‘Zombie Boy’ Rick Genest found dead aged 32
Lady Gaga has paid tribute to the tattooed star of her 'Born This Way' video.
By Will Stroude
Rick Genest has been found dead at the age of 32.
The model and actor, commonly known as ‘Zombie Boy’, was renowned for his eye-catching full body skeleton tattoos, and famously starred in the video for Lady Gaga’s LGBT anthem ‘Born This Way’ in 2011.
According to reports, Genest was found dead at his Montreal home on Wednesday (1 August). He is believed to have taken his own life, though this has not been officially confirmed.
Lady Gaga paid tribute to the late star on Twitter, saying the loss of her friend was “beyond devastating”.
The suicide of friend Rick Genest, Zombie Boy is beyond devastating. We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can’t talk about it. If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other. pic.twitter.com/THz6x5JlpB
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) August 3, 2018
“We have to work harder to change the culture, bring Mental Health to the forefront and erase the stigma that we can’t talk about it,” she wrote.
“If you are suffering, call a friend or family today. We must save each other.”
The ‘Bad Romance’ singer also urged others struggling with their mental health to reach out and seek support.
Science tells us that it takes 21 days to form a habit, if you are suffering from Mental Health issue I beckon for today to be your first day or a continuation of the work you’ve been doing. Reach out if you’re in pain, and if you know someone who is, reach out to them too. pic.twitter.com/4pVR5xyoH6
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) August 3, 2018
Sharing a picture of herself with Genest on the set of the ‘Born This Way video, Gaga wrote: “Science tells us that it takes 21 days to form a habit, if you are suffering from Mental Health issue I beckon for today to be your first day or a continuation of the work you’ve been doing.
“Reach out if you’re in pain, and if you know someone who is, reach out to them too.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call the Samaritans in the UK on 116 123.