celebrity death

Keanu Reeves, Questlove & More Share Tributes To Lance Reddick

by

The tragic and sudden loss of Lance Reddick shocked the world on Friday (March 17). The 60-year-old actor was doing press for his upcoming film John Wick 4 recently, and cast-mate Keanu Reeves was one of many, many fellow entertainers who posted their tributes to Lance Reddick. Moreover, the Baltimore native is perhaps best known for his role as Cedric Daniels in HBO’s The Wire, a role that garnered him immense acclaim. However, he also starred in multiple film, TV, and video game projects. The many friends in the business who shared their heartfelt goodbyes speaks to the magnitude and positive impact of his art and soul.

“We are deeply saddened and heartbroken at the loss of our beloved friend and colleague Lance Reddick,’ Reeves stated alongside Chad Stahelski, John Wick 4‘s director. “He was the consummate professional and a joy to work with. Our love and prayers are with his wife Stephanie, his children, family and friends. We dedicate the film to his loving memory. We will miss him dearly.” Another industry colleague to honor Reddick was film creative James Gunn. “Lance Reddick was an incredibly nice guy, and an incredibly talented actor,” he tweeted. “This is heartbreaking. My love goes out to all his family, friends, and collaborators.”

Lance Reddick’s Legacy Lives On

In addition, Questlove shared his heartbreak via Instagram. “I can’t take it no more. RIP Lance Reddick,” he wrote. Viola Davis also shared tender parting words via the social media platform. “Shocked!! Speechless!!” she expressed. “This talented, kind, intelligent King is gone!! I was blessed to have worked with you and blessed to have known you. Praying for comfort for your family and loved ones! Rest well Lance Reddick…..see you on the other side.”

Tragically, The Wire suffered other recent losses of some of its many great actors, Al Brown and Michael K. Williams. While many other famous figures keep Lance’s memory alive, he’s most importantly preserved through his family. As such, many shared their condolences for his wife Stephanie and his children, Yvonne Nicole and Christopher. See some more tributes below and share your favorite work, memories, or great contributions from this incredible actor.
Rest In Peace Lance Reddick.

The Entertainment Industry Remembers Lance With Tributes

[via]

Lance Reddick Of “The Wire” Fame Dead At 60, Sources Say Cause “Appears Natural”

by

It’s been 15 long years since the final episode of The Wire aired on HBO, but to this day, the series remains a favourite for many. Celebrities to appear on-screen over the years include Dominic West, Idris Elba, and Michael B. Jordan. In recent years, we’ve unfortunately seen the death of a few leading actors, including Michael K. Williams in late 2021, and now, 60-year-old Lance Reddick.

The tragic news came via TMZ on Friday (March 17) afternoon. According to sources, the beloved entertainer’s body was discovered this morning around 9:30 AM in his Studio City home. His official cause of death remains unclear, though law enforcement insiders have told the outlet that, at this time, it’s believed to be natural with no foul play involved.

RIP Lance Reddick

Actor Lance Reddick attends the game’s launch in Seattle, Washington, on September 8, 2014. (Photo by Mat Hayward/Getty Images for Activision)

Reddick has been booked and busy doing press for John Wick 4, in which he plays Charon. After appearing in every film the franchise has released so far, he quickly became a favourite among fans who loved watching him opposite Keanu Reeves. The actor even had an appearance scheduled for The Kelly Clarkson Show next week to promote the forthcoming film, though that sadly won’t be happening.

Earlier this week, the Baltimore native’s social media accounts lit up with a video of him at home with his dogs rather than attending the JW4 premiere in New York City. It remains unclear why Reddick opted to skip out on the event, though his mood appeared to be upbeat in the post with his furry friends. As news of his passing continues to circulate, many former colleagues are sharing thoughtful words and fond memories of their fallen comrade.

