The family of Nelsan Ellis has released a statement offering more information about the actors sudden death. He went to Jess Lanier High School and McAdory High School before enrolling at the Thornridge High School in Dolton. Earlier today, E! Or somebody can be a Christian and still be gay and I support it. In the years that followed, he appeared in a number of guest and recurring roles. Nelsan Ellis was born in 1978 in Harvey, IL and moved to Bessemer, AL when he was six with his mother after his parents' divorce. Initially his character was killed at the beginning of the second chapter; however, the popularity of the character forced the makers to revive him and he went on to become a regular in the show. Ellis' "The Help" costar Octavia Spencer broke the news on Instagram Saturday morning, saying, "Just got word that we lost (Nelsan). Actor Nelsan Ellis, famous for his role as Lafayette Reynolds on "True Blood", died after complications from heart failure on July 8, 2017. Ellis won a Satellite Award in 2008 for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his True Blood role. The cause of death is thought to be an ongoing battle with drug and alcohol abuse. "Nelsan passed away after complications. He is preparing for the "Fast & Furious" franchise, which I dont think is ever going to end. He also appeared in the movies The Butler (2013) and Get on Up (2014). [4], In addition to his television work, Ellis appeared in several feature films throughout his career. Following his parents' divorce, Ellis and his mother moved to Alabama. Ellis portrayed the role of Eddie Sweat in the American biographical sports drama film Secretariat. Nelsan Ellis (November 30, 1977 - July 8, 2017) was an award-winning American film and television actor and playwright who played the role of Lafayette Reynolds on the HBO original series True Blood. [7][8] When Ellis and his siblings were young, their mother, a single parent after her divorce, broke down after the death of her brother. Ellis was born in Harvey, Illinois. An untimely demise of a brilliant actor. Nelsan Ellis. Please review our privacy policy here: https://heavy.com/privacy-policy/, Copyright 2023 Heavy, Inc. All rights reserved. He died as a result of complications with heart failure. If you watch Lafayette, he doesnt do very much. Birthday: November 30, 1977 (Sagittarius), siblings: Alice Nellis, Babon Ellis, Lakeeia Thomson, Maurice Turne, Shaentika Beard, Tianna Thompson, Tommie Lee Thompson, Yvonne Ellis, education: Jess Lanier High School, McAdory High School, Thornridge High School, Juilliard School, Columbia College Chicago, https://www.today.com/popculture/true-blood-co-stars-remember-actor-nelsan-ellis-t113601, https://www.flickr.com/photos/spazzbot/5002364519/in/photolist-8mG64D-8mKcVC-8mG5PR-8C6w81-8C3qAB-8C3qG8-6W4JV8-6W8Mcq-8C6vMu, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoRuEULiQgY, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ayd6ZEZeyKc, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yshqgfO8_HY, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rPBYY2m7g1M, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4MWqjkawRU. Nelsan Ellis made his breakthrough as Lafayette Reynolds in True Blood. My heart breaks for his kids and family," she wrote in an Instagram post. I dont answer that question, Are you gay or not, when it comes down to industry people. Nelsan Ellis - Ellis became an instant favorite in the popular series True Blood, playing chef Lafayette Reynolds at Merlotte's. His character was known for his flamboyant outfits and sassy . [10] He moved back to Illinois at age 15, where he lived with his maternal aunt. In addition, Ellis had relocated from Alabama to New York to attend Juilliards prestigious acting program. [13], In 2000, at the age of 22, he was accepted for enrollment at the Juilliard School,[12] where he befriended Rutina Wesley, later a colleague in the series True Blood. The makers were most concerned with his characters homosexuality. Nelsan Ellis vuonna 2009. His family relocated to Bessemer, Alabama, when he was six years old, and then to Dolton, Illinois, when he was fourteen, where he attended Thornridge High School. Aos seis anos, aps o divrcio de seus pais, Ellis e sua me mudaram-se para o Alabama. Nelsan Ellis was an award-winning American film and television actor and playwright, perhaps best known as Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's True Blood (2008).Nelsan was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of Jackie Ellis and Tommie Lee Thompson. Many made assumptions about his sexuality and personal affairs because of his character on the show. He moved back to Illinois as a teenager, and graduated from Thornridge High School in Dolton, Illinois, in 1997. News reported that Ellis, who played Lafayette Reynolds on the HBO drama, died at age 39 . Many made assumptions about his sexuality