Beloved Comedian and Actor Alex Duong Dies at 42

Duong succumbed to a rare and aggressive cancer after a year-long battle.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:35pm

Alex Duong, a beloved comedian and actor known for his appearances on shows like "Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle" and "Blue Bloods", has died at the age of 42 after a year-long battle with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Duong passed away on Saturday at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California, surrounded by family and friends.

Why it matters

Duong's death is a tragic loss for the comedy and entertainment community, as he was widely regarded as a talented and beloved performer. His passing also highlights the challenges faced by those diagnosed with rare and aggressive forms of cancer, and the importance of support systems and fundraising efforts to help families during these difficult times.

The details

Duong was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, after experiencing headaches behind his eye. After a biopsy, the tumor was labeled as extremely aggressive, and Duong ended up with an eye patch and underwent rounds of treatment. In August, comedians like Ronny Chieng and Atusko Okatsuka came together to put on a benefit show to help Duong, and a GoFundMe campaign was also created to support his journey and help his wife, Cristina, and their five-year-old daughter, Everest.

  • Duong was diagnosed with cancer last year.
  • In August, a benefit show was held to support Duong.
  • Duong passed away on Saturday, March 29, 2026.

The players

Alex Duong

A beloved comedian and actor known for his appearances on shows like "Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle" and "Blue Bloods". Duong passed away at the age of 42 after a year-long battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer.

Hilarie Steele

A very close friend of Duong's family who was present when he passed away.

Cristina Duong

Duong's wife and the mother of their five-year-old daughter, Everest.

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What they’re saying

“Alex went into septic shock Friday night and passed away at 11 AM Saturday at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, California, surrounded by family and friends.”

— Hilarie Steele, Close friend of the Duong family

The takeaway

Duong's passing is a tragic loss for the comedy and entertainment community, and a reminder of the importance of support and resources for those facing rare and aggressive forms of cancer. His legacy will continue to inspire and bring joy to those he touched through his performances.