Every Major Actor who Died in January 2026

The global entertainment community faced a somber start to the second month of 2026 as it mourned the loss of several influential figures from cinema and television. These performers left behind rich legacies that spanned diverse genres, from international martial arts epics to iconic Hollywood comedies. As the industry reflects on their contributions, their work continues to inspire new generations of artists and audiences alike. The following list commemorates the notable actors and actresses whose passing was marked during this period.

Arno Liiver

Estonian actor Arno Liiver passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 71. He rose to international prominence as a teenager with his debut role in the classic film ‘Spring’ (1969), portraying the character Arno Tali. Liiver later reprised this iconic role in the sequels ‘Summer’ (1976) and ‘Autumn’ (1990) before moving away from professional acting. While his cause of death was not immediately disclosed, he remains a celebrated figure in Baltic cinema history. His quiet, rural lifestyle in later years contrasted with the massive cultural impact of his early screen appearances.

Sverre Anker Ousdal

Renowned Norwegian performer Sverre Anker Ousdal died on January 4, 2026, following a brief stay in a hospital. At 81 years old, the veteran of the National Theatre in Oslo was considered one of Norway’s most distinguished actors. He was widely recognized for his roles in the fantasy film ‘Mio in the Land of Faraway’ (1987) and the thriller ‘Insomnia’ (1997). Despite struggling with health issues and vision loss in his later years, Ousdal had been planning a return to the stage prior to his sudden passing. His career was defined by a rare ability to balance intense dramatic weight with refined theatrical precision.

Ahn Sung-ki

South Korean cinema icon Ahn Sung-ki, affectionately known as “the nation’s actor,” passed away on January 5, 2026, at age 74. He died at a hospital in Seoul after complications arose from choking on food, having already been in a period of recovery from blood cancer. Ahn appeared in over 170 films during a career that spanned nearly seven decades, including highlights like ‘Two Cops’ (1993) and ‘Hansan: Rising Dragon’ (2022). He was the first South Korean actor to leave his handprints at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, cementing his global status. His humility and dedication to the craft made him a beloved figure across the Asian film industry.

John Cunningham

American character actor John Cunningham died on January 6, 2026, at the age of 93. He was a versatile performer known for his supporting roles in popular 1980s films such as ‘Mystic Pizza’ (1988) and ‘Dead Poets Society’ (1989). Beyond his film work, Cunningham enjoyed a prolific career on Broadway and in various television guest appearances. His ability to portray authority figures with a touch of warmth or subtle complexity made him a reliable fixture in Hollywood for decades. His family confirmed his passing, marking the end of a long and respected career in the dramatic arts.

Saeid Pirdoost

Veteran Iranian actor Saeid Pirdoost passed away on January 6, 2026, on his 85th birthday. He had been battling cancer for several years and died at his home in Tehran surrounded by loved ones. Pirdoost was a staple of Iranian cinema and television, frequently collaborating with renowned directors like Masoud Kimiai in films such as ‘The Deer’ (1974) and ‘Killing a Traitor’ (2022). He was also well-known for his comedic timing in series like ‘On Tiptoes’ (2002). His career reflected the changing landscape of Iranian culture and remained influential through many decades of production.

T.K. Carter

Actor and comedian T. K. Carter was found deceased at his home in Duarte, California, on January 9, 2026. The 69-year-old performer was best known for his breakthrough role as Nauls in John Carpenter’s horror classic ‘The Thing’ (1982). He also provided comedic energy to the animated-live action hybrid ‘Space Jam’ (1996) and starred in the HBO miniseries ‘The Corner’ (2000). While a specific cause of death was not released, he had previously struggled with health complications related to diabetes and high blood pressure. Carter’s natural charisma and timing made him a standout presence in both cult films and mainstream sitcoms.

Marcus Gilbert

British actor Marcus Gilbert passed away on January 11, 2026, at the age of 67. Gilbert earned a place in pop culture history through his roles in major action and fantasy films, including ‘Rambo III’ (1988) and Sam Raimi’s ‘Army of Darkness’ (1992). He was also a prominent figure in UK television, appearing in various dramas and period pieces during the peak of his career. Known for his striking presence and versatility, he transitioned between villainous and heroic roles with ease. His death marks the loss of a distinctive talent who thrived in the adventurous cinema of the late twentieth century.

Catherine Samie

Distinguished French actress Catherine Samie passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 92. As a long-standing member and dean of the Comédie-Française, she was a titan of the French stage and screen. Her notable film credits include ‘Lovers of Paris’ (1957) and the psychological drama ‘The Origin of Violence’ (2016). She was honored as a Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor in 2011 for her immense contributions to French culture. Samie’s legacy is defined by her absolute dedication to the theatrical traditions of her homeland.

Donald Douglas

Scottish actor Donald Douglas died in an Albi, France, hospital on January 14, 2026, at the age of 92. He succumbed to a short illness while surrounded by his family at his home in the Tarn region. Douglas was a mainstay of British drama, known for his work in the war epic ‘A Bridge Too Far’ (1977) and as Admiral Darcy in ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ (2001). He was also a familiar face to television audiences through his recurring role in ‘Poldark’ (1975) and various appearances in ‘Doctor Who’ (1963). His friends and colleagues remembered him as a “Renaissance man” with a generous heart and a quick wit.

