Stand-up was involved in a road accident

American stand-up Kenny DeForest – who made appearances on Late Night with Seth Meyers and The Late Late Show with James Corden – has died five days after he was involved in a road accident.

The comic, who was 37, was taken to Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn after his bicycle was involved in a collision with a motore vehile.

His death was announced by fellow comic Ryan Beck, who posted the news on a GoFundMe page that had been set up to help with medical bills.

Beck says DeForest had undergone surgery to remove a piece of his skull and relieve pressure from a brain bleed.

He wrote that he died ‘surrounded by his parents, family, and friends,’ adding: ‘Kenny’s final moments included some of his favorite songs, stories of his childhood, and memories of his extensive positivity and joy for life.’

The official Late Night with Seth Meyers account tweeted: Kenny DeForest was a universally beloved comedian who died tragically, and much too young.

‘His relaxed, confident delivery always stood out. As you can see from his debut late night set on LNSM, he wasn’t afraid to tackle controversial topics, but never just to be edgy- always in service of an original angle and a great joke. It’s a shame we won’t get to see what he comes up with next.’ 

His comedy special – Kenny DeForest: Don’t You Know Who I Am? – was released in August on YouTube.

Published: 14 Dec 2023