The loss of cultural icons never comes easy. As 2026 moves past the halfway mark, we’ve said goodbye to some of the most influential figures in sports, music, entertainment, and civil rights. These are the Black legends we’ve lost in 2026—artists, athletes, activists, and visionaries whose impact on culture will endure long after their passing.
From the founding voices of hip-hop to groundbreaking athletes and civil rights pioneers, each of these individuals left an indelible mark. We honor their legacies by remembering not just their accomplishments, but the doors they opened and the generations they inspired. The search for Black legends in 2026 reminds us why representation and recognition matter.
O.J. Brigance
Baltimore Ravens icon O.J. Brigance died after a long battle with ALS at age 56. The Texas native’s career with the Dolphins gave way to his true legacy in Baltimore, where he executed the opening tackle in the franchise’s first Super Bowl championship in 2001. He remains the only athlete in football history to win both a CFL Grey Cup and an NFL Super Bowl title for the same city.
Off the field, Brigance’s impact extended far beyond statistics. Following his ALS diagnosis in 2007, he and his wife Chanda established the Brigance Brigade Foundation to equip, encourage, and empower individuals living with the disease. That commitment to service defined the second chapter of his life as much as his playing career defined the first.
Butch Huskey
Former New York Mets slugger Butch Huskey died at 54, remembered as much for his power at the plate as for his connection to Jackie Robinson’s legacy. His seven-year MLB career took him from Queens to Seattle, Boston, and Minnesota, but his best season came in 1997 when he hit 24 home runs and drove in 81 runs. He became one of the last players allowed to wear No. 42 after MLB retired it league-wide in Robinson’s honor.
Hal Williams
“Sanford and Son” star Hal Williams died in his California home on July 15 at age 91. The veteran actor’s career spanned decades, from television classics like “The Waltons” and “Private Benjamin” to “227,” where he starred opposite Marla Gibbs. He’s survived by three children.
Victor Willis
Victor Willis, the lead voice of the Village People and one of pop music’s most recognizable voices, died June 30 at 74 after a short, aggressive illness. For generations, Willis wasn’t just a singer—he was the sound of disco’s boldest era. His vocals powered “Y.M.C.A.,” “Macho Man,” and “In the Navy,” songs that transformed the Village People into a global spectacle of costumes, choreography, and cultural flash.
Born in Texas and raised in church, Willis found his voice in gospel before Broadway became his training ground. That path eventually led to the Village People, a group that blurred the line between satire, celebration, and pop perfection. He rejoined the group in 2017 and continued performing until his death.
Most recently, the group faced controversy when “Y.M.C.A.” became a theme song for President Donald Trump’s political rallies and 2025 inauguration. Willis died one day before his 75th birthday.
Tay Keith
GRAMMY-nominated producer Tay Keith died on June 18 at 29. Born Brytavious Lakeith Chambers, he rose to prominence working with Travis Scott, Drake, and Sexyy Red. Keith was found unresponsive in his Nashville apartment during a wellness check. No foul play is suspected, but his death remains unclassified pending autopsy results.
His family remembered him as a visionary. “Tay Keith was a visionary producer, songwriter, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and cultural force who helped define the sound of a generation. From Memphis to the global stage, his work shaped countless hit records and left a lasting impact on music and culture,” they told PEOPLE.
Talay Riley
British singer-songwriter Talay Riley, known as Mark Orabiyi, died at 35 after a fatal stabbing in east London. A Grammy-winning songwriter whose work shaped hits for Britney Spears, Usher, Khalid, and H.E.R., Riley earned widespread respect across the music industry. Three people were arrested on suspicion of murder, though two were released without further action and another released on bail pending inquiries.
Tributes poured in from across the music world, remembering him for his talent, generosity, and the legacy he left in the recording studio and beyond.
Stacey King
Stacey King, a three-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls who became one of the franchise’s most recognizable broadcasters, died at 59 on June 7. Selected sixth overall in the 1989 NBA Draft out of Oklahoma, King won championships in 1991, 1992, and 1993 alongside Michael Jordan. After eight NBA seasons with five teams, he transitioned to broadcasting and spent nearly two decades as the Bulls’ television analyst, becoming a beloved figure among Chicago sports fans through his energetic style and signature catchphrases.
