Nationwide — Reggie McFadden, an African American comedian best known for his role in the show In Living Color, has died at age 57. The comedian spent years working in television, film, and stand-up comedy before eventually moving to Tanzania, where he had lived for the past 18 years. His sister, author Bernice L. McFadden, confirmed his death and said the U.S. State Department notified the family on Sunday, October 4th.
The family has not shared where exactly he died or what caused his death, as reported by People. He had largely stayed out of the public spotlight in recent years while living in Tanzania. Before moving overseas, however, he built a career in American entertainment and became best known for his appearances on In Living Color, the sketch comedy series created by Keenen Ivory Wayans.
McFadden joined In Living Color during its fifth and final season. He appeared in 23 episodes between 1993 and 1994, working on a series that had become a major part of American sketch comedy. The show premiered in 1990 and featured performers including Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Lopez, and several members of the Wayans family.
His acting credits extended well beyond the series. He appeared on television shows such as Moesha, Coach, and Martin. In 1998, he took a starring role in the sitcom Getting Personal, which also featured Vivica A. Fox, Jon Cryer, and Duane Martin. A few years later, he appeared on Curb Your Enthusiasm as a police officer who lived next door to Larry David’s character.
McFadden also worked in movies and spent part of his career performing stand-up comedy. His film credits included Jacob’s Ladder in 1990 and Little Nicky in 2000. He toured as a comedian and later had a comedy special on Comedy Central. His biography on The Comedy Store’s website said growing up in Brooklyn influenced his decision to pursue comedy. He viewed hard work as a way to build a different future for himself.
His first major break came in 1991, when producers of HBO’s Def Comedy Jam invited him to perform. The appearance helped bring his comedy to a wider audience and opened the door to more opportunities in television and film. McFadden is survived by his sister Bernice, sons Jaron and Myles, mother Vivian, and siblings Misty and Kris.