Kevin Barnett, 32, a rising star in the comedy world, has died, according to his publicist and studio. Barnett was one of the writers and the co-creator behind the hit TV series “Rel,” starring comedian Rel Howery, and was well-known in major writing circles.
According to his agent, Barnett was on vacation in Mexico when he died. At this time, there has been no cause of death released. Barnett’s career was short but industrious. His writing credits include the TV series “The Carmichael Show” and films The Heartbreak Kid and The Do-Over. He is best known as the co-creator and chief writer for the Fox comedy series “Rel.”
Mike Scully, a fellow writer form “The Carmichael Show” posted:
Kevin Barnett was a great standup, but I knew him as a smart, funny, talented TV writer and just a really sweet guy who made the insanity of the late nights more fun. Condolences to his family and friends. Can’t believe I’m writing this.
— Mike Scully (@scullymike) January 22, 2019
Lil Rel Howery posted to Twitter at the passing of Barnett:
“I was trying to figure out what to say but I can’t I’m truly heartbroken by this and just really hurt as the hours pass… So gifted and so dope and a true friend!!!! I don’t know what…”
I was trying to figure out what to say but I can’t I’m truly heartbroken by this and just really hurt as the hours pass… So gifted and so dope and a true friend!!!! I don’t know what… https://t.co/JI4fwptHhB
— Lil Rel Howery (@LilRel4) January 23, 2019
Fox Entertainment released the following statement on the passing of one of the company’s top talents: “Our hearts are broken, as are those of everyone at ‘Rel,’ at the news of Kevin Barnett’s passing. He was an incredibly funny, wildly talented man who had so much more to do and so many more stories to tell. We send our thoughts and prayers to his friends and family during this difficult time.”