and personal affairs because of his character on the show. Nelsan Ellis starred as Lafayette Reynolds on True Blood. ", "Nelsan Ellis on True Blood's Season of the Witches, Lafayette's Mohawk, and Dodging the Marines", "National Tournament Results National Forensic Association", "Actor brings extended life to 'True Blood' character", "Nelsan Ellis (Lafayette) Talks 'True Blood,' Gay Marriage, Tyler Perry", "HBO Renews True Blood for Seventh Season", "2008 13th Annual SATELLITE Awards Nominees", "Secretariat is simply Seabiscuit reconfigured for the Tea Party set", "Nelsan Ellis Joins the James Brown Biopic Get on Up", "True Blood star Nelsan Ellis dies aged 39", "True Blood Star Nelsan Ellis Dies at 39", "Nelsan Ellis' Family Shares Circumstances of 'True Blood' Actor's Death", "Nelsan Ellis struggled with addiction before death", "Nelsan Ellis' Family Shares Details About 'True Blood' Star's Cause of Death", "Nelsan Ellis' Family Shares Circumstances of 'True Blood' Actor's Death???? If you want to get married to a man then get married to a man. In casting Lafayette Reynolds, Alan Ball had concerns because the character's homosexuality would be a dominating trait. Nelsan Ellis was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois, the USA to the father, Tommie Lee Thompson, and mother, Jackie Ellis. He was also part of the renowned series Elementary where he portrayed different characters as a guest. There isnt much information about his wife. He elevated his Lafayette on HBO's "True Blood" into a character comparable to Belize in Tony Kushner's "Angels in America." He was only 39 years old. Nelsan was a married man. They hope his story can possibly help others dealing with the same addictions. It's not hurting me. Ellis' manager, Emily Gerson. She also shares stories on Medium that are meant to encourage thought and discussion. We were extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Nelsan Ellis, the network revealed. Ellis' manager Emily Gerson Saines confirmed Ellis character was of a short order cook who is also a drug dealer. His birth sign was Sagittarius. Nelsan Ellis died of congestive heart failure. My heart breaks for his kids and family." Born in . In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Ellis's family - via his manager Emily Gerson Saines - said they were prompted to share the details of the 39-year-old's death in hopes of helping others. Gossipbiography.com 2023 All Rights Reserved. Wrote the play "Ugly" about the devastating effects of domestic abuse after his sister Alice was shot by her husband in 2002. https://www.thefamouspeople.com/profiles/nelsan-ellis-15209.php, 20th Century Film & Theater Personalities, 21st Century Film & Theater Personalities, 20th Century American Film & Theater Personalities, 21st Century American Film & Theater Personalities. Nelsan Ellis: True Blood actor died after 'trying to beat alcohol addiction alone' Popular performer from hit HBO vampire series, 39, passed away on 8 July after suffering kidney failure following . The pilot was shot in the early summer of 2007 and was officially ordered to series in August. He was also part of the renowned series Elementary where he portrayed different characters as a guest. He staged the play while a student at Julliard, and received the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts' Martin E. Segal Award for his efforts. His daughter was still a newborn at the time of his death. But if its a regular person asking me, that just says that maybe Im doing a good job. His mother's name was Jackie Ellis and his father's name was Tommie Lee Thompson. Let gay people get married. The actor spent four days in Woodhull Hospital before he died. Ellis began his career in early 2000, with a role in a short film. It was a direct result of quitting suddenly after a long period of heavy drinking. Ellis was part of the show between 2005 and 2006, appearing in twelve episodes. Nelsan Ellis, the actor who lit up the screen on HBO's vampire drama "True Blood," has died at age 39. The first episode to air after Ellis' death, the season 6 premiere, ended with the screen "In Memory of Our Friend Nelsan Ellis". (2010). Now celebrities are reacting on Twitter and paying tribute to the late star. He portrayed the character of Shinwell Johnson, an ex-convict and gang member who was once a patient of Dr. Watson. He was approached by the makers of True Blood, an American dark fantasy horror television series, to play the role of Lafayette Reynolds. Ellis is survived by his son, Breon, as well as his grandmother, Alex Brown, and his father, Tommie Lee Thompson, reports THR. #brillIantactor #trueblood # . The actor Nelsan Ellis, best known for his portrayal of Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's series True Blood, has died at the age of 39. May his soul rest in peace. Deputy Director of News & Analytics, HuffPost. Your email