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THE comedian Ray DeJon has died – just days before he was set to star in a comedy roast that would commemorate his birthday.
Tributes have poured in for the entertainer and personality after news of his death emerged.
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DeJon’s comedy career spanned more than 25 years and he entertained audiences containing up to 5,000 people.
He was set to perform at his club 275ParkBK venue in Brooklyn, New York, on July 16.
DeJon’s death was announced by the video director Ralph McDaniels.
In his final Instagram video, he encouraged fans to buy tickets to the gig.
He said it was his birthday on July 15 but said he was going to celebrate the occasion a day later.
The roast, which was set to be hosted by the singer-songwriter Jimmy Cozier, would’ve seen stars such as Kenny Woo, Brooklyn Mike, K. Smith and Stephanie Kay take to the stage.
DeJon’s final post has been inundated with messages of condolence.
“I have no words,” comedian Ayanna Dookie said.
“Thank you for all the stage time and for putting so many of us on.”
“Damn,” former boxing champion Shannon Briggs wrote.
“So sad to hear this. Rest easy champ.”
Standup comedian Vishnu Vaka described DeJon as one of the “kindest people” on the comedy scene.
“Part of my upbringing. Went to a lot of his shows. Great guy,” another fan posted on social media.
In their tributes, fans alluded to the fact his birthday was approaching.
“I hope you still have his birthday party,” one mourning fan wrote.
‘A PIONEER AND A KING’
Mourners described DeJon as a pioneer in Brooklyn, while others labeled him a “king.”
DeJon is a stroke survivor and beat addiction, as reported by Industry Rules.
He revealed how he was left paralysed on one side of the body following his stroke.
DeJon revealed he started tissue plasminogen activator drugs and said he started to regain the feeling in his left side.
But, he also suffered family tragedy as he was 35 when his dad died.
Off-stage, he’s also worked with young adults on issues such as substance abuse and domestic violence.
DeJon opened the first black owned comedy venue, the Laffaholics Comedy Club in Brooklyn.
He also interviewed music stars such as Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys.
