The best part of 2020 was probably when it ended. One thing the entire world can agree on is how awful 2020 was. Filled with a pandemic, presidential elections, riots, and wildfires, the list of misfortunes runs long. Along with these troubles, the world has lost a plethora of people this past year. This article recognizes just a few of the many lives lost as we enter 2021 with revitalized attitudes, excited for the year ahead. 

   Kobe Bryant and Gianna Bryant (January 26, 2020): On the way to a youth basketball tournament, Kobe Bryant, 41, and daughter Gianna Bryant, 13, boarded a helicopter accompanied by seven others. The flight was passing over an area outside Los Angeles when the helicopter malfunctioned and crashed into the hillside. All nine people aboard instantly died in this tragic accident. Kobe and Gianna’s legacy lives on through his three remaining children.

   Caroline Flack (February 15, 2020): British TV presenter, Caroline Flack, died of suicide at 40 years old. Flack was the longtime host of the popular reality TV show, Love Island. Her devastating death followed allegations that she had assaulted her boyfriend, Lewis Burton. Fans and family were shocked at her sudden death and mourned the loss of their dear friend.

   Pop Smoke (February 19, 2020): The 20-year-old rapper, Bashar Barakah Jackson, known by the stage name “Pop Smoke”, died earlier last year. Jackson was shot and killed in a gang-related shooting. Multiple suspects broke into his home where he was killed. Fans were angered and saddened at the loss and posted on social media in remembrance of the musician. 

   Naya Rivera (July 8, 2020): Glee actress, Naya Rivera, was on a trip with her son to Lake Piru where they spent the day out on a boat. The boat and Rivera’s son both returned that evening, but Rivera was missing. A search for her body began and she was presumed dead but was officially declared dead soon after. It was uncovered that she used the last of her strength to save her son before drowning.

   Chadwick Boseman (August 28, 2020): At the age of 43, the “Black Panther” actor took his last breath beside his family. After struggling with colon cancer for about four years, he eventually lost his battle. Fans and co-stars mourned Boseman on Twitter, remembering his many roles and the entertainment brought through the characters he played.

   Ruth Bader Ginsburg (September 18, 2020): The Supreme Court justice and feminist icon also sadly passed this year. Complications of metastatic pancreatic cancer took her life and left a new position to fill on the Supreme Court. Her accomplishments and activism are forever remembered as a great contribution to society. 

   Eddie Van Halen (October 6, 2020): The recognized musician, most known in the band Van Halen, did many extraordinary things throughout his life, such as releasing 16 total albums, but died this past year due to a stroke. He had suffered from many other illnesses but overcame them all. His popular music continues to be played and enjoyed by millions.

   Alex Trebek (November 8, 2020): Alex Trebek was most known for his role as the host of the popular game show “Jeopardy”. At the age of 80, Trebek peacefully passed away surrounded by family due to pancreatic cancer. His Jeopardy legacy lives on through his 37 seasons.