Famous people and celebrities who died on May 26

Welcome to Takemeback.to's page dedicated to remembering the celebrities and famous people who passed away on May 26. On this day, we honor the lives and legacies of notable figures from various fields who left an indelible mark on the world. Explore our list to learn about their remarkable contributions and celebrate their enduring impact.

• 1703 Samuel Pepys

  Samuel Pepys was an English naval administrator and Member of Parliament who is most famous for the detailed diary he kept for a decade, providing a unique insight into 17th-century London.

• 1926 Srečko Kosovel

  Influential Slovenian avant-garde poet known for his modernist and expressionist poetry, who died tragically young at 22 years old. He is considered a significant figure in Slovenian literary history.

• 1951 Lincoln Ellsworth

  Pioneering explorer who made significant contributions to Antarctic exploration.

• 1954 Lionel Conacher

  Legendary Canadian multi-sport athlete who excelled in football, hockey, and baseball, later becoming a prominent politician in Ontario.

• 1955 Alberto Ascari

  Legendary Italian Formula One racing driver who won two consecutive World Championships in 1952 and 1953. He was tragically killed during a test drive at Monza Circuit, becoming one of motorsport's most iconic figures.

• 1956 Al Simmons

  Al Simmons was a prominent American baseball player and coach who played in Major League Baseball during the early 20th century, known for his exceptional batting skills.

• 1963 Sharon Lynn

  Actress (way out west big broadcast), dies aged 53

• 1976 Martin Heidegger

  Influential German philosopher known for his existentialist ideas.

• 1978 Cybele

  Ancient Phrygian and Greek goddess symbolizing nature, fertility, and maternal power, widely worshipped in the Mediterranean region during antiquity.

• 1979 George Brent

  Actor (baby face. dark victory. 42nd st), dies at the age of 75

• 1989 Don Revie

  Influential British soccer player and manager who revolutionized tactical analysis in football, leading Leeds United and the England national team during a transformative period in soccer history.

• 1991 Tom Eyen

  Accomplished American playwright known for his work in theater and television, contributing significantly to Broadway productions and entertainment media.

• 1994 Sonny Sharrock

  Innovative American jazz guitarist known for his experimental and free jazz style, particularly with the band Last Exit.

• 1995 Friz Freleng

  Legendary American animator, director, and producer known for his significant contributions to Warner Bros. animation, particularly Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons.

• 2003 Kathleen Winsor

  Kathleen Winsor was an American novelist who gained international fame for her bestselling historical romance 'Forever Amber', published in 1944. The novel, set in Restoration England, was considered scandalous for its time due to its explicit content and was banned in several locations. Her work significantly influenced historical fiction and challenged social norms of mid-20th century literature.

• 2005 Eddie Albert

  Eddie Albert was a renowned American actor and performer, best known for his starring role in the popular sitcom Green Acres and as a versatile actor in film and television.

• 2006 Kevin O'Flanagan

  Kevin O'Flanagan was a remarkable multi-talented athlete who excelled in both football and rugby, and later became a respected physician. He represented Ireland in multiple sports and was known for his exceptional versatility and professional achievements.

• 2006 Édouard Michelin

  Édouard Michelin was a prominent French industrialist who served as managing partner and co-chief executive of the Michelin Group from 1999 to 2006, continuing his family's legendary tire manufacturing legacy.

• 2010 Art Linkletter

  Art Linkletter was a legendary Canadian-American radio and television host known for his popular shows 'People Are Funny', 'House Party', and 'Life with Linkletter'. Over 16 years of broadcasting, he interviewed over 30,000 people and became famous for his improvisational and comedic style.

• 2010 Jean Constantin

  Influential French singer-songwriter who composed over 300 songs and was a significant figure in mid-20th century French music, with his works performed by legendary artists like Edith Piaf.

• 2010 Matt Hughes

  Renowned UFC champion and mixed martial artist who dominated the welterweight division during his career, tragically died in a road accident.

• 2013 Jack Vance

  Influential science fiction and fantasy author renowned for his groundbreaking Dying Earth series, which significantly impacted the genre's development.

• 2013 Roberto Civita

  Influential Italian-Brazilian businessman who played a significant role in media and publishing industries in Brazil.

• 2015 Vicente Aranda

  Vicente Aranda was a renowned Spanish film director, producer, and screenwriter who made significant contributions to Spanish cinema, known for his distinctive storytelling and artistic vision.

• 2019 Bart Starr

  Legendary quarterback for the Green Bay Packers who led the team to five NFL championships and the first two Super Bowls. He is considered one of the most iconic players in NFL history and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1977.

• 2019 Prem Tinsulanonda

  Prominent Thai statesman who served as the 16th Prime Minister of Thailand from 1980 to 1988. He was a key political and military figure who played a significant role in Thailand's modern political landscape.

• 2022 Ray Liotta

  Iconic American actor known for his powerful performances in crime films like 'Goodfellas' and 'Field of Dreams'. He was renowned for his intense screen presence and ability to portray complex, often dark characters.