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Jay Leno may offer tribute to Patrice O'Neal on The Tonight Show

On Tuesday, the laughter was silenced in Hollywood upon news of comedian Patrice O'Neal's death at the age of 41. O'Neal passed away following complications from a stroke he suffered a month earlier. Tonight, O'Neal's colleagues and fellow comedians are remembering the late funnyman.

It us rumored but not yet confirmed that Tonight Show host Jay Leno will pay tribute to O'Neal on air either tonight or tomorrow. Leno and O'Neal were reportedly good friends.

Patrice O'Neal's rep, Matt Frost, tells TMZ: "It is with terrible sadness we must report that Patrice O’Neal has passed away this morning at 7:00 AM due to the complications of the stroke he suffered on October 19."

Frost adds, "Many of us have lost a close and loved friend; all of us have lost a true comic genius. His mother, who was also his best friend, was at his side.  Patrice is survived by his wife, Vondecarlo; his step daughter Aymilyon, sister Zinder, and his mother Georgia."

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"The family wishes to thank all of the fans and friends who have expressed an outpouring of love and support for Patrice these past weeks. We ask that you please respect the family’s request for privacy at this difficult time.

, Jay Leno Examiner

Michael Essany is a former E! Entertainment Television personality and reality show host who has appeared multiple times on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno." Essany also hosted his own popular late night talk show titled "The Michael Essany Show" for seven years. He can be reached at...

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