Will and Grace actor Leslie Jordan dies aged 67

Jordan's publicist said the world had become a "darker place" after his death. (Getty Images via BBC)

The 67-year-old death of US actor and comedian Leslie Jordan has been confirmed by his agent.

US media reported that the actor, known for his performances in Will and Grace and American Horror Story, was murdered in a deadly vehicle accident in Los Angeles on Monday morning.

According to the LA Times, Jordan was pronounced dead at the scene when his automobile collided with a building.

His publicist stated that the world has gotten "darker" due to his passing.

David Shaul stated, "Not only was he a great talent and a delight to work with, but he also provided an emotional refuge to the nation through one of its most trying moments." Knowing that he left the world at the pinnacle of his personal and professional life is the only consolation available now.

Officers said that it was unknown whether Jordan died in the crash or had a medical problem prior.

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1955, he revealed his sexual orientation to his mother at the age of 12 in the extremely conservative state of Tennessee. "I told my mum that I believed something was amiss. I was unfamiliar with the term 'gay.' "Last year, he told People magazine.

"As I had anticipated, she did not produce her Bible. "She added, 'I'm just terribly scared that you'll be mocked if you pick this road,'" he claimed, adding that she advised him to "'simply live your life quietly.' In this instance, I did not heed her recommendation."

After graduating from the University of Tennessee in 1982, he relocated to Los Angeles and played several parts before landing his breakthrough role on the television drama Murphy Brown. He was known for his small stature, at about 4ft 11in (1.50 meters) tall, and frequently portrayed colorful roles.

In 2006, he received a Primetime Emmy for his portrayal of Beverley Leslie on the American sitcom Will and Grace, which contributed to his growing popularity.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Jordan gained renown among younger audiences as a social media celebrity, sharing daily updates from his flat in Chattanooga while quarantined.

Jordan gained over 5.8 million Instagram followers by posting twice every day about his life, delivering insight into pop music, and creating dance routines.

"My friend called me from California and informed me, "You have gone viral." I responded, "No, honey, I'm good." I do not possess Covid "he joked in one video.

He frequently discussed his struggles with substance misuse - he had his first drink at age 14 - and recently reminisced jokingly about sharing a jail cell with Robert Downey Jr. when the Iron Man actor was battling addiction. "I'm somewhat to blame for his success," Jordan joked later.

In later years, he spoke with CNN host Anderson Cooper about his battle with addiction, which occurred in the 1990s.

People ask Jordan, 'Well, how do you get sober? What's the best way?' "True, he served 120 days in a Los Angeles jail. That will enlighten you."

Sean Hayes, Jordan's co-star on Will and Grace, described him as "one of the funniest people I've ever had the privilege of working with."

Hayes continued, "Everyone who ever met him adored him." "Nobody will ever be comparable to him. A remarkable gift with a really compassionate heart. You will be much missed, dear friend."

George Takei, a Star Trek actor, wrote on Twitter, "Leslie, we are heartbroken by your passing and will miss your wit and unique character."

And RuPaul's Drag Race, the television program on which Jordan appeared as a guest judge, tweeted: "Rest in peace, Leslie Jordan. Thank you for the innumerable laughs and for sharing your energy with everyone."

Publish : 2022-10-25 13:05:00

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