2026 has been one of the hardest years in recent memory for pop culture losses. Us Weekly compiled a scrollable tribute to the stars we said goodbye to, and the list spans generations: Dolly Parton passed away in August at 80, Shazam! actor Michael Gray died October 16 at 75, and Breaking Bad’s RJ Mitte was just 34 when he died October 12. Clive Davis, Tom Skerritt and country singer John Anderson round out a year that touched film, television, music and activism.
Dolly’s legacy goes far beyond the records. Her Imagination Library has gifted millions of free books to children, and the Nashville statement calling her a“global icon and humanitarian”barely covers her impact. Michael Gray gave a generation their first live-action Billy Batson. Tom Skerritt worked with everyone. Clive Davis shaped the sound of entire decades from behind the scenes. Each of these stars left something that outlived them.
So we want to hear from you. Which star we lost this year hit you the hardest, and what’s the memory you’re holding onto? Call us or drop it in the comments. We’re building our own tribute, one story at a time.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.