TikTok star Tucker Genal, whose upbeat videos and close-knit family dynamic helped him amass more than 2.5 million followers, has died. He was 31.
According to the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner, whose report was confirmed by The New York Post, Genal died by suicide at his California residence on Thursday, December 11.
Genal rose to prominence on TikTok alongside his brothers, Carson and Connor, with the trio becoming known for challenge videos and lighthearted content that emphasized their bond.
Carson Genal shared a statement on Instagram remembering his older brother as both a role model and a source of constant support.
“You were my best friend and an even better big brother,” he wrote, adding that Tucker was someone he had “spent [his] entire life looking up to.” He described his brother as “the kindest person” he had ever known and said he would continue to carry that admiration with him.
Tributes from friends and fans quickly followed. Sean Schutt, a close friend of Genal’s, shared a message reflecting on the impact Tucker had during a difficult period in his life. “You brought a light in me that I never even knew I had,” Schutt wrote, calling Genal “the kindest, most selfless person” he knew.
Others who followed Genal’s career echoed similar sentiments. Jersey Shore's Deena Nicole Cortese commented on social media that the Genal brothers’ videos had become a staple in her feed, writing that she “never skipped a Genal brother video” and extending condolences to the family.
Music artist Dayna Marie also shared her sympathy, noting that Tucker was “loved by many” and offering prayers for those closest to him.
Outside of social media, Genal had a background in athletics and academics. He graduated from Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, in 2018 with a degree in business administration and previously played wide receiver for the school’s football team.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the U.S., the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988. You can also chat via 988lifeline.org. If you are outside the U.S., local resources can be found through the International Association for Suicide Prevention.