Sam Saprong, the late British-American MTV presenter, had a successful modelling and acting career before his untimely death on Thursday.
The 40-year-old lived in Pasadena, California, and died after falling from a bridge on Thursday. Police in Pasadena spent seven hours attempting to talk the 40-year-old star down from the ledge of the bridge, and his death is being treated as an apparent suicide.
Sarpong is the brother of the television presenter June Sarpong. He was born in London and moved to Los Angeles with his father Samuel aged 11, according to Variety.
Sarpong modelled for high-fashion brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Versace, Gucci and Dolce & Gabanna.
His first TV role was in the sitcom My So Called Life in 1994. He appeared in the TV series Bones and Cold Case, as well as making appearances on ER, Veronica Mars, and 24.
He is most widely known for hosting the MTV show Yo Momma alongside Wilmer Valderrama. He also presented backstage coverage at the BET Awards, giving an award to an artist on stage in 2013.
June, a panellist on Loose Women and a T4 presenter, recently launched the European Union’s ‘In’ campaign. Sarpong posted a picture with his sister earlier this year, writing: ”with my £Supastar sis June".
Valderrama paid tribute to his friend on Instagram, who he said “did it all [and] believed in dreaming bigger than anyone around him.”
“You were a light everywhere you went and I couldn't be more proud of the journey you traveled.. You just left us too early Sam.. We will miss you and pray for you.. Once again thank you for all those years you dedicated to our show, we couldn't have done it without you! Find your peace my brother!”
Vernon Kay, June’s former co-host, said he was in “total shock” over the death.
Sarpong filmed scenes for American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson, which is due for release next year.
Anyone in need of confidential support can contact the Samaritans in the UK 24 hours a day for free on 116 123, by email on jo@samaritans.org, or by visiting www.samaritans.org.
