US influencer and reality star Raymond Harper, better known as Rolling Ray, has died at the age of 28.
His mother confirmed the news to TMZ, while his home network, Zeus, also paid tribute in a heartfelt statement.
“Gone way too soon. #RestInPeace to the BIG hearted, most Raw, & Real FRIEND & #Zeus Star #RaymondHarper aka @iamrollingray. Your Laughter, Light, & Loving Spirit will Live on FOREVER,” Zeus wrote on Instagram.
Rolling Ray first shot to fame in 2018 after appearing on MTV’s Catfish: Trolls, and later went viral on Divorce Court in 2019. His outspoken personality and sharp wit quickly made him a fan favorite.
Over the years, he grew into a major social media figure, attracting more than 449,000 Instagram followers and a steadily rising TikTok audience. He is widely credited with popularizing the phrase “purr”, now a global slang term for excitement and approval.
Despite being born with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type 3, a genetic condition that weakens muscles over time, Rolling Ray defied medical predictions that he would not live past 14.
Reflecting on his resilience in a 2023 interview, he said:
“At first, they said I was going to die at 14 years old. The doctor was wrong. Science changed, and doctors are not always right. God is good.”
His vibrant presence was also felt on Zeus Network shows such as Bobby I Love You, Purr and The Conversation, where his charisma and unfiltered honesty left a lasting impression.
Rolling Ray will be remembered as a fearless voice in pop culture, one who brought laughter, authenticity, and inspiration to millions.
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