Hollywood star Grizzwald 'Grizz' Chapman has tragically died at 52. The actor's death was announced by his representative, Saideh A Brown, on Friday (22 May). While the cause of death remains unknown, Grizz's cousin took to social media and claimed that the TV star had spent years "fighting illness". The actor’s agent, Renee Glicker, later confirmed to Deadline: "We are very sad for his family and friends and for all who knew him and worked with him.

"For all seven feet, 380 lbs of him, he was a very sweet man who loved his family very much. He enjoyed working on 30 Rock every minute. His poor health curtailed his career, unfortunately.”

Grizz is best known for his fan-favourite role as Grizz in the NBC sitcom 30 Rock, alongside Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan and Alec Baldwin, for its seven-season run. His character was Tracy Jordan's (Tracy Morgan) childhood friend-turned-assistant. Grizz appeared in 80 episodes overall from the first season in 2006 through the seventh and final season, which aired in 2012.

His other TV credits included The Blacklist and Blue Bloods, Adam Sandler's 2014 film The Cobbler and his own YouTube sketch series called The Grizz Chronicles. According to the Associated Press, Grizz had a kidney transplant in 2010 after needing dialysis three times a week. He was initially diagnosed with hypertension, which he left untreated and developed kidney disease.

Speaking about the transplant in 2009, he told CBS: "I'm a little nervous about the process, but I'm definitely willing and able. I wanna stay alive.”

At the time, the actor was being interviewed by TV medic, Dr Oz and revealed that he was on the waiting list to find a match for the organ transplant, and will undergo the operation when he's at an acceptable weight.

Heartbroken fans inundated social media with tributes, as one penned: "The actor who made everyone laugh with that distinctive voice of his '30 Rock' character has left us at the age of 52. Another master of Hollywood bids farewell. Seeing him on screen will feel even more special now."

"I am devastated... absolutely devastated... to learn that Grizz Chapman from "30 Rock" died yesterday, at the young age of 52. Sincere condolences to his family, friends, & colleagues. May light perpetual shine upon him," added a second.

Another wrote: "That's really sad to hear. Grizz Chapman brought a lot of heart and humour to 30 Rock, and it's tough to learn he was struggling before his passing. Sending respect to his family, friends, and fans who appreciated his work."

"Rest in peace, Grizz Chapman—your towering presence and hilarious energy on 30 Rock will be sorely missed," said a fourth devastated fan.