in Hawaii on March 19. He was 86.
Mel Schilling
(April 20, 1972 – March 24, 2026)
Married at First Sight UK host Mel Schilling died at just 54 on March 24 after a three-year battle with colon cancer.
Alex Duong
(March 20, 1984 – March 28, 2026)
Alex Duong died on March 28, just one year after being diagnosed with a rare cancer that affected soft tissue called alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. The Blue Bloods actor was 42.
Patrick Muldoon
(September 27, 1968 – April 19, 2026)
Daytime soap opera star Patrick Muldoon died on April 19 at age 57. He died of a heart attack. Patrick was best known for roles in Melrose Place and Starship Troopers.
Alan Osmond
(June 22, 1949 – April 20, 2026)
Alan Osmond, the oldest member of The Osmonds, died on April 20 at 76. He was surrounded by his wife, Suzanne Pinegar Osmond, and their eight sons. A specific cause of death is not known, but he had battled multiple sclerosis for almost 40 years.
Darrell Sheets
(May 13, 1958 – April 22, 2026)
Darrell Sheets, AKA The Gambler, died by suicide on April 22 at age 67. According to allegations, the Storage Wars star had been dealing with aggressive cyberbullying before his death, something law enforcement is looking into.
Ted Turner
(November 19, 1938 – May 6, 2026)
Ted Turner, the founder of CNN, passed away on May 6 at 87. Ted’s ex-wife Jane Fonda, whom he was married to in 1991 to 2001, mourned his loss, saying in part:
“He swept into my life, a gloriously handsome, deeply romantic, swashbuckling pirate and I’ve never been the same. He needed me. No one had ever let me know they needed me, and this wasn’t your average human being that needed me, this was the creator of CNN, and Turner Classic Movies, who had won the America’s Cup as the world’s greatest sailor. He had a big life, a brilliant mind and a soaring sense of humor.”
Jake Hall
(August 20, 1990 – May 6, 2026)
Jake Hall died at 35 on May 6 after a tragic accident during a night out in Spain. Per The US Sun, police found him at a villa with fatal head injuries. He was best known for starring in the reality series The Only Way Is Essex.
Kyle Busch
(May 2, 1985 – May 21, 2026)
NASCAR driver Kyle Busch died shockingly after a “severe illness” and brief hospitalization on May 21. He was 41. His family confirmed he passed after “severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis, resulting in rapid and overwhelming associated complications.” Throughout his two-decade career, he won more NASCAR races than any other driver.
Pierre Deny
(July 12, 1956 – May 25, 2026)
French actor Pierre Deny passed away on May 25 after a “sudden and severe” battle with ALS, according to his daughters via AFP. He was 69. Pierre was best known for his role as Louis de Léon, the CEO of JVMA in the Netflix show Emily In Paris seasons three and four.
Owain Rhys Davies
(February 20, 1982 – May 27, 2026)
Actor Owain Rhys Davies died suddenly at age 44 on May 27. His brother announced via social media that he died “suddenly, naturally, and peacefully.” Owain played Agent Wilson in the Twin Peaks revival series. He was also in The OA, Alice Through the Looking Glass, and more.
Lauren Bennett
(June 24, 1989 – May 29, 2026)
Singer Lauren Bennett passed away on May 29 in England, according to local coroner records. She was 36. Lauren was a former member of the girl group G.R.L. and a vocalist on the LMFAO hit Party Rock Anthem.
A statement from her fellow G.R.L. members read:
“Our hearts are broken, and we cannot begin to express how much she meant to us. We will forever cherish the love, laughter and countless memories she gave us. Her beautiful spirit touched so many lives, and she will be deeply missed and forever loved.”
Matt Brown
(September 7, 1982 – May 30, 2026)
Alaskan Bush People star Matt Brown was confirmed dead on May 30 at age 42, after he was reported missing on May 27. His death was ruled a suicide.
James Handy
(March 19, 1945 – June 3, 2026)
Top Gun: Maverick actor James Handy was fatally stabbed on June 3. He was 81. His girlfriend’s son was arrested for the alleged crime, and she claims he has schizophrenia and stopped recently taking his medication. A very sad situation.
Patrick Godfrey
(February 13, 1933 – June 4, 2026)
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Patrick Godfrey at age 93 on June 4, according to his talent agency, Markham Froggatt & Irwin:
“It is with great sadness that we can confirm Patrick Godfrey passed away last night. He died peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Paddy was an exceptionally talented actor and a remarkable individual, and we will miss him greatly.”
The British actor was best known for Ever After: A Cinderella Story, The Borderlands, Heat and Dust, For No Good Reason, and more.
Anthony Head
(February 20, 1954 – June 5, 2026)
Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Anthony Head died at age 72 on June 5, his daughters announced. He died due to complications from pneumonia. The actor was also known for roles on Ted Lasso, Merlin, Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters, and more.
Margaret Kerry
(May 11, 1929 – June 11, 2026)
Margaret Kerry, the inspiration for Tinker Bell, died from lung cancer on June 11. She was 97. The actress and daner worked with Disney animator Marc David for nine months during the making of Peter Pan to capture movements and reactions for Tinker Bell.
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Oliver Tree
(June 29, 1993- June 14, 2026)
Singer-songwriter Oliver Tree passed away on June 14 in a tragic mid-air crash between two helicopters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which killed five other people. He was 32. He was best known for her alter ego named Turbo. His hits include Life Goes On, Miss You, Cash Machine, Alien Boy, and Jerk.
