Sean Lampkin, the actor who played the role of Nipsey, the bar owner on the hit sitcom Martin, has passed away at the age of 54. His death has shocked and saddened fans of the show, as well as his co-stars and friends in the entertainment industry. Here are some details about his life, career, and cause of death.
Who was Sean Lampkin?
Sean Lampkin was born in the United States and grew up in a family of performers. His mother was a dancer and his father was a musician. Lampkin initially pursued a career in music before switching to acting. His first major acting role came in 1992 when he was cast as the recurring character of Nipsey on the popular Fox sitcom Martin. The show featured him in several episodes until its conclusion in 1997.
Lampkin’s portrayal of Nipsey on Martin quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to his comedic timing and memorable one-liners. His character was known for running the local newsstand frequented by Martin Lawrence’s character and his friends. Aside from Martin, Lampkin had small roles in a handful of other TV shows and films, including Family Matters, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, House Party 3, Life, Bad Boys II, and Big Momma’s House. He also had a brief career as Big Bad Nip, a rapper.
How did Sean Lampkin die?
According to Essence, writer Memnar Grayton confirmed that Lampkin died in his sleep. However, no cause of death has been released. His loved ones have requested privacy as they mourn their loss.
Lampkin’s friend Marsel Watts broke the news on Facebook last Wednesday. “My friend, my last roommate for 10 years, a father and family man, my brother, skate buddy, business partner, and trainer passed away this morning. RIP Sean Lampkin,” she wrote.
Memnar Grayton also posted a moving tribute to the actor on social media and noted that the comedian was a great man and a talented actor. “Sean gave us every morning the shining sun to lead his loved ones and friends down paths that are bright and clear of any danger. He gave us streams of love every day when we’re not feeling good, or we don’t seem to not want to do anything,” he wrote.
Tributes to Sean Lampkin
Following Lampkin’s passing, condolences have poured in from people who knew him and worked with him. Actor Martin Lawrence, who starred in Martin alongside Lampkin, took to Twitter to express his sadness. “I’m saddened to hear about the passing of my friend and co-star Sean Lampkin, aka Nipsey. He was a great man and a talented actor. I’m keeping his family and loved ones in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” he tweeted.
Fellow actors and fans of Martin also took to social media to express their condolences, with many sharing clips of Lampkin’s memorable scenes from the show.
Sean Lampkin may have had a relatively short career in the entertainment industry, but his contributions to Martin will live on in the hearts of fans worldwide. He will be remembered for his comedic talent, infectious smile, and larger-than-life personality. Rest in peace, Nipsey from Martin.
