Patrice Oneal, who voiced Jeffron James in Grand Theft Auto IV, also a popular stand-up comic who often appeared on Comedy Central has passed away on Tuesday at the age of 41 following a stroke last month. His agent said that it is with terrible sadness we must report that Patrice O’Neal has passed away this morning.
Living in the New York area, he used to perform at comedy clubs in the area, including headlining appearances at Comix comedy club and Caroline’s. In February of 2011, Comedy Central aired his first hour-long special, Elephant in the Room. Patrice O’Neal started a web series and podcast called The Patrice Oneal Show showing various episodes as of May 15, 2007.
He also performed with a five-person group—Bryan Kennedy, Dante Nero, Vondecarlo Brown, Harris Stanton and Wil Sylvince—touching on many fictional scenarios. The show was produced by For Your Imagination and can be found on O’Neal’s website. He guest-starred in another For Your Imagination-produced show, called Break a Leg, playing Adult-Sized Gary Coleman.
After hearing the news of Patrice ONeal‘s death on Tuesday, a number of celebrities took to Twitter to express their thoughts and feelings about him and his comedy.
Charlie Sheen, who was the target of O’Neal’s jokes during his Comedy Central Roast, wrote, “The entertainment world as well as the world at large lost a brilliant man today. Patrice had that rare ‘light’ around him and inside of him. I only knew him for the few days leading up the Roast. Yet I will forever be inspired by his nobility, his grace and his epic talent. My tears today are for the tremendous loss to his true friends and loving family.”
Seth Meyers tweeted, “RIP Patrice O’Neal. A day spent watching clips of him on-line is a day well spent.”
Denis Leary said “Patrice O’Neal. One of the funniest men who ever walked this earth. RIP,” .
Colin Quinn commented “Thanks to everybody for the Patrice ONeal comments. One of a kind. In heaven right now, charming half and infuriating half, then reversing.”
Kate Walsh: “God Bless Patrice O’ Neal, I’m so glad I got to meet you and hear your funny f’in words. A truly singular voice. RIP”
David Alan Grier said, “RIP Patrice Oneal...Amazing artist. Your voice n spirit will b missed.”
“So damn funny and so smart and such a giant heart,” noted Bob Saget.
Joe Rogan tweeted, “RIP to my friend Patrice O’Neal, a great thinker, a great comic, and a great human being. He had a truly unique perspective on this world.”
Nick Cannon reacted, “An amazing comedian and an even better person.”
Jim Gaffigan called O’Neal, “Undeniably brilliant.”
Vinny Guadagnino said, “RIP Patrice O‘neal..You were one of the best.”
