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The popular Netflix series Running Point has returned for its highly anticipated second season, paying tribute to Niko Mijailovic in its latest episode.
Episode three featured a heartfelt tribute card that read, “In Loving Memory of #6 Niko Mijailovic.” Mijailovic was a talented varsity volleyball player who tragically passed away in 2025 at the young age of 15.
Attending a private school in Los Angeles, Mijailovic succumbed to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in April 2025. During his memorial service, it was shared that the last show he enjoyed with his family was Running Point. The series stars Kate Hudson as Isla, a reformed party girl who is tasked with managing her family’s professional basketball team, offering her a chance to prove herself.
In the wake of Mijailovic’s untimely passing, his older sister Mila expressed her grief and the shock that enveloped their family and friends.
Meanwhile, 2026 marked a year of significant losses in Hollywood, with the entertainment world mourning several iconic figures. The year began with the passing of Broadway star and influencer Bret Hanna-Shuford at 46. Later that month, comedy legend Catherine O’Hara died at 71. February saw the loss of Camilla Carr, known for her role in Designing Women, at the age of 83, alongside other notable figures.
“There was no warning, and as far as we knew, he was completely healthy,” she wrote via Instagram in April while showing support for the Huddle For Hearts initiative. “He was always active and played sports his entire life. He loved volleyball the most, playing both on his high school varsity team as a freshman, as well as playing club.”
Mila reflected on her bond with her brother, adding, “He was there for every single part of my volleyball career, always supporting me.”
She continued: “As an athlete, he had a lot of drive and a lot of big goals. He also wanted to play Division I volleyball one day, and I always looked forward to seeing him achieve that. He also just has always been a really bright and happy person. He always made people feel comfortable and included. He was my number one supporter.”
Mila got emotional about weathering the major personal loss.
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“He was my brother, but also my best friend,” she concluded. “Losing him has been the hardest thing I’ve ever gone through, but what makes it harder is that we didn’t know anything was wrong. There weren’t any signs that something like this was going to happen, until the one morning I got the phone call that he just didn’t wake up.”
Mijailovic’s school Campbell Hall paid tribute by retiring his jersey, writing via Instagram, “Niko was a true light within our community. Niko joined Campbell Hall in Kindergarten and grew into a beloved and thriving member of our varsity boys’ volleyball team. Beyond his incredible athletic talent, Niko was known for his quiet confidence, kind heart, and deep love for his friends and family. 🕊️💙💛.”