Actor’s Best On-Screen Moments

While the action film franchise became an undeniably huge part of his life, Lance Reddick also spent time on several TV sets over the years. On The Wire, he was Baltimore Police Department officer Cedrick Daniels, appearing in all five seasons. Elsewhere in Hollywood, he worked on Lost, Oz, Bosch, and Fringe. Thankfully for fans, John Wick 4 won’t be his last appearance that we see. He also plays Zeus in Disney+’s upcoming Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, which isn’t due out until 2024. Keep scrolling to see more of his best acting chops. RIP.

[Via]

Gangsta Boo’s Death Leaves Hip-Hop In Mourning: Drake, GloRilla, And More Pay Respects

by

The excitement of a new year beginning is still wearing off, though the mood became sombre once the hip-hop community heard about the death of Gangsta Boo. She passed on Sunday (January 1), and it’s chiefly suspected that an overdose was her ultimate cause of death.

The rapper – born Lola Chantrelle Mitchell – was evidently discovered dead on her front porch yesterday. At the time, narcotics were correspondingly found on her person. The night before, she and her brother were celebrating in Memphis. In the midst of their New Year’s party, he apparently overdosed but was fine after receiving treatment at a hospital.

@champagnepapi/Instagram Story

Later that night, they took the celebration back to Boo’s place. Unfortunately, this looks to be when she met her ultimate demise. The news has been undeniably hard to swallow, with many friends and collaborators taking to social media to pay their respects.

Among them is Drake, who posted an old photo of the late rhymer and a friend on his Instagram Story. As an illustration of his feelings, he wrote, “Rest in heaven Gangsta Boo.”

Another reaction came from Chip Tha Ripper. On Twitter, he comparatively wrote, “Gangsta Boo was SUCH a beautiful Queen, inside and out. I’m so grateful to have been able to know you and share good times with you.”

The 36-year-old’s emotional post later goes on, “Wow. I grew up on your music and you are a household name the ghettos of America and loved all across the world!!! You will be missed.”

Other stars reeling over the sad news include Big Boi, Duke Deuce, Curren$y, Rah Digga, and finally, GloRilla.

The latter recently worked with Boo as well as Latto on her “FTCU” single. The collaboration undeniably hit it off with audiences. Many fans were undoubtedly eager to see what the recently deceased artist had in store for 2023.

See more star reactions to Gangsta Boo’s passing below. RIP.

[Via]

Gangsta Boo’s Cause Of Death Believed To Be Drug Overdose: Report

by

Another industry veteran gone too soon. Though she made it to 2023, Three 6 Mafia rapper Gangsta Boo tragically lost her life on the first day of the year. Reports came out on Sunday (January 1) evening, revealing that the 43-year-old is no longer with us. Her cause of death was not known at the time.

AllHipHop reports that the recording artist died after attending a concert in her hometown of Memphis, Tennesee. Her body was found on her front porch around 4 PM local time. Her past struggles with substance abuse are seemingly a part of her demise.

Recording artist Gangsta Boo attends TJ’s DJ’s Tastemakers Annual Music Conference – Day 2 at the Ivanhoe Plaza Hotel August 05, 2006 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Ray Tamarra/Getty Images)

Sources close to Gangsta Boo say they believe she died from a drug overdose. An update from TMZ offers much of the same information. Specifically, they note that “a fentanyl-laced substance is believed to be at play.”

The night before she died, the industry icon was celebrating New Year’s Eve with her brother. He was eventually taken to a hospital himself after overdosing but was able to recover. Later that night, the party went on at GB’s home.

Upon discovering her body, the finding of narcotics means an overdose is presently thought to be her cause of death. Still, the information can’t be confirmed until an autopsy is conducted.

“Victim information will be released once the victim has been identified and NOK [Next of Kin] notifications have been made. This is an ongoing investigation,” officer Theresa Carlson of the Memphis Police Department tells AllHipHop.

However, Gangsta Boo’s identity was previously confirmed by both Fox13 and DJ Paul, another Three 6 Mafia member. The former didn’t write any words in his tribute post – just an older photo of the late creative was enough to get the message across.

In the comment section, artists like Lil Jon, 2 Chainz, Duke Deuce, Ludacris, and Big Boi are in mourning. “Prayers to the whole fam, I’m so sorry for your loss,” one user wrote. “She was such a great and kind soul. GOD’S WARRIOR NOW.”

Check back with HNHH later for any updates on Gangsta Boo’s untimely death. RIP.

[Via]

Anita Pointer Dead At 74, Grammy-Winning Singer’s Family & Fans Mourn

by

2021 previously ended on a sad note with the death of Hollywood icon Betty White. In 2022, we once again closed out the year by saying goodbye to another legend – Anita Pointer.

The recording artist was best known for her work alongside her three sisters, Ruth, Bonnie, and finally, June. Together they were chiefly known as the Pointer Sisters, and they crafted hit songs like “Jump (For My Love)” and “Fire.”

Anita Pointer attends The Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce 98th Annual Board Installation And Lifetime Achievement Awards Gala at Avalon Hollywood on April 10, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)

In 1975, they concurrently won a Grammy thanks to their work on “Fairytale.” The track came out on top in the Best Country Vocal Performance category, which has been markedly dominated by white acts, as BBC notes.

Their music style is specifically “a blend of funk, soul, and R&B.” The Pointer Sister’s debut eponymous album arrived in 1973, with “Yes We Can Can” firstly arising as a breakout hit.

Presently, Pointer’s cause of death remains unknown. Unfortunately, she’s not the first of her siblings to die – both Bonnie and June departed several years ago, leaving Ruth as the sole surviving member.

Ruth Pointer, Anita Pointer, Bonnie Pointer and June Pointer 1974 (Photo by Chris Walter/WireImage)

Additionally, the late singer was faced with the tragedy of her own daughter’s death. In 2003, her only child, Jada Pointer, consequently passed away at age 37 after battling cancer. She left behind a little girl, Roxie McKain Pointer. After that, Anita spent her life raising her granddaughter.

On the positive side, the famous family says that they’re “comforted in knowing she is now with her daughter Jada and her sisters June & Bonnie and at peace.”

“Heaven is a more loving beautiful place with Anita there,” they later added.

Check out more heartfelt tributes, as well as favourite performances below. RIP Anita Pointer.

[Via]

Barbara Walters Passes Away At Age 93

by

Famed broadcast journalist and television host Barbara Walters has passed away at 93, leaving behind a legacy that few can achieve.

Cindi Berger, the Boston native’s representative, confirmed the news to People on Friday night (Dec. 30), revealing, “Barbara Walters passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones.”

The rep continued, “She lived her life with no regrets. She was a trailblazer not only for female journalists, but for all women.”

When Walters joined “ABC News” in 1976, she made history by becoming the first female anchor of a major evening news show. Continuing to make her presence known in the industry, she joined “20/20” several years later and famously hosted the program alongside Hugh Downs.

READ MORE: ABC Accidentally Shows Picture Of Quavo In Takeoff Tribute

She went on to create a variety of interview-style programs. Sitting down with everyone from Mariah Carey and Patrick Swayze to Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey, many considered Walters to be a celebrity interview pioneer.

1993: American broadcast journalist Barbara Walters poses at a desk with a notepad and pen. (Photo by Francesco Da Vinci/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Walters created “The View” in 1997 and also served as a co-host on the popular daytime talk show. Proving to be a success, the program has currently spanned 26 seasons and earned dozens of Emmy awards.

In recent years, reports began circulating online that Walters was suffering from symptoms related to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Sources disclosed to TMZ in 2017 that the former news anchor was barely leaving her NYC apartment and also growing more “forgetful.”

Walters now leaves behind her daughter, 54-year-old Jacqueline Dena Guber. Our hearts go out to the late anchor’s loved ones during this time.

