Early Monday morning, the comedy world was shaken by the death of comedian Patrice O’Neal. The fearless performer, suffered a stroke back in October, but unfortunately, O’Neal lost the battle with his condition.
His friends at the Opie and Anthony radio show, in which O’Neal was a regular guest, confirmed the sad news yesterday via Twitter, saying:
‘Yes it’s true that our pal Patrice O’Neal has passed away. The funniest and best thinker I’ve ever known PERIOD.’
Patrice was only 41.
Funnyman: Patrice O'Neal made a name as a stand-up comedian.
O’Neal was a large part of the part of the New York comedy scene for years – emotionally, intellectually and physically. Standing 6’5″, the comic was actually recruited by Northeastern to play football before deciding his future was on the stage rather than on the field.
In a signature sketch from his 2011 feature-length special Elephant In The Room, O’Neal reflects on the way football has changed since the days when he used to play.
Watch video: Patrice O’Neal Elephant in the Room
In the wake of his death, we came across some little known facts about his career and life, that we like to share with you.
The place he called it home: O’Neal was born and raised in the Roxbury neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, where he was raised by his mother.
First television appearance: O’Neal’s first television appearance came on The Apollo Comedy Hour, where he performed Malcom XXL. From there, he moved on to Showtime at the Apollo and various other television appearances.
In the world of the wrestling entertainment: O’Neal worked a breif stint as a writer and creative team member for WWE, the professional wrestling company started by Vince McMahon.
Statuary rape controversy: In 2010, O’Neal was denied entry into Canada because of a statutory rape case that dated back to 1986 when he was 16.
Elephant In The Room: In 2011, Comedy Central aired O’Neal’s first hour-long special, Elephant In The Room.
Our condolences go out to his family, friends and fans who will surely miss him greatly.
