The chess world is mourning the loss of one of its brightest minds and kindest souls. Daniel Naroditsky — grandmaster, teacher, author, and beloved online presence known affectionately as “Danya” — has passed away at just 29. The Charlotte Chess Center, where he served as head coach, confirmed his death, calling him “a talented chess player, educator, and beloved member of the chess community.” His family asked that he be remembered “for his passion and love for the game.” No cause of death has been publicly released.
To millions of fans worldwide, Naroditsky was more than a grandmaster — he was the voice that made chess accessible, calming, and deeply human. Through his YouTube and Twitch channels, he turned complex positions into captivating stories, his patient explanations laced with warmth and humor. Fellow GM Hikaru Nakamura, visibly emotional, called him “a gift to the chess world” and praised his ability to inspire both beginners and professionals alike.
Born in San Mateo, California, to Ukrainian and Azerbaijani parents, Naroditsky’s rise was remarkable. He became a world youth champion at eleven, a grandmaster by eighteen, and one of the youngest chess authors ever published. After graduating from Stanford, he devoted himself to teaching, moving to North Carolina to help build a new generation of players. Though ranked among the top 200 classical players globally, his true legacy lay in how he taught — blending mastery with compassion and curiosity. “He could explain chess to an ant,” said fellow streamer Levy Rozman.
Friends and students remember him not only for his genius but for his kindness. “He made chess feel human,” one student said. In his final video, posted just days before his passing, Naroditsky smiled and joked, “You thought I was gone!? I’m back, better than ever.” That warmth — that spark — is what will endure. As tributes pour in from around the world, one truth is clear: Daniel Naroditsky’s legacy extends far beyond the board. He taught millions not just how to play chess, but how to love it — one move, one smile, and one generous lesson at a time.
