DMX has died at the age of 50.
The rapper and actor, born Earl Simmons, died at White Plains Hospital in New York on Friday (April 9), a week after suffering a heart attack, his family confirms.
“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” the Simmons family said in a statement. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever.”
They went on to thank all those who prayed for him, while asking for privacy. “We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”
The hospital also released a statement. “White Plains Hospital extends its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Simmons, as well as his friends and legions of fans who expressed their unwavering support during this difficult time. Earl Simmons passed away peacefully with family present after suffering a catastrophic cardiac arrest.”
The Ruff Ryders icon was rushed to the hospital on April 2 after suffering a heart attack triggered by a reported drug overdose. He was deprived of oxygen for nearly half an hour, which severely impacted his brain. He was in a coma for several days and underwent a series of tests before his family had to decide whether to take him off life support.
X’s family including his mother, fiancée, kids, and ex-wife had been by his side and praying for his recovery. Earlier this week, hundreds gathered at a prayer vigil outside White Plains Hospital to honor the rap legend, as friends including Swizz Beatz, LL Cool J, and Eminem shared well wishes on social media.
DMX battled with addiction throughout his life and had been to rehab several times. His most recent stint came in 2019 following his 12-month sentence for tax evasion when he checked himself in as a preventative measure.
Back in July, he returned to the spotlight when he and Snoop Dogg faced off in a Verzuz battle, with over half-a-million viewers tuning in. In 2019, he signed a new deal with Def Jam and was readying a new album, his first in nearly nine years, which was set to feature Pop Smoke, Alicia Keys, Lil Wayne, Snoop, and Bono. His last commercial release was 2012’s Undisputed.
The hip-hop community took to social media to mourn the devastating loss.
https://twitter.com/Pharrell/status/1380615054895112194?s=20
Rest easy king Hug my Babegirl Aaliyah when you see her !!!! pic.twitter.com/6TKo3QepXA
— Timbaland (@Timbaland) April 9, 2021
https://twitter.com/MeekMill/status/1380585929216233472?s=20
DMX. ? His gift meant so much to so many. Sending love to his family.
— Halle Berry (@halleberry) April 9, 2021
DMX. ????️ Saddest news. ✝️ Sending love and respect to his FAM FANS AND FRIENDS.
— M.I.A (@MIAuniverse) April 9, 2021
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CNc8T6spurz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
— Def Jam Recordings (@defjam) April 9, 2021
Rest In Peace to a cultural icon. There are no words that can mend the loss the hip-hop community felt today ? #RIPDMX pic.twitter.com/IJdXqfwMJO
— T.I. (@Tip) April 9, 2021
Rest in love King ?? you’ve touched the lives of so many ?? the entire hip hop is hurting right now X … pull the bikes ? out ,, throw ya X up ? … Thank you ??
— TRINA (@TRINArockstarr) April 9, 2021
#RIPDMX Thank you for the music, you’ll be missed.
— AKON (@Akon) April 9, 2021
too young, too early. leaving endless trails of inspiration behind him. rest easy legend ??
— Kehlani (@Kehlani) April 9, 2021
Rest in Heaven DMX
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) April 9, 2021
Even though you had battles you TOUCHED so many through your MUSIC and when you would PRAY so many people FELT THAT! This is heavy for the HipHop family but your LEGACY LIVES ON & your SPIRIT. Continued Prayers for X family & friends for STRENGTH/HEALING?? pic.twitter.com/ZI9NI6Nslg
— Missy Elliott (@MissyElliott) April 9, 2021