Peabo Bryson
Grammy-winning R&B singer Peabo Bryson died at 75 on June 2 after suffering a stroke. His voice helped define some of Disney’s most beloved songs, including “Beauty and the Beast” with Celine Dion and “A Whole New World” with Regina Belle—both Grammy-winning classics. Over a five-decade career, he scored solo hits such as “If Ever You’re in My Arms Again” and “Can You Stop the Rain.” He is survived by his wife Tanya and two children.
Ronald LaPread
Ronald LaPread, co-founder and longtime bassist of The Commodores, died at 75. His daughter Soraya shared the news online: “We were the best daddy daughter duo. If you know me you know my Dad. I am devastated. A piece of me is gone from this world.”
LaPread helped shape the band’s signature sound from 1970 to 1986, playing on hits including “Brick House,” “Easy,” “Three Times a Lady,” and the Grammy-winning “Nightshift.” Former bandmate Lionel Richie paid tribute to him. LaPread had lived in Auckland, New Zealand, for decades following his departure from the group.
Foster Sylvers
R&B singer Foster Sylvers passed away on May 30 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. The Memphis native rose to fame at a young age singing with his siblings in The Sylvers, often compared to The Jacksons. The group had a string of hits in the 1970s, including “Boogie Fever” and “Hot Line.”
In 1973, Foster released a solo album at age 11, which included the single “Misdemeanor.” The song has since been sampled by West Coast rapper The D.O.C. on his 1989 hit, “It’s Funky Enough.” Foster Sylvers was 64.
Sonny Rollins
Sonny Rollins, the “Saxophone Colossus” and one of jazz history’s greatest improvisers, died May 25 at his New York home at 95. Over a six-decade career, he shaped bebop and hard bop through landmark recordings including “Saxophone Colossus,” “Way Out West,” and “The Bridge.” He performed alongside Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and John Coltrane. Rollins earned Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts before retiring in 2012 due to pulmonary fibrosis.
Clarence B. Jones
Clarence B. Jones, the longtime adviser and speechwriter to Martin Luther King Jr. who helped craft the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, died May 22 in Cupertino, California, at 95. Jones played a central role in the civil rights movement as King’s lawyer, strategist, and confidant. He helped smuggle King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” from prison and contributed to major legal battles, including New York Times v. Sullivan. After King’s assassination, Jones became the first Black allied member of the New York Stock Exchange and later taught at Stanford and the University of San Francisco. In 2024, he received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from former President Joe Biden.
Rob Base
Rob Base, born Robert Ginyard in New York City, passed away on May 22 after a battle with cancer at 59. The rapper performed alongside DJ E-Z Rock, and the duo became best known for their late-1980s hits, including “Joy and Pain” and “It Takes Two.”
His family shared a touching tribute on social media: “Rob’s music, energy, and legacy helped shape a generation and brought joy to millions around the world. Beyond the stage, he was a loving father, family man, friend, and creative force whose impact will never be forgotten.”
Sherman Lewis
Sherman Lewis, the longtime NFL assistant coach and former college football star, died at 83 on May 15. A former All-American running back at Michigan State, Lewis finished third in Heisman Trophy voting in 1963 before playing professionally with the New York Jets and in the CFL. He later became one of the NFL’s most respected offensive assistants, winning four Super Bowls—three with the San Francisco 49ers and one with the Green Bay Packers. Lewis served as offensive coordinator for multiple teams and was widely credited for his leadership and mentoring throughout the league.
Clarence Carter
Southern soul singer Clarence Carter died in his Decatur, Georgia, home on May 13 at 90. Born in Alabama, he became a self-taught guitarist after receiving an instrument for Christmas and entered the music industry determined to set himself apart as a blind guitarist with a killer voice. Best known for hits like “Patches” and “Strokin’,” Carter rose to prominence in the ’70s and ’80s for his suggestive lyrics and groovy production.
