Actor and rapper Deezer D. (born Dearon Thompson) was known for various projects, from portraying Stab Master Arson in the 1993 rap spoof CB4 to co-starring with Vanilla Ice in 1991's Cool As Ice, but arguably his most memorable role had far less to do with his musical talents. Deezer D. starred on ER for its entire 15-season run, portraying the kind and lovable Nurse Malik McGrath, and he appeared in more episodes than any other ER actor, save for Noah Wyle, Laura Innes, and Laura Cerón. Sadly, the actor passed away this week at 55 years old.
Deezer D.'s death was first reported on by TMZ, as his brother revealed the actor was found unresponsive in his home on Thursday evening. It's suspected that Deezer D. died of a heart attack, though no official cause of death has been confirmed. His death sent shockwaves through his friends, family and fans, since he was in the midst of building up his music career, having announced via Instagram just a few days ago that a new album would be dropping next week. Understandably, many people took to social media to mourn his death, including several of his former ER co-stars, as well as one of the show's producers.
Noah Wyle portrayed Dr. John Carter on ER from its very beginning to its very end along with Deezer D. Set to star in the upcoming Leverage revival, Wyle posted a sorrowful message on Instagram, as seen below.
Many online applauded Deezer D.'s faith as being just one part of why he was so affable and compassionate over the years. Such was the case with co-star Lyn Alicia Henderson, who portrayed nurse Pamela Olbes for 14 seasons. Here's how the actress commented on an ER fan page on Instagram under the post about Deezer D.'s death:
I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He had a spirit that was bigger than life and we always had the best conversations! I loved his music, his love of God and his love for his family. He will be missed!
Lyn Alicia Henderson wasn't the only ER star to pay her respects on that particular fan-page post. Mekhi Phifer, whose character Dr. Gregory Pratt was introduced in Season 8, also shared a touching message:
What a special spirit we have all lost! Since the first day I met him on the set of ER he absolutely made me feel at home and welcomed. My brother will forever be missed! Many condolences to his friends, fans and family. RIP Deezer D!!
Longtime ER producer Neal Baer, who joined the show back in 1996 during it second season, sent out the following message on Twitter, while also sharing a mournful post from one-time ER guest star Terry Wilkerson.
Of the comments that Neal Baer's post received, the most relevant one of the bunch came from Kellie Martin, who portrayed Lucy Knight during Seasons 5 and 6 of ER. Here's how she put it:
Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry to hear this. I loved working with him.
All 15 seasons of ER can currently be streamed in full on Hulu, for anyone who wishes they could watch his performances in order to lessen the blow of his death. We at CinemaBlend send our thoughts and condolences to Deezer D.'s family and friends in their time of mourning.