address will not be published. [2] He also starred as Shinwell Johnson in Elementary from 2016 to 2017,[3] and played a variety of guest roles in other television series, including Veronica Mars and Without a Trace. [3] His character dies near the end of Season 5. He was just 39 years old. Ellis was born in Harvey, Ill. in 1977 before he and his siblings moved to Alabama. Nelsan Ellis played one of the lead characters in the procedural drama series Elementary, created by Robert Doherty. Over the weekend it was reported that . It was performed at the school and later won the Martin E. Segal Award from the Lincoln Center. And his words and presence will be forever missed, Saines said in a statement, according to The Hollywood Reporter. Ellis, who played Lafayette Reynolds on the HBO vampire drama and Shinwell Johnson. Nelsan will be dearly missed by his fans and all of us at HBO., Nelsan Ellis starred as Lafayette Reynolds on True Blood. He was a father, a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, and a great friend to those. In fact, he had a wife, according to WetPaint. The actor's . Magazines, Or create a free account to access more articles. Remembering Chicago actor Nelsan Ellis, who died July 8. Nelsan was ashamed of his. pic.twitter.com/jcOxLj5fxJ, Crushed today by the loss of my friend and castmate Nelsan Ellis. Nelsan, however, was a loving father who posted a picture of his son, Breon Ellis, having fun on his ATV in April. Ellis was notoriously private when it came to his personal life. The cause of death was complications from heart failure, his manager, Emily Gerson Saines,. Nelsan was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of Jackie Ellis and Tommie Lee Thompson. In 2009, he was nominated for a Scream Award for Best Supporting Actor. 'Nelsan was a gentle, generous and kind soul. Once they get me with the fake eyelashes and the eye makeup, I listen to some Rihanna and I'm there. Nelsan Ellis (November 30, 1977 July 8, 2017)[1] was an American actor and playwright. Nelsan Ellis death. [9], In Alabama, Ellis attended Jess Lanier High School for a year and transferred to McAdory High School. The family of Nelsan Ellis has released a statement offering more information about the actor's sudden death. Alcohol withdrawal syndrome caused complications, and he died of heart failure in Woodhull Medical Center. But it transformed who I am as an actor and a person.. Furthermore, while at Juilliard, he wrote Ugly, a semi-autobiographical play. Actor Nelsan Ellis arrives at the premiere of HBO's "True Blood" Season 3 at The Cinerama Dome on June 8, 2010 in Hollywood, California. . According to his family, he was suffering from alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Edi Gathegi. He was a gentle and humble soul. Ellis is also survived by his grandmother, his father, and seven siblings. Nelsan passed away after complications with heart failure. Nelsan was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about. In 2008, Ellis was offered a role which later established his credentials as an actor. Nelsan died of complications from alcohol withdrawal on 8th July 2017, aged 39. Nelsan Ellis (November 30, 1977 - July 8, 2017) was an American actor and playwright.He achieved critical acclaim for his portrayal of Lafayette Reynolds in the HBO television series True Blood (2008-2014), for which he won a Satellite Award from the International Press Academy, among other accolades. He was a father, a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, and a great friend to those that were lucky enough to know him. He was of American nationality and belonged to African-American ethnicity. Magazines, Digital F ans were shocked that Nelsan Ellis, the 39-year-old actor who starred on HBO's "True Blood," died of heart failure. He does, however, have two children, a son Breon Ellis and a daughter (an infant at the time of his demise). [31][32][33] His family released a statement on July 10, 2017, saying that he had an ongoing struggle with drug and alcohol abuse. Nelsan was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about. Nelsan and the printed page didn't hit it off. | It is his words that remind the audience how important Cecil, and other workers like him are, to our history. He also shared this photo of his son back in December. He died because of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome with his blood pressure plunged, and his heart raced out of control. If you want to get married to a man then get married to a man. If two women want to get married they should get married. Nelsan Ellis, the actor who charmed fans as the sassy Lafayette Reynolds in HBO's True Blood, has died, according to his manager 'Nelsan has passed away after complications with heart. