Charlie Murphy’s manager confirmed the news to TMZ, revealing “he died from leukemia Wednesday morning in a NYC hospital. He’d been going undergoing chemotherapy.”
Eddie Murphy’s family told the American website that they were “absolutely shocked because they thought he was getting better.”
Also a comedian, Charlie became a household name on the Chappelle’s Show back in 2003.
Eddie released a statement to Variety paying tribute to his beloved sibling.
“Our hearts are heavy with the loss today of our son, brother, father, uncle and friend Charlie,” the 56-year-old began.
“Charlie filled our family with love and laughter and there won’t be a day that does by that his presence will not be missed.”
“Thank you for the outpouring of condolences and prayers. We respectfully ask for privacy during this time of great loss for all of us.”
Along with his successful stand-up career, Charlie also acted in numerous blockbusters including Are We There Yet.
He also co-wrote a few of his brother’s flicks including Norbit and Vampire in Brooklyn.
Charlie is survived by his three kids – two from his marriage to Tisha Taylor Murphy, who died in 2009 from cervical cancer, and his other from a previous relationship.
Our thoughts are with the Murphys during this difficult time.