Influential figures who passed away in 2026

A review of influential figures who passed away in 2026 highlights several notable individuals across various fields. In September, the world lost Gloria Steinem, a prominent author and activist known for co-founding Ms. Magazine and her advocacy for women’s equality. Also in September, Tung Chee-hwa, the shipping tycoon who served as the first leader of Hong Kong following the end of British colonial rule, passed away.

Other notable deaths recorded in 2026 include:

January saw the passing of Diane Crump, the first female jockey to ride in the Kentucky Derby; South Korean cinema star Ahn Sung-ki; and Aldrich Ames, the former CIA agent who committed significant intelligence breaches. The year also saw the loss of Hungarian filmmaker Béla Tarr, NHL Hall of Famer Glenn Hall, and Grateful Dead guitarist Bob Weir.