Comedian Patrice O’Neal died this morning due to complications from a stroke he had last month.
O’Neal, who was 6-foot-5 and weighed more than 300 pounds, had long battled diabetes.
Among other things, the 41-year-old funnyman was a regular at TV and comedy roasts, and last appeared at the Comedy Central Roast of Charlie Sheen back in September 2011.
Patrice O’Neal had also been a regular in the New York City comedy scene, as well as on the “Opie and Anthony” radio show on SiriusXM satellite radio.
“Yes it’s true that our pal Patrice O’Neal has passed away” host Opie (real name: Gregg Hughes) tweeted today confirming the sad news. “The funniest and best thinker I’ve ever known PERIOD. #devastated”
His booking agent Matt Frost said in a statement released today:
“It is with terrible sadness we must report that Patrice O’Neal has passed away this morning at 7:00am due to the complications of the stroke he suffered on October 19. Many of us have lost a close and loved friend; all of us have lost a true comic genius. His mother, who was also his best friend, was at his side. Patrice is survived by his wife, Vondecarlo; his step daughter Aymilyon, sister Zinder, and his mother Georgia. The family wishes to thank all of the fans and friends who have expressed an outpouring of love and support for Patrice these past weeks. We ask that you please respect the family’s request for privacy at this difficult time.”
