Model and actor Sam Sarpong has died at the age of 40. The older brother of TV presenter June passed away on Monday after jumping from a bridge in Pasadena, Los Angeles, despite officers trying to talk him down.
The case is currently being investigated as a possible suicide, however Sam's death is still under investigation.
His sister June, who has starred in Loose Women, Celebrity Juice and 8 out of 10 Cats, released a statement saying. "I love my brother very much. Sam was an amazing human being. His passing is a loss for the world. "I'd ask anyone who is going through tough times to seek help. Please talk to someone."
© Photo: Getty ImagesSam Sarpong, pictured last month, died in Los Angeles on Monday
Sam's family also said they appreciated "the thoughts and prayers and other expressions of sympathy", adding "a request that (their) privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time".
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner also confirmed the star's death.
According to a statement released by the Pasadena Police Department, a witness called officers to the scene when they saw a man standing on the bridge. They communicated with him for several hours, alongside firefighters, before the man jumped.
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe model and actor was the older brother of TV star June Sarpong
Sam, who was born in London and is of Ghanaian descent, moved to Los Angeles when he was 11 years old. As a teenager he aspired to become a professional basketball player, but then turned to acting, modelling and TV presenting.
Sam walked for Versace, Donna Karen, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana among other luxury designers and was the face of Tommy Hilfiger for over six years.
He co-hosted MTV's show Yo Momma and appeared in over 60 feature films and 55 TV shows, including Bones, Veronica Mars and No Weapons, for which he won Best Lead Actor at the San Diego Film Festival.
Nick Cannon paid tribute to Sam, calling him part of the "crew"
Sam's management company, Advanced Management, expressed their condolences on Twitter, writing: "Devastated to hear that our friend and client @mrsamsarpong is no longer with us. Prayers and thoughts to the entire Sarpong family."
Meanwhile, celebrities paid tribute on social media, with fellow model Tyson Beckford, saying: "You will be missed Homie", while Vernon Kay wrote that he was "in total shock".
Nick Cannon shared a photo on Instagram and captioned it: "#Crew #Love #RIP#SamSarpong We have to remember to lift each other up, because we all we got out here. #GreatSpirit #GreatSoul #GreatHeart #GoneTooSoon."
