As previously reported, Christopher Boykin is dead at the age of 45.
The bodyguard-turned-reality-star passed away on Tuesday from causes currently unknown, although it is presumed a heart attack is responsible for his unexpected death.
We’ll know more when an autopsy is performed.
Known affectionately as “Big Black,” Boykin was a former member of the United States Navy who rose to fame as part of the MTV series Rob & Big.
He helped anchor that fun reality show as one half of the title show duo.
From 2006 through 2008, Boykin played pranks and engaged in ridiculous antics with his best friend, professional skateboarder Rob Dyrdek.
Despite a brief falling out after the series wrapped, Boykin mostly remained close to Dyrdek, appearing on other MTV shows opposite his close pal – and also remaining linked to him forever in the eyes of fans and followers.
And now Dyrdek has spoken out on Boykin’s passing.
“My heart is broken,” Rob wrote on Twitter last night in response to the awful news.
Keeping it short and simple, Dyrdek added:
“I don’t want to write this post. I don’t want to believe that this is reality. I am so thankful for you.”
In a follow-up message, Dyrdek added:
“We truly were brothers that lived an unexpected unforgettable adventure. I just can’t fathom that it would end so suddenly.”
And then there was this third Tweet: “You will forever be in my heart.”
And, finally, the most heartbreaking Twitter post of all from Dyrdek:
The 6′ 6,” 375 pound reality star starred as Dyrdek’s bodyguard on 19 episodes of the aforementioned MTV show.
He is survived by his nine-year old daughter, Isis Rae, and a number of other MTV personalities also mourned his passing on Tuesday evening.
Wrote Chanel West Coast on Twitter:
RIP @bigblack1972. My heart is crushed hearing this news. I’ll never forget all the times you made me laugh. So many epic memories with you. You put smiles on a lot of people’s faces and you will be missed dearly by SO many.
My prayers go out to your family and loved ones. Keep them laughing up in heaven.
Juicy J, who was also a co-star of Big Black’s, took to social media to remember the late MTV star via a heartbroken Tweet.
“Rip Christopher “Big Black” Boykins,” wrote the rapper.
Steelo Brim (from Ridiculousness) also shared a touching post on his Instagram. It reas as follows:
“My brain can’t truly comprehend this. As soon as we met we became friends. Genuine, Funny, Family Man, just an Overall Great guy.
“May God Rest his soul and he make everyone in heaven smile like he did on earth! LOVE!”
Finally, MTV released an official statement in the wake of this sad news.
“MTV is deeply saddened to learn the news of Christopher ‘Big Black’ Boykin’s passing,” it reads, concluding:
“He was a long time and beloved member of the MTV family and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends at this time.”
We share this sentiment.
We send our condolences to all who knew Boykin well and all who will continue to mourn his loss for many days, weeks and months to come.
