Stand-up comedian Reggie McFadden has died in Tanzania at the age of 57. He was known for his work on Def Comedy Jam and In Living Color. His sister, Bernice McFadden, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. She said the U.S. State Department informed the family about his death. McFadden had lived in Tanzania for about 18 years. However, the family does not yet know when he died. They also have no information about the cause of death. Officials have not released further details about the circumstances.
Reggie McFadden built a career in comedy
Born on November 30, 1968, McFadden grew up in Brooklyn, New York. He began pursuing comedy while trying to build a different future for himself. His major breakthrough came in 1991. He appeared on HBO’s popular comedy series Def Comedy Jam. The appearance helped establish him as a rising stand-up performer. McFadden later moved to Los Angeles. He began securing acting roles on several popular television programs.
His credits included Martin, Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper, Moesha and Coach. He also appeared on Curb Your Enthusiasm years later.
His work on In Living Color
McFadden became especially known for In Living Color. He joined the Fox sketch comedy series during its 1993-94 season. He appeared in 23 episodes of the show’s fifth and final season. His work included several recurring sketches and comedy segments. The role became one of the most notable parts of his television career. The show also featured several major comedy performers during its successful run. McFadden continued working across television and film after In Living Color. He starred in the short-lived Fox comedy Getting Personal in 1998. His film credits included Jacob’s Ladder, Minor Adjustments and Little Nicky. He also appeared as Officer Burt on Curb Your Enthusiasm in 2001.
Comedy remained central to his career
McFadden also received his own comedy special on Comedy Central. He regularly performed at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. He appeared on other comedy programs throughout his career. These included Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The Late Show with David Letterman and Last Call with Carson Daly. In later years, McFadden lived in Tanzania and remained involved in entertainment. His Facebook page identified him as the owner of Olduvai Records. The company was involved in entertainment production and gold mining in Tanzania. McFadden also released ENJOY, Vol. 1 in May 2025. The news of Reggie McFadden’s death has prompted tributes from people connected to comedy. Prof. Rel Dowdell described him as a talented veteran comedian and actor.
McFadden is survived by his sons Jaron and Myles. His survivors also include his mother Vivian, sisters Bernice and Misty, and brother Kris.
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