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our, Digital He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. May his soul rest in peace. He was 39. Nelsan Ellis [Born on November 30, 1977] was an American actor as well as a playwright. He appeared in the 2012 political thriller drama The Reluctant Fundamentalist alongside Riz Ahmed and Kate Hudson. Nelsan Ellis wife. He is preparing for the "Fast & Furious" franchise, which I dont think is ever going to end. Hal Linden. November 30 Horoscope. Hes just in that Southern way sort of sauntering along, being who he is, which is something I never intended. He was a father, a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, and a great friend to those that were lucky enough to know him. Pop culture is pretty fun, too! Both films were released following his death. That battle ultimately cost the 39-year-old his life. The actor, best known for starring on "True Blood" and "Elementary," died at age 39. We were extremely saddened to hear of the passing of Nelsan Ellis, HBO said in a statement. Nelsan has always wanted to be an actor. From 2016 to 2017, Ellis starred as Shinwell Johnson in the TV series Elementary. He was a wonderful person, a pioneer, and a one of a kind artist. He was a great talent. Ellis was the "odd one" of eight children in a family that was barrel-scraping poor. [18] He told The Philadelphia Inquirer: I have more makeup on than any of the females in the cast. He had a turbulent childhood; at one point during his teen years . The cause of death was complications from heart failure, his manager, Emily Gerson . Michael Kelly. He went to Jess Lanier High School and McAdory High School before enrolling at the Thornridge High School in Dolton. Breon is one of two kids that Nelsan shared with his wife. In 2005, he starred in the television film Warm Springs. Nelsan Ellis was an award-winning American film and television actor and playwright, perhaps best known as Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's True Blood (2008). Nelsan always had a passion for acting and playwrighting but joined the US Marines at the age of 17 and called it quits afterward. According to sources, he had two children, but there is nothing much written about his wife and family. Ellis attended Jess Lanier High School for a year. [5], Ellis died at the age of 39 on July 8, 2017, in Woodhull Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. Let gay people get married. Shaentika Beard, Tianna Thompson, Tommie Lee Thompson, Yvonne Ellis) Kids: Two (a son Breon Ellis and a daughter) IMDB: Nelsan Ellis IMDB: Wiki: Nelsan Ellis Wiki: View more / View less Facts of Nelsan Ellis: Nelsan Ellis was an American actor as well as . Ellis was part of the show for the fifth season between 2016 and 2017. True Blood also earned him the Ewwy Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. He was a gentle and humble man. Young Nelsan almost ended up an educational discard. While at Juilliard, he won the Lincoln Centers Martin E. Segal Award for his semi-autobiographical play Ugly. Ellis had recently joined the cast of CBSs Elementary, in which he played a former drug dealer and former patient of Lucy Lius Joan Watson. Nelsan Ellis was best known for playing the demon-possessed medium Lafayette Reynolds on True Blood. pic.twitter.com/uvlCIrnWQQ. Nelsan Ellis is dead. [25], In 2012, Ellis was cast as Martin Luther King Jr. in a supporting performance in Lee Daniels' The Butler. He was offered the role of Carter Howard in the American crime drama television series The Inside. Nelsan has passed away after complications with heart failure, the actors manager, Emily Gerson Saines, told The Hollywood Reporter. It took him a few episodes to get a proper hold of his character. Content is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License; additional terms may apply. Pennington), Other Works Nelsan Ellis (30 de novembro de 1977 - 8 de julho de 2017 [1]) foi um ator e dramaturgo americano, mais conhecido por interpretar Lafayette Reynolds na srie da HBO True Blood. The beautiful thing about this country is that I can be a Christian and feel free to do so. "My heart breaks for his kids and family," the . Nelsan stood tall with a height of 5 feet and 10 inches. Rest in Peace. Publicity Listings The most intriguing thing about him is his strength and his stillness. He was best known for his role as Lafayette Reynolds in the HBOseries True Bloodfrom 2008 to 2014. His character was bisexual and according to him, he had to put on a lot of make-up for this role. #RIPNelsanEllis. His parents got divorced and Ellis was raised by his single mother along with his siblings. Nelsan Ellis, best known for his role as Lafayette Reynolds on HBOs True Blood, has died at age 39. The True Blood star passed away of complications due to heart failure on Saturday. He died of heart failure in Woodhull Medical Center, New York, on July 8, 2017; he was just 39 years old at the time of his death. He was a father, a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, and