Deezer D, whose role as the trusted and good-natured nurse Malik McGrath in NBC’s longstanding success ER, died Thursday of a suspected heart attack at his Los Angeles home. He was 55 years old.
The actor, whose birth name was Dearon Thompson, had undergone several cardiac surgeries in the past decade. His brother Marshawn announced the death to TMZ.
Deezer D starred in all seasons of the 1994-2009 medical drama starring George Clooney, Noah Wyle, Anthony Edwards, Julianna Margulies, among others. Altogether, Deezer D’s nurse, Malik, appeared in at least 190 episodes.
“What a special spirit we all lose!” ER actor Mekhi Phifer wrote on Instagram. “From the first day I met him on the set of ER he absolutely made me feel at home and welcome. My brother will be missed forever! Many condolences to friends, fans and family. RIP Deezer D !! “
Added co-star Parminder Nagra, “This is so incredibly sad”, while ER producer Neal Baer remembered the actor as a “very sweet, kind and wonderful man to work with ER. “
Other TV and film credits include Romy and Michelle High School Meeting (1997) and the Chris Rock comedy CB4 (1993). Her most recent acting credit was the 2017 Kristy Swanson comedy Júlio Coroando. He appeared briefly in the video Vanilla Ice 1991 Cold as ice.
On the musical side, Deezer D released the rap album Late, but not denied in 2008. His last song, “History Can’t Be Stopped”, was released posthumously today. The actor-rapper announced his launch on Instagram just three days ago, provoking, “2021 Drops Next Week! Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube. ”The post includes a video clip of the new single. See below.
It is sad to know that Deezer D passed away. A very sweet, kind and wonderful man to work in ER. https://t.co/NNsIwOc2Q8
– NealBaer🏳️🌈 (@NealBaer) January 8, 2021