2026 Notable Deaths of Celebrities, Musicians and Athletes

A series of prominent cultural and sports figures died in 2026. American actor Vincent Pastore, best known for his role as Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on *The Sopranos*, passed away on August 1 at age 80. Filmmaker Chuck Russell, director of *A Nightmare on Elm Street 3* and *The Mask*, died on July 22 at 74. Irish actress Brenda Fricker, Oscar winner for *My Left Foot*, died on July 16 at 81. Businesswoman Janice McNair, co‑founder and senior chair of the NFL’s Houston Texans, died on July 14 at 89. Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, famed for “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” died on July 8 at 75. Former NFL linebacker Keith Mitchell (51) and former cornerback LeRoy Irvin (68) also passed away in early July. Village People original lead Victor Willis (74) and music executive Clive Davis (80) died in June. These deaths span entertainment, sports and music, marking the loss of several influential personalities worldwide.