'Jett Jackson' Star Lee Thompson Young Dies

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Lee Thompson Young, who starred on Disney's The Famous Jett Jackson, was found dead Monday morning of an apparent suicide by gunshot, police confirm to ET.

He was 29 years old.


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Police responded at about 9:45 a.m. Monday, after a welfare check was called on Young when he didn't show up to to set this morning on TNT's Rizzoli & Isles, in which he currently appears. Officers arrived, who pronounced him dead on the scene.

Young's long time manager Jonathan Baruch released the following statement.

"It is with great sadness that I announce that Lee Thompson Young tragically took his own life this morning. Lee was more than just a brilliant young actor, he was a wonderful and gentle soul who will be truly missed. We ask that you please respect the privacy of his family and friends at this very difficult time."

"Everyone at Rizzoli & Isles is devastated by the news of the passing of Lee Thompson Young. We are beyond heartbroken at the loss of this sweet, gentle, good-hearted, intelligent man," TNT, Warner Bros. and Rizzoli & Isles Executive Producer Janet Tamaro said in a statement. "He was truly a member of our family. Lee will be cherished and remembered by all who knew and loved him, both on- and offscreen, for his positive energy, infectious smile and soulful grace. We send our deepest condolences and thoughts to his family, to his friends and, most especially, to his beloved mother."

The Disney Channel also sent out a statement about the tragic passing of their former star.

"Nothing any of us can say will adequately express our sadness over Lee's untimely passing -- our thoughts are with his loved ones and the many fans of his work."

Aside from his most famous role as Jett Jackson, Young also had a role as running back Chris Comer in 2004's Friday Night Lights.