The year 2026 was marked by the passing of many personalities who left a lasting mark on our society. Artists, creators, public figures, thinkers, and athletes—each and every one contributed in their own way to shaping our era and our collective imagination. This In Memoriam project pays tribute to those who left us during the year. Through these memories, we take a moment to remember their influence, celebrate their contributions, and honor lives that will continue to resonate long after their passing.
Mario Brisebois
Mario Brisebois, distinguished journalist and sports columnist, passed away after a long battle with illness.
He was a journalist at the Journal de Montréal for 36 years, among other things.
He made his mark in the worlds of golf, skiing, and tennis, actively contributing to their development and popularity.
A flood of tributes from the journalistic community poured in following the announcement of his death.
Bob Weir
Bob Weir, iconic American musician, has passed away.
Best known as a founding member of the legendary band Grateful Dead, rhythm guitarist, and singer, he helped define the band’s unique sound, blending psychedelic rock, folk, blues, and improvisation.
As a member of the Grateful Dead, he co-wrote and performed several songs that have become cult classics, including “Sugar Magnolia” and “Playing in the Band.”
After the band broke up in 1995, Weir pursued a prolific career with various projects, including RatDog, Furthur, and Dead & Company, continuing to keep the band’s legacy alive on stage.
Bob Weir was 78 years old.
Valentino Garavani
Valentino Garavani, one of the most influential and elegant fashion designers of the 20th century, has passed away.
Founder of the Valentino fashion house, he built a haute couture empire renowned for its refinement, timeless designs, and famous “Valentino red.”
From the 1960s onwards, his designs dressed international icons such as Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren.
A master of classic elegance, he left a lasting mark on fashion with his attention to detail, luxury, and femininity. Although he retired from the catwalk in 2008, his legacy remains omnipresent.
Valentino Garavani was 93 years old.
Kianna Underwood
Kianna Underwood was an actress and former child star, best known to audiences for her work at Nickelodeon. She started out at a very young age, lending her voice to the character of Fuchsia Glover in the animated series Little Bill between 1999 and 2004. She then appeared in several episodes of the comedy show All That in 2005, alongside future well-known faces of American television.
Although she later distanced herself from the entertainment industry, her work remains associated with the childhood memories of many viewers.
Kianna Underwood died tragically after being struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run accident in Brooklyn.
She was 33 years old.
T.K. Carter
T.K. Carter, an actor and comedian best known for his work in television and film in the 1980s and 1990s, has died.
He first gained recognition for his role as Marcus Henderson in the crime drama series The White Shadow, before becoming a familiar face to the general public with appearances on Punky Brewster, Seinfeld, and Martin.
On the big screen, he starred in popular comedies such as Hollywood Shuffle and Friday. A versatile performer, Carter left his mark on a generation with his expressive humor and energy on screen.
T.K. Carter was 69 years old.
Rob Hirst
Rob Hirst, an iconic Australian musician best known as the drummer and one of the founding members of the band Midnight Oil, has died.
The band’s rhythmic backbone, he helped shape its powerful and socially conscious sound, blending rock, new wave, and punk influences. With Midnight Oil, Hirst contributed to major albums such as Diesel and Dust, Blue Sky Mining, and Earth and Sun and Moon, which left their mark on Australian and international music.
Renowned for his precise and energetic playing, he was also an occasional songwriter and a quiet activist, true to the band’s spirit of engagement.
Rob Hirst was 70 years old.
Yeison Jiménez
Yeison Jiménez, a Colombian singer and songwriter recognized as one of the major figures in Colombian popular and regional music, has died.
A native of Manzanares, in the department of Caldas, he made a name for himself with heartfelt songs inspired by everyday life, love, and personal trials.
He rose to fame with songs such as Aventurero, Tenías razón, and Mi venganza, building a solid career marked by numerous hits and a strong connection with his audience. His expressive voice and authenticity helped to revitalize the genre.
Yeison Jiménez was 34 years old.
John Forté
John Forté, rapper, producer, and songwriter known for his introspective style and artistic depth, has passed away.
He rose to prominence in the late 1990s as a member of The Fugees, collaborating closely with Lauryn Hill and Wyclef Jean on the iconic album The Score.
He subsequently developed a solo career marked by personal projects blending hip-hop and soul influences.
His career was also marked by a period of incarceration, followed by a celebrated creative comeback, making him a figure of resilience and reflection in contemporary hip-hop.
John Forté was 50 years old.
Kim Vo
Kim Vo, an internationally renowned stylist and hairdresser known for his expertise in hair coloring and styling, died of cancer.
Born in Vietnam and based in the United States, he established himself in Hollywood as the trusted hairstylist of many celebrities, including Sharon Stone, Jennifer Lopez, and Cindy Crawford.
Founder of the prestigious Kim Vo Beverly Hills salon, he built a brand associated with luxury, elegance, and innovation.
His artistic approach and keen eye for detail made him an essential reference in the world of beauty and fashion.
Kim Vo was 58 years old.