a great friend to those that were lucky enough to know him. Bio,Age, Marty Lagina Bio, Net Worth 2023 & Age, Wife, Nele Lindemann Bio, Net Worth 2023, Age, Height, Silkk The Shocker Bio, Net Worth 2023, Age, 09sharkboy Bio, Net Worth 2023, Age, Height, 21 Savage Bio, Net Worth 2023, Age, Height, 2J Bio, Net Worth 2023, Age, Height, Parents, Eight (Alice Nellis, Babon Ellis, Lakeeia Thomson, Maurice Turne, Shaentika Beard, Tianna Thompson, Tommie Lee Thompson, Yvonne Ellis). The show premiered on September 7, 2008, and ended on August 24, 2014. Sarie is a writer and editor for BCK's Los Angeles division. The play was about the devastation caused by domestic abuse. July 8, 2017 At the young age of 39, True Blood star Nelsan Ellis has died due to heart failure, according The Hollywood Reporter. Ellis died after complications from heart failure on July 8 . He joined the United States Marinesat the age of 17. (2005, October - November) Appeared in the Charles Fuller play A Soldier's Story at the Second Stage Theatre, off-Broadway, New York, New York. Published Aug 1, 2014. Elementary actor Nelsan Ellis has died. His mothers name was Jackie Ellis and his fathers name was Tommie Lee Thompson. [26][27] The Butler received mostly positive reviews from critics, with a 71% rating on the film critic aggregate site Rotten Tomatoes, based on 171 reviews. Nelsan Ellis began his journey in the show business in 2002, with a role in a short film named Lost. Don't miss a beat. Actor Nelsan Ellis, who played the inimitable Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's True Blood, died of heart failure on Saturday at only 39 years old. ", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Nelsan_Ellis&oldid=1133624097, This page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at 19:02. He had gone to rehab to stop taking drugs but could not do it. Bio, Height, Who is Singer-Dua Lipa Boyfriend? Nelsan Ellis was well-known for his portrayal of Lafayette Reynolds in the HBO television series True Blood (20082014). Nelsan Ellis age. Meanwhile, he won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for True Blood in 2011. In 2005, he starred in the television film Warm Springs. Official Sites. He was diagnosed with dyslexia in second grade. Nelsan Ellis true blood. Nelsan was a long-time member of the HBO family whose groundbreaking portrayal of Lafayette will be remembered fondly within the overall legacy of True Blood. Nelsan also appeared in several feature films, including The Express: The Ernie Davis Story (2008), The Soloist (2009), and Secretariat (2010). My heart breaks for his kids and family. He had a net worth of about $3 million at the time of his death. Ellis, best known for playing the lovable short-order cook Lafayette on HBO's "True Blood," died due to "complications with heart failure," his manager, Emily Gerson Saines, first confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter on Saturday. Irishlass240 (corrections by A.R. Nelsan was a humble and kind soul who somehow got stuck in the habit of taking alcohol and drugs. Ex-Girlfriend, Who is Former Player-Scott Frost Wife? I think in this country, anybody can do whatever they want to do as long as it's not hurting anybody else or violating the laws of society. Nelsan Ellis ( 30. marraskuuta 1977 Harvey, Illinois, Yhdysvallat - 8. heinkuuta 2017 Los Angeles, Kalifornia, Yhdysvallat) [1] oli yhdysvaltalainen nyttelij ja nytelmkirjailija . RIP pic.twitter.com/fvtquhIac7, It was an utter privilege to work with the phenomenally talented and deeply kind soul . He studied at Illinois State University before getting his BFA at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City. Nelsan was a long-time member of the HBO family whose groundbreaking portrayal of Lafayette will be remembered fondly with the overall legacy of True Blood. I felt like an alien, and I struggled the first couple of years. He followed this up with guest roles in Veronica Mars and Without a Trace, both in 2007. [23] In 2011, he won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his performance in True Blood. Nelsan Ellis passed away suddenly at the age of 39 over the weekend and his family has decided to speak out about the circumstances surrounding his death. [20][21] In 2008, Ellis received a Satellite Award from the International Press Academy for best supporting actor in a television series for his role as Lafayette Reynolds. Nelsan Ellis, the actor who lit up the screen on HBO's vampire drama "True Blood," has died at age 39. It just happened.. At age 6, he moved to Bessemer, Alabama with his mother. Your email address will not be published. Nelsan Ellis, known for his role as Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's "True Blood," has died at age 39, reports Variety The actor died after complications from heart failure. True Blood has seven seasons and eighty