Leslie Jordan died at the age of 67 on Oct. 24, his rep confirmed. The actor reportedly crashed his car into a building after appearing to suffer a medical emergency. In a statement to HollywoodLife, an LAPD spokesperson declined to confirm the victim, but did provide some details. “Today around 9:30am a vehicle collided into a wall in the area of Cahuenga Blvd & Romaine St,” the statement read. “A male adult was pronounced deceased at scene. We are currently not releasing the identity of the decedent.” However, HollywoodLife also obtained the coroner’s report late Monday, which identified the decedent as Leslie Jordan, a “resident of Los Angeles,” while noting that a “cause and manner of death is pending,” along with an examination. “He was pronounced dead at the scene on 10/24/22 at 09:38 hours on Cahuenga Boulevard, south of Romaine Street, in Los Angeles,” the report read.
“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan,” a rep for Leslie told HollywoodLife in a statement, following news of the beloved actor’s death. “Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of it’s most difficult times. What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being. Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”
Warner Brothers also weighed in with a heartfelt statement. “Warner Bros. Television is devastated about the tragic and sudden loss of our dear friend Leslie Jordan,” it read. “Leslie was an extraordinary person and talent. He brought joy to fans across the globe. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and fans at this time.”
Fox Entertainment also commented in a statement, writing, “We are shocked and devastated by today’s tragic passing of Leslie Jordan. Leslie was far more than an Emmy Award winning comedic talent with whom we’ve laughed alongside for all these years. He was the kindest person you could ever imagine who simply lit up a room and brought pure joy and huge smiles to millions of people around the world. The truest of Southern Gentlemen, Leslie carried an infectious exuberance, indelible sense of humor and, throughout, gifted us with countless fond memories that will last forever. As we grieve this sad news, we also wish to extend our most profound sympathies to Leslie’s family, friends and fans, whom he held so dear.”
Some of Leslie’s most notable roles were in Will & Grace, Call Me Kat and American Horror Story, among others. His big screen credits include movies like The Help, as well. Leslie also warmed the hearts of millions with his Instagram videos during the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. He showed off his quirky and lovable personality in the videos, which were posted at a time when the world needed a lift in spirits. His Instagram following skyrocketed by millions of followers thanks to the viral videos.
Leslie’s most recent Instagram post was on Oct. 23, just one day before he died. In the video, he can be heard singing a hymn while a friend plays guitar. “Danny helped me with a new original song that should be comin’ out real soon,” Leslie teased. “Love. Light. Leslie.” After news broke of Leslie’s death, fans began flooding the comments section of his post with tributes and messages mourning his loss.
Leslie’s most recent movie role was in 2021’s The United States vs. Billie Holiday. He appeared on an episode of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2022, and was set to make an upcoming appearance on Trixie Motel, as well. He received an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series in 2006 for his work on Will & Grace.
Leslie’s mother, Peggy Ann, died earlier this year. He had twin siblings, Jana and Janet, but Janet also sadly passed away earlier this year. His family members were often part of the anecdotes he shared during his viral quarantine videos.