Celebrity News August 29, 2015
'Les Mis' Actor Kyle Jean-Baptiste Dies at 21
Broadway is mourning the loss of a bright young talent: "Les Miserables" actor Kyle Jean-Baptiste has died at 21 after falling from his mother's fire escape.
Jean-Baptiste made history just weeks ago when, as the understudy for the "Les Mis" character "Jean Valjean," he took the stage as both the youngest and the first African-American actor to play the part on Broadway.
RIP Kyle Jean-Baptiste. My love and hugs to his family. And the cast of @LesMiserables
@KChenoweth
He was just getting started. So sad. My condolences as well to family and cast. https://t.co/1q6r0wmG1f
@joshgroban
Very sad. Prayers going out to the family of Kyle Jean-Baptiste. Hug someone you love extra tight.... https://t.co/iSInuUA9SJ
@theebillyporter
Unbelievable. Heartbreaking. RIP Kyle Jean Baptiste https://t.co/iBbH7zLjHO
@AnikaNoniRose
I'm postponing today's #Ham4Ham show in light of the tragic news re: Kyle-Jean Baptiste. Here he is. What a light. https://t.co/Yq6SFC8FsH
@Lin_Manuel
This is so unspeakably tragic. Thinking of his family and all who loved him🙏🏻 https://t.co/rjzSIQ1FYh
@DebraMessing
The "Les Mis" company released the following statement:
"The entire 'Les Miserables' family is shocked and devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of Kyle, a remarkable young talent and tremendous person who made magic—and history—in his Broadway debut. We send our deepest condolences to his family and ask that you respect their privacy in this unimaginably difficult time."
Watch and listen to a collection of Jean-Baptiste's greatest performances here.
