“Get On Up” James Brown Biopic Star Nelsan Ellis DEAD At 39

The talented actor who played Bobby Byrd in James Brown biopic, “Get On Up,” has passed away. Nelsan Ellis was 39.

Ellis, who was perhaps best known for his recurring role as Lafayette Reynolds in popular HBO vampire series, “True Blood,” also starred as Martin Luther King, Jr. in “Lee Daniels‘ The Butler.

He is said to have died after complications from heart failure.

Ellis also had roles in “The Help,” and starred as “Shinwell Johnson” in the TV show, “Elementary.” He also appeared in “The Stanford Prison Experiment,” and “Secretariat” as Eddie Sweat.

Incidentally, Ellis is said to have a networth of $3 million dollars at the time of his death. Born in Hilton Harvey, Illinois, he trained at the Juilliard School in New York City and spent several years as a stage actor before moving to TV and movies. He was also known as an excellent all-around athlete.

Ellis reportedly leaves a son behind.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends at this difficult time.