Reggie McFadden, the actor and stand-up comedian known for appearances on Def Comedy Jam and the 1990s Fox sketch show In Living Color, has died at the age of 57. His sister, bestselling author Bernice McFadden, told The Hollywood Reporter that the family were notified he died in Tanzania, where he had lived for the previous 18 years.
The family are currently unaware of when or how he passed away, she stated. The cause of death is not yet known.
Tributes from fellow comedians
Comic Tony Luewellyn wrote on Facebook: "Rest in peace, fellow comedian, Reggie Mcfadden. Another fallen veteran comedy brother!"
McFadden was born on November 30, 1968, and raised in Brooklyn. In 1991, he secured an appearance on HBO's Def Comedy Jam.
Career highlights and television roles
Following his relocation to Los Angeles, he obtained minor parts on Martin, Hangin' With Mr. Cooper, Moesha and Coach, among other television programmes. He is best remembered for his work on In Living Color, appearing in 23 episodes between 1993-4.
He also hosted his own comedy special on Comedy Central and was a regular performer at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. McFadden additionally featured in films including Jacob's Ladder (1990), Minor Adjustments (1995) and Little Nicky (2000).
Legacy and surviving family
The Comedy Store's tribute reads: "Reggie McFadden grew up in the harsh neighborhoods of Brooklyn, New York. He decided to pursue comedy after realizing early on that if he didn't work hard, he'd end up in the projects across the street."
"Reggie quickly rose to prominence in New York after paying his dues. In 1991, he got his big break when the producers of HBO's Def Comedy Jam invited him to appear on their show. He was a huge hit right away. Reggie scored a job on the FOX network's blockbuster drama Martin after arriving in Los Angeles. Hanging with Mr. Cooper, Moesha, Coach, and a Gun, to mention a few, were among the many guest-starring appearances that followed. He joined the famous FOX sketch comedy show In Living Color as the newest cast member in 1992."
"Reggie went on to star in the sexually charged, but short-lived, FOX network comedy Getting Personal after the show ended. He now appears on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm with Larry David as Officer Burt, Larry David's Malibu Neighbor officer. He also appeared in Adam Sandler's film Little Nicky. On cable, his Comedy Central Presents-Reggie McFadden show was the highest-rated comedy special on the network. Overall, this guy understands how to be amusing."
McFadden is survived by his other sister, Misty, sons Jaron and Myles, mother Vivian and brother Kris.
