An adored New York City comedian died Wednesday nearly a week after being hospitalized following a horrific crash while riding his e-bike in Brooklyn.
Kenny DeForest, 37, crashed and was thrown from his bike at the intersection of Rogers Avenue and Sterling Place in the borough’s Crown Heights section last Friday, according to Deadline.
He was transported to Kings County Hospital, where had undergone surgery to remove a piece of his skull to relieve pressure from brain bleeding before he died, according to a GoFundMe page set up for the comic.
“Kenny’s final moments included some of his favorite songs, stories of his childhood, and memories of his extensive positivity and joy for life,” fellow comedian and friend Ryan Beck told the outlet.
The NYPD didn’t disclose further details of the crash.
DeForest’s family initially believed the comic was struck by a car and died as a result of the collision, but new details from emergency officials do not refer to another vehicle being involved, the outlet added.
DeForest was best known outside of the New York City comedy scene for being featured on the mainstream late-night talk show circuit performing his craft.
He had made appearances on the hit NBC show Late Night With Seth Meyers, The Late Late Show with James Corden, and Comedy Central’s “Tales From The Trip.”
“Kenny DeForest was a universally beloved comedian who died tragically and much too young,” read a heartfelt tribute on the official X account for Late Night with Seth Meyers’.
“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.”
Beck described DeForest as a “truly positive influence” on the crowdfunding page.
“Kenny’s impactful life will continue on through the gift of organ donation. Even in death he will continue to make meaningful improvements in the lives of others,” Beck shared.
Comedians nationwide took to social media to share memories of a beloved figure in their community.
“I never saw Kenny Deforest not smiling,” fellow comic Mike Feeney wrote on X. “He was always funny, perpetually positive and a pleasure to run into at shows. A great hang through and through. I cant believe he’s gone and I’ll miss seeing him.”
“The kindest Soul, Kenny stuck his neck out for what he felt was right, even when it wasn’t the cool thing to do. He was a friend to all and a solidly righteous dude,” New York comedian Ian Fidance wrote in an Instagram post.
“Kenny DeForest was always down to clown. A bright light. You’ll be missed,” LA-based comedian Atsuko Okatsuka posted on X.
“Man, rest in peace to Kenny Deforest. I remember him doing my room at Bar 4 years ago. He was such a nice dude,” comic Yannis Pappas wrote on X.
