Ken Flores, an American stand-up comedian, who was gradually making his mark on the comedy scene, has died
The comedian sadly passed away at the age of 28.
Our findings show that Ken Flores died during his Butterfly Effect tour. The Chicago-based performer was in the midst of a 33-date tour across the U.S. and was set to take the stage today in Phoenix, Arizona when he died.
His family issued a heartbreaking statement, saying, “With deep sorrow, we confirm the untimely passing of our beloved friend, brother, and son, Kenyi Flores.” They added, “We ask for privacy during this difficult time as we are all in shock and devastated by this loss.”
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to TMZ that Flores passed away at home on Tuesday following a cardiac arrest. However, his family has not yet released an official cause of death.
According to The Mirror, Ken Flores’ most recent performances was on January 25 in Norcross, Georgia, with his tour scheduled to run until April 19. In a recent social media update, he reflected on his tour experience and decision to cut back on alcohol, saying: “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. Nervous for Phoenix next weekend, but I think I got it. I’m not sober, just wanna chill a bit.”
Ken Flores initially gained recognition in the entertainment industry through his viral YouTube videos, which helped him amass a large following on Instagram, TikTok, and X. At 22, while working at PNC Bank, he began honing his comedic skills at open mic nights at Comedy Shrine.
Speaking with Comedy Gazelle, he once said: “If you get that one big pop, you get bit by the standup bug and you’re addicted. Ever since I went up the first time, I couldn’t stop.”
At the moment, the comedy community is devastated and deeply grieving the loss of Ken Flores, with heartfelt tributes pouring in. Darren Carter reflected, “Always happy to see and hang with him backstage. May his memory be a blessing.”
Comedian Neema Naz shared, “I was hoping this wasn’t real. What a tragic and devastating loss to the world. Ken was a gem and was going to be a star one day. RIP.”
The Hollywood Improv group expressed their respect, stating, “We were honored to give him a stage to share his talent. Sending so much love to his family and the comedy community.” Musicians Los Desvelados also paid tribute: “Ken, thank you for all the amazing times, the laughter, the jokes. You will be missed. RIP.”
Ken Flores, who was a familiar face on podcasts and comedy tours, appeared on Netflix’s Daily Joke and filmed his debut comedy special in December, which is yet to be released. Along with René Humberto Valdiviezo, Flores co-created the LatinXL comedy show, dedicated to promoting Latino talent in the comedy world.