[Via] [Via]

Keenan Cahill Dead At 27, YouTuber Was On Life Support After Heart Surgery

by

As per usual, the last few days are proving to be some of the most interesting as unexpected headlines continue to pour in. Earlier today, word of Andrew Tate’s Romanian detainment was making rounds, but now, the internet has fallen into mourning after finding out about the death of Keenan Cahill.

The 27-year-old YouTuber previously rose to fame in the platform’s early days. He later went on to find major success by making lip-syncing videos with stars like 50 Cent and Justin Bieber, just to name a few.

Keenan Cahill arrives at The Fanatics Tour L.A. Show at Infusion Lounge on April 19, 2014 in Universal City, California. (Photo by Rachel Murray/Getty Images for The Fanatics Tour)

Cahill’s manager, David Graham, tells TMZ that his client lastly underwent open heart surgery on December 15th. Unfortunately, complications arose during the procedure, ultimately leaving the internet sensation on life support.

After spending several days on a ventilator, he concurrently died on Thursday (December 29) afternoon in a Chicago hospital. The news has been devastating to not only his millions of fans but also the countless celebrities he connected with throughout his short but impressive career.

Cahill markedly became one of the first YouTubers to gain over 500 million views on his channel. As it turns out, working with Fif is an opportunity that obviously helped launch him to the next level.

The two posted a collaboration to the New Yorker’s “Down On Me” track, which eventually allowed him to connect with other famous faces. Among them were Ariana Grande, Katy Perry, Britney Spears, and finally, Tyra Banks.

Additionally, David Guetta, Jason Derulo, and LMFAO had the opportunity to work with him over the years.

As TMZ notes, Cahill was previously diagnosed with Maroteaux-Lamy, a rare genetic disorder as a baby. It’s specifically known as a “progressive condition that causes organs and tissues to enlarge, become scarred or inflamed.”

Some of those who deal with the condition can also suffer from heart issues, which seems to have been Keegan’s case. Scroll further to check out fan tributes to the late entertainer. RIP.

[Via]

Coolio’s 7 Children Listed As “Probable Beneficiaries” After Rapper Died Without A Will

by

Months after Coolio passed away at age 59, it has been revealed that the rapper died without a will to control his estate.

According to The Blast, the “Gangsta’s Paradise” rapper’s estate is estimated to be over $300,000. Assets reportedly include “personal property and demand deposit accounts, financial accounts, insurance policies and royalties.”

Coolio poses during the Bay Area Music Awards at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium on March 7, 1998 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)

His seven children, all adults, were listed as “probable beneficiaries” after Coolio died without a will in place. They are also named as his next of kin, with Coolio’s ex-manager filing a probate to appraise his estate.

The Los Angeles native shocked the hip-hop community in September when he suddenly passed away. 

READ MORE: Coolio’s First Posthumous Single, “Do You Want It” Lands Via His Australian Collaborator

According to his manager, Coolio was visiting a friend’s home and excused himself to use their bathroom. After some time passed and the friend hadn’t heard back, they checked on him and discovered him on the ground. It is suspected that he suffered a heart attack prior to his death.

Following a brief hiatus, Coolio returned to the rap scene in 2021 with his single “Out Fa da Bag.” He rose to prominence in the ‘90s with his Kylian Mash collab “Gangsta’s Paradise” and for notably rapping on the theme song for Nickelodeon’s “Kenan and Kel.”

Per Billboard, the rapper spoke with the Crypto Island podcast shortly before his death and revealed a new side as he discussed his cryptocurrency knowledge. 

“I am actually heavily invested into the metaverse,” he said. “I have a nice swath of land in the metaverse and barring the internet crashing or somebody dropping an EMP (electomagnetic pulse) on the whole world and there being no power, this would be a good deal.”

On the topic of climate change, Coolio revealed, “I’m not so much worried about it. By the time it gets to be a serious problem I’ll be long dead.”

The rapper leaves behind his seven children and a lasting rap legacy. R.I.P.

