Another tragedy strikes as Christopher “Big Black” Boykin died Tuesday (May 8), TMZ reports. Although the cause of death is unknown, several sources are speculating that the reality television star passed away after suffering a heart attack. He was 45 years old and is survived by his 9-year-old daughter.
Big Black starred alongside pro-skateboarder Rob Dyrdek on the MTV show Rob & Big where they’d go on various adventures. The two had a falling out after the series came to an abrupt end in its third season. In an interview, Dyrdek suggested it was Big Black’s sudden transition from security guard to a famous reality television personality that contributed to the rift. Fortunately, the longtime friends reconnected before his passing.
Dyrdek posted an emotional tribute to Instagram about Big Black, who he calls his “brother.”
Rob’s Ridiculousness co-hosts also shared their sadness about losing their friend.
RIP @BigBlack. My heart is crushed. I'll remember all the times you made me laugh and my prayers go out to your family ❤️???
— Chanel (@chanelwestcoast) May 10, 2017
Many notable names in the Hip Hop community also paid their respects to a man who clearly made them laugh, including Juicy J, OG Maco, IAMSU! and Rockie Fresh.
Rip Christopher "Big Black" Boykins
— juicy j (@therealjuicyj) May 10, 2017
Damn rip Big Black smh
— Heart Break Suzy ? (@IAMSU) May 10, 2017
R I P Big Black
— #OGMACO3 (@OGMaco) May 10, 2017
Rip Big Black pic.twitter.com/sYPLPCRZtR
— Rockie Fresh (@rockiefresh) May 10, 2017
Watch some of Big Black’s funniest moments below and check out the social media posts above.