Sad news has erupted in the BET family after learning Sam Sarpong, host of the network's All Access show, and a former model, committed suicide by jumping off a bridge.
BET released the news of their reoccurring All Access pre-show host on Oct. 28 citing the TV personality jumped from a bridge to his death. According to the site, Sarpong was "London-born and of Ghanaian descent" who moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He landed gigs as a Tommy Hillfiger model and the host of the BET pre show for seven years in a row.
According to EUR, Sarpong jumped from the Colorado Street bridge after Pasadena Police attempted to talk him down for seven hours. The TV personality reportedly battled with depression for many years although he spoke highly of his success in the past. As reported by EUR, the former model interviewed with Black Hollywood Live in July of 2013 where he recounted his steps in his career journey. "I went from barely being able to pay my bills to now being an international model," Sarpong stated in the interview. "I made a lot of money early, luckily I had my father to guide me."
Aside from his modeling career and stint with BET, Sarpong also worked on MTV's My So Called Life, Boston Public, Veronica Mars, Everybody Hates Chris, Cold Case, and 24 according to the site. His more notable work was alongside Wilmer Valderrama as co-host for MTV's variety show, Yo Momma. He also starred in the 2003 film Love Don't Cost A Thing, as Kadeem with co-star Nick Cannon.
The news of his death affected many friends and associates. Valderrama released a statement on Sarpong's suicided and battle with depression asking anyone who is dealing with emotional and mental issues to find someone to talk to about it. The Yo Momma co-host posted this message on Instagram:
Sarpong was 40 years old and leaves behind his sister, June Sarpong.