Ricarlo Flanagan, a ‘Last Comic Standing’ semi-finalist and a ‘Shameless’ star, has died at the age of 40

Ricarlo Flanagan, a ‘Last Comic Standing’ semi-finalist and a ‘Shameless’ star, has died at the age of 40

Ricarlo Flanagan, an actor, rapper, and stand-up comedian who appeared on “Last Comic Standing,” died over the weekend of COVID problems, according to his talent representative. He was 40 years old.

“Sadly this pandemic has taken the life of an extremely talented performer and even nicer human being. Ricarlo will be greatly missed,” Golfman said to Variety.

Friends have set up a GoFundMe account to support Flanagan’s family.

“The news of a loved one’s death is never something easy to hear, let alone if you are far away from the individual,” reads the GoFundMe’s description. “Our dear friend has suddenly passed away and sadly was far from his family. Ricarlo Flanagan was a loving son, grandson, cousin, nephew and friend with many amazing talents. He brought laughter to every room he walked in. We would like to get him home to his family in Cleveland, Ohio, so his family can put him to rest. We ask that you please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. Please help us with any contribution you are able to give. This will be greatly appreciated, not only by us but most importantly by his family.”

Flanagan announced on Twitter earlier this month that he had contracted COVID-19, stating, “This COVID is no joke. I don’t wish this on anybody.”

In 2013, Flanagan published his debut comedy CD, “Man Law.” The comic went on to compete on the ninth season of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” finishing as a semifinalist.

Flanagan was an actor as well as a comedian, with recurring parts on the eighth season of Showtime’s “Shameless” and the Disney Plus sitcom “Walk the Prank.” Flanagan had previously appeared as a one-episode guest star on “The Mick,” “The Carmichael Show,” “Insecure,” “The Neighborhood,” “Kidding,” “Room 104” and Spectrum’s “Mad About You” reboot. His most recent credits, according to Golfman, are an episode of Peacock’s upcoming comedy series “Bust Down” and the new Aubrey Plaza feature “Emily the Criminal,” which marks Flanagan’s first formal film role.

Flanagan also had a successful rap career as Father Flanagn. He had three albums out: “Death of Davinchi” in 2010, “An Opus Inspired by Andre Martin” in 2019, and “Hope Your Proud” in 2020. According to his Twitter, his latest album, “Both Sides of the Brain,” is slated to be released on Tuesday.