ER actor Dearon 'Deezer D' Thompson dies aged 55 after being 'found unresponsive' at LA home
Deezer D, who found fame for his stint on ER, has been found dead in Los Angeles.
According to TMZ, the actor — whose real name is Dearon Thompson — was found unresponsive at his home by his brother, Marshawn.
No official cause of death has been determined, but Marshawn told the outlet the family suspects Deezer D died of a heart attack. He was 55.
TMZ notes Deezer D underwent major heart surgery back in 2009. During the gruelling six-hour procedure, doctors replaced his aorta and fixed a leaky heart valve.
The actor was best known for his role as Nurse Malik McGrath on ER. He appeared on almost 200 episodes of the medical drama from 1994 through 2009, when the series wrapped.
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Deezer D attends the Pre-Emmy Style Lounge in 2005. Getty
Prior to that, he also appeared in the 1997 Lisa Kudrow and Mira Sorvino comedy Romy and Michele's High School Reunion.
But Deezer D's passion was reportedly motivational speaking, where he connected with both Christian and hip-hop groups.
Eriq La Salle and Deezer D on the set of ER in 1995. Getty
Six years ago, Deezer reflected on his time on ER alongside co-stars Noah Wyle and George Clooney, while hinting at making an acting comeback.
"Back n the day. 2015: time for a new show," he said ahead of New Year's Eve in 2014.
Just last week, as he prepared to welcome 2021, Deezer D said he was thankful for the life he lived.
"Feelin grateful! Thank you GOD!" he wrote on December 30.
