Fans of a young man who became a social media star through his comedy talents have been paying tribute after his sudden death at home.
Tragic Kailum O’Connor, 21, was known to tens of thousands of young people around the world for his wit and warmth on social media sites including Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram and Youtube.
The young comedian was born and spent much of his life in Cork but had moved with his family to Ballynahinch in Co Down, Cork Beo reports.
Kailum was found dead at the family home on Monday, just hours after he was reported missing.
Emotional tributes were posted immediately by Kailum’s fans and friends who have continued to share fond memories and touching messages about the late social media star, who had tens of thousands of followers worldwide.
His cousin David Lowrey posted to Kailum’s distraught friends and family on Facebook: “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. PLEASE PLEASE speak out If you’re ever feeling low.
“You won’t be a burden or a melt. We all have our demons. Let’s start helping each other through them. Even if we don’t talk I’m here for you.
“Head up everyone, we’ll all get through this. Love you all and keep in mind I’m here day or night. And remember this pain is temporary. if you go you’re gone forever. “
Many fans paid tribute to the young Cork man who had helped them through their own tough times - or just kept them laughing with his talent, warmth and larger than life personality.
The 21-year-old rose to fame after dancing to a video of Nicki Minaj, which gained more than 10 million views on Facebook.
Kailum was famous for creating comedy sketches on social media, mostly on Facebook and later on Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram.
He was on social media under the handle @kailumslife. His family is having a private wake and funeral this week.
