January 2026 marked the loss of several influential figures whose work and talent left a lasting impact. From celebrated artists and performers to voices that defined their fields, these individuals left behind legacies that continue to resonate long after their passing. Here’s a look at the famous individuals who passed away during the first month of the new year.
Diane Crump, 77
Diane Crump was the first woman to ride in a horse race professionally in 1969. She later became the first female jockey in the Kentucky Derby. Crump passed away on January 1, after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer.
Ahn Sung-ki, 74
GettyHe was one of the biggest stars of South Korean cinema, with a prolific career spanning 60 years. Ahn Sung-ki was known for his positive and gentle image, which earned him the nickname “The Nation’s Actor.” He passed away on January 5, after being diagnosed with blood cancer.
Aldrich Ames, 84
GettyAldrich Ames was a CIA turncoat whose betrayal of Western intelligence assets to the Soviet Union and later Russia ranks as one of the most damaging intelligence breaches in U.S. history. He passed away in prison on January 5.
Béla Tarr, 70
GettyThe award-winning Hungarian filmmaker was famous for his works such as “Sátántangó’ and “The Turin Horse.” Béla Tarr passed away on January 6, after a long and serious illness.
Glenn Hall, 94
Glenn Hall was a Hockey Hall of Famer, famously known as “Mr. Goalie.” His remarkable ironman streak of 502 consecutive starts remains an NHL record. He passed away on January 7.
Bob Weir, 78
GettyHe was the guitarist and singer of the legendary Grateful Dead, whose music helped define San Francisco’s 1960s counterculture. Bob Weir passed away on January 10, following complications from lung issues after successfully battling cancer.
Scott Adams, 68
Scott Adams was the creator of the famous comic strip “Dilbert.” In 1997, he became the recipient of the National Cartoonist Society’s Reuben Award for his work on the fictional character. He died on January 13 after battling prostate cancer.
John Forté, 50
GettyJohn Forté was a Grammy-nominated musician known for his work with the Fugees and the Refugee Camp All-Stars. He was found lifeless on January 12 in his home in Chilmark, Massachusetts.
Valentino Garavani, 93
GettyThe famous Italian designer was known for his glamorous gowns and was a fashion royalty. He’s the go-to designer of celebrities, first ladies, and even the royals. Valentino Garavani passed away on January 19.
Ota Zaremba, 68
Ota Zaremba was a weightlifting gold medalist at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. He later admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs under a secret program. He died on January 23.
William Foege, 89
GettyWilliam Foege was a doctor whose contribution to the health industry became one of the greatest health victories. Foege played a pioneering role in the global eradication of smallpox. He passed away on January 24.
Catherine O’Hara, 71
GettyHollywood mourned the passing of Catherine O’Hara on January 30, “following a brief illness.” The Canadian-born actress charmed audiences with unforgettable roles in “Home Alone” movies and the hit series “Schitt’s Creek,” among many others.
Desmond Wilson, 79
GettyDesmond Wilson found fame in the 1970s as Lamont on “Sanford and Son.” He went on to become a minister. He died on January 30 following complications from cancer.
