Leslie Jordan dead at 67: what happened to Will & Grace and The Help actor? Cause of death explained

Actor Leslie Jordan has died at the age of 67, it has been confirmed.

The actor is best-known for his roles in sitcom Will & Grace and Ryan Murphy anthology series American Horror Story, as well as becoming a viral hit with humourous lockdown Instagram videos.

Tributes have poured in from the industry, including from former co-stars and admirers of his work. Here’s everything you need to know.

Who was Leslie Jordan?

Leslie Jordan was an American actor, writer and singer. He was arguably best-known for his portrayal of Beverley Leslie in NBC’s hit sitcom Will & Grace.

He played the character from 2001 until the show originally finished in 2006. Leslie returned as the fan-favourite character in the 2017 revival series of the show.

Leslie was openly gay and was an outspoken campaigner within the LGBTQ+ community. He has worked with HIV and AIDS charities in the past.

The actor has a large following on social media, something which grew in lockdown. Leslie began posting daily videos to his INstgram feed, gaining new fans, with his following eventually reaching 5.5million.

What happened to Leslie Jordan?

Leslie passed away on Monday 24 October. It came after a “medical emergency” which resulted in a car crash. The actor is said to have crashed his car into a building in Hollywood.

A representitive for Leslie confirmed his passing, saying in a statement: “The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan. Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its most difficult times.

“Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”

Who has paid tribute?

The world of TV and film has sent their condolences following Leslie’s death. His co-stars and other admirers of his work are among those to pay tribute.

Sean Hayes, who played Jack in Will & Grace, said of his screen partner: “My heart is broken. Leslie Jordan was one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of working with. Everyone who ever met him, loved him.

“There will never be anyone like him. A unique talent with an enormous, caring heart. You will be missed, my dear friend.”

Former Star Trek star George Takei posted his condolences on Twitter, saying: “Leslie, we are heartbroken at your loss and will miss your mirth and your inimitable spirit.”

Wonder Woman actress Lynda Carter added: “Leslie Jordan put a smile on the faces of so many, especially with his pandemic videos. What a feat to keep us all laughing and connected in such difficult times… It feels so cruel that this could happen to such a beautiful soul.”

Screenwriter Jeremy O Harris toasted to the actor, calling him a star. He said: “Your star shined bright no matter where you were on screen and even moreso off. You were truly one of the spirits that made aging as a queer man feel more exciting than existing in the present.”