Brooklyn Nine-Nine star Andre Braugher has died at 61

Brooklyn Nine-Nine star Andre Braugher has sadly died at the age of 61.

The beloved actor, who played Captain Raymond Holt in the hit comedy-drama, is reported to have passed away on December 11.

Condolences from both his fans and colleagues have began to roll in, as the dad-of-three earned of army of fans throughout his years in the entertainment industry - which often saw him star as a tough-talking copper.

Braugher's agent's confirmed the actor’s death to Variety on late Tuesday (December 12).

The TV titan is said to have been suffering from a 'brief illness' before his tragic death.

His role as the stoic captain of the 99th precinct in Brooklyn Nine-Nine earned him a new generation of fans, while starring alongside the likes of Andy Samberg, Melissa Fumero, Chelsea Peretti and Marc Evan Jackson.

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Braugher was nominated for 11 Emmy Awards throughout his career - four of which were for the portrayal of Raymond Holt in the hilarious sitcom.

After studying theatre at Stanford University, Braugher had gone on to attend the drama division at New York's exclusive performing arts school, Juilliard, before he earned his first big break.

The actor, from Chicago, booked his first film role in 1989 in war thriller Glory which starred the likes of Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington.

This helped him secure his iconic spot on TV police drama Homicide: Life on the Street as detective Frank Pembleton, which saw him take home an Emmy in 1998.

Landing the role also led him to the love of his life - Ami Brabson, who was also cast in the hit cop show, and later married the actor in 1991. The couple share three children together.

Braugher's Brooklyn Nine-Nine co-stars have led the tributes to the star, who also was applauded for his acting talents in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer and Law & Order: SVU.

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Terry Crews shared a poignant Instagram post alongside a sweet image of the celebrated actor smiling.

He wrote: "Can’t believe you’re gone so soon. I’m honoured to have known you, laughed with you, worked with you and shared 8 glorious years watching your irreplaceable talent.

"This hurts. You left us too soon. You taught me so much. I will be forever grateful for the experience of knowing you. Thank you for your wisdom, your advice, your kindness and your friendship.

"Deepest condolences to your wife and family in this difficult time. You showed me what a life well lived looks like.

"Rest In Peace, Andre. I love you, man."

Joe Lo Truglio, who played Detective Charles Boyle in the US sitcom, echoed his words while also remembering Braugher's dedication to his family throughout his years of filming.

He said: "We all know how powerful an actor he was, but even more, Andre knew exactly well his most important role and was deeply proud of it. He spoke often about his sons, and knew how lucky he was to have Ami.

"What you probably don’t know is that Andre could sing too, and did often at lunch, belting bassy vocals from his dressing room to whatever new music he found.

NBC

"At first, it was odd because well …*it was Andre Braugher crooning at full volume from behind closed doors*… but then very quickly it made all the sense in the world because the man was so full of song and that’s why the world took notice.

"I miss him so much already. What an honor to work with a man who knew what it was really all about. I feel blessed and thankful. Miss you Capt Holt. Love, Porkchop."

Dirk Blocker, who featured in the show as loveable idiot Detective Michael Hitchcock, described the late star as a 'fiercely intelligent, remarkably kind, supportive, generous and possessed a deep and extraordinary talent'.

There has also been an outpouring of sadness on social media, with fans flocking to comment at how much of a legend he was.

"An amazing actor, who left us way too soon," said one person.

Another added: "This is a nightmare. This can’t be real. I hope this is a mistake."

A third said: "This one hurts, whilst I only know him from Brooklyn 99, he was spectacular in it. Most of my wife and I's fondest memories of the show involve him. A wonderful actor."

Fans have been told that instead of sending flowers, his family would prefer donations to the Classical Theatre of Harlem, where Braugher served on the board.

Topics: Celebrity, Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Olivia Burke

Olivia is a journalist at LADbible Group with more than five years of experience and has worked for a number of top publishers, including News UK. She also enjoys writing food reviews (as well as the eating part). She is a stereotypical reality TV addict, but still finds time for a serious documentary.

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