'Celebrity Big Brother' star Heavy D dies aged 43

TV personality Heavy D, who competed on a 2016 series of Celebrity Big Brother, has died at the age of 43.

His friend Nick Nevern, an actor, shared the news to his official Twitter account.

"I’m very shocked & saddened to hear of the passing of my friend @HeavyHeavyd. u lived ur life the way u wanted to & f*** anyone who didn’t like it! U always brought a smile to my face bro & lifted any room you where in. #RIPHeavyD," he wrote.

A cause of death has not been disclosed.

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The star, real name Colin Newell, was the fourth to be evicted on the 18th series of the reality show and had also appeared on Storage Hunters.

He was a devoted fan of Arsenal Football Club, making regular appearances in interviews with ArsenalFanTV.

A message was shared from AFTV's Twitter account following news of Newell's passing.

"We are shocked to hear the sad news that Heavy D has passed away today. Our condolences go to his family at this very sad time. #RIPHeavyD," the message read.

Reality star Stephen Bear who appeared with Newell on Celebrity Big Brother described him the "most genuine person" in his tribute.

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Alongside a picture of the pair on the show, Bear wrote: "I’m gutted . The funniest and most genuine person you would ever meet .

“Always laughing and had such a kind heart. Always wanted to make sure everyone was ok and when you was down he would come over make sure your ok.

"Had the pleasure to live with you but now I feel was there something I could of done😔It’s always the real ones that leave too early . Rip my brother . See you soon ❤️."

Bear was the winner of the series which also included Samantha Fox and Ricky Norwood.

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