Reel Urban News Remembers
Kyle Jean-Baptiste, an actor who made his Broadway debut in Les Miserables, died Friday evening after falling from a fire escape at his mother’s home. He was 21.
Broadway World confirmed the news of his passing in a statement from the company: “The entire LES MISERABLES family is shocked and devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of Kyle, a remarkable young talent and tremendous person who made magic – and history – in his Broadway debut. We send our deepest condolences to his family and ask that you respect their privacy in this unimaginably difficult time.”
Jean-Baptiste made history earlier in August when the African American actor, who was an understudy, was the youngest Jean Valjean to appear on Broadway and also the first African American one to do so.
“Thursday is my last Valjean on broadway. The ability to play this part on Broadway has been life changing. I’m so greatful,” he tweeted Aug. 25.
Kristin Chenoweth tweeted, “RIP Kyle Jean-Baptiste. My love and hugs to his family. And the cast of @LesMiserables.” Josh Groban also shared his condolences on social media: “He was just getting started. So sad. My condolences as well to family and cast.”
Jean-Baptiste was a recent graduate of Baldwin Wallace.
