In tragic news, American actor, comedian, writer, and singer Leslie Jordan, best known for his role on the hit sitcom Will & Grace, died in a car accident in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, on Monday, October 24. He was 67. Jordan, who became a social media sensation during the COVID-19 pandemic, was driving en route to the Warner Bros studio set of the Fox television series Call Me Kat in Hollywood when he reportedly suffered an unspecified "medical issue" at the wheel of his car, leading to the vehicle colliding with the side of a building, his agent, Don LeClair said in a statement. He said, "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. What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being."
Jordan played the role of Phil, a newly single gay man working as the head baker at the Louisville, Kentucky, cafe of the lead character, Kat, played by Mayim Bialik, in Call Me Kat, which is currently in production for its third season and is said to be based on the British sitcom Miranda. Hailing from Tennessee, the actor standing at just 4 feet, 11 inches, became popular with fans after his recurring role as Beverly Leslie on the NBC comedy Will & Grace in the early 2000s, with the show also being revived in 2017 to its final run in 2020.
Leslie Jordan also garnered a huge fan following among the younger generation after a series of hilarious Instagram posts about his life in quarantine went viral. The news of the beloved actor's demise left many in Hollywood in a state of shock, with many expressing their condolences on social media, including his Will & Grace and Call Me Kat co-stars Megan Mullally and Mayim Bialik paying their tributes. Both stars released statements on social media showing their love for Jordan and sharing their experiences of working with him over the years. Below are their posts:
They broke the mold when they made Leslie Jordan. He was a dear mentor and a beloved friend. I will miss him so much - it’s unimaginable that he’s gone. Rest well, sweet buddy. pic.twitter.com/c9kN0vkxyM
— Mayim Bialik (@missmayim) October 24, 2022