A heartbreaking end for a beloved TV actor: Leslie Jordan, known for his roles on Will & Grace and American Horror Story as well as his viral videos on social media, has died in a car crash at 67.
According to TMZ, the actor reportedly suffered a medical emergency this morning while driving in Hollywood, and crashed his BMW into a building.
“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan,” Jordan’s agent David Shaul said in a statement, per Variety.
“What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being. Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”
Jordan, openly gay and 4’11”, was a one-of-a-kind actor who lent his comedic talents to many shows over his long career.
His best-known performance was his recurring role on the hit sitcom Will & Grace, the sexually ambiguous frenemy of Karen (Megan Mullally.) Jordan won an Emmy Award in 2006 for his performance.
Jordan also played several characters in the American Horror Story franchise, and most recently co-starred in the series Call Me Kat opposite Mayim Bialik.
His notable film roles include the 2000 film Sordid Lives and the Oscar-winning The Help.
But Jordan is also known to many people through his social media presence: he became a huge viral star in 2020 by through the skits, jokes and stories he posted on Instagram.
His Instagram amassed over 5.6 million followers.
His viral fame came at the height COVID-19 pandemic, and he helped many people get through that difficult time and the lockdowns with laughter.
“Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its most difficult times,” said David Shaul.
After news of the actor’s death, many of his fans and colleagues shared their grief and condolences on social media:
Rest in peace to the great Leslie Jordan. We will definitely miss seeing him on screen — a truly one-of-a-kind talent.
Our hearts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
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