Darius Barnes, a talented dancer and choreographer who performed in several Broadway shows, passed away at the age of 34 on February 26, 2023. His death shocked and saddened his family, friends, and fans, who remembered him as a trailblazing, multi-hyphenated artist and a loving son, brother, and friend. But what was Darius Barnes’s cause of death? How did such a vibrant and energetic performer lose his life so suddenly and unexpectedly? This article will explore the mystery behind his death and pay tribute to his legacy.
A Rumored Illness
The exact cause of Darius Barnes’s death has not been officially confirmed by his family or representatives. However, some rumors suggest that he died from an illness that he had been battling for some time. According to US day News, the sad news of his death was shared by Dance Theatre of Harlem on Twitter at the request of his family. The tweet did not mention any details about his cause of death, but some sources reported that it was related to an illness.
Model Fact also stated that the precise reason for his death was still unknown, but reports implied that a disease may have caused it. The website quoted his fellow choreographer and friend, Raja Feather Kelly, who confirmed his death on Facebook. Kelly wrote: “I am heartbroken to share that my dear friend Darius Barnes passed away this morning. He was a brilliant artist and human being. He was my brother in dance and in life. I will miss him terribly. Please keep his family in your prayers.”
A Possible Suicide
However, another website, Ellestate, claimed that Darius Barnes’s cause of death was asphyxiation by hanging, implying that he committed suicide. The website cited an anonymous source who said that Barnes was found dead in his apartment by his roommate. The source also said that Barnes had left a note explaining his reasons for taking his own life, but did not reveal the contents of the note.
The website speculated that Barnes may have been suffering from depression or other mental health issues that led him to end his life. It also mentioned that he had recently lost his father and grandmother, which may have added to his emotional distress.
The website did not provide any evidence or verification for its claims, and no other sources have corroborated its story. Therefore, it is unclear how reliable or accurate its information is.
A Celebrated Career
Regardless of the cause of his death, Darius Barnes’s life was full of achievements and accomplishments as a dancer and choreographer. He began his career as a classical ballet dancer, studying at prestigious institutions such as the School of American Ballet, the Kirov Ballet Academy, and the American Ballet Theatre. He performed with renowned companies such as the New York City Ballet, the Suzanne Farrell Ballet, and the Dance Theatre of Harlem.
He later transitioned to theatre dance, starring in several Broadway shows such as Mean Girls, Memphis, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark, Kiss Me Kate, and Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. He also appeared in Off-Broadway and regional productions such as Sweet Charity, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying, The Sting, and Cabin In The Sky.
He also ventured into choreography, working as an associate choreographer on Kimberly Akimbo, which was set to open on Broadway later this year. He also created his own works for various platforms and events, such as the Antonyo Awards, which celebrated Black theatre makers and their contributions to American theatre.
He was widely praised for his versatility, creativity, and charisma as a performer and a creator. He was also known for his generosity, kindness, and passion as a person and a mentor. He touched many lives with his talent and spirit.
A Legacy to Remember
Darius Barnes’s death is a tragic loss for the dance community and the world at large. He was a shining star who left behind a remarkable body of work and a lasting impact on everyone who knew him or watched him perform. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, fans, colleagues, and collaborators.
His family has requested privacy during this difficult time and has not announced any plans for a memorial service or a celebration of life yet. However, they have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received from the public.
Darius Barnes’s cause of death may remain a mystery for now, but his legacy will live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who admired him. He was a true artist who lived his life with grace and joy. He was a dancer who made the world a more beautiful place with his movements and expressions. He was Darius Barnes: a legend gone too soon.
