Sam Sarpong - actor, MTV host and model - dies aged 40

Sam Sarpong has died at the age of 40 in Pasadena, California.

Brother to UK presenter June, Sam was an actor, model and also hosted MTV show Yo Momma in 2006 alongside That '70s Show's Wilmer Valderrama. It has been reported that he took his own life.

Sam's rep said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that the family of Samuel Sarpong Jr must share the news that Sam has passed away.

"The family appreciates the thoughts, prayers and other expressions of sympathy, and request their privacy be respected at this extremely difficult time."

Pasadena police confirmed that Sam tragically jumped from a bridge after seven hours of communication at the scene with his family.

British-American Sam was well known in the US, where he modelled as the face for Tommy Hilfiger for numerous years.

He had acting roles in TV shows including 24, Everybody Hates Chris, Bones, My So-Called Life, Veronica Mars and American Crime Story.

Sam also starred in the 2003 movie Love Don't Cost a Thing with Nick Cannon and Christina Milian.

Sam is survived by his father Samuel Sarpong Sr and his sister June Sarpong.

Sam's friends in the world of entertainment have paid tribute to him. Read the touching messages below:

#Crew #Love #RIP #SamSarpong We have to remember to lift each other up, because we all we got out here. #GreatSpirit #GreatSoul #GreatHeart #GoneTooSoon

A photo posted by Nick Cannon (@nickcannon) on Oct 28, 2015 at 11:01pm PDT

@junesarpong I wanted to send you a direct message but I am truly sorry to hear about Sam! My heart goes out to you & your family

— Richard Blackwood (@RB_Official) October 28, 2015

In total shock at the death of SamSarpong.
My thoughts are with June and her family...
#RIPSAM

— Vernon Kay (@vernonkay) October 29, 2015

Rip Sam sarpong #Rip

— Harvey (@Harveyofficial) October 28, 2015

This is how I'll always remember Sam Sarpong... on stage… And the life of the party. Sam was an amazing energetic rapper, Tommy Hilfiger model, MTV host, actor. Here, he gave his time at Children's Hospital Britticares Christmas Party. Sadly, he died of an apparent suicide. Shocked and saddened. RIP Sam #SamSarpong

A photo posted byChristine Devine (@devinenews) on Oct 28, 2015 at 4:14pm PDT

Sending love and prayers to the friends andfamily of @mrsamsarpong We will truly miss you! U were the nicest and realist! #RIP #SamSarpong

— Arjay Smith (@Arjay_Smith) October 28, 2015

I don't even know what to say. RIP Bro. Sam Sarpong. #ripsamsarpong https://t.co/FqsurYgbb4

— Lamorne Morris (@LamorneMorris) October 28, 2015

Readers who are affected by the issues raised in this story are encouraged to contact Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 (www.samaritans.org), or Mind on 0300 123 3393 (www.mind.org.uk).