18 Celebrities Who Have Died This Year, Because 2026 Isn't Playing Fair

by Alanna MarshallBuzzFeedBuzzFeed StaffI'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, and we have already lost many talented stars, including beloved actors, musicians, and athletes. In January, the news of comedy icon Catherine O'Hara and Grateful Dead co-founder Bob Weir's deaths was heartbreaking, as was Dawson's Creek star James Van Der Beek's death in February. Nbc / Getty Images, Brownie Harris / Getty Images As we get further into 2026, here is a reminder of the most notable celebrities who have died so far this year. Note: This article contains stories of murder and suicide. 1. Eric Dane Frazer Harrison / Getty Images 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. 2. Catherine O'Hara Matt Winkelmeyer / Getty Images 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. 3. James Van Der Beek Kevin Winter / Getty Images 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. 4. Sly Dunbar David Corio / Getty Images 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. 5. Robert Duvall Sopa Images / Getty Images 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. 6. Valentino Garavani Taylor Hill / Getty Images 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, sta