Comedian Alex Duong Passes Away After Courageous Battle with Cancer
Tribute to Alex Duong
Comedian and actor Alex Duong passed away on Saturday following a prolonged struggle with cancer. He gained recognition for his roles in shows like Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle and Blue Bloods. The news was shared by his friend Hilarie Steele via a GoFundMe page, revealing that Duong succumbed to septic shock after being hospitalized the previous day. He was surrounded by his closest friends and family during his final moments, with Steele noting, “He was comfortable and thankfully out of pain.”
On March 27, Steele had previously updated that Duong was in critical condition due to a severe infection that had rapidly escalated. According to reports, his wife Christina and their five-year-old daughter Everest were present with him before he passed. Steele mentioned that Duong was able to say goodbye to his daughter, whom he cherished deeply since her birth. “He was alert enough to say goodbye to his little girl,” she expressed.
The family is now facing a challenging period, and the GoFundMe initiative aims to assist with the expenses of his memorial service and support for his daughter's education and care. Steele expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “We are devastated, but so grateful for the support, prayers, and generosity you have all shown.” She emphasized that ongoing assistance will be crucial for Christina and Everest in the days to come.
Duong was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma in early 2025, a rare and aggressive form of cancer that targets soft tissue. His manager first observed swelling and changes around his eye, prompting further medical evaluations. Following the diagnosis, Duong's health deteriorated, leading to vision loss in his left eye and significant back pain. He spent extensive periods in hospitals, undergoing chemotherapy and radiation while battling the disease's effects.
As a member of SAG-AFTRA, Duong faced additional hurdles with health insurance, yet he persisted with his treatment. Unfortunately, as the cancer progressed, tumors began to exert pressure on his brain, resulting in seizures. Earlier in March, he was readmitted for another chemotherapy session, where doctors discovered that tumors in his spine had further weakened his condition. Throughout this ordeal, his wife managed to work full-time while caring for him and their daughter.