Comedian Ken Flores Dies at 28, Remembered for His ‘Infectious Laugh and Presence’ in L.A. Comedy Scene

Popular Comedian and Rising Talent in the Los Angeles Stand-up Comedy Scene

Comedian Ken Flores, a rising talent in the Los Angeles stand-up comedy scene, died on Tuesday, according to his manager, Cameron Silzle. His body was discovered at his home Tuesday afternoon around 2 p.m. No cause of death was immediately available. He was 28.

Family and Friends Pay Tribute to the Late Comedian

His family shared the news on his Instagram account Wednesday. “It is with great sadness that we confirm the untimely passing of our friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores. Please respect our privacy at this time as we are all shocked and devastated by this loss.”

A Beloved Figure in the L.A. Comedy Scene

Originally from Chicago, Flores quickly became a beloved figure in L.A. stand-up, where he found a second home among the city’s various comedy clubs, including Hollywood’s Laugh Factory, the Comedy Store, The Haha, and Hollywood Improv. He also toured and befriended seasoned stand-up veterans like Gabriel Iglesias, Jo Koy, and Felipe Esparza.

A Star on the Rise

Flores was a vital piece in the next wave of standout Latin comedians and was scheduled to embark on a national tour with comedy stars Ralph Barbosa and close friend Rene Vaca.

Touring and Headlining Shows

Vaca, who is a regular headliner at Hollywood’s Laugh Factory for his monthly show Leg Day, is still scheduled to go on Wednesday night at 10 p.m. in honor of Flores.

Tributes Pour In

Tributes to Flores poured in Wednesday as news of his death spread throughout the L.A. comedy community.

Quotes from Fellow Comedians

Iglesias said, “I feel honored to have spent time with Ken. Of course, he was hilarious, but above all, he was kind, respectful, and fun to be around. He will be missed.”

Esparza, another longtime mentor of Flores, told The Times he’ll always remember him as his “big little brother with an infectious laugh and presence.”

Barbosa, who grew closer with him recently prior to their scheduled tour together, told The Times, “Ken was funny as hell, he was real as hell, he was never fake with anybody just to get a step ahead. Anything he accomplished, he did through merit and hard work. … I admired him a lot, and I admired his comedy.”

The Lasting Impact of Ken Flores

Big in stature and even bigger in personality, Flores had a special way of connecting with people – his crowd work was unparalleled, but it was his authenticity, humor, and raw honesty that truly resonated with audiences everywhere. His relatable material drew people in.

Recent Performances and Upcoming Projects

Just days before his passing, Flores shared on X about completing his tour shows alcohol-free, expressing pride and hope for upcoming performances. “So I started my tour a couple weeks ago and I’m proud to say I’ve done every single show, 5 in Portland, 1 in Albuquerque, and 4 in Atlanta without a single drop of alcohol,” Flores wrote. “Nervous for Phoenix next weekend, but I think I got it. I’m not sober, just wanna chill a bit.”

A Bright Future Ahead

In December, Flores filmed his first comedy special, which has not yet been released. The comedian was currently in the midst of a tour that began in Portland, Ore., on January 10 and was scheduled to conclude in San Diego, Calif., on April 19.

Conclusion

Ken Flores may be gone, but his infectious laugh and presence will be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him. His talent, humor, and kind heart will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the laughter he brought to so many.

FAQs

Q: What was Ken Flores’ age at the time of his death?
A: 28

Q: Where did Ken Flores find a second home in the comedy scene?
A: Los Angeles

Q: Who were some of the notable comedians Ken Flores befriended and toured with?
A: Gabriel Iglesias, Jo Koy, and Felipe Esparza

Q: What was Ken Flores’ upcoming tour schedule?
A: He was scheduled to conclude in San Diego, Calif., on April 19

Q: What was Ken Flores’ last social media post before his passing?
A: He shared about completing his tour shows alcohol-free, expressing pride and hope for upcoming performances