'A shocking, horrible loss': Comedy world reacts to the unexpected death of Kevin Barnett
Tuesday’s news that comedian Kevin Barnett has died shocked and saddened fans.
Barnett, 32, was one of the co-creators and writers behind the new Fox show Rel. His career also included writing and producing The Carmichael Show and writing for Broad City. He was reportedly working on multiple things at the time of his death.
Deadline broke the news, reporting that Barnett was vacationing in Mexico at the time. A rep for Barnett did not immediately respond to Yahoo’s request for comment.
Rest in peace Kevin Barnett 🙏 pic.twitter.com/FM6ctlQEDo
— The Stand NYC (@TheStandNYC) January 22, 2019
His agency, Comedy Central and Fox confirmed his death.
“Our hearts are broken, as are those of everyone at Rel, at the news of Kevin Barnett’s passing,” Twentieth Century Fox Television and Fox Broadcasting Company said in a statement. “He was an incredibly funny, wildly talented man who had so much more to do and so many more stories to tell. We send our thoughts and prayers to his friends and family during this difficult time.”
Kevin Barnett was an incredible comedian and writer, contributing to Broad City, the stand-up community and beyond. He’ll be greatly missed. pic.twitter.com/4uyoMNkGk0
— Comedy Central (@ComedyCentral) January 22, 2019
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and client Kevin Barnett. He was an incredible talent and a wonderful person. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. We will miss him. pic.twitter.com/aDog631PVf
— United Talent Agency (@unitedtalent) January 22, 2019
Ben Kissel, Barnett’s co-host on the podcast “Round Table of Gentlemen,” offered some touching words.
Dear Last Podcast family,
It’s with a heavy heart we inform you of the passing of Kevin Barnett. The joy he brought to our lives is the greatest gift we have ever received. Remind your friends you love them because you never know when you’re see them again. We love you KB.— Ben Kissel (@BenKissel) January 22, 2019
Barnett was young, but he had obviously won over many people while working as a comic doing standup and also writing for television. Here are some of the reactions from his famous, grief-stricken fans.
i am so sad https://t.co/ScYINWIgvF
— Chelsea Peretti (@chelseaperetti) January 22, 2019
We also got an upgrade because we told the concierge we were on our honeymoon and held hands the whole time. Fuck he was funny.
— Brooks Wheelan (@brookswheelan) January 22, 2019
RIP another comedian who was a great dude. Seriously a great dude. @Fatboybarnett rest easy Kevin.
— yannispappas (@yannispappas) January 22, 2019
Rest In Peace Kevin Barnett. Too young, just too, too young…
Kevin Barnett Dies: Comedian Passes Away Tragically at 32 – https://t.co/p4ppGL1VsW https://t.co/UJcWrCb6s0— David Alan Grier (@davidalangrier) January 22, 2019
A shocking, horrible loss. Kevin Barnett was a hilarious, talented comedian and a great guy. RIP @fatboybarnett. This is so awful. https://t.co/8VeyvL7Ynu
— Jamie A. Lee (@TheJamieLee) January 22, 2019
I’m kind of in disbelief about the passing of great comedian/writer and good friend to all, Kevin Barnett. I saw him in November & he called me on stage to join him for his set. Having fun with friends on stage or in film, that was his thing. #RipKevinBarnett pic.twitter.com/YFdYhSLY0D
— Seth Herzog (@Thezog) January 22, 2019
Met Kevin Barnett a few years back at The Oddball Festival. Just saw him at The Comedy Store. Super funny, sincere & a really nice kid. Believe everything you’re reading about him. Very sad. Hard to believe. Thinking of his close friends & family. Rest In Peace.
— Steven BRODY Stevens (@BrodyismeFriend) January 22, 2019
I can’t believe this. RIP Kevin Barnett. One of the nicest, funniest dudes. An amazing comic and writer who just created his own series. What a massive loss of a guy who made amazing comedy on stage and television. Dammit. pic.twitter.com/eCMmj5eQrC
— Mike Drucker (@MikeDrucker) January 22, 2019
It is with a heavy heart that we’ve learned of the passing of comedian Kevin Barnett. He will be missed. pic.twitter.com/nmfh5WQcWz
— Funny Or Die (@funnyordie) January 22, 2019
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