OJ Simpson’s passing on Wednesday (April 10) is sad news, though not everyone agrees why. Some are mourning the loss of an incredible football player, while others are disappointed that we may never truly know whether he killed his ex-wife. Along with that mystery, there’s also the rumours of Simpson being the father of Khloe Kardashian, which are resurfacing online after his death. As you may recall, the gossip began spreading over a decade ago, after Kris Jenner spoke about cheating on her late ex-husband, Robert Kardashian. It’s since been addressed on the famous family’s KUWTK reality show, though not everyone is convinced the moment was authentic.
As Us Weekly notes, after separating from Jenner, the Kardashian patriarch married Jan Ashley before his 2003 death. In 2012, she claimed that Robert told her that Khloe (his and Kris’ third child) isn’t biologically his. “Khloe is not his kid — he told me that after we got married,” Ashley previously alleged. “He just kind of looked at me and said [it] like it was a matter of fact. He said, ‘Well, you know that Khloé’s not really a Kardashian, don’t you? And I said … ‘OK,’ and that was it.” Because the late lawyer worked on Simpson’s defense team, connections between him and Jenner quickly arose.
Kris Jenner Wanted to Clear up Paternity Rumours for Khloe Kardashian
However, the former NFLer has said that the 68-year-old wasn’t his type back in the day. “I always thought Kris was a cute girl. She was really nice, but I was dating supermodels,” he said on the Full Send podcast in 2022. When asked about the Good American founder allegedly being his daughter, Simpson added, “The rumour ain’t true. It’s not even anywhere close to being true.”
All the feuds taking place between our favourite rappers this spring has made social media a chaotic but entertaining environment. Now, OJ Simpson’s death is adding to the mix as reactions continue to pour in. Check out some standouts that we found on Twitter/X at the link below, and tap back in with HNHH later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
We were shocked to hear about the death of football legend OJ Simpson, as were millions of others across the globe. The 76-year-old was quietly battling cancer before he ultimately succumbed to the illness, and we even saw him making occasional appearances on Cam’ron and Mase’s It Is What It Is podcast. Simpson’s family says that he passed on Wednesday, “surrounded by his children and grandchildren” while also asking for privacy and grace from the world.
Unfortunately, due to Simpson’s shameless antics after being acquitted of Nicole Brown Simpson’s murder, people are having a hard time letting him rest easy. So far, social media posts about the athlete’s death are mostly joking about him being “dragged” to hell by his alleged victims, or crossing paths with other troubling figures who already might be spending time with Satan.
OJ Simpson’s Death Leaves Football Fans and True Crime Enthusiasts Shocked
OJ Simpson poses for a photo in August 1992 in New York City, New York. (Photo by Catherine McGann/Getty Images)
Plenty of iconic moments from Saturday Night Live are circulating online amid news of Simpson’s death, as well as a scene from Shrek 2 poking fun at the former NFLer’s infamous car chase. As expected, many people are taking the opportunity to laugh at the tragedy, but there are still those giving Simpson his flowers for all that he contributed to football.
“Did OJ Simpson kill two people? Yes Is he the only man to ever run for 2,000 yards in a 14-game season? Also yes, and that’s what really matters,” one Twitter/X user joked. “RIP OJ Simpson. I’m glad he no longer has to live in fear,” another quipped alongside a TMZ screenshot explaining that the acquitted murderer was fearful of spending time in Los Angeles in case he ran into the killer. Keep scrolling to take in more social media reactions, and check back later for more music/pop culture news. RIP.
Never forget Tim Meadows as OJ Simpson writing “I did it” on the NFL telestrater (one of the best SNL opens). This was shortly after the verdict. pic.twitter.com/nFbbANsox4
Louis Gossett Jr. was a legendary actor whose illustrious career spanned over six decades. With his incredible catalog, he left a massive stamp on the film and television industry. Sadly, Gossett passed on March 29, 2024, at 87 and the world mourns the loss of a true icon. His talent, dedication, and impactful performances have touched the hearts of millions. As we remember Gossett’s remarkable contributions to the world of the arts, we reflect on his legacy and the profound influence he leaves behind.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 31: Actor Lou Gossett Jr. portrait session, October 31, 1985 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images)
Gossett’s career was distinguished by his versatility and depth as an actor. Born on May 27, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Gossett’s passion for acting was ignited at an early age. His journey to stardom began with films like The Laughing Policeman, The White Dog, and J.D.’s Revenge. However, his breakout role as Fiddler in the 1977 television miniseries Roots shot him to greater fame. In Roots, he portrayed the wise and resilient slave who becomes a mentor to the protagonist, Kunta Kinte.
