Alice has become a trending name in 2026, appearing in true crime, music, and cultural events across the globe, as From a civil trial in the U.S. to Eurovision and J-pop, the name appears in distinct yet equally impactful ways.

Alice Ku’s Disappearance and the Legal Aftermath

Alice Ku, a 36-year-old Mountain View resident, went missing in Taiwan in 2019 while on a trip with her Canadian husband, Harald Herchen. Her disappearance sparked an international investigation. In 2023, a Santa Clara County judge ruled that Ku died in Taroko National Park, though her body was never recovered; In July 2026, Ku’s family won a $23.6 million civil verdict against Herchen in a wrongful death lawsuit. The family’s attorney, Todd Davis, said the verdict was a symbol of accountability but could not bring Ku back.

Legal experts noted that Herchen, who is not a U.S. citizen, faced little chance of criminal prosecution in either the U.S. or Taiwan for the case. U.S. law criminalizes the killing of U.S. citizens abroad, but not non-citizens. Andrew Watters, an investigator for the Ku family, explained this legal nuance last year.

Alice in Eurovision: A Musical Representation

Alice is also the title of the song by Veronica Fusaro, the Swiss representative at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. Born in Thun, Switzerland, on April 23, 1997, Fusaro is the daughter of an Italian father and a Swiss mother. Known for her unique voice, she blends pop, soul, and rock with emotionally clear lyrics. Fusaro was chosen by Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR to represent her country in Vienna. Her song, “Alice,” will be her debut on the Eurovision stage, marking the 67th Swiss participation in the contest.

Bélgica’s representative ESSYLA — the stage name of Alice Van Eesbeeck, also made waves in the first Eurovision semifinal. Born in 1996 in Perwez, Belgium, ESSYLA was selected by RTBF to represent Bélgica with the song “Dancing On The Ice.” Despite political tensions over Israel’s participation, Bélgica confirmed its presence, and ESSYLA’s selection ended months of speculation about potential changes to the lineup.

Alice in J-pop: A Global Stage Debut

In Japan, “Alice the Voice 2026” is also a trending phrase linked to the rock band Risky Melody. In a new column titled “LIVE is LIFE〜旅日記〜,” the band’s vocalist, ALICE, and bassist, HaRU, discuss their latest single “Go! Fight! Win!,” the new album “THE WORLD,” and their first-ever world tour. The album, released on April 29, 2026, features 11 tracks, including English versions of songs like “To Survive” and “PHOENIX.” The single includes “Go! Fight! Win!” as the official support song for湘南FC, and “GOLD ENERGY 〜夢の続きを〜” as the theme for湘南ゴールドエナジー commercials.

These diverse uses of the name “Alice” highlight its cultural resonance in 2026. Whether in legal, musical, or cultural contexts, the name has become a symbol of both tragedy and triumph on the global stage.