Rodney Hall, president of FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, shared a tribute: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Clarence Carter. Clarence recorded many of his greatest hits at FAME Studios alongside Rick Hall and remained part of the FAME family for more than four decades. He was far more than an artist to us. He was family.”
Charlie Neal
On May 13, legendary HBCU sports broadcaster Charlie Neal died following an illness. One of the leading architects of modern HBCU sports coverage, Neal’s commitment to sharing the excellence and historic relevance of Black athletes helped propel historically Black universities and colleges into the mainstream sports world for decades.
HBCU Go CEO Curtis Symonds told HBCU Legends, “Charlie was underrated for his impact on sports. I consider him the ‘John Madden’ of Black College Sports. He was a historian. He was a proven product because he’s lived it, and he would give you history and anything that no one else could give you. No other announcer could give it to you like Charlie Neal. Our BET broadcast was so real because he told the real story.”
During his career, Neal called games for BET for 24 years before moving to ESPNU, the MEAC Digital Network, and HBCU GO.
Jason Collins
Former NBA center Jason Collins, who made history as the first NBA player to come out as gay, died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma. “We are heartbroken to share that Jason Collins, our beloved husband, son, brother and uncle, has died after a valiant fight with glioblastoma,” his family wrote in a statement obtained by CBS Sports. “Jason changed lives in unexpected ways and was an inspiration to all who knew him and to those who admired him from afar. We are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers over the past eight months and for the exceptional medical care Jason received.”
Collins came out in 2013, making history within the sports world. His courage opened doors for countless others.
Brandon Clarke
The basketball world mourned the loss of Brandon Clarke after the longtime Memphis Grizzlies player died on May 11 at 29. The Grizzlies and Clarke’s agency, Priority Sports, confirmed his death in separate statements. An official cause has not yet been released.
In recent years, injuries limited his playing time, including knee and calf issues that sidelined him for much of the 2025-26 season. Teammates and coaches frequently praised his leadership and positive presence in the locker room and throughout the Memphis community.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of Brandon Clarke,” the Grizzlies expressed in a statement. “Brandon was an outstanding teammate and an even better person whose impact on the organization and the greater Memphis community will not be forgotten.”
Afrika Bambaataa
On April 9, hip-hop pioneer Afrika Bambaataa was reported dead following complications with cancer at 67. The founder of the Universal Zulu Nation helped shape the early identity of hip-hop as a global movement rooted in peace, unity, love, and having fun. His vision transformed the Bronx into the birthplace of a culture that now reaches every corner of the world.
The Hip-Hop Alliance released a statement acknowledging the complexity of his legacy: “Through his music, leadership, and influence, he contributed to the foundation of Hip Hop’s core principles, inspiring generations of MCs, DJs, breakers, and cultural leaders. His imprint on Hip Hop history is undeniable. At the same time, we recognize that his legacy is complex and has been the subject of serious conversations within our community. As an organization committed to truth, accountability, and the preservation of Hip Hop culture, we believe it is important to hold space for all voices while continuing to uplift what empowers and protects the people.”
Kiki Shepard
Actress, dancer, and model Kiki Shepard passed away on March 16 after suffering a heart attack at 74. Best known as co-host of “Showtime at The Apollo” from 1987 to 2002, Shepard made appearances in television series, including “A Different World,” “Baywatch,” and “NYPD Blue.”
Oliver “Power” Grant
Oliver “Power” Grant, the businessman behind the Wu-Tang Clan, passed away on February 23 at 53. Grant was critical in helping the Staten Island rap collective secure funding and studio time during the production of their groundbreaking first album, “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers).” He also launched the group’s WuWear clothing line in the mid-1990s.
Method Man posted a tribute on Instagram, writing, “Paradise my Brother safe Travels!! 💔💔🤬 #pookie #power Bruh I am not ok.”
LaMonte McLemore
Singer LaMonte McLemore passed away on February 3 at his Las Vegas home after having a stroke at 90. The St. Louis native was one of the founding members of the soul group The 5th Dimension, who won Record of the Year Grammy Awards for their 1967 single “Up, Up and Away” and the 1969 mash-up “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” songs from the Broadway musical “Hair.”
