Lady Gaga Among the Responses Following Death of Zombie Boy

Rick Genest, better known as Zombie Boy, was found dead in his apartment in Montreal, Canada last Wednesday, August 1. It is believed that he took his own life. The 32 year old Canadian was an artist, model and actor, identified by his distinctive body tattoos which made him look like a living skeleton. His modelling career mostly centred around tattoo concealer products and he was the first male spokesperson for L’Oreal. He is best known for his role in the Lady Gaga music video, ‘Born This Way’.

He was first discovered by Lady Gaga’s stylist, Nicola Formichetti, who hired him for a Thierry Mugler fashion campaign. Soon after he was chosen to feature in the ‘Born This Way’, music video. Formichetti turned to Twitter to share his condolences.

Absolutely heartbroken. Rest in Power, Zombie Boy. Sending all my condolences and love to Rico’s family and friends. If you ever need help, reach out. 1-800-273-8255 is the number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You’re not alone pic.twitter.com/AuapCxj2FU

— NICOLA FORMICHETTI (@formichetti) August 3, 2018

He modelled under Dulcedo Management, who have said that they were “shocked and pained by the tragedy”. They finished the message by thanking Zombie Boy for “these beautiful moments in your company and your radiant smile.”

Lady Gaga also shared her thoughts on the loss She described the death as “beyond devastating”. She urged people to “work harder to change the culture, to bring Mental Health to the forefront… We must save each other.”

In the months before his death, he took part in charity work with Home Depot Canada on their Orange Door initiative which aims to support homeless youth. In an interview with TVA, he said “There are so many obstacles and not everyone is able to find a way to overcome them. Everyone needs help and there are people who get a lot less help than others… It’s cool if we help each other.”

You can watch Zombie Boy’s iconic performance in the ‘Born This Way’ music video below.