Us Weekly’s running tribute to the celebrities we lost in 2026 keeps growing, and the latest name hits the sports world hard. Barry Melrose, the ESPN analyst and former NHL coach, died at 70, with the news announced September 9. The hockey community remembered his unmistakable look and voice immediately, with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman praising the mullet and the trademark long suit coats that made Melrose one of a kind.
Across music, film and activism, the losses span generations. Dolly Parton died August 25 at 80 in Nashville, remembered by her rep as“a rhinestone life that shone bright enough for the world to see.”Tim Curry died August 26 at 80. Gloria Steinem died September 2 at 92. Music executive Clive Davis died in June at 94, and voice actor Peter Cullen, the original voice of Optimus Prime, also passed this year. Wrestler Andy“The Butcher”Williams died September 5 at just 48 after collapsing during a match.
What stands out most is the range. Country legends, movie icons, feminist trailblazers, hockey broadcasters, cartoon voices. Each name on the list lands on a different generation of fans, which is why the tribute keeps sparking conversations everywhere it’s shared.
Which star on this list meant the most to you, and what memory do you keep? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.