Beyond music, McLemore was also a talented photographer whose work was frequently featured in magazines.
Billy “Bass” Nelson
Billy “Bass” Nelson, the founding bass player for Parliament-Funkadelic, passed away on January 31 at 75. Born William Nelson Jr., the New Jersey native met George Clinton as a teenager, who asked him to be part of the band that played for his doo-wop singing group the Parliaments in the 1950s. Nelson is credited with helping to take the band in a new direction in the late 1960s, infusing funk and rock into their sound and swapping their suits for bolder fashion choices.
After leaving the group in the late 1970s, Nelson went on to play with major music acts, including Jermaine Jackson, Lionel Richie, and Smokey Robinson.
Demond Wilson
Actor Demond Wilson passed away on January 30 in his California home due to complications related to cancer. Wilson was best known for his role on the hit 1970s NBC sitcom “Sanford & Son,” playing Lamont Sanford, son of Redd Foxx’s lovably grouchy character, Fred Sanford.
Mark Goldman, a spokesperson for Wilson, called him “a devoted father, actor, author, and minister. Demond lived a life rooted in faith, service, and compassion. Through his work on screen, his writing, and his ministry, he sought to uplift others and leave a meaningful impact on the communities he served.”
Sly Dunbar
Reggae musician Lowell “Sly” Dunbar passed away at his home in Kingston, Jamaica, on January 26 at 73. Sly’s daughter Natasha Dunbar confirmed the news to BlkCosmo. One half of the group Sly & Robbie, Dunbar’s drumming is featured on tracks for reggae artists like Jimmy Cliff and Peter Tosh, as well as Grace Jones and The Rolling Stones.
“Sly helped shape the sound of reggae and Jamaican music for generations. His extraordinary talent and lasting contributions will never be forgotten. His music, spirit, and legacy touched people around the world,” the family shared in a statement.
Dr. Gladys West
Dr. Gladys West, one of the hidden figures and mathematicians who played an integral part in creating the mathematical foundation for today’s GPS system, died on January 17 at 95. West worked at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, where she spent her time calculating precise models of Earth’s shape—the basis on which modern GPS calculations were built. With her hire, she became the second Black woman hired at the base and fourth Black person overall.
In 2018, she was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame. In 2021, she received a Webby Lifetime Achievement Award, the Prince Philip Medal by the United Kingdom’s Royal Academy of Engineering, and the National Museum of the Surface Navy’s Freedom of the Seas Exploration and Innovation Award. Her death was made public through a social media post from her official page, which detailed that West passed away peacefully with her family and friends.
John Forté
Recording artist John Forté passed away on January 12 at his Massachusetts home at 50. The musician and rapper is best known for his work as a co-writer and producer on The Fugees’ classic, Grammy-winning album “The Score.”
Claudette Colvin
Civil rights activist Claudette Colvin passed away on January 13, 2026, in Texas at 86. On March 2, 1955, a then-15-year-old Colvin was arrested for refusing a driver’s order to give up her seat for a white woman on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama—nine months before Rosa Parks’s similar refusal sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Her courage foreshadowed one of the most important movements in American history.
In 2021, Colvin was vindicated when an Alabama judge expunged her juvenile court records for “what has since been recognized as a courageous act on her behalf and on behalf of a community of affected people.”
T.K. Carter
Actor T.K. Carter was found dead in his California home on January 9 at 69. The New York City native got his start in standup but was best known for his roles in the hit 1980s sitcom “Punky Brewster” and the 1982 horror film “The Thing.”
Elle Simone Scott
Chef, author, and food stylist Elle Simone Scott passed away on January 5 at 49 after a battle with ovarian cancer. Scott made history in 2016 when she became the first Black woman to join the cast of the popular PBS cooking show “America’s Test Kitchen.”
Chef Carla Hall shared a touching tribute on Instagram, calling her “a friend, a force and a trailblazer. She didn’t just test recipes; she changed what representation looked like in food media.”
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