Former Liberal cabinet minister Kirsty Duncan has tragically passed away at the age of 59 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Duncan was a prominent figure in Canadian politics, representing the riding of Etobicoke North as a Member of Parliament (MP) from 2008 until 2025, during which she successfully won five consecutive elections.

In 2023, she disclosed that she was taking a medical leave but continued her duties as an MP. Duncan's impressive background included being a scientist and an athlete, which underpinned her approach to her parliamentary roles. During her tenure in former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet, she served as the Minister of Science, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, and Deputy House Leader.

The announcement of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and friends. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his deep sorrow on social media, describing Duncan as a curious, generous individual who was dedicated to helping others. He noted, "She believed in knowledge, compassion, and service, and she brought those values into every conversation and every fight she took on." Trudeau reflected on the personal impact Duncan had on him, stating he was fortunate to have counted her as a friend.

I'm heartbroken by the loss of my friend Kirsty Duncan.

Kirsty was curious, generous, and deeply committed to helping others. She believed in knowledge, compassion, and service, and she brought those values into every conversation and every fight she took on. I learned a great… pic.twitter.com/Rt69S1waHl

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 26, 2026

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also shared his condolences, stating that he was "deeply saddened" by her passing. He recognized Duncan as a devoted public servant and a champion for the people of Etobicoke North. Ford's sentiments echoed the profound sense of loss felt across the political spectrum, as Duncan had made significant contributions to her community throughout her career.

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend Kirsty Duncan, a devoted public servant and a champion for the people of Etobicoke North.

She served our community with dedication and conviction. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones.

— Doug Ford (@fordnation) January 26, 2026

Toronto city councillor Josh Matlow also expressed his heartbreak over the loss of his friend. He highlighted Duncan's commitment to science, the environment, animals, and health, commending her inspiring attitude throughout her battle with cancer. Matlow's reflection on Duncan's dedication and resilience resonated with many who admired her work.

I am heartbroken about the loss of Kirsty Duncan. I was always impressed by her devotion to science, the environment, animals, health and to the community she served as MP for Etobicoke North. She was a friend. During her battle with cancer, she was inspiring. Her attitude was… pic.twitter.com/5ldTD6IfR1

— Josh Matlow (@JoshMatlow) January 26, 2026

Throughout her cancer treatment, Duncan remained an advocate for issues that mattered to her, particularly calling for an independent inquiry into the Canadian sport system amidst allegations of abuse. Her relentless pursuit of justice and improvement for athletes demonstrated her commitment to her ideals, even during her time of personal struggle.

Duncan had candidly discussed her battle with cancer in a social media post in 2023, where she likened her journey to climbing a mountain. She stated, "Ascending is hard, but overcoming new hurdles is even tougher," highlighting her resilience and determination.

This tragic loss not only leaves a void within the political arena but also among those whose lives she touched with her kindness, advocacy, and commitment to public service.