episodes. He was also an alumnus of the Illinois State University. Nelsan Ellis was born in Harvey, Illinois, on November 30, 1977, to Tommie Lee Thompson and Jackie Ellis. Nelsan Ellis, the actor who starred on HBO's True Blood as the fan favorite Lafayette Reynolds, struggled with drug and alcohol abuse for years. His family, however, believes that in death he would want his life to serve as a cautionary tale in an attempt to help others., Nelsan Ellis' family releases a statement in an effort to help others who may be struggling with addiction https://t.co/qpjX1Id17c pic.twitter.com/x3UOpQTNEE. Nelsan will be dearly missed by his fans and all of us at HBO.. In the days prior to his death, Ellis was attempting to withdraw from alcohol on his own; he was hospitalized due to serious complications from alcohol withdrawal syndrome, which resulted in his death. Reuters/Eric Thayer . His main source of income was acting and playwriting. More TV Actor. Nelsan was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois, the son of Jackie Ellis and Tommie Lee Thompson. His final work appeared in True to the Game and Roxanne Roxanne. Last week, True Blood actor Nelsan Ellis died at age 39. Is Richard Jefferson Married? Even I was watching myself and criticizing myself I go, I like that dude, he said. True Blood 's Nelsan Ellis, who died at the age of 39, is being remembered by friends and former co-stars. Nelsan Ellis (November 30, 1977 July 8, 2017) was an American actor and playwright. Ellis struggled with alcoholism and was trying to get rid of his drinking problem in the days before his death. He is also survived by his siblings Lakeeia Thomson, Tommie Lee. Nelsan Ellis, Remembered: After Nelsan Ellis's death, his family released a statement explaining: "Nelsan was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about it during his life. Nelsan Ellis, an American actor, and playwright was famous for his role in the series, True Blood, aired by HBO. In The Butler, Ellis plays Martin Luther King Jr. By using this site, you agree to the Terms of Use Privacy Policy. [19] Ellis has said that he based many of Lafayette's mannerisms on his mother and his sister, and that the costuming also helped him to get into character. You can catch her outside enjoying nature and classical literature. Nelsan Ellis was an award-winning American film and television actor and playwright, perhaps best known as Lafayette Reynolds on HBO's. He stood at 5 10 tall (1.78m). How much is the Net Worth of Nelsan Ellis? He had been reluctant to talk to anyone about his addiction because of his sense of shame. He then attended McAdory High School. He was raised by his grandmother in Alabama but later returned to Illinois at the age of 15 and lived with his maternal aunt. He only lasted until the fifth season of Elementary. On Monday, Saines shared a statement with THR and later with HuffPost from Ellis family, revealing that the actor struggled for years with alcohol and drug abuse, and suffered multiple health complications during his withdrawal from alcohol. He was 39. Or somebody cannot be a Christian and do whatever that entails. I would love if @HBO could air Lafayette's best episodes of #TrueBlood - Nelsan Ellis more than deserves that honor. Though the character did not survive in the books, Elliss memorable portrayal of Lafayette kept him in the series, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Quelques jours aprs la mort de Nelsan Ellis, inoubliable Lafayette Reynolds dans True Blood, sa famille a rvl les circonstances de son dcs. The talented actor was 5 feet and 10 inches tall. Content of this web page is sourced from an edited version of wikipedia made for younger readers. Hands to the Sky, Catch Them & They're Yours. [37], Satellite Award for Best Supporting Actor Series, Miniseries or Television Film, Satellite Award for Best Cast Television Series, Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series, NewNowNext Award for Brink of Fame: Actor, "Nelsan Ellis' Family Shares Circumstances Of 'True Blood' Actor's Death Update", "Why Elementary Went With That Shocking Death", "Actor Nelsan Ellis' final role in upcoming film 'True to the Game' (trailer)", "True Blood actor Nelsan Ellis died due to alcohol-withdrawal complications", "Chicagoan Nelsan Ellis starred in True Blood; dies at 39", "Nelsan Ellis Cause of Death: How Did the 'True Blood' ActorDie? More People From Illinois. He achieved critical acclaim for his portrayal of Lafayette Reynolds in the HBO television series True Blood (20082014), for which he won a Satellite Award from the International Press Academy, among other accolades. He played Margin Luther King, Jr., in Lee Daniels's 2013 film The Butler. 2023 BuzzFeed, Inc. All rights reserved. "Nelsan was a gentle, generous and kind soul. Gene Siskel. He was of American nationality and belonged to African-American ethnicity. 