Louis Gossett Jr. delivered a revered performance that resonated deeply with worldwide audiences. Moreover, Roots was a cultural phenomenon that sparked important conversations about race, identity, and the enduring impact of slavery. Gossett’s portrayal of Fiddler earned him critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie. Furthermore, his role in the film cemented Gossett’s status as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
A Timeless Talent
Beyond Roots, Louis Gossett Jr.’s career continued to flourish. Another one of his most memorable roles was in the 1982 film An Officer And A Gentleman. He played Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley, a tough yet compassionate drill instructor. The role earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him the first Black actor to win in that category. The film’s iconic final scene, where Gossett’s character famously declares, “I got nowhere else to go!” remains etched in the annals of cinematic history.
Overall, Gossett continued to appear and star in various films and TV series in the following years. His acting credits include The Grace Card, Boiling Pot, The Book Of Negroes, Watchmen, and most recently, The Color Purple. He effortlessly transitioned between roles, showcasing his remarkable range and commanding presence on screen. Between film, television, voice acting, and his theater performances, Gossett Jr. boasts over 100 acting credits to his name.
Louis Gossett Jr. emerged at a time when diversity in Hollywood was scarce. Therefore, his groundbreaking performances served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations of actors and audiences alike. Moreover, Gossett’s impact extended far beyond his on-screen roles. He was a tireless advocate for social justice and equality, using his platform to amplify marginalized voices and promote positive change.
Throughout his life, he remained committed to empowering underserved communities and challenging systemic injustices. He founded the Eracism Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to equipping young adults with essential skill sets to embrace and thrive in a racially diverse and culturally inclusive world. As we bid farewell to Louis Gossett Jr., we also celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy. He may no longer be with us, but his contributions to the world of entertainment and his commitment to social justice will continue to inspire and uplift us for years to come.
Lauren London’s life was radically changed forever on this day (March 31), five years ago. Hip-hop heads know all too well that the start of spring is followed by the sadness of Nipsey Hussle’s untimely death, though his powerful legacy lives on far beyond his time on Earth. This is largely thanks to London, who shares heartfelt tributes to him on social media regularly, reminding us how impactful her partner’s energy was on the countless lives he touched.
On Sunday morning, the 39-year-old posted a handsome photo of Kross’ father. He poses with a stark white Puma tracksuit and an abundance of chains around his next. “If you know me, you know March is always tough for me,” London’s emotional post says. “31 days of holding my breath. This day decided to fall on Easter Sunday this 2024, interesting… Considering your name #GodWillRise,” the mother of two added. “Energy never dies… I love you. Eternal Eternal. ,” she concluded her annual memorium.
In the comments, several fans are sharing stories of their interactions with Hussle that are surely putting a smile on London’s face. “My husband was so excited as he had been a long-time fan. He was so kind, he waited for my husband to go back to the car to get his phone so that I could take a picture of them. I’m not going to lie, I was star-struck, but I told him that I loved you Lauren and that made him ,” one Instagram user recalled a chance meeting in St. Louis. “My husband took his passing very hard but tried to stand for the same things Nip stood for… community. Unfortunately, my husband was gunned down on Slauson last summer as well. I pray that their spirits are at .”
Losing her life partner has been hard on Lauren London, not only as a lover but also as a mother. Thankfully, in late 2023 it was confirmed that the black-haired beauty will receive half of Nipsey Hussle’s $11M assets on behalf of their son, Kross. Read all about that at the link below, and check back later for more hip-hop/pop culture news updates.
