Virgil Abloh has died at 41 following a private cancer battle

American designer Virgil Abloh has died following a private battle with cardiac angiosarcoma. Abloh created the Off-White luxury fashion label in 2012 and has served as creative director for menswear at Louis Vuitton since 2018.

The designer’s passing was announced in statement on his social media accounts.

“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his loving wife Shannon Abloh, his children Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh, his sister Edwina Abloh, his parents Nee and Eunice Abloh, and numerous dear friends and colleagues. 

“For over two years, Virgil valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma. He chose to endure his battle privately since his diagnosis in 2019, undergoing numerous challenging treatments, all while helming several significant institutions that span fashion, art, and culture. 

“Through it all, his work ethic, infinite curiosity and optimism never wavered. Virgil was driven by his dedication to his craft and to his mission to open doors for others and create pathways for greater equality in art and design. He often said, ‘Everything I do is for the 17-year-old version of myself,’ believing deeply in the power of art to inspire future generations. 

“We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life.”

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Abloh was the first American of African descent to be artistic director for a French luxury house. He was named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine in 2018.

In 2019, Abloh partnered with IKEA on the high-profile MARKERAD collection.

In May of this year, Abloh was instrumental in the selection of a track by Montreal rapper Skiifall in a Louis Vuitton ad. The designer had previously shared a video of himself listening to Skiifall.

Bernard Arnault, the CEO of LVMH, commented on Abloh’s passing.

“We are all shocked after this terrible news. Virgil was not only a genius designer, a visionary, he was also a man with a beautiful soul and great wisdom. The LVMH family joins me in this moment of great sorrow, and we are all thinking of his loved ones after the passing of their husband, their father, their brother or their friend.”

—Bernard Arnault

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