The “In Living Color” performer had lived abroad for nearly two decades, and his family is still awaiting details about his death.
NEW YORK — Reggie McFadden, the stand-up comedian and actor known for appearances on HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam” and the Fox sketch series “In Living Color,” has died at age 57 in Tanzania, according to his family.
McFadden’s sister, author Bernice L. McFadden, confirmed his death after the family was notified by the U.S. State Department. McFadden had lived in Tanzania for about 18 years. His relatives said they had not been told exactly when he died, and a cause of death had not been announced. The lack of details left his family seeking more information from U.S. officials about his death far from his native Brooklyn.
Born Nov. 30, 1968, in Brooklyn, McFadden developed his career in stand-up comedy before moving into television and film. He gained national exposure through HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam,” appearing during the program’s early years as it became an important showcase for Black stand-up comedians. His television work expanded after those appearances, bringing him roles on several prominent comedy series during the 1990s.
McFadden became a cast member on the fifth and final season of “In Living Color,” appearing in 23 episodes from 1993 to 1994. The Fox sketch-comedy series, created by Keenen Ivory Wayans, had become a major platform for comedy talent and featured performers including Jim Carrey, Jamie Foxx and members of the Wayans family. McFadden played a range of characters during his season on the program.
His television career also included appearances on “Martin,” “Coach,” “Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper,” “Moesha” and “Getting Personal.” In 2001, McFadden appeared on HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” as Officer Burt, a police officer and neighbor of Larry David’s character. His stand-up work also took him to late-night television, including appearances on programs hosted by David Letterman, Conan O’Brien and Carson Daly.
McFadden also worked in movies. His credits included the 1990 psychological thriller “Jacob’s Ladder” and the 2000 Adam Sandler comedy “Little Nicky.” He had his own installment of Comedy Central’s stand-up programming and continued performing as his acting career developed. His screen credits became less frequent by the mid-2000s before he eventually moved away from the U.S. entertainment industry.
McFadden later settled in Tanzania, where his family said he lived for nearly two decades. Bernice McFadden told the Los Angeles Times that relatives last saw him in 2007. The family knew he remained in Tanzania but had limited information about his life there in the years before his death. Reports about his activities overseas have included business and entertainment ventures, although the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
News of McFadden’s death brought tributes from entertainers and others who remembered his work. His sister said the response was meaningful because she believed her brother may have thought audiences had forgotten him after his long absence from American entertainment. Actor Isaiah Washington was among those who publicly remembered McFadden, while fellow comedians also paid tribute to his work and friendship.
McFadden is survived by his sons, Jaron and Myles; his mother, Vivian; his sisters, Bernice and Misty; and his brother, Kris, according to reports citing his family. As of Thursday, authorities had not publicly released a cause or precise date of death, and his family was continuing to await additional information about what happened in Tanzania.
Author note: Last updated October 8, 2026.