Legendary gangsta rapper and former Def Jam signee, BoSS (Bo$$), has passed away. The Detroit native, born Lichelle Laws, died on March 11th at the age of 54. The cause of death was complications from long-standing health issues. BoSS changed the game when she blew up, becoming the first woman signed to Def Jam. She served to kick down the doors and usher in a wave of female emcees under the label. While she may have flown under the radar in her later years, her indelible mark will forever remain in the history of rap.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK–MARCH 12–Rapper Boss (aka Lichelle Laws; Bo$$) appears at a party with DJ Irene ‘Dee’ Moore on March 12, 1993 in New York City. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images/Michael Ochs Archives)
Lichelle Marie Laws grew up in a suburban home. Alongside her education at a Catholic private school, she enlisted in extracurriculars like cheerleading. She was also raised by her parents to take jazz and tap dance classes, as well as ballet and piano lessons. Her parents, both devoted church deacons, instilled strong Christian values in her upbringing.
However, despite her middle-class roots, Laws was determined to leap into hip-hop, which was considered a huge taboo. In 1990, Laws, accompanied by her loyal DJ Irene ‘Dee’ Moore, moved from Detroit to the vibrant south side of Los Angeles after a failed stint in NYC. Their path was etched with the harsh realities of low-income living in LA. The two weathered hunger, peddled drugs to make ends meet, slept on park benches and crumbling hotels and weaved through the gang dynamics of the West Coast. Regardless, the two of them became BoSS, fueled by an unwavering determination to make their mark in the music scene. The name BoSS is an acronym, which stood for “Bitches On Some Shit!”
DJ Quik Connection & Def Jam Deal
One of her earlier collaborations was with Sylk Smoov on “One Nation,” which featured on his debut album. She also contributed to the soundtrack of the Detroit film Zebrahead, sharing credits with many notable artists, like MC Serch, and a younger Nas, then known as Nasty Nas. However, none of this would have happened if she had not crossed paths with West Coast rap icon DJ Quik.
Quik took her under his wing and connected BoSS with a host of rappers for future collaborations. Notably, AMG tapped her for “Mai Sista Izza Bitch,” which was produced by DJ Quik. This helped BoSS catch the attention of none other than Def Jam. As a result, she became one of Russell Simmons’ very first signings to the label and remains one of the pioneering female rappers ever.
BoSS’ debut album, Born Gangstaz, released under Def Jam West, boasted production from Jam Master Jay, Erick Sermon, Chryskillz, among others. The album hit the shelves in May 1993, quickly garnering attention and selling close to 400,000 copies. Furthermore, it stormed to number three on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It also peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard 200.
Although it didn’t quite meet Def Jam’s lofty expectations, the album boasted notable tracks like “Recipe of a Hoe” and “Progress of Elimination.” Mosh notably, the album also housed “Deeper.” The successful single, featured a sample from Barry White and an interpolation of Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Under The Bridge.” It served to showcase how her distinctive gritty style could blend with other genres seamlessly.
“Deeper” soared to #65 on the Billboard Hot 100, and dominated Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart for three consecutive weeks. The accompanying music video featured Laws rapping from behind bars and in a straitjacket. Upon release, it became a major television sensation. It was subsequently broadcast on Yo! MTV Raps and BET’s Rap City, helping to cement her presence in the game.
However, it appeared that things between Boss and DJ Dee began to shift behind the scenes after the album dropped. After the release of Born Gangstaz, the partnership between Laws and Moore ended amicably. Nonetheless, Laws would carry on under the BoSS banner throughout her career.
The WSJ Article
Following the release of her album packed with gritty street narratives, a Wall Street Journal piece cast doubt on the authenticity of Laws’ hardcore, streetwise persona. Published in 1994, the article unveiled Lichelle Laws’ upbringing in a middle-class environment in Detroit. This seemingly contradicted her claims of a rough urban upbringing. However, it overlooked the self-satirical elements within her music, embodied in tracks like “Intro: A Call from Mom.”
Def Jef, the album’s producer who proposed involving Laws’ parents in the project, was shocked by the misconceptions. He emphasized that there was an intention behind BoSS’ music — a blend of reality and satire that characterized her work. “I can’t believe none of the reviews saw the irony of that,” he said. “No one did!” His defense fell on deaf ears, however, and the backlash from the article heavily impacted the trajectory of her career.
And so, despite the success of Born Gangstaz, BoSS never had the opportunity to drop a sophomore project. The rapper’s second album had been slated for release under Def Jam, but the label unfortunately declined her demos, leading to her departure from the company without a subsequent release. Despite this setback, Laws maintained her ambition to deliver another full-length album for most of her life. She once said, “When my record comes out I’m gonna pack up my kidney pills — the 45 I have to take every day — and go wherever.”
