The comedy world is mourning the loss of stand-up comedian, writer, and actor Jak Knight. The star, who’s worked on several hit television shows, including “black-ish” and Netflix’s “Bad Mouth,” died Thursday night in Los Angeles. He was 28 years old. The cause of death has not yet been revealed.
A representative for Knight confirmed the news with USA Today, stating, “Knight’s loved ones ask that their privacy please be respected during this extremely difficult time.”
The rising star is best known for co-creating and starring in the new Peacock comedy series “Bust Down,” which premiered last March with Sam Jay, Langston Kerman, and Chris Redd, all of whom starred in the series. Knight also co-executive-produced his former co-star’s HBO series “Pause with Sam Jay.”
From 2017 to 2021, the actor voiced the character Devon on the animated series “Big Mouth.” He performed worldwide and opened for comedians including Dave Chappelle, Eric Andre, Aziz Ansari, and Joel McHale. His half-hour Netflix special aired as part of “The Comedy Lineup” series in 2018.
Tributes for the late star already have begun to pour in on social media as many reflected on Knight’s career and legacy. Comedian Teddy Ray shared a vintage photo of himself, Knight, and rapper Noname during what appeared to be a night out.
“This mighta been the n-ggerishly happy I ever been in life to watch you have yo own show ordering white people around all day with a endless Hennessy budget available,” Ray wrote in a Twitter post. “It took me forever to type this. I ain’t think you’d leave me this tearful. Love you 4ver Jak Knight.”
“Saturday Night Live” alum Jay Pharoah tweeted, “Man…RIP Jak Knight, bro was only 28 years old and carving out his path in Hollywood in a major way, I pray his family and loved ones comforting during this rough time. So sorry to hear about his passing.”
“Insecure” actor Jean Eli shared on his page, “This life don’t play fair. RIP Jak Knight.”
At the time of his death, Knight had recently wrapped filming on “First Time Female Director,” the feature directorial debut of Chelsea Peretti, which was his first film credit.
