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:
Nicholas Brendon
Beloved actor Nicholas Brendon died on March 20 from “natural causes” in his sleep.
His family confirmed the Buffy the Vampire Slayer actor’s death in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. It read:
“We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon.
“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.”
Brendon has previously shared details about his heart attack in 2023 and was diagnosed with congenial heart defect.
He had also been open about his struggles with substance abuse and his mental health.
Sarah Michelle Gellar shared a tribute to her Buffy co-star on Instagram, saying, “I saw you Nicky. I know you are at peace, in that big rocking chair in the sky”.
Robert Mueller
Robert Mueller, the former FBI director who documented Russia’s interference in the 2016 US election and President Donald Trump’s victory, has died aged 81.
His death on March 20 was announced by his former law firm, with no cause of death confirmed.
Donald Trump reportedly took to Truth Social after the news of Mueller’s death and said he was “glad” it had occurred.
“Robert Mueller just died,” Trump’s post read. “Good, I’m glad he’s dead. He can no longer hurt innocent people!”
Mueller led the FBI from 2001 to 2013, stepping into the role days before the September 11 terror attacks.
He is widely credited with reshaping the FBI into a modern counterterrorism agency.
He is survived by his wife, two daughters and three grandchildren.
Chuck Norris
Legendary actor and martial artist Chuck Norris died on March 19 after a sudden hospitalisation.
Norris, 86, became a cultural phenomenon after appearing in films such as The Wrecking Crew and The Way of the Dragon, with a fight scene against kung fu superstar Bruce Lee catapulted him into Hollywood fame.
Norris’ family confirmed he was surrounded by loved ones when he passed away from an unknown illness.
“To the world, he was a martial artist, actor, and a symbol of strength,” the Instagram post announcing his death read. “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.”
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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