[Via] [Via]

Singer Jo Mersa Marley, Bob Marley’s Grandson, Passes Away At 31

by

Jo Mersa, born Joseph Mersa Marley in Kingston, Jamaica, has died at age 31. He was a grandson to the popular singer Bob Marley, who passed away in 1981 at 36 years old.

The young reggae singer died as a result of “asthma-related conditions, according to TMZ, though an exact cause of death has not been announced.

Per RadarOnline, Jo Mersa was found “unresponsive in his vehicle” this past Tuesday (Dec. 27).

Jo Mersa followed up his grandfather’s legacy by launching his own music career. In 2014, he debuted his EP Comfortable and later dropped his second project Eternal in 2021, releasing “Burn It Down” in between. 

Featuring his brother Yohan Marley, “Burn It Down” proved to be a hit track, gaining over three million views on YouTube.

Continuing to hone in on his craft, Jo Mersa also attended Miami Dade College and took audio engineering courses while growing as a reggae musician.

He was the son of Stephen Marley, who also enjoyed a successful music career. Winning eight Grammy awards, Stephen has collaborated with a number of notable artists over the years, including Pitbull and the Fugees.

READ MORE: Lauryn Hill’s Daughter Responds To Backlash After Wearing Ye’s “White Lives Matter” Tee
Jo Mersa
PHILADELPHIA, PA – JULY 13: Reggae artist, Jo Mersa Marley performs during The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 20th Anniversary Tour at Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing on July 13, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images)

In an interview with Reggaeville last year, Jo Mersa spoke about his latest EP and also opened up about how he and his family commemorated the “No Woman, No Cry” singer around his birthday and the anniversary of his death. 

“Family-wise, you would hear memories from my father or from our uncles, you would see them posting pictures or even just speaking to us in an environment talking about ‘I remember when Daddy did this or when he came from Africa or when Daddy did this interview or when he was in Italy,’” he shared. “So, we always hear those reflections, speaking about those things, about the role that he played not only as family member and father, but also in the world and the impact he had on the Reggae community and the Reggae culture, the roots, bringing forward the message of Rastafari and love, over all love.”

Our hearts go out to the Marley family during this time. R.I.P.

[Via] [Via] [Via]

1017 Rapper Big Scarr Dead At Age 22

by

Rising rapper Big Scarr has reportedly died at 22 years old. Known for his hit 2021 project Big Grim Reaper, he was signed to Gucci Mane’s new 1017 lineup and also collaborated with label mates Pooh Shiesty and Foogiano on several tracks.

Born Alexander Woods, he was formerly set to accompany fellow Memphis native Key Glock on his upcoming “Glockoma” tour. Seemingly referencing the sad news of his passing, the “Russian Cream” rapper penned on Instagram Friday night following the news, “This s**t wicked wtf bruh!!!”

Also appearing to mourn Big Scarr’s loss, his label mate Enchanting took to her Twitter, writing, “Y’all don’t understand how much I love this boy why would he leave me like this.”

READ MORE: Gucci Mane Drops Baby Racks From 1017 A Day After Signing Him

An official cause of death has not yet been revealed. However, Gossip of the City reported that the “Frozone” rapper “overdosed on percs in front of his girlfriend.”

Known for his clever lyricism and trademark deep voice, Big Scarr had been growing his fanbase over the past couple of years while also pulling in millions of views on YouTube. Earlier this year, the “SolcyBoyz” star secured a spot on the 2022 XXL Freshman list.

Speaking on his South Memphis roots, he told audiomack last year, “Where I’m from, motherf**kers don’t make it to see 18.”

“You know how they say if you make it to 25 you an OG? I feel like if you make it to see 18 in Memphis you’re an OG,” he also shared. “And it’s most definitely changed: motherf**kers dying, motherf**kers going to jail. A lot of s**t changed.”

R.I.P. Big Scarr. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.

[Via]