Kid From Kid 'N Play Reveals He Had a Heart Transplant in 2025

The rapper opens up about his life-saving surgery and renewed outlook on life.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Christopher "Kid" Reid, one half of the iconic rap duo Kid 'N Play, revealed in a recent interview that he underwent a heart transplant in 2025 after being diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Reid's condition deteriorated rapidly, leading him to be placed on an emergency transplant list. Just nine days later, he received a new heart and is now focused on a healthier future.

Why it matters

Reid's story highlights the importance of regular health checkups, especially for people of color who may be at higher risk for heart disease. By sharing his experience, Reid hopes to inspire others to prioritize their cardiovascular health.

The details

After an emergency room visit last July, Reid was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and treated with medication. However, his condition worsened, prompting him to see a cardiologist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Doctors there determined that Reid's heart failure was beginning to affect his other organs, and he was immediately rushed to the ICU and told he needed a heart transplant. He was placed on an emergency transplant list due to the severity of his condition, and just nine days later, he received a new heart.

  • In July 2025, Reid was diagnosed with congestive heart failure after an emergency room visit.
  • In the weeks following his diagnosis, Reid's condition deteriorated, leading him to see a cardiologist.
  • On an unspecified date in 2025, Reid was placed on an emergency heart transplant list.
  • Nine days later, Reid received his heart transplant.

The players

Christopher "Kid" Reid

One half of the iconic rap duo Kid 'N Play, who recently underwent a life-saving heart transplant.

Dr. Laura DiChiacchio

Reid's cardiothoracic surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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What they’re saying

“[He was] really dealing with a life or death situation.”

— Dr. Laura DiChiacchio, Cardiothoracic Surgeon (Good Morning America)

“I hope that I'm the same person, but that I'm a better version of myself. Because man, this thing, this is a beautiful life.”

— Christopher "Kid" Reid (Good Morning America)

“A lot of people be walking around with heart disease because they don't go to the doctor. So I'm urging all of my fans, all of y'all's loved ones too—get it checked out.”

— Christopher "Kid" Reid (Good Morning America)

What’s next

Reid is currently writing a book about his heart transplant journey, aptly titled, "Heart of the Matter."

The takeaway

Reid's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of regular health checkups, especially for people of color who may be at higher risk for heart disease. By sharing his experience, he hopes to inspire others to prioritize their cardiovascular health and seek medical attention when needed.