Kyle Jean-Baptiste made history when he became the youngest Broadway artist to take on the role as "Les Miserables'" Jean Valjean understudy. He made a mark for being the first African-American to take on the role as well. Unfortunately, it was revealed hours ago that he has died at the young age of 21.
According to E! News, Kyle tragically passed away on Friday night. He reportedly got into an accident while he was at his mom's place. Baptiste fell off the fire escape and this led to his early demise.
His death comes a day after his last Broadway appearance as Jean Valjean and four days since he tweeted about it: "Thursday is my last Valjean on broadway. The ability to play this part on Broadway has been life changing. I'm so greatful (sic)."
Baptiste's Les Miserables company has already released a statement via BroadwayWorld in the wake of the young artist's passing. The statement said that his theatrical family is "shocked" and "devastated" after hearing the news. The company also noted how Kyle was a "remarkable young talent" who made history for his Broadway debut at a young age.
The company also expressed its condolences to the family of the late thespian saying, "We send our deepest condolences to his family and ask that you respect their privacy in this unimaginably difficult time."
Born in New York, Kyle Jean-Baptiste made his debut on "Les Miserables" as part of the ensemble cast - playing the lead ex-convict character - in mid-July, after he graduated from Baldwin Wallace University, Fox8Cleveland has learned.
In the wake of his passing, many artists poured out their condolences on social media. Josh Groban took to Twitter on Saturday to say, "He was just getting started. So Sad. My condolences as well to family and cast." Meanwhile, "Descendants" star Kristin Chenoweth wrote: "RIP Kyle Jean-Baptists. My love and hugs to his family. And the cast of @LesMiserables."
Check out one of Kyle Jean-Baptiste's performances below:
