Heavy D, ‘Storage Hunters’ and ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ Star, Dead at 43

Reality TV personality Colin Newell, known by many as Heavy D, has died at age 43. Newell was a star of Storage Hunters — a UK version of Storage Wars — and Celebrity Big Brother and was not the American rapper Heavy D. Reports of Newell’s death first surfaced on social media, with his agent eventually confirming the sad news to The Sun.

“Medics are investigating the exact cause of death,” Newell’s agent said in a statement. “Colin was an absolute pleasure to work with it. He was a friendly guy who had time for everybody… he will be missed by those who loved him. We ask the public to respect the privacy of the family at this time.” At this time, there has been no reported cause of death.

Many have been taking to social media to mourn Newell’s death, with British actor Mem Ferda sharing a photo of the two together on Twitter. In the caption, he wrote, “My deepest condolences to Colin Newell’s (Heavy D)’s Family at this very sad time, who died aged 47 yesterday. I had met him a couple of times at Film Premiers and functions, he was a lovely character, full of personality. God Bless.”

Author Belinda Conniss added, “I am absolutely heartbroken to learn that [Heavy D] has passed away, only just found out. I’m so sorry to hear this.” She added, “My thoughts and prayers Go out to his brother and the rest of the family. Rest easy Colin.”

Boxer Ohara Davies also posted a memorial for Newell, sharing a funny photo of the reality star in a wig and writing, “Still can’t believe that this guy is gone forever.” He then added. “Never a dull moment around him, but things like this did make me question his sanity sometimes. Will miss you bro always.”