After parting ways with Def Jam, BoSS relocated to Dallas, Texas. She made the move with her partner Ricardo Royal, also known as Cocoa Budda. There, she juggled roles as a radio DJ while raising her son Lamar, and balancing her musical pursuits on the side. She had to focus a little more on her health after she suddenly developed kidney complications in 1999. Since she and Lamar’s father were separated at the time, she returned back to her family in Detroit. BoSS reportedly had to undergo three and a half years of dialysis before she could get back on her feet and continue to produce music.
In May 2011, her family revealed her urgent need for a kidney, reaching out to the Facebook community in search of a potential donor, albeit to no avail. In 2017, she faced yet another significant health setback, experiencing a major stroke and seizure. Subsequently, a GoFundMe campaign was initiated on January 31, 2021, to raise funds for a recommended medical procedure.
Although the campaign surpassed its $15,000 target, updates on her condition remained sparse until news of her death broke. Following her passing on March 11th, a wave of tributes continue to flood in from fellow rappers who shared her era and fans who cherished her music. Lichelle Laws’ memorial is scheduled for March 23rd at a yet-to-be-disclosed location, where friends, family, and fans will gather to honor her memory.
A stalwart purveyor of laughter, Richard Lewis was a hilarious man whose works touched many lives. Known for his brand of dark, often self-deprecating humor, he etched his name into the comedic hall of fame. Likewise, Lewis carved out a niche in Hollywood where his gifts could shine as they ought to. On February 27, 2004, the actor and comedian sadly passed away at the age of 76. While his death saddens many fans, they are grateful for the many times Richard Lewis made them laugh. With a career spanning several decades, he left a mark in both film and television. Here are five of the comedian’s funniest roles.
In this 1993 parody film of the iconic Robin Hood tale, Richard Lewis took on the role of Prince John. Equally nefarious and inept, Prince John is the main antagonist to Robin Hood’s heroics. Lewis, with his trademark charm and razor-sharp wit, portrayed the character in a way that is as memorable as it is funny. While Robin Hood: Men In Tights received mostly negative reviews from critics, it is an undoubtedly goofy film. That is where it particularly excels, and where its charm lies.
Dr. Steven Mitchell (Daddy Dearest)
Starring beside the late icon Don Rickles, Richard Lewis portrayed Dr. Steven Mitchell in Daddy Dearest (1993). Playing father and son, their dynamic was a delight to witness on screen throughout the show’s sole season. Daddy Dearest served as a showcase for Lewis’ comedic talents. Despite its short run, this show remains a beloved cult classic among fans of Richard Lewis and sitcom aficionados.
Julian Peters (Once Upon A Crime)
Undoubtedly containing one of Richard Lewis’ most unforgettable comedic performances, Once Upon A Crime was released on March 6, 1992. In this black comedy mystery film, Lewis plays the hilarious Julian Peters. While trying to return a dog to a wealthy matron, he has his life upturned as he gets involved in a murder mystery. John Candy, James Belushi, and Cybill Shepherd, among others, also star in the thrilling comedy. The ensemble cast’s performance makes Once Upon A Crime an entertaining watch from start to finish. However, Richard Lewis certainly stands out playing Julian Peters.
Marty Gold (Anything But Love)
To some, Richard Lewis gave his best acting performance in the sitcom Anything But Love. In a lead role opposite Jamie Lee Curtis, Lewis portrayed the endearing and funny Marty Gold, a magazine columnist. The show ran for four seasons between 1989 and 1992, and it is among the actor’s most celebrated works. There was palpable chemistry between the two leads, and it was made even better by the humor that’s evident throughout the show. Although it was canceled after its fourth season, it is a great watch with a strong performance from Richard Lewis.
Richard Lewis (Curb Your Enthusiasm)
In Curb Your Enthusiasm, Richard Lewis played a fictionalized version of himself. The show premiered with a special in 1999 and is currently on its twelfth and final season. While Richard Lewis played a recurring character, he appeared in over 50 episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm. Without a doubt, this is one of his funniest and most unforgettable roles. It is also the last role he played before his death. Both the real and fictionalized Richard Lewis will certainly stay in the minds of fans for a long time.
