Beloved Stand-Up Comedian, Who Died at 37 After Bike Accident, Will Donate Organs

Kenny DeForest's "impactful life will continue on through the gift of organ donation" after his death, according to a GoFundMe that was created for the late stand-up comedian's family. 

DeForest died Wednesday at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, N.Y., "surrounded by his parents, family and friends." Per his Instagram page, he was 37. 

The late comedian underwent neurological surgery to remove a piece of his skull and relieve pressure from a brain bleed after a bike accident in New York City on Dec. 8. (NOTE: Originally, his loved ones thought DeForest had been struck by a vehicle, but his parents told The Messenger they received updated information about the fatal incident and confirmed it was a tragic bike accident that did not involve any other parties.)

"Kenny's final moments included some of his favorite songs, stories of his childhood, and memories of his extensive positivity and joy for life," read the GoFundMe, which has raised more than $175,000 for DeForest's family as of publication. 

"Even in death he will continue to make meaningful improvements in the lives of others," the excerpt continued. 

Tributes poured in after the Don't You Know Who I Am comic's death, with friends, family and fans remembering the comedian as an "absolute joy of a human being."

"Kenny DeForest was one of the funniest and most beloved comics any of us knew," wrote fellow comedian Adam Conover. "A tragedy. Watch his special on YouTube. It came out three months ago. It’s beautiful. F--- cars forever."

"Love you forever Kenny," comedian and actor Joel Kim Booster wrote on X (formerly Twitter). "One of the most genuinely supportive, funny guys who always always always made me feel welcome in the boys club, never made me feel like a sideshow and told me to f--- 'em whenever I was doubting myself. I'm going to miss you so much."

This post has been updated to reflect new information surrounding DeForest's death.