Dick Gregory, the groundbreaking comedian who broke racial barriers and changed lives with his humor, has died. He was 84.
With his subersive blend of humor and activism, and his willingness to speak truth to power, Gregory paved the way for everyone from Eddie Murphy to Dave Chappelle, Colin Kaepernick to Jesse Williams. While he had long since retired from standup, Gregory continued to speak passionately about politics and social justice until very recently.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1932, Gregory began his comedy career in the military during 1950s. At the height of Jim Crow, he became one of the first Black comedians to perform for predominantly white audiences, and used his access to speak truths about race and politics. In the 1960s and 70s, he became a prominent Civil Rights activist, fighting for the Equal Rights Amendment and vehemently opposing the civil war.
After earlier revealing his dad had been hospitalized, his son, Christian, confirmed the news of his death with a statement: “It is with enormous sadness that the Gregory family confirms that their father, comedic legend and civil rights activist Mr. Dick Gregory departed this earth tonight in Washington, D.C.,” he wrote. “The family appreciates the outpouring of support and love and respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time.”
See how celebrities, politicians and fans deeply influenced by Gregory's humor and activism are reacting to his death: