In very sad news, comedian/civil rights activist Dick Gregory has passed away. He was 84. Celebs are reacting, pouring out their love and gratitude. More inside…
Hearts are extremely heavy with sadness.
Comedian/civil rights activist Dick Gregory has passed away, confirmed by his family. He was 84. It’s reported the stand up comic died of heart failure on Saturday.
"It is with enormous sadness that the Gregory family confirms that their father, comedic legend and civil rights activist Mr. Dick Gregory departed this earth tonight in Washington, D.C.," Gregory's son, Christian, said in a statement. "The family appreciates the outpouring of support and love and respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time."
Earlier this week, Mr. Gregory had been hospitalized for what his son described “a serious but stable medical condition. He had to reschedule in an event in Atlanta due to his hospitalization.
He leaves behind his wife, Lillian, and their 10 children.
Dick Gregory broke barriers as one of the first African-Americans to perform at white clubs. He was also a pioneer for the civil rights movement where he was arrested several times for joining different rallies. He was able to find laughter during the civil rights movement, during a trouble time for African-Americans.
Throughout the years, he has mentored several celebrities as they built their careers in the entertainment business. Celebs are pouring their hearts out with emotional tributes to the legendary star on social media. See their reactions below:
I've known Dick Gregory since I was 16 years old. A true, committed, and consistent freedom fighter. May he Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/4OelJucrbF
— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) August 20, 2017
You taught us and loved us. Thank you, #DickGregory. pic.twitter.com/uYytZ3PIKy
— Ava DuVernay (@ava) August 20, 2017
Dick Gregory lived an amazing, revolutionary life. A groundbreaker in comedy and a voice for justice. RIP
— John Legend (@johnlegend) August 20, 2017
Heaven just got funnier RIP #DickGregory#TeamDl
— DL Hughley (@RealDLHughley) August 20, 2017
My family is deeply saddened by the passing but celebrating the life of #DickGregory . Blazed trails using wit & comedy to bring TRUTH. pic.twitter.com/RHHSrUSyCU
— Kim Fields (@KimVFields) August 20, 2017
He taught us how to laugh. He taught us how to fight.He taught us how to live.Dick Gregory was committed to justice.I miss him already. #RIPpic.twitter.com/3CfpM2O17D
— Rev Jesse Jackson Sr (@RevJJackson) August 20, 2017
He provoked us to think and to change. And he made us laugh, too. Rest, our dear elder, #DickGregory. pic.twitter.com/LxSgYMhI8K
— The King Center (@TheKingCenter) August 20, 2017
Read this inspirational message Dick posted on his birthday this year:
May he rest in peace.
Photo: Getty