This May 12, Jason Collins, who was the NBA’s first openly gay player and a pioneer advocating for further inclusion, passed away at the age of 47 after an eight-month battle with brain cancer, according to a family announcement.
Collins was battling stage 4 glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer that has a very low survival rate.
Sadly, the year 2026 has already marked the loss of several influential figures. From media giants to beloved entertainers, music icons, and sports legends, each helped shape culture in their own way.
Click through the following gallery to remember the revered public figures (and controversial ones) who have passed away so far this year.