Courtney Balcombe – Sports Editor

clb6264@psu.edu

Photo Credit: Stefani Reynolds/Getty Images.

Leslie Jordan, the actor, comedian, and musician known for his roles in “Will & Grace” and “Call Me Kat” and for his uplifting pandemic Instagram videos, died after a car crash Monday, October 24 in Hollywood.

According to The Los Angeles Times, Jordan was behind the wheel of a BMW when he crashed into the side of a building at Cahuenga Boulevard and Romaine Street at 9:30 a.m., Los Angeles Police Department Officer Lizeth Lomeli told “The Times.” The longtime actor was declared dead at the scene. It was not immediately clear whether Jordan was killed in the crash or suffered a medical emergency beforehand, but the condition of the vehicle suggested Jordan may have lost control before slamming into the building, a law enforcement source said.

Jordan’s rise to fame began in 1989 when he was cast in the first season of “Murphy Brown,” his 30-year career was marked by scene-stealing roles in TV shows such as “Bodies of Evidence” and “Hearts Afire.” Later on, his fame grew while starring in NBC’s “Will & Grace,” as well as stints on Ryan Murphy’s “American Horror Story” franchise and “The Cool Kids,” in which he played queer, confident senior citizen Sid Delacroix. More recently, Jordan was starring in the Fox sitcom “Call Me Kat,” which premiered its third season last month.

David Shaul, the actor’s representative, stated his death.

“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan,” Shaul said. “Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its 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.”