Former Liverpool co-owner George N. Gillett Jr. has died at the age of 87. Gillett passed away on September 22, 2026, with the news subsequently confirmed by the Montreal Canadiens and Liverpool Football Club. (NHL)
Gillett was an American businessman who became part-owner of Liverpool in February 2007, joining forces with fellow American businessman Tom Hicks to acquire the club from David Moores. The pair took control of the Reds during a period when the club had major ambitions both on and off the pitch. (Liverpool)
However, their ownership eventually became increasingly difficult. Concerns grew among supporters over the club’s finances, while the relationship between Hicks and Gillett deteriorated. Gillett acknowledged in 2008 that their partnership had become unworkable. (Liverpool)
The dispute eventually culminated in the sale of Liverpool in October 2010, when New England Sports Ventures — now known as Fenway Sports Group (FSG) — took control of the club. This brought the Hicks-Gillett era at Anfield to an end. (Liverpool FC)
Outside football, Gillett had a major career in American and Canadian sport. He owned the Montreal Canadiens from 2001 to 2009, during which the club experienced several significant moments, including Saku Koivu’s return after cancer treatment and preparations for the Canadiens’ centennial celebrations. (NHL)
He also had connections to the Miami Dolphins, Harlem Globetrotters and NASCAR, making him a prominent figure across several professional sports. (NHL)
Following his death, Canadiens owner, president and CEO Geoff Molson expressed condolences to Gillett’s family and praised his contribution to the organization and Montreal community. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman also paid tribute to Gillett, describing his passion for the Canadiens and commitment to Montreal. (NHL)
Liverpool FC has also sent its condolences to the Gillett family and his friends following his death.
🕊️ George Gillett Jr. was 87.
