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BET AWARDS '14 - INTERNATIONAL BET AWARD PRESENTATIONS : Best International Act: Africa; Best International Act: UK

Source: Kevin Winter / Getty

British-American actor, model, and TV personality (who hosted MTV’s Yo Momma) committed suicide.

After a terrifying and seven-hour  stand off with police and family members, Sam jumped off a bridge in Pasadena, California. The incident is still being investigated with an autopsy pending.

MUST READ: Chris Lighty Suicide: Black Men Kill Themselves Too

 

According to US Magazine, his publicist expressed in a statement, “It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong, Jr. must share the news that Sam has passed away. The circumstances surrounding his death are currently under investigation and no additional details are known at this time. Information about final arrangements will be forthcoming. The family appreciates the thoughts prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request their privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time.”

An abundance of support poured in as Nick Cannon took to Instagram to express his condolences:

https://instagram.com/p/9aRX6ckQcJ/?taken-by=nickcannon

https://instagram.com/p/9aSQ0uEQc-/?taken-by=nicknack

You may remember Sam from films Carmen: The Hip Hopera, Love Don’t Cost a Thing and Anchor Baby.

He was also the face of Tommy Hilfiger for many years. Sarpong is survived by his father, Samuel Sarpong Sr., and his sister, June.

Rest in piece, Sam.

For 2024’s iteration of MadameNoire and HelloBeautiful’s annual series Women to Know, we knew we wanted to celebrate the people who help make the joys of film and television possible. To create art is to create magic. This year, we spotlight Hollywood Executive’s changing the face of cinema.