Following weeks in the hospital after getting treated for a self-inflicted gunshot wound, rapper OG Maco has died at age 32.
Per TMZ, the "U Guessed It" rapper passed away on Thursday, Dec. 26 after he was hospitalized on Dec. 12. Sources said that he was in a coma at the hospital and was unable to be revived after he went into critical condition. He was surrounded by his family, who traveled to be by his side.
His family has since issued a statement on his passing.
"With heavy hearts, we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved Ben, known to the world as OG Maco," the statement reads. "His life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and boundless love. Through his music, passion, and unwavering spirit, he touched so many lives and left a lasting impact. While we grieve this immense loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary life he lived—one that will continue to inspire and uplift others. Maco's influence, both as an artist and as a person, will remain forever etched in our hearts."
His family asked for those to offer condolences through his social media accounts. "To all of Maco's fans, friends, and supporters: thank you for standing by him throughout his journey," they added. "Today we celebrate a life that was extraordinary in every way."
Earlier this month, his family stated that the rumors of his death were false. They said that he was in "critical but stable condition" and was receiving "the best possible care." His manager, Poppa Percccc, called for fans and friends to send their prayers.
Throughout his career, the Atlanta rapper, real name Benedict Chiajulam Ihesiba Jr., has been forthcoming with his fans about his health struggles. In 2016, Maco shared that he was in a near-fatal car crash that resulted in him almost losing his right eye. In 2019, he opened up about his battle with the flesh-eating disease necrotizing fasciitis. He said that he was initially improperly treated for a minor rash, and his battle with the disease resulted in a struggle with his mental health.
"didn't know if I was going to lose my entire face," he wrote in a post on Instagram. "My friend told me the other day that maybe I should share what I've been going through instead of beating myself down for feeling how I felt about it, which I wanted to die a bunch of days."
OG Maco was thrust into the spotlight in 2014 following the viral success of his track "U Guessed It," which arrived not long after he signed with Quality Control Music. His most recent solo full-length project was The God of Rage, released in 2021. He linked up with FNX last month for the single "Shawty."
If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, help is available. Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.