Bruce Leung Siu-Lung

Martial arts legend Bruce Leung Siu-lung passed away on January 14, 2026, in Shenzhen, China, at the age of 77. Known as one of the “Four Dragons” of Hong Kong cinema, he starred in numerous classics such as ‘Hapkido’ (1972) and ‘The Dragon Lives Again’ (1977). Modern audiences recognized him for his villainous turn as “The Beast” in the Stephen Chow comedy ‘Kung Fu Hustle’ (2004). His death was attributed to unspecified natural causes, and a public farewell ceremony was held in late January. Leung’s mastery of multiple traditional martial arts styles cemented his status as a titan of the genre.

Igor Zolotovitsky

Russian actor and educator Igor Zolotovitskiy passed away on January 14, 2026, at age 64. He had been battling stomach cancer for approximately six months before his death in Moscow. Zolotovitskiy was a prominent figure at the Moscow Art Theatre and appeared in influential films such as ‘Taxi Blues’ (1990) and ‘Luna Park’ (1992). In addition to his on-screen work, he served as the rector of the Moscow Art Theatre School starting in 2013, shaping the careers of countless young actors. His passing was mourned as a significant loss to the Russian academic and theatrical communities.

Kōzō Shioya

Prolific Japanese voice actor Kōzō Shioya died on January 20, 2026, at the age of 70. He was internationally recognized for his voice work in the landmark anime film ‘Akira’ (1988), where he voiced the character Taru. Shioya was also a central figure in the ‘Dragon Ball’ (1986) franchise, providing the voice for Majin Buu across multiple series and films, including ‘Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods’ (2013). His diverse vocal range allowed him to portray a vast array of characters in both anime and video games. Fans and colleagues celebrated his life by highlighting the joy his performances brought to millions around the world.

Floyd Vivino

American actor and television personality Floyd Vivino, better known as “Uncle Floyd,” passed away on January 22, 2026. At 74 years old, he was best known for his long-running variety program and his film role as a radio personality in ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ (1987). Vivino also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘Mr. Wonderful’ (1993) and maintained a steady career in regional comedy and theater. He was a significant figure in the New Jersey and New York entertainment circuits, where his unique brand of humor earned a dedicated cult following. His contribution to the history of independent television remains a point of pride for his fans.

Yvonne Lime

Yvonne Lime Fedderson, a former actress and dedicated philanthropist, died on January 23, 2026, at the age of 90. She passed away peacefully at her home in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Lime was a star of 1950s cult cinema, featuring prominently in ‘I Was a Teenage Werewolf’ (1957) and ‘High School Hellcats’ (1958). After her acting career, she co-founded Childhelp, a major nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of child abuse. Her humanitarian work earned her multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations and a legacy that far exceeded her Hollywood roots.

Carlo Cecchi

Renowned Italian actor and theater director Carlo Cecchi passed away on January 23, 2026, at the age of 86. He was a master of European stagecraft who also enjoyed a successful international film career, notably appearing in ‘The Red Violin’ (1998) and ‘Stealing Beauty’ (1996). Cecchi was celebrated for his intellectual approach to acting and his leadership of various theater cooperatives in Florence. He died in his home city just two days before his 87th birthday, with colleagues praising his uncompromising artistic standards. His work remains a cornerstone of contemporary Italian performing arts.

Christa Lang

German-American actress and screenwriter Christa Lang died on January 30, 2026, at her Los Angeles home. At 82 years old, she passed away following a brief period of declining health as announced by her daughter. Lang was a frequent collaborator and the widow of director Samuel Fuller, appearing in films such as ‘White Dog’ (1982) and the Peter Bogdanovich comedy ‘What’s Up, Doc?’ (1972). Her career began in the French New Wave before she moved to Hollywood and expanded her work into screenwriting and producing. She was remembered as a muse and a talented artist who bridged the gap between European and American cinema.

Catherine O’Hara

Legendary Canadian-American actress Catherine O’Hara passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 71. She died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness that was not publicly detailed. O’Hara was a comedy icon known for her roles in ‘Beetlejuice’ (1988), ‘Home Alone’ (1990), and as Moira Rose in the acclaimed series ‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020). Her career was marked by numerous awards, including multiple Emmys and a Golden Globe nomination in her final year. Tributes poured in from former co-stars who emphasized her unparalleled brilliance, humility, and enduring influence on the world of comedy.

Demond Wilson

American actor Demond Wilson, best known for his role as Lamont Sanford in the classic sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’ (1972–1977), died on January 30, 2026. He was 79 years old at the time of his passing. Wilson also appeared in films like ‘The Organization’ (1971) and ‘Full Moon High’ (1981) before shifting his focus toward his work as an author and ordained minister. He was a pioneer in television, helping to bring African American family life to the forefront of mainstream entertainment during the 1970s. His performance as the frustrated but loyal son to Redd Foxx’s Fred Sanford remains a staple of television history.

Gerardo Taracena

Mexican actor Gerardo Taracena passed away on January 31, 2026, at the age of 55. The news was confirmed by the Mexican Academy of Film Art and Sciences, though a specific cause of death was not immediately shared. Taracena earned international acclaim for his intense performance as Middle Eye in Mel Gibson’s ‘Apocalypto’ (2006) and for his role in the thriller ‘Man on Fire’ (2004). He was also a recognizable face on television, notably appearing in the Netflix series ‘Narcos: Mexico’ (2018–2021). His sudden passing was described as a significant blow to the Mexican film industry, where he was regarded as a powerful and deeply human performer.

Please share which of these legendary performers had the biggest impact on your love for cinema in the comments.