CNN
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Leslie Jordan, beloved comedian and actor known for his work on “Will and Grace,” has died, his agent has announced.
He was 67 years old.
“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan. Not only was he a mega talent and a joy to work with, but he provided emotional sanctuary for the nation at the time. one of his most difficult times. What he lacked in size he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, entertainer, comedian, partner, and human being. Knowing that he left the world behind in strength of his professional and personal life is the only comfort one can have today,” Sarabeth Schedeen, Jordan’s talent agent, said in a statement to CNN.
“Beyond his talents, Leslie’s gifts for bringing joy to those he touched, his ability to connect with people of all ages, his humility, kindness and gentleness will be sorely missed by all. “, his attorney Eric Feig said in a statement.
Sources told the Los Angeles Times that Jordan was involved in a car crash Monday morning in Hollywood. An LAPD spokesperson confirmed to CiN that there was a fatal accident but would not divulge further details.
In his 2009 book “My Trip Down the Pink Carpet,” Jordan documented his move from Tennessee to Hollywood in 1982. He “boarded a Greyhound bus bound for LA with $1,200 sewn into his underpants and never looked back,” an editor’s description of the book read.
The actor has found television work on shows like “The Fall Guy,” “Designing Women,” and “The People Next Door.”
Jordan originated the role of Earl “Brother Boy” Ingram in the award-winning play “Sordid Lives,” which he reprized in the 2000 independent film adaptation.
He was a fan favorite for his recurring role as Karen’s friend Beverley Leslie on “Will & Grace.” He also appeared in “American Horror Story” and “The Cool Kids.”
His star shone even brighter during the height of the pandemic when his social media presence took off on Instagram, attracting him millions of followers.
Leslie Jordan Talks Internet Stardom With Anderson Cooper
The platform also became a place where Jordan shared his struggles, memories, and family stories (many of them about his beloved mom) through the lens of humor.
Jordan spoke to CNN’s Anderson Cooper about his drug addiction history and being sober for more than 20 years.
“People say, ‘Well, how to get sober, what’s the best way,'” Jordan said.
In one post, Jordan recalled a guard who had taken pity on how Jordan disliked incarceration and informed him that they had Robert Downey Jr. (who decades ago made headlines newspapers for a few run-ins with the law) in custody and release Jordan and give Downey Jr. his bed.
“Pod A, cell 13, top bunk,” Jordan recalled. “I feel responsible for most of Robert Downey Jr.’s success. Honey, I gave him a bed.
His last Instagram post was that he was singing an anthem with artist Danny Myrick on Sunday.