“With the heaviest hearts, we share that our dear Alex passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by love and dear friends,” said Hilarie Steele, reflecting the profound loss felt by those who knew Alex Duong. The 42-year-old comedian and actor succumbed to a year-long battle with cancer, specifically alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of the disease.
Duong passed away on Saturday morning at St John’s Hospital in Santa Monica, California, after experiencing septic shock the night before. His health had deteriorated significantly in the days leading up to his death, despite undergoing several rounds of treatment.
Known for his roles in the police drama Blue Bloods as Sonny Le, Duong also contributed his writing talents to Netflix’s Historical Roast With Jeff Ross. His journey in the entertainment industry began after initially pursuing a degree in medicine, showcasing his diverse interests and talents.
Throughout his illness, Duong remained a source of inspiration for many, often expressing the camaraderie among comedians. In a previous statement, he remarked, “Comedians always have each other’s backs when times are s—. We know how hard it is to pine and struggle and scrape by in this lifestyle, just so we can do these jokes and keep improving.”
Duong’s family, including his wife Cristina and daughter Everest, received support from the community through a GoFundMe campaign set up to assist them during this challenging time. His passing has left a significant void in the hearts of his friends and fans.
A member of SAG-AFTRA since 2009, Duong was set to perform across 41 states before his diagnosis, highlighting the promising career that was tragically cut short. His contributions to the comedy scene and his resilience in the face of adversity will be remembered by many.
As the entertainment community mourns his loss, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating the life and legacy of Alex Duong. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any memorial services or tributes planned in his honor.