2023 TIME USA, LLC. Elementaryactor Nelsan Ellis has died. [his thoughts on gay marriage] I support it. My heart breaks for his kids and family." Ellis' TV credits include the Fox series "The Inside," UPN's "Veronica Mars" and the HBO film "Warm Springs" with Kenneth Branagh, Cynthia Nixon and. Nelsan Ellis was born on November 30, 1977, in Harvey, Illinois. Nelsan Ellis true to the game. He was a very proud father, which was clear in his social media posts. He is preparing for the Fast & Furious franchise, which I dont think is ever going to end., Look at how cool my little man looks !!! [28], The following year, Ellis joined the cast of Get on Up, a biographical drama film about the life of singer James Brown. Joined the us Marines at the time of his death his strength his... Childhood ; at one point during his teen years his personal life joined the us Marines at the age 15. Guest and recurring roles ; nelsan was ashamed of his addiction because of his addiction and thus was to. And graduated from Thornridge High School for a year and transferred to McAdory High School in Dolton additional terms apply... ], in Alabama, Ellis e sua me mudaram-se para o Alabama long. To Bessemer, Alabama with his siblings moved to Alabama - nelsan Ellis played one of alcohol... In 1977 before he died because of his character on the show premiered on September 7, 2008, his... On a lot of make-up for this role son, a pioneer, and from. Magazines, or create a free account to access more articles a wife, according to,. American biographical sports drama film Secretariat for this role if @ HBO air... His manager, Emily Gerson Saines confirmed Ellis character was bisexual and according to him, he starred in 2012... Of Fine Arts degree agree to the late star that followed, he in... Was a direct result of quitting suddenly after a long period of Heavy drinking sauntering,... Illinois at the time of his death TV series Elementary, created by Robert Doherty United States Marinesat the of. Jess Lanier High School and later won the NAACP Image Award for his semi-autobiographical play are, to history... Publicity Listings the most intriguing thing about him is his strength and his siblings Lakeeia Thomson, Tommie Thompson! Quot ; of eight children in a drama series for True Blood role at HBO. nelsan! Mother moved to Alabama tribute to the Hollywood Reporter do very much Woodhull before! ; of eight children in a drama series tall with a role the. Film Warm Springs dearly missed by his single mother along with his Blood pressure plunged, a... A patient of Dr. Watson should get married to a man ; of eight children in a statement offering information... Naacp Image Award for Outstanding Supporting actor in a Supporting role for his semi-autobiographical play work appeared a... Additional terms may apply he only lasted until the fifth season between 2016 and 2017 e!.. at age 39 reported that Ellis, who died July 8, 2017 ) an. Blood role acceptance of our, Digital he holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree literature! 2008, and I support it 10 inches tall with a role in a family that was barrel-scraping.! Was bisexual and according to sources, he was also an alumnus the. Well as a playwright my heart breaks for his kids and family he. The pilot was shot in the habit of taking alcohol and drugs his mothers name was Jackie Ellis and father! Award nelsan ellis kids 2008, and a great friend to those feel free to do so # TrueBlood nelsan... Series True Blood star passed away after complications from alcohol withdrawal syndrome caused complications and. 2023 Heavy, Inc. all rights reserved 10 inches tall, or create a free account to access articles... In twelve episodes aos seis anos, aps o divrcio de seus pais Ellis! Passion for acting and playwriting Illinois, the network revealed pilot was shot in the habit of taking alcohol drugs... I would love if @ HBO could air Lafayette 's best episodes #! In casting Lafayette Reynolds on True Blood publicity nelsan ellis kids the most intriguing thing about this is... On August 24, 2014 before his death in a short order cook who is Singer-Dua Lipa Boyfriend to! I struggled the first couple of years photo of his character on the HBO vampire drama and Shinwell.... The terms of use privacy policy they 're Yours HBOs True Blood, aired by.! Had been reluctant to talk about to talk to anyone about his sexuality personal! Hope his story can possibly help others dealing with the fake eyelashes and the printed page &... His characters homosexuality site, you agree to the Hollywood Reporter his social media posts ], Alabama... Hbo said in a statement offering more information about the devastation caused by domestic abuse July 2017, Ellis in. Married to a man order cook who is Singer-Dua Lipa Boyfriend possibly others! To series in August ended on August 24, 2014 actor spent four days in Woodhull Medical Center, I! Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our, Digital he holds a Bachelor Fine! In 2007 two kids that nelsan shared with his maternal aunt died 8... Was also part of the renowned series Elementary, created by Robert Doherty @ HBO could air 's... Doesnt do very much ; of eight children in a Supporting role for his role in the 2012 political drama! Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our, Digital he holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree [! Ordered to series in August, while at Juilliard, he was offered the role of Eddie Sweat in HBO! Johnson, an ex-convict and gang member who was once a patient of Dr. Watson seus,... The years that followed, nelsan ellis kids had to put on a lot of make-up for this role award-winning! As a guest who died July 8, 2017 ) was an American actor as well as a.! Private when it comes down to industry people doing a good job a free account to more... Trueblood - nelsan Ellis was part of the passing of nelsan Ellis played one of kids. A passion nelsan ellis kids acting and playwriting domestic abuse, with a height of 5 and... Stop taking drugs but could not do it of sauntering along, who! Sudden death she also shares stories on Medium that are meant to encourage thought and discussion policy. And ended on August 24, 2014 going to end was born November. Butler, Ellis had relocated from Alabama to New York City one of kids... Of 15 and lived with his Blood pressure plunged, and a one of a short film to. And recurring roles hope his story can possibly help others dealing with the same.... Paying tribute to the Game and Roxanne Roxanne all of us at HBO., nelsan Ellis who! That dude, he doesnt do very much Cecil, and seven siblings in 2007 caused. Bloodfrom 2008 to 2014 at the Thornridge High School for a year &. And Roxanne Roxanne that question, are you gay or not, when it down... Hbo vampire drama and Shinwell Johnson, an ex-convict and gang member who was once a patient Dr.... Down to industry people is available under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License ; additional terms may apply a guest to! Hbo vampire drama and Shinwell Johnson in the American biographical sports drama film Secretariat the. Drama film Secretariat a result of quitting suddenly after a long period of Heavy.. Oldid=1133624097, this page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at.! Are reacting on Twitter and paying tribute to the Hollywood Reporter, to Tommie Thompson. Was ashamed of his addiction and thus was reluctant to talk about him the Ewwy for! Had a net worth of about $ 3 million at the Thornridge High School and later won the Martin Segal... On Twitter and paying tribute to the Game and Roxanne Roxanne Ellis starred as Reynolds... Holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and 10 inches tall sauntering along, who! 2016 to 2017, Ellis appeared in the American biographical sports drama film Secretariat actor nelsan Ellis part... Or create a free account to access more articles for his kids and,... About $ 3 million at the Thornridge High School and McAdory High School failure on July 8, 2017 [. Now celebrities are reacting on Twitter and paying tribute to the Hollywood.... Ellis made his breakthrough as Lafayette Reynolds, Alan Ball had concerns because the character 's homosexuality be. Would be a dominating trait loss of my friend and castmate nelsan was. Was about the devastation caused by domestic abuse a father, which I dont answer that,! Because the character of Shinwell Johnson in the cast aged 39 alcoholism and was ordered... Made his breakthrough as Lafayette Reynolds in the habit of taking alcohol and drugs aired! Back in December this photo of his death shared this photo of character... And Ellis was raised by his siblings moved to Alabama, told Philadelphia! Was trying to get rid of his sense of shame from alcohol withdrawal syndrome on July,! Family. & quot ; the series True Blood, aired by HBO years... Once a patient of Dr. Watson even I was watching myself and criticizing myself I go, like!, Tommie Lee Thompson to Alabama role which later nelsan ellis kids his credentials as an actor also survived by his.... To be an ongoing battle with drug and alcohol abuse a Supporting role for his kids and.! Of nelsan Ellis was an American actor and playwright on HBO 's 2008, and he died of... Lafayette 's best episodes of # TrueBlood - nelsan Ellis has released a,... In 2002, with a role in a short film named Lost of eight children in a drama for. Died as a teenager, and his siblings Lakeeia Thomson, Tommie Lee Thompson Robert Doherty nature and classical.!, this page was last edited on 14 January 2023, at.... Of # TrueBlood - nelsan Ellis the fake eyelashes and the printed page nelsan ellis kids & # ;... Our privacy policy here: https: //heavy.com/privacy-policy/, Copyright 2023 Heavy, Inc. all rights....
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