Comedian Ken Flores dies at 28 during 2025 Butterfly Effect tour as fans mourn loss of 'rising star'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Tragic news has struck the comedy world as Chicago-based stand-up comedian Ken Flores, 28, has died.

Flores, known for creating the LatinXL comedy show, was found dead at his home on Tuesday afternoon, January 28, around 2 p.m.

His family confirmed the heartbreaking news, with law enforcement sources revealing that it appeared Flores suffered a cardiac arrest. No foul play is suspected in his untimely death.

Flores' death follows just months after the internet mourned the passing of comedians Tony Knight and Martin Mull.

Ken Flores’ family announces comedian's death

Ken Flores' family shared the news of the comedian's death on his Instagram, where he had over 334K followers. In their statement posted on his page, the family expressed deep sorrow over his death.

The statement reads, "It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores. Please respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss."

This news comes just weeks into his 2025 Butterfly Effect tour, which began in Portland, Oregon, on Friday, January 10. 

Days before his death, Flores performed in Norcross, Georgia, on Saturday, January 25th, and was scheduled to perform in Phoenix, Arizona, on Thursday, January 30. Notably, he was set to hit stages in Nashville, Tennessee, Philadelphia, Austin, Texas, and San Diego through April.

Additionally, reports have surfaced that he filmed his first comedy special in December, though it has yet to be released.

Flores began his comedic journey in his teens by posting videos on YouTube, with some of his clips going viral on WorldStarHipHop. In his early 20s, he was encouraged by the owner of the Comedy Shrine to take the stage at the Aurora venue’s open mic event.

Flores then became a beloved figure in the LA stand-up scene, finding a second home at the city's iconic comedy clubs like Hollywood's Laugh Factory, the Comedy Store, The Haha, and Hollywood Improv. 

He also toured extensively, building friendships with stand-up veterans such as Gabriel Iglesias, Jo Koy, and Felipe Esparza. A key figure in the next wave of standout Latin comedians, Flores was set to embark on a national tour alongside comedy stars Ralph Barbosa and his close friend Rene Vaca.

Comedians pay tribute to Ken Flores

As news of Ken Flores' death spread online, tributes poured in from his beloved stand-up comedy peers and fellow comedians in LA. Jo Koy shared with the LA Times, "I would always check on him, I truly loved this guy. I literally posted about a pic of his tour schedule a couple days before he passed. It’s all so crazy." 

Gabriel Iglesias, a close friend, expressed, "I feel honored to have spent time with Ken. Of course he was hilarious but above all he was kind, respectful and fun to be around. He will be missed." 

A longtime mentor of Flores reflected, "[I’ll remember him as] my big little brother with an infectious laugh and presence." 

Ralph Barbosa, who had grown closer to Flores recently before their planned tour together, said, "Ken was funny as hell, he was real as hell, he was never fake with anybody just to get a step ahead. Anything he accomplished he did through merit and hard work. … I admired him a lot and I admired his comedy."

The Hollywood Improv also shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram: "We were honored to share your talent on our stages. You were greatness, and it was only a matter of time until the whole world saw it. You were also kind and a tremendous friend to all lucky enough to know you. We love you Ken, thank you for all the laughs." 

Comedian, Pedro Herrera wrote, "Rising star — see you on the other side bro 💫 🕊️."

Following the post, others close to him shared their tributes in the comments. Rene Humberto Valdiviezo wrote, "My brother, it was a blessing to know you and share you with the world. You changed my life. You had so much left to do. My heart hurts for everyone whose life you made better."

Neema Naz commented, "I was hoping this wasn't real 😔 What a tragic and devastating loss to the world. Ken was a gem and was going to be a star one day. RIP 🙌🏽💜😢." 

Musical artist Los Desvelados added, "Ken 💔 Thank you for all amazing times, the laughter, the jokes, you will be missed RIP 🕊️." 

Stand-up comedian Darren Carter said, "Always happy to see and hang with him backstage. May his memory be a blessing."

Ken Flores's disheartened fans react to comedian's death

Within 8 hours of sharing the post of Ken Flores' tragic death, several internet users were quick to share their comments online. 

One user said, "My heart is broken man, he was way too you too too young and an upcoming star man, i had the privilege to see him 1 time, he will be missed so much man, way too young 🕊️."

Another fan added, "Devastated to say the least. Thoughts with his family and his girl. I hate this 😞." 

An Instagram user wrote, "💔Such a great guy. In a small amount of time, our conversations felt so natural as if I knew him forever . Rip bro 🕊️🙏🏽."

Another fan wrote, "Damn wtf. I wish I saw you in dc." 

A comment read, "No way Rest in peace homie will be missed🙏."

One person showed gratitude, "Miss you bro thanks for the laughs rest easy🙏🕊️."

This article contains remarks made on the internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.