On October 26th, we learned that comedian Patrice O’Neal had had a stroke the week before. Back then, Jenn was concerned that the delay in the announcement hinted that Patrice wasn’t doing well. She was right: Patrice passed away yesterday:
New York-based comedian Patrice O’Neal died Monday after suffering a stroke in October that was related to his diabetic condition. He was 41.
His death was confirmed via Twitter Tuesday by host Opie (Gregg Hughes) of theOpie and AnthonySiriusXM radio show, on which the stand-up comic was a regular guest. The message read: “Yes it’s true that our pal Patrice O’Neal has passed away. The funniest and best thinker i’ve ever known PERIOD. #devastated.”
O’Neal, a 6′ 5″, 300-plus-lb. native of Boston, also appeared on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Late Show with David Letterman and the sitcoms Arrested Development and The Office.
In September, O’Neal, whose humor was often confrontational but funny, participated in the Comedy Central roast of Charlie Sheen, where other comedians made fun of his diabetes. It was his last performance.
Rest in peace, Mr. O’Neal. You and your humor will be very sorely missed.
This sucks; my heart just sunk a mile.
That’s so sad. Very talented guy.
What others said. It’s a horrible loss—he had Carlin-levels of everyday incisiveness. Thanks for covering it, Em.