Kenny DeForest dies at 37: Internet mourns death of comedian who starred in 'The James Corden Show'

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK: Kenny DeForest, a rising stand-up comedian who had appeared on late-night shows and comedy specials, died on Wednesday, December 13, at age 37, just days after crashing his e-bike in Brooklyn, as per Deadline.

Kenny DeForest got his start in comedy in Missouri

DeForest was born on April 23, 1986, in Springfield, Missouri, where he first got his start in stand-up comedy before later moving to New York City.

He began gaining wider recognition in 2016 after a breakthrough performance on the web series 'Live @The Apt,' and made his national TV debut the next year with an appearance on NBC’s 'Late Night with Seth Meyers.'

DeForest soon racked up high-profile credits on shows like MTV’s 'Decoded,' CBS’s 'The Late Late Show with James Corden,' Comedy Central’s 'Tales From the Trip,' and more. 

Known for his relaxed onstage presence and wry, observational style, DeForest released his first stand-up album 'BAD Dreams' in 2017 and performed at the prestigious Just for Laughs comedy festival in Montreal the following year.

Kenny DeForest lost control of his e-bike before crash

According to DeForest's friend and fellow comedian Ryan Beck, new information from an EMS report and discussions with witnesses indicate that DeForest was riding an e-bike by himself when he somehow crashed at the intersection of Rogers Avenue and Sterling Place, near Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

The incident occurred on the evening of December 8. Earlier reports suggested DeForest had collided with a car, but it now appears he fell or lost control of his e-bike without another vehicle being involved. An EMS crew filed a report, but no NYPD report was made since it was not a hit-and-run as initially believed.

Tributes pour in after Kenny DeForest's death

After being rushed to the hospital, DeForest underwent neurological surgery to relieve bleeding and swelling in his brain. Tragically, he passed away five days after the accident at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, surrounded by his parents, family and friends.

As news of DeForest's tragic passing reverberated through social media, heartfelt tributes poured in, a testament to the impact he had on countless lives.

"My sweet, sweet brother Kenny DeForest. Rest eternally," expressed one X user.

Another user's poignant message conveyed, "I hope kennyDeForest knew that we really did love him."

"This just sucks. It really does. I had so much love and respect for Kenny DeForest, and I hope his family knows how much he meant to so many of us. Get your rest, Kenny," mourned a third user.

Remembering DeForest's vibrant spirit, one person remarked, "Kenny DeForest was always down to clown. A bright light. You'll be missed."

"I can’t believe Kenny DeForest is gone. The dude was such a great comedian and such an amazing guy. No matter how close you were or the last time he saw you, he always treated you like you’d hung out every day for years. Dude was hilarious on stage and even better off. RIP," lamented another.

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