Tom Dreesen
(September 11, 1939 – June 17, 2026)
Comedian Tom Dreesen died on June 17 at age 86. His family said in a statement:
“For more than five decades, Tom Dreesen brought laughter, heart, and humanity to audiences across America. A proud native of Harvey, Illinois, Tom built a remarkable career through perseverance, talent. Beyond the stage, Tom was a devoted father, brother, grandfather, friend, mentor, storyteller, and motivator.”
Tom was known for being an opening act for Frank Sinatra as well as Smokey Robinson, Sammy Davis Jr., Liza Minnelli, and more.
Daveigh Chase
(July 24, 1990 – June 16, 2026)
Former child star Daveigh Chase died at age 35 on June 16. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, the Lilo & Stitch voice actress died of AIDS. Chronic polysubstance (the use of multiple drugs) was listed as an additional factor. She passed away in a hospital, and her death was listed as natural.
Michael Byrne
(November 7, 1943 – June 20, 2026)
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Actor Michael Byrne died on June 20 at age 82. He was best known for playing Gellert Grindelwald in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1 and Ernst Vogel in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Along with a successful film career, he took the stage in productions like Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Death and the Maiden, and more.
Clive Davis
(April 4, 1932 – June 22, 2026)
Music exec Clive Davis died at age 95 on June 22. He had recently been hospitalized with respiratory problems, family told the NYT. The Grammy-winning producer started had no music background when he started at Colombia Records as in a midlevel legal role. He went on to become one of the most influential figures in the industry, helping to shape the careers of icons like Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, and so many more.
Jill Smokler
(July 1, 1977 – June 22, 2026)
Jill Smokler, the founder of the popular blog Scary Mommy, died on June 22 after a two-year battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. She was 48.
Josh Grisetti
(December 1, 1981 – July 10, 2026)
Actor Josh Grisetti passed away on July 10 at 44 years old. The Broadway star was best known for his role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Sam Neill
(September 14, 1947 – July 13, 2026)
New Zealand actor Sam Neill — best known for playing Alan Grant in the Jurassic Park franchise — passed away on July 13 at 78. His family said he was “cancer free” and his death was not connected to his previous diagnosis, noting the loss was “sudden and unexpected.”
Mary Jo Shannon
(July 26, 1934 – July 16, 2026)
Kris Jenner‘s beloved mother Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon passed away on July 16. She was 91. According to her death certificate via Us Weekly, the immediate cause of death was acute cardiopulmonary arrest. Acute respiratory failure and metastatic lung cancer, which she had for months before her death, were also listed as contributing conditions. Fans knew her from her appearances on the family’s shows The Kardashians and Keeping Up With the Kardashians.
Kaylee Hottle
(May 1, 2007 – July 21, 2026)
Former child star Kaylee Hottle passed away on July 21. She died in a car accident after the vehicle swerved off the road a “struck a culvert.” According to the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, her cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries, and her death was ruled an accident. She was just 18 and best known for playing Jia in the Godzilla franchise.
See Millie Bobby Brown‘s tribute to her late co-star (below):
Vincent Pastore
(July 14, 1946 – August 1, 2026)
The Sopranos star Vincent Pastore passed away on August 1 at age 80. He was best known for his unforgettable role as Salvatore “Big P*ssy” Bonpensiero on the iconic HBO series. Throughout his nearly four-decade career, Vincent also appeared in Goodfellas, Carlito’s Way, Gotti, Law & Order, and many more.
Hayden Panettiere
(August 21, 1989 – August 16, 2026)
Actress Hayden Panettiere tragically passed away on August 16 at just 36 years old. The former child star grew up in the spotlight and became beloved for roles in Remember the Titans, Heroes, Nashville, and the Scream franchise.
She leaves behind her daughter, Kaya. An incredibly sad loss far too soon.
The world loved Hayden. She raised awareness for many causes, notably both animal rights and postpartum depression. Her legacy will live on through the positive impact she left on society, her brilliant performances on screen, the love and compassion she showed others, and of course, through her daughter.
To learn more about postpartum depression, CLICK HERE or HERE.
To learn more about Hayden’s work for animal rights, CLICK HERE or HERE.
Dolly Parton
(January 19, 1946 – August 25, 2026)
Country music legend Dolly Parton died on August 25 at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer. The one-of-a-kind singer, songwriter, actress, and philanthropist leaves behind an incredible legacy spanning nearly six decades. From timeless hits like Jolene, 9 to 5, and I Will Always Love You to Dollywood and her life-changing Imagination Library, Dolly brought joy to generations of fans and gave back just as much as she gave us through her music.
A true icon. There will never be another Dolly. ❤️
Tim Curry
(April 19, 1946 – August 25, 2026)
Legendary actor Tim Curry passed away at age 80. The endlessly talented star became a pop culture icon as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show and went on to deliver unforgettable performances in Clue, It, Annie, Home Alone 2, and so many more.
With his unmistakable voice, wicked sense of humor, and truly one-of-a-kind presence, Tim entertained generations of fans. A legend who will be deeply missed.
[Image via YouTube/20th Century Studios/NBC/Warner Bros/Legendary Pictures/The WB/Universal/ABC/DreamWorks/Mammoth Screen.]
