Ken Flores, known for his stand-up comedy, has died. He was 28.
Flores’ family confirmed the news of his death on social media.
“It is with grat sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores,” read the statement on Instagram. “Please respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”
The Hollywood Improv paid tribute to the late comedian sharing photos of Flores performing on stage.
“We were honored to share your talent on our stages. You were greatness, and it was only a matter of time until the whole world saw it,” read the Instagram post. “You were also kind and a tremendous friend to all lucky enough to know you. We love you Ken, thank you for all the laughs.”
According to TMZ, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner said Flores died on Tuesday, January 28. The outlet also reports that Flores suffered cardiac arrest at his home. First responders arrived at the residence, where CPR was administered, but Flores was pronounced dead at the scene.
Comedian Neema Naz also paid tribute to Flores, replying to the Instagram post, “I was hoping this wasn’t real. What a tragic and devastating loss to the world. Ken was a gem and was going to be a star one day. RIP.”
Fellow stand-up comedian René Humberto Valdiviezo said, “My brother, it was a blessing to know you and share you with the world. You changed my life. You had so much left to do. My heart hurts for everyone whose life you made better.”
Flores and Humberto produced a comedy show called Latin XL, which came about pre-pandemic to help give Latinos opportunities to break into the comedy world.
“We were so proud of Ken when he made it in his dream as a kid from Aurora. We were always rooting for him and continued to share stages to present day,” read a statement from the show’s Instagram account. “LatinXL WOULD NOT exist without Ken. The XL was a nod to Ken for having an ‘XTRA large personality’ and being such a force…which crowds all over the country would inevitably love. Our hearts are with his family. Our grief is shared amongst all our friends and peers.”