Reggie McFadden, the comedian and actor remembered for “Def Comedy Jam” and “In Living Color,” has died at 57.
His family learned of his death in Tanzania, where he had lived for about 18 years. The cause and exact timing of his death remain unknown.
Reggie McFadden’s family says the comedian died in Tanzania, where he had lived for about 18 years
McFadden’s sister, Bernice McFadden, told TMZ that the U.S. State Department called to inform the family of his death. The comedian had been living in Tanzania for approximately 18 years. The officials did not indicate when or how he died.
Bernice also mentioned that Reggie had been estranged from the family due to “family s*t.” The Hollywood Reporter also confirmed his death, while the circumstances remained unknown.
McFadden was born in Brooklyn on November 30, 1968. The comedian took up stand-up comedy after growing up around housing projects. He landed his breakthrough role on HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam” in 1991 before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting.
His best-known television credit came on “In Living Color.” McFadden joined the Fox sketch comedy series in 1993 and appeared in 23 episodes during its fifth and final season, playing various characters.
McFadden continued expanding his portfolio after the series ended. He appeared on “Martin,” “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper,” “Coach” and “Moesha,” and later played a neighbor of Larry David on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
His film credits included “Jacob’s Ladder” and “Little Nicky.” He also appeared as a stand-up on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “The Late Show with David Letterman.”
In Tanzania, McFadden built a second career through Olduvai Records, an entertainment company he founded. He also released his own music, including ENJOY, Vol. 1, which was released in May 2025 through Olduvai Records.
