The cause of the death of 28-year-old comedian Jak Knight has been revealed. According to multiple reports, Knight’s death was ruled a suicide by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner. The comedian was found on a Los Angeles embankment on July 14, suffering from a gunshot wound. His family confirmed the news on July 15.
Knight co-created and co-starred in Peacock’s “Bust Down,” a show about a group of friends navigating life while working mediocre jobs. The premiere of the show coincided with a rolling out cover in March.
“We just wanted to make something that was off-the-wall funny and assertive and would amplify each of our personalities,” Knight told rolling out. “That was the goal for all of us. We wanted it to really be about the friendship in the worst casino in the worst city in the world, so we’re never punching down, because we are the biggest losers on-screen.”
He also worked and starred on the animated series “Big Mouth” and “Pause with Sam Jay.” Other writing credits include “black-ish.”
He is set to receive his first film credit for an acting role in “First Time Female Director,” which he recently finished filming. In his stand-up career, he opened for Dave Chappelle, Aziz Ansari, Joel McHale and Eric Andre.
“A Black Lady Sketch Show” actress Skye Townsend sent her condolences with a text message screenshot of advice from him.
“The one and only,” Townsend tweeted. “Jak Knight forever. Rest in paradise.”
“Don’t shrink,” Knight’s message read in the screenshot. “Don’t flex. Don’t impose. Explore. Comedy is art and is only utilized correctly if you understand it’s a living organism.”
the one & only.
Jak Knight forever. 🕊rest in paradise. pic.twitter.com/2kuGmRM8we
— Skye Townsend (@SkyeTownsend) July 17, 2022
For help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text 988 to 741741.
