Fashion icon Virgil Abloh dies following secret cancer battle

Virgil trained as an architect and went on to become a pioneer of game-changing street fashion with Off-White, which he founded in 2012. Photo / Getty Images

Virgil Abloh has tragically died following a secret battle with a rare form of cancer.

The fashion designer, who was best known as artistic director of French fashion house Louis Vuitton and the CEO of the Milan label Off-White, was 41.

Virgil "valiantly battled a rare, aggressive form of cancer, cardiac angiosarcoma".

He was diagnosed in 2019, and, heroically, continued working in fashion while going through "numerous challenging treatments".

He leaves behind his wife Shannon Abloh and their two children, Lowe Abloh and Grey Abloh.

A statement on Virgil's Instagram page read: "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."

The family asked for privacy while they "grieve and celebrate" the fashion icon's life.
They concluded: "We thank you all for your love and support, and we ask for privacy as we grieve and celebrate Virgil's life."

Virgil trained as an architect and went on to become a pioneer of game-changing street fashion with Off-White, which he founded in 2012. He got into fashion when he landed an internship at Fendi in 2009 alongside rap superstar Kanye West, and they continued to work together.