DMX Dead at 50

DMX has died at the age of 50.

The rapper and actor, born Earl Simmons, died at White Plains Hospital in New York on Friday (April 9), a week after suffering a heart attack, his family confirms.

“We are deeply saddened to announce today that our loved one, DMX, birth name of Earl Simmons, passed away at 50-years-old at White Plains Hospital with his family by his side after being placed on life support for the past few days,” the Simmons family said in a statement. “Earl was a warrior who fought till the very end. He loved his family with all of his heart and we cherish the times we spent with him. Earl’s music inspired countless fans across the world and his iconic legacy will live on forever.”

They went on to thank all those who prayed for him, while asking for privacy. “We appreciate all of the love and support during this incredibly difficult time. Please respect our privacy as we grieve the loss of our brother, father, uncle and the man the world knew as DMX. We will share information about his memorial service once details are finalized.”

The hospital also released a statement. “White Plains Hospital extends its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Simmons, as well as his friends and legions of fans who expressed their unwavering support during this difficult time. Earl Simmons passed away peacefully with family present after suffering a catastrophic cardiac arrest.”

The Ruff Ryders icon was rushed to the hospital on April 2 after suffering a heart attack triggered by a reported drug overdose. He was deprived of oxygen for nearly half an hour, which severely impacted his brain. He was in a coma for several days and underwent a series of tests before his family had to decide whether to take him off life support.

X’s family including his mother, fiancée, kids, and ex-wife had been by his side and praying for his recovery. Earlier this week, hundreds gathered at a prayer vigil outside White Plains Hospital to honor the rap legend, as friends including Swizz Beatz, LL Cool J, and Eminem shared well wishes on social media.

DMX battled with addiction throughout his life and had been to rehab several times. His most recent stint came in 2019 following his 12-month sentence for tax evasion when he checked himself in as a preventative measure.

Back in July, he returned to the spotlight when he and Snoop Dogg faced off in a Verzuz battle, with over half-a-million viewers tuning in. In 2019, he signed a new deal with Def Jam and was readying a new album, his first in nearly nine years, which was set to feature Pop Smoke, Alicia Keys, Lil Wayne, Snoop, and Bono. His last commercial release was 2012’s Undisputed.

The hip-hop community took to social media to mourn the devastating loss.