The founder of the fashion brand Off-White and the Menswear Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton, Virgil Abloh, 41, died on Sunday, November 28, 2021 after 'privately' battling with Cardiac Angiosarcoma for over 2 years, a rare form of Cancer that usually occurs in the right upper chamber of the heart, blocking the blood flow in and out of the heart's atrium.
Abloh’s death was first confirmed by LVMH over social media.
“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,” wrote LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Virgil Abloh, a fiercely devoted father, husband, son, brother and friend,”
Reads a statement on his official Instagram page.
According to the statement, Abloh chose to keep his condition private after being diagnosed in 2019, undergoing treatments while continuing to work as one of the fashion industry’s influential voices.
"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."
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.
Virgil's Family and Colleagues thanked everyone for the love and support, and asked for privacy "as they grieve and celebrate Virgil’s life."
Virgil Abloh
September 30, 1980 – November 28, 2021