Brooklyn native comedian Reggie McFadden, who became famous for his stint on the hit TV show In Living Color, passed away at the age of 57. His sister, author Bernice McFadden, told The Hollywood Reporter that “the Department told the family that he died in Tanzania. We don’t yet know the reason for her death. A brief look back in his life and career.
Confirmed by his sister
On Oct. 4, Sister confirmed the death of the brother of Bernice L. McFadden was his death. She is an international best-seller. It was first reported to the public in her statement, with a number of entertainment media following up with their own reports.
Died in Tanzania, cause unknown
He passed away in Tanzania, though, and the Department notified the family. No one in the family knows of the date or cause of his death. His sister told the Los Angeles Times she was saddened that he passed away so far from home.
Growing up in brooklyn
McFadden is a native of Brooklyn. He lost his way to comedy after noticing that if he didn’t work he would otherwise be living across the street in the projects, according to a biography on The Comedy Store.
A breakthrough on def comedy jam
McFadden first broke the unknown in 1991 when he made an appearance on HBO’s Def Comedy Jam. Forbes reports that his first TV credit as a stand-up was on An Evening at the Improv, also in 1991. His two first appearances marked him as a member of the comedy boom of the early 1990s.
Joining in living color
In 1993-94, McFadden was a regular cast member on 23 episodes of the fifth and final season of the TV series In Living Color. Keenan Ivory Wayans is the creator of The Fox sketch series. This was the one role that he was remembered for the most.
Sketches he appeared in
His In Living Color sketches contained “Wheel of Dozens,” and “All Up in the Family.” During his time on the show he acted as several different characters.
A long list of tv and film credits
He has guest starred on Martin, Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper, Coach, Moesha, and Getting Personal. He was Officer Burt on Curb, Larry David’s neighbour. He has also worked in film, such as Jacob’s Ladder and Little Nicky.
A second life in tanzania
He lived in Tanzania for about 18 years. He was the owner of a gold mining company in Tanzania and also an entertainment production company, Olduvai Records, his Facebook page stated.
Tributes from the comedy community
Comedian Tony Luewellyn commented on Facebook: “I am another comedian, fallen, and another fallen Vet of Comedy.” McFadden was a familiar face of the 1990s comedy boom for black viewers.
