WorldStarHipHop founder Lee O’Denat, better known as “Q,” died in his sleep Monday night, according to TMZ. O’Denat, 43, reportedly died of a heart attack.
O’Denat founded the site in 2005, and it quickly became popular as a YouTube-style platform of hip-hop performances, street fights and scantily clad women. It would take almost four years for WorldStar to turn a profit, but O’Denat couldn’t let the site go because “I believed in it so much,” he told Gawker. “And we’ve grown so organically based on the trueness of the site.”
TMZ notes that an autopsy is scheduled for Tuesday.
As news of O’Denat’s death has spread, celebrities have been offering their condolences on social media.
“God bless ya family & friends. You was a real solid, stand-up dude,” rapper T.I. posted on Facebook. “We can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done for all of US!!! You were always pleasant & positive through all the madness. You built a brand that changed the course of culture. Your legacy will live on. On behalf of The Harris Family, BankRoll Mafia & The Hustle Gang, We offer our truest & deepest condolences. With Love & Respect. Rest Easy King. #RIPQ.”
“RIP to my guy Q@worldstar we got some years in. Great, Great, Great Dude,” Charlamagne tha God posted on Instagram. “One of those moments where you don’t cry because it’s over, you smile because it happened. SMH. Brother was already up but he had some phenomenal things cooking......#WorldstarForever”
Read more at TMZ.