Internet personalities are very popular these days. The likes of iShowSpeed and the beloved Kai Cenat, among many other streamers, have built up impressive fanbases for themselves. In the same fashion, Twomad, a burgeoning YouTuber, has grown in popularity over the years since he started making content on the platform. In a few more years, he just might have become one of the most prominent YouTubers around.
However, on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, Twomad unfortunately passed away. While the investigation into his death is ongoing, reports claim that there was no foul play and that he possibly overdosed. His untimely death has saddened fans and onlookers, and many are curious about what exactly caused it. However, some people following the story had not heard about Twomad until very recently. Here’s an overview of who he was and what he did while he was alive.
Twomad was born Muudea Sedik on December 17, 2000. While he may have been interested in content creation much earlier, it wasn’t until 2016 that he began building on YouTube. He opened up his first YouTube account in April 2016, and the following year, posted one of his most popular videos ever. Inarguably, the OverwatchNerf Lucio video was his first big win on the platform. Soon after, he opened his second YouTube account, Threemad, and dropped out of school at the age of 16. Although it was a risk to do so and become a full-time YouTuber, it paid off for Twomad.
Goodnight Girl Meme
Subsequently, in 2019, Twomad had another big break when he created the Goodnight Girl meme. The hilarious video is arguably his most iconic creation of all time and further shot up his views and followers. The viral meme significantly affected the trajectory of his career and brought him much-needed attention. To his credit, Twomad did not waste the buzz. While being the butt of the joke, he made sure to retain as many viewers as he could and convert them into fans. His efforts proved fruitful as his followership only continued to grow.
Following his success in 2019, Twomad decided to lean into comedy, making and uploading funny skits. Before then, he had primarily focused on gaming content, and the genesis of his career can even be traced back to his comments on gaming streams. However, he decided to merge both worlds in hopes of expanding his reach, and that worked out for him.
With his blend of gaming with comedy, he gained traction among viewers who appreciated his offbeat humor and irreverent style. As time went by, Twomad became known for his reaction videos, funny skits, and gaming clips. Slowly but surely, he rose to prominence through his unique style and humor. Seemingly overnight, he carved out a niche in the online gaming community, regularly collaborating with other content creators.
The Passing Of Twomad
Throughout his career, Twomad accomplished just about everything he set out to do. Before his death, he had amassed over 2 million YouTube subscribers on his channel. Additionally, he had racked up over 200 million views on the platform alone. Twomad also had over 400k Instagram followers, and a strong following on Twitch as well. While the investigation continues how he passed, fans of his work mourn the unfortunate loss of Twomad.
YouTuber Muudea “Twomad” Sedik has died at the age of 23, per a report from TMZ. Police in Los Angeles appeared to confirm the YouTuber’s death after receiving a request for a welfare check. Police reportedly found Twomad unresponsive at his home after days of radio silence from the YouTuber. A law enforcement source who spoke with TMZ said that the death was being treated as an overdose.
Twomad gained popularity for his bombastic and over-the-top style. He also did a collaboration with viral OnlyFans star Belle Delphine. However, fans had become increasingly concerned in recent months. Twomad had been on a content hiatus for several months before beginning to post ominous contextless tweets. This included a number of photos of firearms. Furthermore, Twomad was facing numerous allegations at the time of his death. This remains a developing story.
Some news sites are reporting that Twomad died last night. I just verified that he is listed on the Los Angeles county coroner’s website as deceased. I don’t even know what to say right now. He was somebody whose videos inspired me a lot when I first started my channel. pic.twitter.com/sCkav4fNNX
As the internet allows for more and more young people to become famous, it also presents their fans with a horrible reality if they pass away suddenly. Last year, The esports world mourned the loss of Karel “Twisten” Asenbrener, who passed away at the age of 19. Originally from Czechia, Twisten began his VALORANT career in 2020. Before 2020, Twisten briefly spent time in the pro scene of Rainbow Six Siege. After playing in the VALORANT Academy, he joined Kings of Sosnovka. Over the course of late 2020 and early 2021, Twisten spent time with Czech giants eSuba and Entropiq. Then, in September 2021, Twisten made the move to the German organization BIG.
Twisten has always been open about his struggles with mental health. Following Team Vitality’s loss in the Lock-In tournament, Twisten posted a length Twitlonger. In it, he talked candidly about his battle with depression. On June 6, Twisten posted a tweet that simply read “Good night”. While seemingly innocuous, “good night” is also a common esports term that players post after killing an enemy. Furthermore, on June 7, Team Vitality confirmed the worst – that Twisten had passed away.
