Ken Flores, a stand-up comedian who recently began a nationwide tour, has died at the age of 28.
Comedian Ken Flores, known in real life as Kenyi Flores passed away on Tuesday, according to online records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
The Flores family announced his death in a statement on Instagram Wednesday by writing, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Kenyi Flores, our dear friend, brother, and son. We are all profoundly affected by this loss and ask for your respect and privacy as we process this tragedy.”
READ ALSO: Dave Chappelle: Popular Comedian Sells Out First Nairobi Show In 2 Hours
Hailing from Chicago, the comedian began his career as a teenager, posting videos on YouTube. Several clips went viral on WorldStarHipHop, as he recounted in a 2023 interview with The Comedy Gazelle. While working as a bank teller in his early twenties, he was encouraged by the owner of The Comedy Shrine to perform at the Aurora venue’s open mic night.
Related stories
“That first big laugh gets you hooked,” Flores explained. “Ever since my first time on stage, I’ve been addicted to stand-up.”
READ ALSO: Tiffany Haddish: Comedian Opens Up About Gaining Clarity After Quitting Alcohol
Flores told The Comedy Gazelle his career aspirations were to “tour for the rest of his life, write new material, and make people happy.”
Flores expressed a sense of being unheard, stating, “There are many people around the world who share my experiences and perspectives, but we lack a collective voice.” He distinguished himself from other Latino comedians, saying, “While comedians like Gabriel Iglesias are successful, their backgrounds are different from mine. He didn’t grow up in the same challenging environment I did, including experiences with addiction, so his experiences don’t represent mine.”
READ ALSO: Kenya Duke: Gary Owen’s Ex-wife Hits Back At Comedian Following “Club Shay Shay” Interview
He believes he can represent many who are currently unheard in comedy, explaining, “What brings me the most joy is when people tell me, ‘This is my first comedy show, and I really connected with your material. I had to come see you.'”
Comedian Flores kicked off his Butterfly Effect Tour on January 10th in Portland, Oregon. His tour, scheduled to run through April, includes stops in cities like Nashville, Philadelphia, Austin, and San Diego. His next performance is slated for Thursday at the Desert Ridge Improv in Phoenix, according to his website.
Since the announcement of his death, several comedians have paid glowing tribute to the rising star, including the comedy venue the Hollywood Improv.
READ ALSO: Kevin Hart Takes Over As CEO Of His Production Company
“It was an honor to have your talent grace our stages. You were truly great, and we knew it was only a matter of time before the whole world saw it. Beyond your talent, you were kind and a true friend to everyone lucky enough to know you. We love you, Ken. Thank you for all the laughter.”
“Brother, you were a blessing in my life and to the world,” wrote René Humberto Valdiviezo. “You changed me forever. My heart is broken for the loss of your potential and the good you were still to do.”
The cause of death has not been released yet neither has the date for his final funeral rites.
