US rapper and actor Saafir dies at 54

American rapper and actor, Saafir has died at the age of 54, according to his former collaborator Xzibit.

The rapper, born Reggie Gibson died at 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, according to Xzibit’s post.

Saafir made his debut on record in 1993 and became an influential figure in West Coast rap, although larger commercial success mostly evaded him. was also a producer and actor, died at 8:45 a.m. on Tuesday, according to Xzibit’s post.

He expanded into acting in 1993 with a role in the modern crime classic Menace II Society, which marked the feature debut of Jada Pinkett Smith.

He had reportedly been suffering from numerous health problems in recent years and had been forced to use a wheelchair. 

‘I’m can’t believe I’m writing this right now, but don’t know what else to do at the moment,’ wrote a stunned Xzibit as he announced his friend’s death. 

‘Approximately at 8:45am this morning, my brother Reggie known to the world as Saafir passed away,’ he announced.

‘We have so much history I can’t even explain what I’m feeling right now. We surrounded him and let him know how much we loved him. He can rest now,’ Xzibit (born Alvin Nathaniel Joiner) wrote.

‘Friends, Family, everyone that rocked with us from the Hip Hop community, if you could be so solid and reach out for @chopblack his younger brother, and @lilsaafir his son, the family really needs to be supported during this time,’ he continued.

‘That’s all I have right now,’ the Pimp My Ride host shared. ‘My soul is crushed.’

He concluded by declaring ‘We love you Bro,’ and he hoped that his fallen friend — whom he referred to be his nickname ‘The Saucee Nomad’ would ‘REST IN POWER.’

Sources who spoke to TMZ said that the late MC had died in his hometown of Oakland.

He reportedly suffered health issues in recent years, and he had even had to have a tumor removed from his spine. 

Saafir is survived by his son, the rapper Lil Saafir, and a brother.