ER star Deezer D has died aged 55.

The actor, real name Dearon Thompson, was found unresponsive at his home in Los Angeles on Thursday morning, according to TMZ. 

Deezer D’s brother Marshawn told the website that the family believes he died of a heart attack, but that there is no official cause of death yet.

The actor and performer had previously undergone major heart surgery in 2009, undergoing a six-hour operation to replace his aorta and fix a heart valve. 

ER producer Neal Baer paid tribute on Twitter, writing: ‘Sad to learn that Deezer D has passed away.  A very sweet, kind man and wonderful to work with on ER.’

Actor and director Terry Wilkerson tweeted: ‘I had the pleasure of working with Deezer D on E.R. One of the kindest most Gentle souls ever. Even before Diversity was popular he made it on one of the biggest Shows on Network. Prayers to his family. Rest Easy my Brother.’

Actor Scott Baio tweeted: ‘I’m sadden to learn the sudden passing of my friend Deezer. He was a devoted Christian. I just had the privilege of working with #DeezerDThompson on a 

@PureFlix movie. #CourtingMomAndDad. Sending my prayers and condolences to his family. Especially his young son.’

Deezer D was best known for playing nurse Malik McGrath on medical drama ER, appearing on almost 200 episodes between the pilot in 2004 and the final episode in 2009. 

He also starred in the Chris Rock film CB4 in 1993 and Romy and Michele’s High School Reunuion in 1997, as well as having roles in Bringing Down The House, Fear of a Black Hat and In The Mix.

His last credited role came in 2017 teen comedy Crowning Jules. 

Deezer D was also a musician, having released the rap albums Livin’ Up in a Down World and Delayed, But Not Denied.

He was days away from releasing new music, and had been posting snippets to a new track just two days before his death with the caption: ‘2021 Drops Next Week! Apple Music and Spotify and YouTube.’

The star also worked as a motivational speaker and a trainer, with his last Instagram post showing a woman working out in the gym with the caption: ‘My clients Stay ready.’

Deezer D is survived by his 14-year-old son Easton. 

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