Trigger Warning: Suicide, Self-Harm, Mental Illness.
In 2026, we said goodbye to many beloved and talented celebrities.
On January 30, news of Home Alone star Catherine O’Hara‘s death broke hearts all around the world.
And, more recently, the loss of Dawson’s Creek’s leading man James Van Der Beek at just 48-years-old.
Here are all of the famous faces who passed away in 2026:
Eric Dane
Eric Dane, the beloved actor best known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloak (a.k.a McSteamy) in Grey’s Anatomy, died on February 19 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
His family confirmed his passing in a statement to People.
“With heavy hearts, we share that Eric Dane passed on Thursday afternoon following a courageous battle with ALS.
“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.”
Born in San Francisco in 1972, Dane’s career spanned several decades across film and television, playing McSteamy as well as Jason Dean on Charmed, Cal Jacobs in teen drama Euphoria, Sebastian Tunney in Marley & Me and Marcus Gerber in Burlesque.
Robert Duvall
Godfather star Robert Duvall passed away on February 16, aged 95.
The death of the seven-time Oscar nominee was announced by his fourth wife, Argentinian actress-director wife Luciana Pedraza.
Pedraza released an emotional statement on Facebook, saying: “To the world, he was an Academy Award-winning actor, a director, a storyteller,” she wrote.
“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,” she concluded.
James Van Der Beek
James Van Der Beek, best known for his starring role on the late-1990s teen drama, Dawson’s Creek, died aged 48. The father-of-six previously revealed he had been diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer in late 2024.
According to TMZ, a spokesperson for the Travis County Medical Examiner’s office said the death was reported at 6:44 a.m. Wednesday, February 11 (local time).
A message shared on Van Der Beek’s official Instagram account the same day confirmed he had passed earlier that morning.
It read: “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.”
Catherine O’Hara
Known for her iconic roles in Schitt’s Creek, The Studio, Home Alone and Beetlejuice – the Hollywood legend passed away on January 20, aged 71.
According to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office report obtained by TMZ, her immediate cause of death was listed as a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the lungs, with rectal cancer as the underlying cause.
Robert Carradine
Robert Carradine, everyone’s favourite TV dad from the 2000s, has tragically passed away aged 71.
The actor, who was best known for his role as Lizzie McGuire (Hilary Duff)’s dad, Sam, sadly took his own life on February 23 after a long battle with bipolar disorder.
“It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away,” the Carradine family said in a statement to Deadline.
Katherine Short
Katherine, the daughter of actor and comedian Martin Short sadly took her own life aged 42.
Law enforcement sources told TMZ that the 42-year-old allegedly died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” a representative for the family said in a statement.
“The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
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