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Charlie Murphy – the brother of Eddie Murphy, who’s perhaps best known for his appearances on the iconic Comedy Central sketch series Chappelle’s Show – has passed away.

He was just 57 years old.

Charlie Murphy Image
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The sad news was confirmed today by Murphy’s publicist.

Sources close to the comic say he died in a New York City hospital while undergoing chemotherapy treatments.

Murphy had been battling leukemia for an undisclosed period of time, according to multiple media reports.

Charlie racked up more than 50 film and television credits during his more than 30 years in the industry.

Still, it was his performance on Chappelle’s Show that made him a household name to a new generation of comedy fans.

Especially thanks to two of the show’s most famous sketches.

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Chappelle fans need not be reminded that Murphy recounted his own real-life tales of encounters with Rick James and Prince, respectively.

In both cases, Murphy narrated and helped to reenact the experiences, which included a memorable basketball game against the Purple One.

He also enjoyed a years-long rivalry with James.

Murphy went on to host the show’s "lost episodes" alongside co-star Donnell Rawlings, following Dave Chappelle’s abrupt departure in 2005.

In addition to his time on Chappelle’s show, Murphy appeared in a number of beloved film and television comedies.

He was featured on the likes of CB4, The Boondocks, and the cultishly adored Adult Swim series Black Jesus.

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An accomplished standup comic, he was overshadowed by his brother Eddie, but still respected and beloved by millions – and his peers.

Murphy toured the US with Cedric the Entertainer, Eddie Griffin, George Lopez and D.L. Hughley just months before his death.

Though it’s been just moments since news of Murphy’s death was announced, the comic is already the number one trending topic on Twitter.

Numerous legends of entertainment are paying tribute to a man that many consider one of the great comedic minds of his day.

Many have also sadly noted this fact:

The three stars of what are arguably Chappelle’s most beloved sketches (Murphy, Prince, and James) have all passed away.

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Just last week, Murphy paid tribute to Prince, who died last spring (also at the age of 57) on social media, tweeting:

"Can’t believe it’s been almost a year!? RIP to the Purple One."

Murphy is survived by three children.

He was married to Tisha Taylor Murphy from 1997 until her death from cervical cancer in 2009. 

May he rest in peace, along with the rest of the celebrities who we’ve lost this year already.

Gone, but never forgotten.