Veteran actor Carl Weathers has died at the age of 76. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts, and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend,” a statement from Weathers’ family read.
Fans have expressed their sorrow at Weathers’ passing. “R.I.P. Carl Weathers. It’s impossible to sum up how cool, charismatic and hilarious he was. Apollo Creed is enough for god status, but when you’re also great in Predator, Action Jackson, Semi-Tough, Happy Gilmore, The Shield, Arrested Development, The Mandalorian… what a life,” one fan wrote on X. “We’re heartbroken at the news that Carl Weathers has passed. A titan in every project he was associated with — from the ROCKY series to PREDATOR to THE MANDALORIAN — we’ll miss seeing his talents on screen,” Fangoria wrote on social media.
Before Carl Weathers was an actor that defined the 1980s and beyond, he was a college football player. Weathers played two years under the legendary Don Coryell at San Diego State but went undrafted in 1970. Signing with the Raiders, Weathers would play eight games over 1970 and 1971 before being released by the team. He then played in Canada, earning a BA in theatre from San Francisco State during the offseasons.
His acting career would begin in earnest in the mid-70s, with his breakout role coming in 1976 as he starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky. He would appear in the first four Rocky films, with Apollo Creed becoming a film staple. Entering the 1980s, Weather would find himself in an equally iconic role in Predator. Similarly, the 90s saw him play Adam Sandler’s suffering mentor in Happy Gilmore. More recent roles included voice work in Star vs. The Forces of Evil and a recurring role in The Mandalorian.
We’re heartbroken at the news that Carl Weathers has passed. A titan in every project he was associated with — from the ROCKY series to PREDATOR to THE MANDALORIAN — we’ll miss seeing his talents on screen. pic.twitter.com/Na103h3fyB
R.I.P. Carl Weathers. It’s impossible to sum up how cool, charismatic and hilarious he was. Apollo Creed is enough for god status, but when you’re also great in Predator, Action Jackson, Semi-Tough, Happy Gilmore, The Shield, Arrested Development, The Mandalorian… what a life. pic.twitter.com/vaj5wsxHt2
I was a fan of Carl Weathers as soon as I saw Rocky as a kid, and to grow up and see him being a wonderful goof in Happy Gilmore and Arrested Development was just the best.
Maricet Espinosa Gonzalez, a two-time Pan American judo champion, has died at the age of 34. “With great pain, the university community of Cuban sport receives the news of the passing of the outstanding Cuban judoka Maricet Espinosa González. On behalf of our teachers, workers, and students we extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and colleagues,” the Cuban Sports University said on social media. Espinosa Gonzalez reportedly died as a result of a heart attack.
Espinosa Gonzalez was the Pan-American champion in 2013 and 2014, as well as the silver medalist at the 2016 Games. Also in 2016, she represented Cuba at the Rio Olympics, losing in the second round of the Women’s 63kg Judo competition. Espinosa Gonzalez had surgery on January 21. However, it is unknown at this time if that was in any way related to her death.
Furthermore, Espinosa Gonzalez’s death comes just six days after that of another Olympian. Canadian pole vaulter Shawn Barber was a world champion, Pan-American champion, and Commonwealth silver medallist. “More than just an incredible athlete, Shawn was such a good-hearted person that always put others ahead of himself. It’s tragic to lose such a good person at such a young age,” Barber’s agent said after the news of the pole vaulter’s death broke. Barber was 29 at the time of his death but had been suffering some health issues.
Barber took home world championship gold in 2015 but was unable to translate that into Olympic success. He finished 10th in Rio He retired from professional athletics following the conclusion of the 2018 season. He had earned a bronze medal in the Diamond League that season. Furthermore, Barber came out as gay in 2017 and was well-regarded for his vocal advocacy and visibility as a queer athlete. Barber was residing in Texas at the time of his death and had been living there for many years.
(@301mair) 
(@doofinc_) 
(@ayeejuju) 
,” she concluded her annual memorium.
,” one Instagram user recalled a chance meeting in St. Louis. “My husband took his passing very hard but tried to stand for the same things Nip stood for… community. Unfortunately, my husband was gunned down on Slauson last summer as well. I pray that their spirits are at 
