The social media community is grieving the passing of John Crawley, the cherished TikTok creator known to millions as KingBeardX. The 47-year-old, recognized for his humorous reaction videos and trademark fluffy beard, died on August 18, 2025, following an unexpected health crisis.

His passing has triggered a wave of sorrow among fans and fellow creators, showcasing the deep influence he had on his extensive online audience.

What Was John Crawley’s Official Cause of Death?

John Crawley’s cause of death was cardiac arrest, as verified by James Steele, the funeral director at Glenfield Funeral Home in New Albany, Mississippi. This confirmation was given after Crawley had been hospitalized for at least two weeks due to severe respiratory difficulties.

He was admitted to the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo earlier in August after struggling to breathe, marking the beginning of a rapid and tragic decline in his health.

“Knowing him personally, John was a good guy. He lit up a lot of people’s worlds. I just left his house and was with his his mother, we prayed together. She’s torn up right now but she’s going to make it.” – James Steele, Funeral Director at Glenfield Funeral Home

TikTok Star John Crawley Dead at 47 https://t.co/JeuxbvFWKs pic.twitter.com/fIJt1dlom9

— TMZ (@TMZ) August 19, 2025

A Timeline of KingBeardX’s Final Health Struggle

Crawley’s health emergency began in early August when he was hospitalized due to serious trouble breathing. His friend and former podcast co-host, Anthony Caruso, set up a GoFundMe page on August 5th to help cover medical costs, noting that doctors had placed him on a ventilator.

When his oxygen levels dropped dangerously low and he stopped breathing, he was moved to the intensive care unit (ICU). A tube was later placed in his chest in an effort to stabilize his worsening condition .

“John is the main breadwinner for his family, and unfortunately, he doesn’t have medical insurance. His condition is quite unstable, and we’re all worried about him.” – Anthony Caruso, via the GoFundMe page

The Heartbreaking Hospitalization Announcement

The public first learned of Crawley’s dire situation through the GoFundMe campaign organized by Anthony Caruso. The fundraiser was initially created to address the significant financial burden of his medical care, as Crawley was the primary provider for his family and did not have health insurance.

The page detailed his unstable condition and expressed the deep concern felt by his loved ones. Following his passing, the purpose of the fundraiser shifted to covering funeral expenses and supporting his mother.

How Did the News of His Passing Break?

Caruso delivered the devastating update on the GoFundMe page on Tuesday, August 19th, informing fans that Crawley had died the previous day. The announcement prompted an immediate flood of tributes and condolences from his millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram. Fans expressed their shock and sadness, sharing how his content had brought joy and laughter into their lives during difficult times.

“I’m really sorry to tell everyone the bad news but Pimpmunkx (KingBeardx) passed away yesterday.” – Anthony Caruso, via the GoFundMe update