“With the heaviest hearts, we share that our dear Alex passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by love and dear friends,” said Hilarie Steele, reflecting the profound loss felt by those close to comedian Alex Duong.
Duong, who was 42 years old, died on Saturday morning at St John’s Hospital in Santa Monica, California, after a year-long battle with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer. His health had deteriorated significantly in the days leading up to his death, as he went into septic shock the night before.
Known for his roles in the police drama Blue Bloods and as a writer for Netflix’s Historical Roast With Jeff Ross, Duong was a beloved figure in the comedy community. He had been a member of SAG-AFTRA since 2009 and was set to perform across 41 states before his diagnosis interrupted his plans.
Duong’s journey in comedy began after initially pursuing a degree in medicine. His transition to the entertainment industry was marked by a dedication to his craft, often stating, “Comedians always have each other’s backs when times are s—. We know how hard it is to pine and struggle and scrape by in this lifestyle, just so we can do these jokes and keep improving.”
His family, including his wife Cristina and daughter Everest, received support through a GoFundMe campaign set up to assist them during his illness and after his passing. Duong’s contributions to comedy and his resilience in the face of adversity have left a lasting impact.
As tributes pour in from fellow comedians and fans alike, the community mourns the loss of a talented individual who brought joy to many. Duong’s legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who appreciated his work.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any upcoming memorial services or tributes planned in his honor, but the outpouring of love and respect for Duong is a testament to his influence in the world of comedy.
